10. Ushiku Diabatsu, Japan, 100m / 330 ft
Ushiku Daibatsu’s construction was completed in 1993. It was the tallest statue in the world from 1993 to 2008. The massive structure has an elevator that takes visitors up 85m / 279 ft to an observation floor. The statue was built to commemorate the birth of Shinran, founder of the Jōdo Shinshū 浄土真宗 or “True Pure Land School” of Buddhism.
On the next page, we’ll take a look at The Motherland Calls, a huge statue in Russia.
11. The Motherland Calls, Russia, 85m / 279 ft
The Motherland Calls is the tallest state in Europe. It was unveiled in 1967. Two hundred steps, symbolizing the 200 days of the Battle of Stalingrad, lead from the bottom of the hill to the monument. The statue is an allegorical image of the Motherland, which calls on its sons and daughters to repulse the enemy and return to the attack.
On the next page we’ll show you another massive statue: Awaji Kannon in Japan.