⛩️ Yuanjue Temple (Enkaku-ji)

Engaku-ji (円覚寺), easily accessible from Kita-Kamakura Station, is the head temple of the Engaku-ji sect of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism. It was founded in the fifth year of Kōan (1282) by Hōjō Tokimune, the eighth shikken of the Kamakura shogunate, with the aim of spreading Zen and commemorating those who died during the Mongol invasions. Subsequently, it received special protection from the Hōjō clan during the Kamakura period, making it a historic ancient temple. Ascending the stone steps that extend from the main gate, visitors pass through the Sanmon gate, which appears in Natsume Sōseki's novel "Mon," before entering the temple grounds. Inside the main hall, the principal statue of Shakyamuni Buddha adorned with a crown is enshrined, and its dignified yet compassionate expression is clearly visible even from outside the hall. The ceiling painted with the moving "White Dragon" mural is also a must-see. The Shariden hall is the only building in Kamakura designated as a national treasure. It houses a tooth of Shakyamuni Buddha, which was brought from a monastic temple by Minamoto no Sanetomo. Additionally, the Hōjō pond, which has existed since its construction, and the "Tiger Head Rock" with its tiger-like striations, forming the unique landscape of "Myōkō Pond," are both designated national scenic spots. Zazen sessions, which have been attended by renowned literary figures such as Natsume Sōseki and Tōson Shimazaki, are held every morning and on the sixth day of the month. At the end of the steep stone steps stands the largest national treasure bell in the Kanto region, and the nearby teahouse is also a popular spot for relaxation.

A Rinzai Zen temple built during the Kamakura period. It received special protection from the Hojo clan during the Kamakura period. The hall of relics and the bell, known as the largest in the Kanto region, have been designated as national treasures. Zazen sessions, attended by figures such as Natsume Sōseki and Shimazaki Tōson, are held daily. There is a tea house inside Bentendō where visitors can enjoy tea and snacks.