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Kenchoji Temple (Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kenchoji Temple is the head temple of the Kenchoji school of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism in Kamakura City, and is said to have been founded in 1253 (Kencho 5) by Hojo Tokiyori, who welcomed the Chinese-born Zen monk Rankei Doryu. It is a prestigious Zen temple ranked first among the Five Mountains of Kamakura, and is one of the centers of Zen culture in Japan. The temple grounds stretch from the foot of the mountain to the mountain, and are characterized by a collection of temple buildings such as the main hall, lecture hall, large Sanmon gate, and Hojo garden. The temple is attractive for its tranquil Zen atmosphere, abundant nature, and views of the city of Kamakura and the sea.
Highlights
- Sanmon Gate (Sanmon Gate): This large gate symbolizes Kenchoji Temple. Entering the temple grounds from the gate opens up into a majestic space.
- Hatto (Lecture Hall) and Butsuden (Buddha Hall): This building is where Zen ceremonies and sermons are held, and you can view the stately structure of the interior (there are restrictions on viewing the interior and photography).
- Hojo Garden: This Zen garden offers a different look through the seasons. We recommend sitting quietly and gazing at the garden.
- Kaisan-do Hall and Founder's Statue: A statue of the monk involved in the founding of Kenchoji Temple and the hall where he is enshrined. You can experience history here.
- Walking and hiking trails within the temple grounds: The temple grounds continue up the mountain, and if you climb a little further you'll come to an observation point overlooking the city of Kamakura and Sagami Bay. You can enjoy both nature and historical sites.
- Zen meditation experience (please check and often require reservations): Zen meditation sessions for beginners and experience programs such as copying sutras are sometimes held (please check in advance for dates and how to participate).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: About 5-10 minutes on foot from Kita-Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line. About 15-20 minutes on foot or take a bus from Kamakura Station on the JR and Enoshima Electric Railways.
- Bus: Take the Enoshima Electric Railway Bus or Keihin Kyuko Bus from the east exit of Kamakura Station and get off at stops such as "Kenchoji" or "Kenchoji-mae" (check the route and timetable before boarding).
- By car: Roads and parking spaces are limited in the area, so we recommend using public transportation. There are paid parking lots nearby, but they can be crowded on weekends and during peak tourist seasons.
- Walking route: It is convenient to walk around the group of temples around Kita-Kamakura Station (Engaku-ji Temple, Meigetsu-in Temple, etc.).
- Visiting hours and fees: Generally morning to afternoon (e.g., roughly 8:30 to 16:30), but may vary seasonally. Some areas, such as the Hojo Garden, require an admission fee. Please check the official website or local information for the latest information.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- A quick tour of the temple grounds: around 60 minutes
- Take your time to explore the gardens and the hall, and take photos: 90 minutes to 2 hours
- If you include Zen meditation and hiking: 2-3 hours or more
Nearby spots
- Engakuji Temple (Kita-Kamakura): Another large Zen Buddhist temple, within walking distance.
- Meigetsuin Temple (Kita-Kamakura, famous for its hydrangeas): Depending on the season, it becomes a popular spot for viewing hydrangeas.
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (Kamakura Chuo): A representative tourist spot in Kamakura, accessible on foot or by bus from Kamakura Station.
- Hokokuji Temple (bamboo garden and tea ceremony area): We also recommend taking a short walk to the bamboo grove garden.
- Hase/Great Buddha (Kotoku-in Temple): It is easy to get to other famous places in Kamakura by public transportation.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area can get very crowded on weekends, holidays, Golden Week, during the autumn foliage season, and during hydrangea season. If you want a quieter experience, we recommend visiting on a weekday or in the morning.
- Visitor etiquette: The temple grounds are religious facilities. Please observe basic etiquette, such as not speaking loudly, refraining from eating and drinking, and following instructions within the grounds (no photography allowed, no entry areas). You will need to remove your shoes inside some of the temple grounds.
- Photography: Photography is usually permitted of the exterior and gardens, but photography may be prohibited inside the hall, of Buddhist statues, or during memorial services. Please check the notices posted or the information at the temple office.
- Clothing and footing: The temple grounds have many slopes and stone steps, and the paths can be muddy or slippery in places. Comfortable walking shoes and clothing are recommended.
- Seasonal precautions: Protect yourself from the heat and mosquitoes in summer, and the cold in winter. Be careful when it rains as the ground can be dangerous.
- Zen meditation and experience participation: Zen meditation sessions and sutra copying often require advance reservations and limited capacity. If you wish to participate, please check in advance with the official website or temple office.
Kenchoji Temple is a place where you can feel the history of Kamakura and the spirit of Zen. If you have time, we recommend walking around the surrounding temples and spending some time relaxing in the quiet grounds.
