30th Anniversary of the Usuki Stone Buddhas’ National Treasure Designation

June 28 (Sat), 2025 — The skies smiled on Usuki today, blessing us with perfect weather for a truly meaningful occasion: the 30th anniversary of the Usuki Stone Buddhas being designated as a National Treasure of Japan.

Originally designated a Special Historic Site in 1952, the Usuki Stone Buddhas received National Treasure status in 1995 (Heisei 7). They became the first cliff-carved Buddhas in Japan and the first sculptural National Treasure in Kyushu.

What makes Usuki Stone Buddhas unique is that the Usuki Stone Buddhas are carved directly into a natural rock face, making them a rare form of magaibutsu (cliff-carved Buddhas). It is perhaps this immovable, grounded presence that has allowed these Buddhas to remain firm guardians of Usuki for over a thousand years, dating back to the Heian period.

Over the past 30 years, these sacred figures have quietly witnessed and endured countless events—typhoons, earthquakes, the COVID-19 pandemic, and joyful community festivals like the Fire Festival, Lotus Festival, and even the modern Perm Festival.

This anniversary commemorative ceremony honored both the Buddhas and the people who have safeguarded them. The event included:

• Presentation of certificates of appreciation to those who have played a key role in preserving the site,

• A heartwarming guided tour by local children, known as the “Usukikko Guides,”

• And a deeply spiritual Buddhist memorial service (hōyō) led by the Usuki Buddhist Association, bringing together multiple sects in a unified prayer. Such cross-sect memorial services are rare in Japan, and their occurrence here speaks volumes about the spiritual importance of the site and the reverence it commands.

Congratulations to the Usuki Stone Buddhas on this 30-year milestone as a National Treasure. May their silent presence continue to protect, inspire, and guide us for generations to come.

Upcoming Events and Projects for

the 30th Anniversary of the Usuki Stone Buddhas’ National Treasure Designation

■Usuki Stone Buddhas 30th Anniversary Symposium

Time: August 30, 2025

Location: Usuki Central Community Hall

A symposium featuring experts and researchers sharing insights on the cultural and academic value of the Usuki Stone Buddhas.

■Memorial Exhibition: “Stone Buddha Memories – Tracing Local History”

Time: August 22 – September 30, 2025 (planned)

An exhibition of historical photos and materials from local residents who have lived alongside the Stone Buddhas.

■Photo Book Production

A high-resolution photo book is in progress, showcasing the beauty and conservation of the Buddhas with expert commentary.

■Collaborative Product Development with Universities

University students will participate in local research and propose tourism-related products to enhance regional appeal.

■Upgraded Signage and Free Wi-Fi

Multilingual and visually unified information signs and free Wi-Fi access will be installed along the approach to the Stone Buddhas.