Beyond its famous landmarks, Kamakura is a city of quiet Zen temples tucked into wooded hills. Wandering between them, especially in the hydrangea season, reveals a gentler, more contemplative side of the old capital.

The Great Zen Temples of Kita-Kamakura

Around Kita-Kamakura station cluster some of Japan’s most important Zen temples, including the vast Engaku-ji and Kencho-ji, head of Kamakura’s five great Zen monasteries. Their wooden gates, meditation halls and mossy gardens feel worlds away from the busy town centre.

Hydrangea Temples

In June, temples such as Meigetsu-in and Hokokuji draw visitors for their hydrangeas and bamboo groves. Meigetsu-in’s circular window framing the garden is one of Kamakura’s most photographed scenes, while Hokokuji’s bamboo forest offers matcha with a view.

Getting Around

Many of these temples lie along a hiking trail between Kita-Kamakura and the town centre, an enjoyable walk through the hills. Comfortable shoes and an early start help you enjoy them before the crowds.

Kamakura’s temples reward slow exploration. To finish, the Enoden line carries you to the coast and the island of Enoshima.

More Kamakura Travel Guides

• The Great Buddha of Kamakura and Hase
• Tsurugaoka Hachimangu: Kamakura’s Great Shrine
• Enoshima and the Kamakura Coast by Enoden

See our Kamakura Travel Guide for the full overview. Planning the whole trip? Visit The Complete Kamakura Guide for every guide and hotel in one place.