Trip Planner:   Asia  /  Japan  /  Kanto  /  Kanagawa Prefecture  /  Kamakura  /  Kencho-ji Temple

Kencho-ji Temple, Kamakura

4.5

#5 of 103 in Historic Sites in Kamakura

Historic Site Religious Site

• 

Take in the serenity and artistry at Kencho-ji Temple, a commanding Zen Buddhist temple known for its carefully designed gardens and grand architecture. Completed in 1253 under the command of Emperor Go-Fukakusa, the temple originally boasted 49 subtemples, most of which were lost to fire during the 14th and 15th centuries. As you explore the extensive complex, note the 13th-century temple bell, Chinese juniper trees in the temple garden, and the finely ornamented roofs and walls. The temple welcomes visitors to participate in 40-minute zazen meditation sessions, providing brief instruction on posture and the tenets of Zen Buddhism beforehand (in Japanese). North of the complex, hiking trails lead farther up the hill to an observatory. Plan to visit Kencho-ji Temple during your Kamakura vacation using our convenient Kamakura route planner.

more less

Create an itinerary including Kencho-ji Temple

Start planning

Unable to display map at this time. Please try again later.

© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors

Kencho-ji Temple Reviews

Rate this attraction

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

512 reviews

• By ady a

  In our one day trip from Tokyo to visit some of the many temples and shrines in Kamakura after the Daibutsu statue and Hasedera temple we have chosen Kencho-ji temple and we don't regret. The old wood...  more »

• By norii2000

  地方から行くので訪れる寺を絞って回ります。このお寺は庭園がきれいでした。今回は北鎌倉駅周辺を散策しました  more »

  Because I go from the provinces, I narrow down the temple sibecause i visit. The garden of this temple was beautiful. This time I walked around Kita-Kamakura Station.
  View original

View more on TripAdvisor »

Places to stay near Kencho-ji Temple

Plan your trip to Kamakura

• Get a personalized plan

  A complete day-by-day itinerary
  based on your preferences

• Customize it

  Refine your plan. We'll find the
  best routes and schedules

• Book it

  Choose from the best hotels
  and activities. Up to 50% off

• Manage it

  Everything in one place.
  Everyone on the same page.