Engakuji Temple

Located just a short walk from Kita-Kamakura Station, Engakuji is the head temple of the Rinzai Zen Engakuji school. Founded in 1282 by the eighth shogunal regent of the Kamakura shogunate, Tokimune Hojo, with the dual purpose of spreading Zen Buddhism and commemorating those who perished in the Mongol invasions. Since its inception, the temple has been generously protected by the Hojo clan throughout the Kamakura period, making it a historically significant temple.

From the main gate, ascend the stone steps and pass through the Sanmon, which appears in Soseki Natsume's novel "The Gate", to enter the temple grounds. The Buddha Hall enshrines the Shaka Nyorai, whose dignified and compassionate expression can be seen even from outside the hall. A striking painting of a white dragon adorns the ceiling. The Shariden Hall, housing a relic said to be a tooth of the Buddha brought from a monk's temple by Minamoto no Sanetomo, is the only national treasure of its kind in Kamakura. The temple grounds also include the unique Myoko-chi pond, which has existed since the temple's establishment, and the Kotogan Rock (Tiger Head Rock), named for its tiger-like striped pattern. The pond is designated as a national scenic spot.

Famous writers such as Soseki Natsume and Toson Shimazaki have participated in the temple's zazen meditation sessions, which are held daily, primarily on weekends. Beyond the steep steps, near the temple's massive bell - reputed to be the largest in the Kanto region and designated as a national treasure - there's a popular tea house where visitors can take a break.