🗺️ Kamakura Kōmyō-ji鎌倉　光明寺(浄土宗大本山天照山蓮華院光明寺)

Kamakura Kōmyō-ji is said to have been established in 1243, officially named "Jōdo-shū Daibonsan Amateruyama Renge-in Kōmyō-ji." It is a famous temple of the Pure Land Buddhism. After the Kamakura shogunate's general Hōjō Tokimune converted to Pure Land Buddhism, it was founded by the third patriarch of Pure Land Buddhism, Nara Ryōchū, who accepted his conversion. The main hall of Kōmyō-ji was built in 1698 and is the largest wooden structure still existing in Kamakura, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The temple's scenery is picturesque, and no matter when you visit throughout the year, you can enjoy delightful views. It is especially famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring, while in summer, you can admire the ancient and sacred lotus flowers in the Japanese garden known as "Kijushi Teien." The view from Amateruyama behind Kōmyō-ji has been selected as one of the "50 Scenic Spots of Kanagawa," making it a highly recommended photography location. Additionally, if you make a reservation in advance, you can taste Buddhist vegetarian meals within the temple and experience activities such as copying sutras.

The scenery within the temple is picturesque; in spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms, and in summer, you can admire lotus flowers. The main hall of Kōmyō-ji is the largest wooden structure still existing in Kamakura and is designated as an important cultural property by the Japanese government. The temple grounds are quite expansive, and right next to it is the vast Zaimokuza Beach.