Engaku-ji

My favorite Japanese temples are always Zen Temples. As such, Engaku-ji was no exception. I enjoy the understated architecture, the sense of peace and utter tranquility of these temples, and the focus on the beauty of the natural surroundings. The convenience to Kita-Kamakura station and its status as one of the five most important Zen temples in Kamakura ensures a steady stream of visitors. By visiting on a weekday I was able to avoid the hordes of people and thoroughly enjoyed my visit. The giant bell designated as a national treasure is well worth the climb up to see it, in my opinion.

Engakuji is built into the slopes of Kita-Kamakura's forested hills.
It is No 2 of Kamakura's 5 great Zen temples.
It was founded by the regent Hojo Tokimune in 1282 to pay respect to the fallen Japanese and Mongolian soldiers during Mongolian invasion of Japana in 1281.
The first main structure encountered upon entering the temple grounds is the Sanmon gate (built in 1783).
Behind it stands the temple's main hall, the Butsuden, which displays a wooden statue of the Shaka Buddha. The Butsuden was rebuilt in 1964 after the former building had been lost in an earthquake.
Further into the temple grounds stands Shariden hall in which a tooth of Buddha is enshrined.
Another attraction and national treasure is large bell that stands on a hill next to a teahouse where you may enjoy a cup of tea and Japanese sweets.
The temple is open from 08:00 to 16:30. It is next to Kita-Kamakura Train Station (around 100 m). Entrance (Oct 2023) was 500 yen per person.

Beautiful temple. Magnificent woodworking and bonsai trees. Easily 1-2 hours can be peacefully spent here.

Very special place. Great to see Kyudo school and to find Ozu's grave. Take your time...

Close to Kita Kamakura Station.

Always love to see the beauty of this place every season.

There is a beautiful garden, few hydrangea (summer time) , bamboo, and forest view too.

This is a temple, so it is best to keep your voices low in case talking is unavoidable.

Entrance fee is 500 yen.

Beautiful, peaceful temple, it was our favorite in Kamakura. They had some meditation sessions while we were visiting, which looked like a Great experience but we couldn't find how to sign up

A great temple to visit! Really really amazing. I got to experience watching Japanese kyudo. Watching it was really fun and the staff smiled and waved at me and didn't mind me taking pictures and videos. The temple is a beautiful place. And the dragon on the ceiling of the main building on the roof is beautiful.

For me the best temple we have seen in Kamakura. It is huge and on the edge of the forest. It has a very calming vibe and everything looks amazing well kept. We had a privilege of a local guide that explained to us the amazing symbolism and history behind this place. You can get matcha tea in the centre of the temple which is fine nothing special. The train station is very near only a 5min stroll away. If you like zen places this is the one to see.

Beautiful peaceful. Temple with magical ancient atomospher very clean full of nature and ta lot of tree
Enkakuji is the Rinzai sect's Dai Hon-san (main temple) located in the northern city of Kamakura. The temple was built in the second half of the 13th century at the request of Hōjō Tokimune, the Shogun's regent. It is considered the highest authority of Japan. After successfully repelling the Mongolian invasion Tokimune, a strong supporter of Zen Buddhism, invited Mugaku Sogen, a Zen priest From China to establish this temple During the construction, the scriptures were unearthed Hence the origin of the temple's name means Sutra of Perfect Enlightment.
The main deity of the temple is the Seated Statue of Shaka Nyora in the temple. It is noteworthy that the temple pond connected to the Edo period garden was restored in 2000.
There is also a large bell and a Shari-den, which has been declared a national treasure. This large bell was given to the temple.
The year 1301, with a height of 249.5 cm, is the largest bell in the Kanto region. The relics chamber was built in the early 13th century by the shogun to store the fangs.
Zen meditation can be performed on Saturday and Sunday mornings free of charge and no reservations are required. Join at any time if you have free time.

1 minute walk from JR Kita-Kamakura Station or from Kamakura Station, then take the Enoden Bus to get off at Ki stop. Ta-Kamakura (Kita-Kamakura) and walk for 1 minute. The temple is open to visitors from December to February until 4:00 PM.

Engaku-ji temple in Kamakura is a serene haven with a rich historical backdrop. The majestic Zen architecture and meticulously manicured gardens evoke a sense of tranquility. A must-visit for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

A temple right by the Kira-Kamakura train station but very quietly located in the hill. It’s great place to stroll for natural experience.

I came to Engakuji in February 9, 2022 because I wanted to visit the grave of Ozu Yasujiro, the great Japanese film director.
But the very Temple is amazing.

A temple originally built by Hojo Tokimune. A serene atmosphere.

This one of the famous temples in Kamakura area. Long history and amazing structure. The staff guided us very well. It is very well maintained temple. If you have a chance try zazen. I believe it will be fantastic scenery in autumn.

Great temple to visit, consisting of multiple buildings, some accessible via small hiking trails. When you find a spot away from the crowds (avoid weekends!), you will find serenity.
A few practical tips:
- Wear suitable shoes for walking to take full advantage of this site. There are gorgeous views to be found by veering slightly off the main paths. At the same time, some of the buildings do require you to take off your shoes.
- Some of the toilets here are traditional style but in the main temple building, you'll find western style toilets.
- You can get snacks and drinks in the teahouse, overlooking a great view, but there is a steep climb! There are also charms and souvenirs here.

Very large Temple right next to the Kita-Kamakura station. 300yen for adults to enter, 100yen for children. Very rich culture and history here. It was very impressive and a great workout!

Engaku-ji is ranked #2 among 5 Zen Temples of Kamakura (Kamakura Gozan). Some zen temples offer Zen meditation sessions to the public, but this is one of the few temples to offer sessions during the COVID 19 -a/o early November 2020- including early morning Zen meditation from 6am daily.

We visited this temple complex in heavy rain. It added to it's charm. A blissful oasis of serenity, calmness and beauty. Ideal coexistence of architecture and gardens in nature.

Lovely grounds, very beautiful temple. We were given a tour by Takakazu Toho, a local guide, who was very knowledgeable, energetic, and passionate about the history of the place!

This is an amazing temple to visit for half a day. Very specious and many things to see. Very beautiful and well kept, gardens, temples and surrouding environment.