Zuisenji Temple

Zuisenji Temple (瑞泉寺) is a Zen Buddhist temple of the Rinzai sect located in Kamakura, Japan. It was founded in 1327 by Nikaido Doun, with Muso Soseki serving as the founding abbot.

The temple is known for its beautiful gardens, designed in the traditional karesansui (dry landscape) style by Muso Soseki himself. The garden, designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty, features carefully arranged rocks and gravel, with small islands of moss and trees scattered throughout. It is designed to be viewed from a specific viewpoint, creating a sense of harmony and balance that is typical of Zen Buddhist philosophy.

The temple features several buildings, including the main hall, the bell tower, and the abbot’s quarters. The main hall houses a statue of the principal deity, Shakyamuni Buddha. The temple gate (Sanmon) is also a significant structure, showcasing the architectural style of the Muromachi period and holding an Important Cultural Property designation. The Holy Kannon Bodhisattva statue is enshrined in the guest hall.

The temple also features a study hall called “Rinshunkaku” (臨春閣), overlooking the garden.

Getting there

From Kamakura Station to Zuisenji Temple:

Bus	Kamakura Station ↓ Bus Number 鎌20 ↓ 10 minutes (6 stops) Daitonomiya Bus Stop ↓ Walk about 15 minutes ↓ Zuisenji Temple (Cost 220 yen)
Walk	About 40 minutes (2.7 km)

Details

Hours	9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Reception closes 30 minutes before closing time.
Admission	Adults: 200 yen Elementary school and junior high school students: 100 yen
Phone	+81 467-22-1191
Address	710 Nikaidō, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0002
Official Website	https://www.kamakura-zuisenji.or.jp/en/