Ueno Daibutsu, Tokyo

Once part of a colossal (approximately 6 meters in height) bronze statue of seated Shaka (or Shakyamuni) Nyorai, Ueno Daibutsu is only its face that remains. Perched on the hill of Mount Daibutsu, adjacent to Ueno Seiyōken, the iconic image is surrounded by a pagoda-style prayer tower dedicated to Yakushi Buddha and a shrine.

The history of Ueno Daibutsu is marked by numerous disasters. Originally erected in 1631 (during the early Edo period), it sustained multiple damage and subsequently underwent restorations after the 1640 earthquake, a fire in 1841, and then another earthquake in 1855.

The statue maintained its integrity until a disaster struck again during the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, causing its head to topple. Sadly, in the aftermath of the earthquake, a significant portion of the statue was melted down for reuse during World War II as metal donations became necessary. The head and torso, saved after the quake, were stored at Kanei-ji Temple in Ueno with the hope of future reconstruction.

In 1972, the face was put on display at its original location. Since the early 2000s, students preparing for exams have been coming here to pray in front of the face, which they say brings success. Consequently, it has earned the nickname "Great Buddha of Success" Additionally, it is also affectionately referred to as the "Qualified Buddha" because the relief on its face is "non-falling," a homonym with the Japanese word "non-failing," signifying the hope of passing exams.