If You’re Unsure Where to Go in the Shonan Area, Visit Hokoku-ji in Kamakura!
By reading this article, you will:
- Learn about the trending spot, Hokoku-ji Temple!
- Discover how to make the most of your visit to Hokoku-ji!
Make sure to read until the end!
Contents
What is Hokoku-ji Temple?
Hokoku-ji is a famous temple in Kamakura, known for its bamboo garden. Built during the Kamakura period, the temple is rich in historical significance. The main hall, with its solemn architecture, and the intricate Buddhist statues are especially impressive. As you step into the temple grounds, you’ll be greeted by a stunning Japanese garden, featuring seasonal flowers, dry landscape (karesansui), and stone arrangements that create a tranquil atmosphere.
In spring, you can admire cherry blossoms, while autumn foliage offers a breathtaking view in the fall. Each season brings a different charm to the temple’s scenery.
Within the garden, you’ll also find a tea house, where you can enjoy a quiet moment with matcha (green tea) while immersing yourself in the Japanese tea culture. This experience provides a perfect opportunity to relax your mind and body.
The approach to the temple is lined with souvenir shops and restaurants, offering a taste of local flavors and handmade crafts. Strolling through these charming streets while taking in the historic atmosphere of Kamakura is part of the fun!
As you can see, Hokoku-ji is a wonderful place where history and nature harmonize. Take your time to enjoy its gardens and architecture while experiencing the unique atmosphere of Kamakura!
[Official Website / Visiting Hours / Admission Fees / Access / Address]
🔗 Official Website
Hokoku-ji Temple Official Site
⏳ Visiting Hours
- Temple Gate Open: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Kyuko-an (Tea House): 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Matcha (with traditional sweets): 600 yen
💰 Admission Fees
- Adults (High school and above): 400 yen
- Children (Elementary & Junior High School students): 200 yen
🚗 Access
- By Taxi: About 7 minutes from JR Kamakura Station
- By Bus:
- Take a Keihin Kyuko Bus from Platform 4 at Kamakura Station
- Board a bus bound for Kamakura Reien-Seimon-mae / Tachiari / Kanazawa-Hakkei / Highland
- Ride for about 12 minutes, get off at Jomyoji Bus Stop, and walk 3 minutes
- By Car: About 10 minutes from Asahina Interchange on the Yokohama-Yokosuka Road
- Note: Parking spaces are limited. Please use nearby paid parking lots.
📍 Address
2-7-4 Jomyoji, Kamakura City, 248-0003, Japan
How to Enjoy Hokoku-ji
Here are four ways to make the most of your visit to Hokoku-ji Temple!
① Visit the Temple and Explore its Treasures
Hokoku-ji offers a unique and deeply spiritual experience. Its most famous attraction, the bamboo garden, is a must-see. The temple grounds also feature a traditional dry landscape garden (karesansui), where stones are carefully arranged to represent mountains and rivers. Observing the sand patterns in the garden is an enjoyable activity unique to Hokoku-ji.
After visiting the main hall, the central worship area, explore other structures such as:
- The Bell Tower (Shoro)
- The Yagura (cave-like tombs carved into cliffs)
- Kasho-do Hall
Each of these has historical and cultural significance, making them worth seeing.
② Enjoy Tea and Sweets at the Café
Inside Hokoku-ji, you’ll find a cozy tea house called Kyuko-an. Here, you can enjoy a bowl of matcha with traditional Japanese sweets while admiring the bamboo garden.
The soothing sounds of trickling water over rocks and birds chirping create a serene atmosphere. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and refresh your mind in this peaceful retreat.
③ Take Beautiful Photos
Hokoku-ji’s bamboo garden is a well-known photogenic spot!
Walking through the towering bamboo grove is an awe-inspiring experience. The appearance of the bamboo changes depending on the season, weather, and time of day. Capture stunning moments such as:
- Sunlight filtering through the bamboo
- Raindrops glistening on the bamboo after rain
- The gentle swaying and creaking sounds of the bamboo in the wind
Take memorable photos with family, friends, or loved ones and enjoy the unique scenery of Hokoku-ji!
④ Join a Zen Meditation Session
Every Sunday at 7:30 AM, Hokoku-ji hosts a public Zen meditation session (Zazen-kai), open to everyone.
Zen meditation is said to:
- Calm your mind and bring inner peace
- Improve concentration by focusing on breathing
Participation is free, making it a perfect activity for an early morning spiritual experience!
🔹 Reception Time: 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM
🔹 Event Time: 7:30 AM – 9:15 AM (Every Sunday)
🔹 Details: Zen Meditation Official Page
Final Thoughts
What did you think?
Hokoku-ji Temple is a beautiful destination that blends nature, history, and culture. There are many ways to enjoy your visit, so explore at your own pace and make the most of this serene retreat!
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