Hokkaido Makomanai Cemetery: A Sanctuary of the Great Buddha Surrounded by Lavender

The Great Buddha of Hokkaido's Makomanai Cemetery, also known as the "Head Buddha," is a landmark designed by renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. Nestled in a serene valley in Sapporo's Minami Ward, the site exudes a solemn and tranquil atmosphere. From Sapporo's city center, visitors can take the Namboku Subway Line to "Makomanai Station," then transfer to the Chuo Bus "Makomanai Cemetery Line" for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, driving is an option, with parking available on-site. Originally an open-air statue standing 13.5 meters tall, the Great Buddha was enclosed in 2016 within a dome-shaped worship hall designed by Tadao Ando. The Buddha's body is partially buried within an artificial hill surrounded by lavender, with only its head visible. Visitors walk through a serene gray concrete tunnel before emerging into an open space to gaze upon the entire statue, evoking both awe and a profound sense of peace. Over 150,000 lavender plants encircle the Buddha, creating a sea of purple blooms in summer that attracts countless photographers and worshippers. In winter, the area is blanketed in snow, offering a starkly different yet equally majestic beauty. Each season brings its own unique charm. In addition to the Great Buddha, the cemetery features a graveyard, stone sculptures, forest trails, and simple rest facilities, making it a tranquil space that blends nature, art, and spirituality. Regardless of one's faith, this site is worth a visit and stands out as a must-see spiritual destination near Sapporo.