The Usuki Stone Buddha: Celebrating 30 Years of National Treasure Designation

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the designation of the Usuki Stone Buddha as a National Treasure of Japan. To commemorate this milestone, a special symposium was held with three key themes:

1. The cultural and historical significance of the Usuki Stone Buddha,

2. The Usuki Stone Buddha viewed through the lens of sculpture, and

3. The preservation and restoration of this valuable heritage site.

   Experts from each field offered insights to deepen our understanding and appreciation of this remarkable cultural asset.

The Usuki Usuki Stone Buddha was designated as a Special Historic Site in 1952, and as a National Treasure in 1995. It is one of only four sites in Japan to hold both honors—highlighting its rare and exceptional value.

It is also the only group of stone Buddhas in Japan to be designated as a National Treasure. Moreover, it holds the distinction of being the only National Treasure in the field of sculpture in Kyushu.

While often referred to as “stone Buddhas,” these figures are carved directly into rock walls. Therefore, they are not movable statues, but cliff-carved Buddhas, known in Japanese as magaibutsu.

Extensive restoration efforts have been carried out over the years to protect the site.

• For the stone carvings themselves, protective measures include applying synthetic resin to safeguard the stone surfaces, bonding and sealing cracks, and reattaching fallen fragments.

• For the surrounding environment, preservation work has included building protective shelters to shield the Buddhas from rain and wind, installing shutters to regulate temperature and prevent freezing, constructing drainage systems for heavy rainfall, switching to LED lighting, and removing moss and other plant growth that can damage the carvings.

These continuous efforts ensure that the Usuki Magaibutsu can be passed down to future generations in its most complete form.

Learning about the artistry, history, and preservation of the Usuki Magaibutsu allows us to connect more deeply not only with these ancient figures, but also with the cultural heart of Usuki itself.

Their serene expressions, carved into stone centuries ago, still speak to us today—reminding us of the enduring spirit of faith, craftsmanship, and community that has shaped this extraordinary place.