Engakuji Temple

Engakuji Temple (円覚寺) is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kita-Kamakura, Japan. It was founded in 1282 by the regent Hojo Tokimune, with Zen master Mugaku Sogen serving as the founding abbot. It is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.

The temple’s main hall, known as the Shariden (舎利殿), is one of the oldest wooden buildings in Kamakura and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The Shariden houses the temple’s most important relic, a tooth of the Buddha, which is displayed to the public during the annual treasure exhibition in mid-October.

Engakuji Temple is also home to several other important buildings, including the Butsuden (Buddha Hall) and the Sanmon (Mountain Gate). The Butsuden houses a statue of Shaka Buddha, while the Sanmon is one of the largest and most impressive gates in Kamakura, with a beautiful view of the surrounding area.

The temple is also renowned for its beautiful gardens, which are designed in the traditional karesansui (dry landscape) style. The gardens feature carefully arranged rocks, sand, and gravel, with small islands of moss and trees scattered throughout. The gardens are designed to create a sense of tranquility and harmony that is typical of Japanese Zen gardens.

Getting there

From Kamakura Station to Engakuji Temple:

Bus	Kamakura Station ↓ Yokosuka Line ↓ 3 minutes (Nonstop) Kita-Kamakura Station ↓ Walk about 1 minute ↓ Engakuji Temple (Cost 150 yen)
Walk	About 30-40 minutes (2.2 km)
Taxi	About 10 minutes (Cost about 1,200 yen)

Details

Hours	March to November / 8:30 – 4:30 PM December to February / 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission	Adults: 500 yen Elementary school and junior high school students: 200 yen
Phone	+81 467-22-0478
Address	409 Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 247-0062
Official Website	https://www.engakuji.or.jp/en/

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