The architecture really has that Japanese Zen vibe. The peaceful and quiet environment is perfect for a slow stroll.
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Houkokuji Temple
Situated in Kamakura, a Zen Temple with Tea in a Bamboo Grove
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This Kamakura temple received a three-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, a tourist guidebook aimed at overseas visitors to Japan.
In 1334, high priest Tengan Eko established this temple retreat as a place for ascetic training, and it became a place of worship for the Ashikaga and Uesugi Shogun clans.
With its bamboo grove of about 2,000 trees, as well as a beautifully maintained Japanese garden, fantastically beautiful scenery unfolds before you.
Deep in the bamboo grove is a retreat offering you Matcha green tea to savor.
The principal object of worship at this temple, the sitting Buddha of Shakyamuni, is a designated a significant cultural property of Kamakura city.
Highlights
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With the beauty of its 2000 Moso bamboo trees, it’s also known as the Bamboo Temple.
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Besides the bamboo grove, the beautiful Japanese garden, with its cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, can be enjoyed in all seasons.
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Take a break with Matcha and tea sweets at Kyukoan, a tea room with views of the bamboo grove. .
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Experience authentic Zazen (seated meditation) and Shakyo (hand-copying sutras).
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About 30 minutes on foot from Kamakura Station, it’s also nice to stroll to the temple.
Photos
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The magically beautiful bamboo grove (Photo credit: Kamakura City Tourism Association)
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The magically beautiful bamboo grove (Photo credit: Kamakura City Tourism Association)
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The magically beautiful bamboo grove (Photo credit: Kamakura City Tourism Association)
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Hondo, the Main Hall of Worship
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Houkokuji Temple
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The Bell Tower
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The Japanese Garden
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The Yagura turret
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The Bamboo Grove
Reviews
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Some reviews are translated by AI.
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After visiting Houkokuji Temple, I was deeply moved by its spiritual atmosphere and rich history. The temple's architecture and garden design really showcase the charm of ancient Japanese culture—truly impressive.
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Houkokuji Temple is famous for its bamboo grove, which really sets it apart. The whole area made me think of scenes from the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
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As soon as you step into the temple, you feel this peaceful and solemn vibe. I've never seen such a huge bamboo grove before. The lush green bamboo is just stunning!
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Details
- Name in Japanese
- 臨済宗建長寺派 報国寺
- Postal Code
- 248-0003
- Address
- 2-7-4 Jomyoji, Kamakura City, Kanagawa
- Telephone
- 0467-22-0762
- Admission Fees
- 400 yen
- Matcha Tea Fee
- 600 yen (with dry Japanese sweets)
- Closed
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December 29-January 3
※Closed In case of bad weather - Hours
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9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Matcha is available until 3:30 pm)
※When crowded, tea service may be temporarily cancelled. - Access
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1) About 7 minutes by taxi from Kamakura Station on JR lines or Enoshima Electric Railway
2) From Kamakura Station on JR lines or Enoshima Electric Railway, take the Keikyu Bus bound for Kamakura-reien-shoumenmae-tachiarai・kanazawahakkei / Highland. Get off at Jomyoji bus stop and walk for about 3 minutes. - Official Website
- Official Website (English)