May 17, 2012 - 1 min read

Kamakura's Famous Rokujizo Statues

Buddhism is alive and well on the streets of Kamakura

By Larry Knipfing

Community writer

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Beautiful in a rare snowfall.

Cooled from the scorching summer heat by the leaves of their protective tree.

Each of the six statues has its own unique features and facial expressions.

Even statues use prayer beads.

Tender prays for the souls of those who have suffered.

Located just five minutes from Kamakura Station. I love finding statues like this on the street here in Japan, especially ones as beautiful as these are.

These beautiful statues are squeezed into the space of the local neighborhood.

Rokujizo statues can be found all over Japan. They always come in sets of 6 and are there to pray for those who have suffered. In Kamakura, this group of six can be found on the street, just five minute's walk from Kamakura Station, on the way to Hase and Daibutsu. They are said to be praying for the souls of the many criminals who died in the area long, long ago. I love finding statues like this on the street here in Japan, especially ones as beautiful as these are.