Engakuji Temple

4.5

Located in Yamanouchi, Kamakura City, this is the head temple of Rinzai Engakuji Buddhism. The temple is also considered the second of the “Kamakura Gozan” (Five Mountain Temples of Kamakura). The temple was built by the eighth shogun regent Hojo Tokimune in order to spread Zen Buddhism and impartially memorialize, without distinction between enemy and ally, those who died in the Mongol invasions of Japan. Today, the temple is still used to train Zen priests; ordinary people can also experience weekend zazen meditation sessions and other Zen training here as well. In addition, the Butsunichian and Nyoian temples on the grounds have a café and “amamidokoro” Japanese-style sweets café where customers can enjoy matcha powdered green tea and sweets.

Spot details

Address: Kanagawa Pref. Kamakurashi Yamanouchi 409 Map
Area: Kamakura Area
Phone: 0467220478
Hours: [Mar.- Nov.]8:00-16:30
[Dec.- Feb.]8:00-16:00
Closed: open everyday (occasionally closed due to typhoons and snow)
Fees: [Admission fee]
[Adult]500yen
[Elementary and junior high school students]200yen
Parking Lot: Not available (only coin parking nearby)
Smoking: Not available
Wi-Fi: Not available

Information Sources: NAVITIME JAPAN

Articles about this spot

Itineraries about this spot

Review

Very pretty much many areas closed off

Reviewed : 2022.06.04

I dont know if it was just a peculiarity of when I visited, but a lot of the buildings were closed off, including (disappointingly) the one that claims to house the finger relics of the Buddha...
Engaku-ji:Great temple right next to Kita-Kamakura Station

Reviewed : 2021.06.30

Youll be surprised how close the Engaku-ji to Kita-Kamakura Station. It only takes about 2 minutes from the stations exit to the temple’s entrance, which is also why youll still hear the train in...
Tranquil Beauty

Reviewed : 2020.09.25

My wife and I live locally so we can visit this temple in all seasons. It always has a tranquil beauty to it that puts your soul to rest. Extensive grounds include many religious buildings, a lovely...