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The most popular tourist attraction in Kamakura is bronze statue of Amida Buddha - the second largest Buddha statue in Japan with a height of 13.35 meters. Built in 1250, this Buddha stands out in the open lording over the grounds of the Kotokuin Temple several centuries after a tsunami (a giant tidal wave) washed away the temple buildings that had housed it in the 15 th century.
Another attraction is one of the most important shrines in Japan : Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. Founded by Minamoto Yoriyoshi in 1063, it was moved to its current and larger site in 1180 by Minamoto Yoritomo, the founder and first shogun of the Kamakura government. It is dedicated to Hachiman, the patron god of the Minamoto family and of the samurai.
The ancient Emperor Ojin, Empress Jingu and Emperor Chuai - treated as Gods during their reign and closely identified with Hachiman - are enshrined in the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine main buildings. This place plays host to an annual event called the Yabusame or horseback archery held in April and September in honor of the enshrined deities. Surrounding the main buildings is a park with a pond, and the Treasure House, the museum.
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