Complete Guide to Hokokuji Temple (Kanagawa Prefecture) | Exploring the Beauty of Bamboo Grove and History in Kita-Kamakura
Hokokuji Temple (報国寺), located in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple affiliated with the Kenchoji school, known for its beautiful bamboo grove with approximately 2,000 Moso bamboo trees. Affectionately called the “Bamboo Temple,” its scenery, which earned three stars in the Michelin Green Guide, continues to captivate visitors from around the world. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to Hokokuji’s history, highlights, access methods, and admission information.
About Hokokuji | The Charm of Kamakura’s Famous “Bamboo Temple”
Hokokuji, formally known as Koshinzan Hokokuji, is a historic temple founded in 1334 (Kenmu 1st year), during the late Kamakura period. The fantastic bamboo grove that fills its grounds boasts unparalleled beauty in the Kamakura area, offering visitors a space of silence and healing.
Michelin Three-Star Recognition for Its Scenery
Hokokuji, along with Tokei Temple in North Kamakura, is one of only two temples in Kamakura to receive a three-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. This highest rating indicates “worth a special journey,” and its beautiful scenery has gained international recognition.
The soft light filtering through the lush green bamboo grove, the quiet rustling of bamboo, and the clear air that weaves the landscape together create a space that truly embodies Japanese beauty.
Characteristics and Appeal of the Bamboo Grove
Hokokuji’s bamboo grove contains approximately 2,000 Moso bamboo trees, with some reaching heights of over 10 meters. Walking along the maintained paths through the bamboo grove offers a fantastical experience of entering another world.
The bamboo grove maintains its beauty throughout the seasons, displaying different faces depending on when you visit—fresh green in spring, deep green in summer, clear air in autumn, and serene silence in winter. Early morning visits are especially recommended, as there are fewer people and you can fully enjoy the grove’s beauty in a quiet atmosphere.
History and Origins of Hokokuji Temple
Background of Establishment
Hokokuji is said to have been founded in 1334 (Kenmu 1st year) with Tengan Ekō as the founding priest to honor the memory of Ashikaga Iemochi, grandfather of Ashikaga Takauji, the first shogun of the Muromachi shogunate.
There are various theories regarding the founding patron, including Ashikaga Iemochi, Ashikaga Yoshihisa, and Uesugi Shigenaka, but all indicate deep connections with powerful samurai families from the Kamakura to Muromachi periods.
Connections with the Ashikaga and Uesugi Clans
Hokokuji has strong ties to the Ashikaga family, and graves of Ashikaga members exist within its grounds. During the Sengoku period, it also had connections with the Uesugi clan, who served as Kanto Kanrei (chief administrator), and the grave of Uesugi Norinori, lord of the Ogigayatsu Uesugi family, is located here.
It is also recorded that Yoshihisa, son of Ashikaga Mochiuji who was defeated in the Eikyo Rebellion (1438-1439), committed suicide at this temple, making it an important stage in Kamakura’s political history.
As a Rinzai Sect Kenchoji School Temple
Hokokuji belongs to the Rinzai Sect Kenchoji School. The Rinzai sect is a branch of Zen Buddhism known for emphasizing zazen (sitting meditation). Hokokuji regularly holds zazen sessions open to the general public, allowing participants to experience the spirit of Zen.
Highlights of Hokokuji Temple | A Thorough Introduction to the Temple Grounds
The Bamboo Garden (Bamboo Grove)
The greatest attraction of Hokokuji is undoubtedly the “Bamboo Garden,” featuring a beautiful bamboo grove. Spread out behind the main hall, the grove can be explored via a well-maintained stone-paved pathway, offering a transcendent experience of silence and healing.
Light filters appropriately through the bamboo grove, creating beautiful contrasts in shades of green. When the wind blows, the sound of bamboo touching each other resonates, allowing you to enjoy nature’s music.
Matcha Tea Experience at Kyukoan
At the far end of the bamboo grove stands “Kyukoan,” a tea pavilion where you can enjoy matcha and Japanese confections (separate matcha ticket required). Savoring matcha while overlooking the bamboo grove is extraordinary and should not be missed when visiting Hokokuji.
From Kyukoan, you can sit and enjoy the beautiful bamboo landscape, making it ideal for resting your body after the walk through the grove. Spending quiet time in this serene space allows for both physical and mental refreshment.
Main Hall and Main Buddha
The main hall of Hokokuji enshrines the principal image of the Shakyamuni Buddha Triad. The hall itself was rebuilt during the Edo period and features the simplicity and calm characteristic of Zen temples.
