Aproximately one hour by rail from Tokyo, is a small quiet coastal town with tranquil temples. In the old days, Kamakura was the seat of the feudal government set up in 1192. The town today retains much of its ancient feeling. The most famous attraction is its giant bronze Great Buddha (11.4 m. high) it weighs 122 tons and sits in the open-air since the original wooden building housing it was swept away by a tidal wave in 1495.