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Engaku-ji

Temple

Prefecture

Kanagawa

Type

Temple

N/A

0 reviews

¥500

Entry Fee

Train Access

About This Destination

Ranked second of Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples, founded in 1282 to honor soldiers from the Mongol invasions, with a National Treasure reliquary hall.

Engaku-ji is one of the most important Zen Buddhist temple complexes in Japan, founded in 1282 by the regent Hojo Tokimune with the guidance of Chinese Zen master Mugaku Sogen. The temple was established to honor both Japanese and Mongolian soldiers who fell during the Mongol invasion attempts of 1274 and 1281. Its Shariden, a reliquary hall housing what is believed to be a tooth of the Buddha, is one of Kamakura's most significant National Treasures and a masterpiece of Song Dynasty-influenced Zen architecture. The temple's Great Bell, cast in 1301, is also designated a National Treasure and is one of the largest temple bells in the Kanto region. The sprawling grounds are particularly spectacular during autumn when the maples blaze with red and gold, drawing photographers and visitors from across the country. Being situated right next to Kita-Kamakura Station makes Engaku-ji an ideal first stop for exploring the area.

Location

Prefecture: Kanagawa

Address: Kamakura, Kanagawa, Japan

Nearest Station: Kita-Kamakura Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No dining within the temple, but the Kita-Kamakura station area has charming cafes and restaurants offering local fare such as shirasu and matcha sweets.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Engaku-ji?

Engaku-ji is one minute from Kita-Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line); the Sōmon main gate is across from the station's south exit. From Tokyo Station: 53 min direct on JR Yokosuka Line (¥920); from Yokohama: 22 min (¥420). The temple is the first stop on Kamakura's pilgrimage route #2. Don't take a taxi; the temple's elevation requires a stairway approach impossible by car. Combine with Tokei-ji (3 min walk south) and Kencho-ji (15 min walk south) for a Kita-Kamakura half-day.

What's the entry fee and what should I see?

Adult ¥500, child ¥200. Open 8:00–16:30 (March–November) and 8:00–16:00 (December–February). Don't miss: the National Treasure Shariden reliquary (open to public only at New Year and 'Houmotsu Kazari' Nov 3) housing what's said to be a Buddha tooth; the Great Bell (1301), Kanto's largest temple bell, on a hilltop with stairs; Butsunichi-an, the only Engaku-ji garden open year-round (extra ¥100); and Obai-in subtemple with autumn maples. Allow 90 minutes, or 2 hours for autumn maple peak (mid-Nov to early Dec).

Can I do English-language zazen here?

Yes. Engaku-ji is the most beginner- and foreigner-friendly Zen temple in Kamakura. English-language zazen is held every Sunday at 9:00–10:30 in Hojo Hall (free, no reservation; arrive 15 min early). Japanese-language sessions: every Saturday 13:30–15:00 and 5:30 a.m. on the 1st & 3rd Sunday. Two-day intensive 'sesshin' retreats are held monthly (¥10,000, advance booking required). Wear loose, comfortable clothing; no shorts, no sleeveless tops. Standard temple admission applies during the day.

When is the best time to visit Engaku-ji?

Late November to early December for autumn maples; Engaku-ji is one of Kanto's top three momiji destinations, with the Obai-in and Senbutsu-jo areas especially colorful. Early morning (8:00–9:00) avoids crowds even in peak season. Visit on November 3rd for the rare Shariden public opening, with free entry. Spring (April) for cherry blossoms is also lovely but quieter than autumn. Avoid summer afternoons (heat + humidity). Allow extra time during the early-November 'Houmotsu Kazari' treasure exhibition when normally hidden artifacts are displayed.