Sugimoto Temple

4.0

According to tradition, the Sugimoto Temple was founded in 734 by the bodhisattva Gyoji, making it the oldest Buddhist temple in Kamakura; it is the first temple on the Bando Sanjusan Kannon pilgrimage circuit (of temples dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy). Visitors approach the temple up a flight of moss-covered stone steps, bordered by banners that help to create a solemn and sacred atmosphere, before reaching the Niomon Gate, with statues of two Deva Kings (guardian deities) that are said to have been carved by the famous sculptor Unkei. In the Hon-do hall there are three statues of the goddess Kannon with 11 faces; of these three statues, the one that according to tradition was carved by Ennin and the one that is reputed to have been carved by Genshin have both been designated as National Important Cultural Properties.

Spot details

Address: Kanagawa Pref. Kamakurashi Nikaidou 903 Map
Area: Kamakura Area
Phone: 0467223463
Hours: 9:00-16:00 (Iriyama Information desk closed 15:45)
Closed: open everyday
Fees: [Admission fee]300yen
Parking Lot: Not available
Credit Card: Not available
Smoking: Not available
Wi-Fi: Not available
Note: Temporary closure:Currently closed (information as of May 7, 2020)
*Information may be changed, so please be sure to check the official information.
Estimated stay time: 0-30 minutes
Infant friendly: Available

Information Sources: NAVITIME JAPAN

Itineraries about this spot

A Half Day Exploring Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and the Surrounding Area

1 day(s)

Review

New Kamakura 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #1 Sugimoto-dera Temple

Reviewed : 2022.02.16

After Raiko-ji Temple, I was walking along the foot of hills slightly downward. I found a road running along the bottom of a ravine. I walked along the street and found Sugimoto-Kannon Busstop. I...
Wonderful smaller temple/ shrine

Reviewed : 2019.11.10

One of the smaller temple in Kamakura but really lovely and a lot quieter than some of the most popular temples. Full of charms and small details. Delightful.
Lovely

Reviewed : 2018.04.17

This old temple is really lovely. The moss covered stairs were really beautiful to look at. Nice view of the city from atop as well. Small but still impressive.