Engakuji Temple円覚寺
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.
Kanagawa Pref. Kamakurashi Yamanouchi 409
0467220478
[Mar.-Nov.］8:00-16:30
[Dec.-Feb.]8:00-16:00
Details
Address
Kanagawa Pref. Kamakurashi Yamanouchi 409 [map]
Phone
0467220478
- Hours
- [Mar.-Nov.］8:00-16:30
[Dec.-Feb.]8:00-16:00 - Closed
- open everyday (due to typhoons and snow, it may be closed)
- Fees
- Admission fee300yen
- Parking Lot
- Available
Information Sources: NAVITIME JAPAN
Access
Kanagawa Main Areas
Kanagawa prefecture acts as an extension of the Tokyo metropolis that spills over into coastal towns, most notably Yokohama city, heavily populated and known for its Chinatown and seaside attractions. Just the right distance for a day trip out of Tokyo, Kanagawa is home to some of Tokyo’s most accessible beaches, including around Kamakura, best known for its Big Buddha. Visitors can also travel a little farther afield for a weekend at Hakone onsen town.