The garden in front of the main hall is also beautifully maintained, with seasonal flowers delighting visitors. Spring plums and cherry blossoms, early summer hydrangeas, and many other attractions await beyond the bamboo grove.
Yagura (Horizontal Pit Graves)
Hokokuji’s grounds contain multiple “yagura,” horizontal pit-style graves unique to the Kamakura period. These were constructed using the cliffs of yato (valleys), characteristic of Kamakura’s topography, and are said to contain the remains of the Ashikaga and Uesugi family members.
Yagura are important historical relics that tell the story of Kamakura’s history and are a significant element in Hokokuji’s historical value.
Dry Landscape Garden
In front of the main hall is a karesansui (dry landscape) garden, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery expressing Zen philosophy. The garden, composed of white sand, stones, and plantings, possesses a serene beauty distinct from the bamboo grove.
Basic Information About Hokokuji Temple | Hours, Admission, and Access
Address and Location
Address: 2-7-4 Jomyoji, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Hokokuji is located in the eastern part of Kamakura City along Kanazawa Street. While it is somewhat distant from Kamakura Station, the location benefits from a quiet environment.
Visiting Hours
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (Final entry to the Bamboo Garden approximately 3:30 PM)
Visiting hours may change depending on the season and events, so it is recommended to check official information before your visit.
Regular Closures
Closed: December 29 to January 3 (New Year’s Holiday)
The temple may also have temporary closures for religious ceremonies and events.
Admission Fees
- Admission Fee: 300 yen (Bamboo Garden admission)
- Matcha Ticket: 600 yen (includes matcha and dry sweets)
The admission fee is required to enter the Bamboo Garden. Visiting the main hall area only is free, but viewing the bamboo grove, Hokokuji’s greatest attraction, requires the admission fee.
The matcha ticket is for enjoying matcha and sweets at Kyukoan, highly recommended for those wishing to spend a special moment in the bamboo grove.
Access Methods
By Train and Bus
From Kamakura Station:
- Take the Keikyu Bus heading to “Kamakura Reien Seimenzen,” “Kanazawa Hakkei Station,” or “Highland,” and get off at “Jomyoji” bus stop, approximately 3 minutes on foot
- On foot from Kamakura Station East Exit: approximately 25-30 minutes
By taxi from Kamakura Station: Approximately 10 minutes (estimated fare: around 1,000 yen)
Access is also convenient from major stations in the Kanto region, with approximately 1 hour on the Yokosuka Line from Tokyo or Shinjuku Station to Kamakura Station, and approximately 40 minutes from Fujisawa Station via the Enoshima Electric Railway and walking.
By Car
Approximately 15 minutes from Asahina IC on the Yokohama-Yokosuka Expressway
Parking: Hokokuji has no dedicated parking. Please use nearby paid parking facilities or public transportation. Since the Kamakura area becomes congested during peak seasons, visiting by train or bus is recommended.
Recommended Spots Around Hokokuji
Visiting nearby attractions while at Hokokuji allows you to more deeply enjoy Kamakura’s charm.
Kamakura-gū (Daitaenomiya Shrine)
Located approximately 10 minutes on foot from Hokokuji, Kamakura-gū is a shrine dedicated to Prince Moriyoshi. It is a spot where you can learn about late Kamakura period history, and the grounds include a museum.
Zuisen-ji Temple
Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Hokokuji, Zuisen-ji is a temple known for the beautiful garden designed by Muso Soseki. Famous as a flower temple, you can enjoy seasonal blossoms throughout the year.
Sugimoto-ji Temple
Considered Kamakura’s oldest temple, Sugimoto-ji is approximately 10 minutes on foot from Hokokuji. Its moss-covered stone steps are distinctive, evoking a sense of historical weight.
Jomyo-ji Temple
Ranked fifth among Kamakura’s Five Great Temples, Jomyo-ji is a mere 5 minutes on foot from Hokokuji. It is popular for its beautiful garden and the Western-style restaurant “Kiln-Baked Garden Terrace” located within the grounds.
