Situated in Kanagawa prefecture, just 100 minutes out of Tokyo, is Kamakura. To reach Kamakura from Tokyo, take a train from Shinjuku station to Fujisawa station, and then catch the local ’Enoden’ train to Kamakura station. Hokokuji Temple was founded in 1344, and is part of the Zen Buddhism sect. It was established as the family temple of two Samurai clans who worshipped here side by side.

The temple grounds have three large man made caves which were carved into the rocks that surround the temple. The ashes of the one of the Samurai clans are buried inside and considered highly sacred. However, Hokokuji is most famous for its Bamboo garden and so is nicknamed the ‘Bamboo Temple’ where there are said to be over 2000 Bamboo trees. There used to be an old training area to train Buddhist monks where the Bamboo forest now lies.

There are many statues of Buddha in the temple’s sacred main hall, but visitors cannot enter it as it is highly sacred. Instead, visitors can enjoy the beautiful architecture of the main hall the training hall from outside. The temple has a stunning Zen dry landscape garden with a Koi pond. There are benches where visitors can sit, rest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere during their stay.

Once you have enjoyed the temple’s grounds, head to the small but wonderful tea house which is nestled amongst the Bamboo trees. Here visitors can enjoy a matcha and sweet set, comprising of one bowl of matcha and two small sugar sweets which when paired together make for a pleasant experience. Sip your tea slowly and gaze out at the luscious greenery of the Bamboo forest before you. To reach the temple it is approximately a 30 minute walk from Kamakura station, but we promise you the walk is worth it!

Want to Experience the Beauty of Kamakura for Yourself?

1 Day Tour

1 Day Trip to Kamakura and Enoshima : Shrines, Seaside, Temples and Tea
Period	February – November
Time	08:00 – 19:10
Meeting Place	Outside of Shinjuku Station South Gate Baskin Robbins
Adult Rate	¥19,800
Child Rate	¥13,000