The Great Buddha at Kotoku-in

The Great Buddha of Kamakura sits in the grounds of Kotoku-in, a bronze figure more than eleven metres tall that has been in the open air since its hall was destroyed by storms and a tsunami in the fifteenth century. Weathered green, calm-faced and ringed by trees, it is one of Japan's best-known images.

For portraits, stepping back gives the whole figure with a couple small in front, and a side angle shows its size. The grounds are compact, so mornings are best, before the crowds walk up from the station.

Entry is paid, and it is a place of worship as well as a sight: no climbing, sitting or posing on the base or the lanterns. The walk from Hase station passes small shops and is part of the visit.