⛩️ Kencho-ji Temple

In the 5th year of Kencho (1253), the 5th shikken of the Kamakura shogunate, Hojo Tokiyori, founded Kencho-ji, inviting the high monk Lanxi Daolong from the Song Dynasty to establish it. It is the first Zen temple in Japan dedicated exclusively to the practice of Zen Buddhism. Kencho-ji holds the top position among the Five Mountains of Kamakura and is highly esteemed, serving as the head temple of the Rinzai sect's Kencho-ji school, which has over 400 branch temples. Its official name is Kyofuku-san Kencho Koku Zenji, with the mountain name Kyofuku derived from Kyofukuro, and the temple name taken from the era name. The main buildings, including the main gate, Sanmon, Buddha hall, and Dharma hall, are aligned in a straight line, a unique architectural arrangement characteristic of Zen temples. The temple houses several cultural treasures, including the national treasure statue of Lanxi Daolong, and the bronze bell (national treasure) constructed by the founder Hojo Tokiyori, which is renowned as the most beautiful bell in the Kanto region. The expansive temple grounds feature the natural beauty of the changing seasons, and from the lookout point at the back, Hanzobō Shōjōgaku, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the temple complex, the town in front, and Sagami Bay, with Mount Fuji visible on clear days. After your visit, you might want to stop by the "Kanshian" in front of the gate to enjoy the "Kencho-yu," named after the homophone for "Kencho-ji's hot spring."

A temple deeply influenced by the faith of 北條時賴 (Hōjō Tokiyori) and 時宗 (Jishū). The dragon cypress personally planted by the Zen master 蘭溪道隆 (Rankei Dōryū) has stood firm since the temple's establishment. The so-called most beautiful bell in the Kanto region is not to be missed. If you extend your steps to the back area of 半僧坊 (Hanbō), you can enjoy an unimaginable breathtaking view. The vegetarian dish "建長湯" (Kenchō Soup), originating from 建長寺 (Kenchō-ji), is a must-try local delicacy.