Kenchoji Temple

What to know

Kenchoji (建長寺, Kenchōji) ranks first among Kamakura's five great Zen temples. Founded in 1253 by regent Hojo Tokiyori during the Kencho Era, it is the city's oldest Zen temple and was named after that era. Its first head priest was a Chinese monk.

Though much smaller than its medieval heyday, Kenchoji still comprises numerous temple buildings and subtemples, stretching from the entrance gate at the valley floor deep into the forested hills behind. After passing through the Sanmon main gate, visitors will see the temple bell (Bonsho), a designated national treasure, on the right.

The next structure is the Butsuden (Buddha Hall), which houses a statue of Jizo Bodhisattva. Behind it stands the Hatto (Dharma Hall), the largest wooden temple building in eastern Japan. It contains a Kannon statue and a dragon painted on its ceiling.

Kenchoji's main hall is the Hojo, originally the head priest's residence, now used for various purposes. Don't miss the garden behind the Hojo, designed by Zen master Muso Kokushi.

Follow the path and stairways for another 15–20 minutes into the hills behind Kenchoji's main grounds, and you'll reach Hansobo, a shrine protecting the temple. There you'll also find a small observation deck offering views of Mount Fuji on clear days.

Climb another five minutes to a second observation deck with fine views over the entire temple grounds 100 meters below and the city of Kamakura. From there, the Tenen hiking trail starts, winding through the northern hills to Zuisenji Temple in about one hour.