48 Buddha Statues

48 Stone Buddha Statues (鵜川四十八体石仏群) at Ukawa are a unique and peaceful sight, located north of Shirahigehama along National Route 161. These expressive Amitabha Tathagata Buddha statues, standing at 1.6 meters tall, are carved from granite rock and quietly oversee the mountain landscape. The statues were created during the late Muromachi Period (1336 C.E. – 1573 C.E.) by Sasaki Rokkaku Yoshikata, the owner of Kannonji Castle, as a memorial to honor his late mother.

The serene atmosphere of the mountain cemetery where the statues stand is truly captivating. Each statue has a unique size and facial expression, ranging from compassionate to amused, making it a fun challenge to find the one that resonates most with you. Situated on the shores of Lake Biwa, these statues offer not only historical significance but also a peaceful escape into nature.