Usuki Stone Buddha & Inaba Residence

Delve into the history of Usuki, a former castle town famous for its many Buddha sculptures carved into the surrounding rock cliffs. Buddhas made of stone are rare in Japan, but there are about 60 of them in Usuki, all carved between the 8th and 12th centuries. The Buddhas are sheltered from the elements because the stone is of volcanic origin and somewhat soft and moist, which makes the sculptures susceptible to erosion. Although the castle overlooking Usuki is in ruins, you will get an intriguing glimpse into the past at the meticulously maintained Inaba residence. During the Edo Period, the feudal lord of Usuki was a member of the Inaba clan and lived there. You can’t help but impressed by the serenity, as the wooden residence is simply and elegantly designed and surrounded by gardens. The samurais lived nearby in a district that has also been beautifully restored.