Ushiku

Ushiku is a city in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. Located in the northern part of the prefecture in the Kantō region, the city encompasses agricultural lands and residential areas. The economy is based on agriculture, light manufacturing, and logistics services, with local industries centered on vegetables and fruit farming and small-scale plants.

The city is best known for Ushiku Daibutsu, a large statue of Amitabha Buddha. Completed in 1993, the Ushiku Daibutsu stands at 100 meters tall (including its base) and rises near the city center. The statue has an interior elevator that provides an observation deck with views of the surrounding area. It ranks among the tallest statues in the world and draws many visitors.

Ushiku is served by rail and road, with a station on the JR Jōban Line providing access to Mito, Tsuchiura, and Tokyo area destinations; national and prefectural roads connect the city to neighboring municipalities.

History: The area has a long agricultural history, and the modern city was formed through the merger of several towns and villages in the late 20th century. The city has since developed as a regional center for commerce and services.

Education and culture: The city contains several schools and cultural facilities, including libraries and parks.