How to Enjoy Hokokuji | Tips for Your Visit
Best Seasons to Visit
While Hokokuji’s bamboo grove is beautiful year-round, the following periods are especially recommended:
- Spring (March–May): Fresh green bamboo grove is stunning, and plums and cherry blossoms around the temple grounds are also enjoyable
- Early Summer (June): Hydrangea season, ideal for visiting while exploring Kamakura
- Autumn (October–November): In the clear air, the bamboo grove’s green appears particularly vivid
- Winter (December–February): Fewer tourists allow you to enjoy a serene atmosphere
Recommended Visit Times
Since Hokokuji is a popular tourist spot, weekends and peak seasons attract large crowds. For those wishing to enjoy a quiet atmosphere, the following times are recommended:
- Weekday mornings (shortly after opening, around 9:00-10:00 AM): Fewest visitors and the best time to savor the grove’s serenity
- Weekdays during winter: Few tourists allow for a leisurely stroll
Photography Tips
Hokokuji is popular as a photogenic spot. Here are tips for taking beautiful photographs:
- Stone-paved pathway through the bamboo grove: A classic spot with beautiful contrast between the path and grove
- View from Kyukoan: The sitting perspective overlooking the grove is also compelling
- Using backlighting: Photography utilizing light filtering through the grove is also recommended
- Vertical composition: Vertical framing emphasizes the bamboo’s height and creates impact
Etiquette for Your Visit
Hokokuji functions as an active site of religious practice. Please observe the following etiquette:
- Visit quietly (avoid loud conversation)
- Do not touch or damage the bamboo
- Do not enter areas outside designated paths
- Refrain from using tripods during crowded times
- Take all trash with you
Hokokuji’s Zazen Sessions and Annual Events
Sunday Zazen Session
Hokokuji holds zazen sessions every Sunday morning at 7:30 AM (confirm in advance). Beginners are welcome, making it a valuable opportunity to experience Zen spirituality.
To participate, it is recommended to contact the temple in advance.
Annual Events
- Shojoe (New Year Purification Rite): January
- Segaki (Hungry Ghost Festival): August
- Kaisan-ki (Founder’s Memorial Service): November
These ceremonies are important temple observances and may affect general access to the grounds.
Hokokuji and Enjoying Kamakura Tourism
How to Incorporate Hokokuji into Your Kamakura Itinerary
Since Hokokuji is located east of Kamakura Station, it is recommended to visit it as part of the following routes:
Kanazawa Street Route (Half Day):
Kamakura Station → Sugimoto-ji → Hokokuji → Jomyo-ji → Kamakura-gū → Zuisen-ji
Full Day Kamakura East Route:
Morning: North Kamakura Area (Engaku-ji, Tokei-ji, etc.) → Lunch → Afternoon: Hokokuji and surrounding Kanazawa Street area
Other Michelin Three-Star Spots in Kamakura
Tokei-ji Temple, which also earned three stars in the Michelin guide, is another must-visit spot. With easy access just a 4-minute walk from North Kamakura Station, it is famous as a flower temple with seasonal beauty.
Lodging in the Shonan-Kamakura Area
If you wish to enjoy Kamakura at a leisurely pace, staying at a hotel or inn in the Kamakura or Shonan area is recommended. Various accommodations are available around Kamakura Station, the Enoshima area, and the Zushi-Hayama region.
In Kanagawa Prefecture, beyond Hakone, there are many appealing areas such as Yokohama, Shonan, and the Miura Peninsula, making it worthwhile to tour them in conjunction with a visit to Hokokuji.
Important Notes for Your Hokokuji Visit
Crowding Conditions
Hokokuji experiences particularly heavy crowds during the following periods:
- Golden Week
- Summer vacation period
- Autumn foliage season (November)
- Public holidays except New Year’s
To avoid crowds, visiting on a weekday morning or during winter is recommended.
Clothing and What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes: The grounds include stone paths and slopes, so sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes are advisable
- Season-appropriate clothing: The bamboo grove’s shade keeps it cool even in summer, so bringing a light layer is helpful
- Rain gear: While the rainy bamboo grove has its own charm, be cautious as the paths become slippery
Terms of Use and Prohibitions
- Dining on the grounds is permitted only at designated areas (Kyukoan)
- Pets are generally not allowed
- Drone usage is prohibited
- Commercial photography requires advance permission
These regulations are established to protect the temple’s landscape and ensure consideration for other visitors.
Summary | Experiencing Kamakura’s Silence and Beauty at Hokokuji
Hokokuji Temple in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a captivating temple featuring a fantastic bamboo grove woven by approximately 2,000 Moso bamboo trees and a history spanning from the Kamakura period to the present. Its scenery, which earned three stars in the Michelin Green Guide, continues to enchant visitors from around the world.
The quiet time spent walking through the bamboo grove, matcha enjoyed at Kyukoan, and experiences touching Kamakura’s history create special moments that allow you to escape the everyday. Be sure to visit Hokokuji when you come to Kamakura.
With excellent access from the Kanto region, it can be reached in approximately one hour from Tokyo or Shinjuku Station, making it suitable for day trips or itineraries that include visiting other Kamakura attractions.
The beautiful bamboo grove and serene space of Hokokuji will surely leave a deep impression on your heart. Experience the traditional beauty of Japan and Zen spirituality at Hokokuji, which displays a different face with each season.
