15 Colossal Statues Around The World You've Never Seen Before

7. The Sendai Daikannon – The Towering Goddess of Mercy in Japan

While Japan is known for its massive Buddha statues, few travelers have heard of the Sendai Daikannon, a 100-meter-tall depiction of the bodhisattva Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Located in Sendai, this awe-inspiring statue is one of the tallest in the world and features an interior filled with religious symbolism. Visitors can step inside the statue, taking an elevator up to different levels where 108 Buddhist statues are arranged to represent the 108 earthly desires in Buddhist belief. As you ascend, each floor reveals deeper insights into Kannon’s role in guiding humanity toward enlightenment. The panoramic view from the top offers a breathtaking look over Sendai and the Pacific Ocean beyond. Unlike more well-known Buddhist statues in Japan, the Sendai Daikannon remains off the main tourist circuit, offering a serene and immersive experience for those willing to seek it out.