Kencho-ji

Established in 1253 by regent Hōjō Tokiyori, Kenchō-ji is the first Zen monastery in Japan situated in Kamakura. Deep both spiritually and historically, this is Kamakura's first of the Five Great Zen Temples. The temple complex is roomy and peaceful with its classic Zen architecture, grand Sanmon (main gate), and beautifully landscaped garden built by Musō Soseki. Among the highlights are the monument of Jizō Bosatsu in the Butsuden (Buddha Hall) and the tranquil Zen garden behind the residence of the chief priest for introspection. Especially in autumn when the colors are amazing, Kenchō-ji offers a unique setting by blending seriousness with natural beauty. Since real Zen peace is less crowded than some Kyoto temples, it is ideal. Highly advised for those drawn to meditation, history, or simply a peaceful retreat.

A great temple area that's connected to a series of trails that lead to a beautiful view! The climb to the top is about 15-20 minutes at a good pace and then the trail continues. The temple at the bottom is really beautiful and has multiple buildings to view and go into.

Love this temple. It has a nice route to walk the complex and if you are up for it you can climb the mountain to the observatory. It has a great view and on a clear day you can see Mt. Fuji.

A stunning historical Temple located in Kamakura🌊 There’re Zen Meditation sessions on 3:30pm Friday n Sat on weekly basis, the monk and meditation triggered my memory about a Japanese historical comedy anime series 一休さん: Ikkyu-san👍 Hiking route can lead up to the top of mountain⛰️where overlooks Kamakura🌊 Highly Recommend👍

This was the last temple we went before we succumbed to the heat. Very cool place, paid 500 yen to get in.

Beautiful temples with a magnificent Japanese garden. The site is quite spread with many different temples. We can also hike for 15 minutes and have a view of the city of kamakura and the sea. Also, this temple is not as crowded as the others located in the city centre.

Relaxing and quiet temple close to Kamakura, you nit to get off the train at the previous station. It have a resting quiet area in the temple just sitting looking at a little Japanese garden well maintained. Recommended visit.

Utterly beautiful and fascinating temple. Highly Recommended at anytime of the year. Such amazing examples of architecture and devotion. This solemn, tranquil, peaceful location leaves you feeling calm and rested. Just sit quietly and absorb the centuries of history.

Kenchji is a Rinzai zen temple built by Rankei Doryu in 1253. There are a lot of magnificent buildings. I was impressed by Shinji Pond and its Zen Garden. The Shinji pond looks like the character "Kokoro" which means heart. The pond will give you an Instagram moment.

This is the biggest temple in Kita Kamakura area. It'd be perfect finale if you were trekking from Kitakamakura station. There are 3 buildings you can enter. Two of them have Buddha statues that can soothe you into Zen state. Last building in far back, there is a garden by it. You can sit, chill and stare at the garden... again, can take you to Zen state. Anyways, it's pretty chill and all these buildings in the compound are authentic from 1600s. They are pretty impressive and magnificent. Admission is 500yen for adult.