Kencho-ji Temple
Kencho-ji Temple
4.5
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
About
Founded in 1253 by a Chinese priest, this temple, notable for its bell (a national treasure) and Zen garden, was the first Zen temple in the city and is ranked number one of the city's five most powerful temples.
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- TheJackeh30 contributionsThousand year zenMore people need to visit this temple! It's not listed number 1 in Kamakura but in my mind, it deserves at least number 2. The grounds are extensive and beautiful. It fully elicit that zen temple experience in the way that it demands you to climb stairs to deserve seeing the view from above. Some features include: a zen garden, a meditation hall (remove your shoes), a bamboo grove, a really early and intact Buddhist hall dating back a thousand years. Admission fee of about 500 yen well worth the priceVisited March 2024Travelled with friendsWritten April 6, 2024
- chowsoGloucester, United Kingdom1,758 contributionsLovely temple away from the crowdsThis is a lovely temple in Kamakura and wasn’t very busy when we visited. It is quite a large complex and has a small garden included in the entrance fee. There are a number of interesting buildings and statues to explore. We didn’t do the trail and observatory but I wish we had as it was a clear day and I’m sure Fuji would’ve been viewable!Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten April 29, 2024
- Mark TAgeo, Japan603 contributionsZen moment at Shinji pond.Kenchji is a Rinzai zen temple built by Rankei Doryu in 1253. There are a lot of magnificent buildings. I was impressed by Shinji Pond and Zen Garden. The Shinji pond looks like a character Kokoro which means heart. The pond will give you an Instagram moment.Visited June 2024Travelled soloWritten July 6, 2024
- geo3Calgary, Canada1,893 contributionsComplete contrast to Tsurugaoka HachimanguIf you're starting from the JR Kamakura station and have already walked as far as the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine, it's worth walking another 600 m or so to Kencho-ji. This zen temple is a complete contrast to Tsurugaoka. Like Tsurugaoka, it is beautifully landscaped (in my opinion, better-landscaped), but the contrast is the style of the buildings, all earth tones, with no bright colours. There are several buildings to explore, plus the garden. Another contrast is that this place is not crowded, unlike Tsurugaoka. Unfortunately I ran out of time to take the hike up to the viewpoint. A definite thing to do next time; it sounds very worthwhile based on reviews and comments online. Since I had come this far, it was actually closer to walk to the Kita-Kamakura JR station rather than walking back to the JR Kamakura station, which meant that there was time for a short visit to Jochi-ji temple on the way. (The Tokei-ji temple would also be on the way to the Kita-Kamakura station).Visited September 2023Travelled soloWritten July 26, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
4.5
545 reviews
Excellent
260
Very good
237
Average
44
Poor
2
Terrible
2
geo3
Calgary, Canada1,893 contributions
Sept 2023 • Solo
If you're starting from the JR Kamakura station and have already walked as far as the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine, it's worth walking another 600 m or so to Kencho-ji. This zen temple is a complete contrast to Tsurugaoka.
Like Tsurugaoka, it is beautifully landscaped (in my opinion, better-landscaped), but the contrast is the style of the buildings, all earth tones, with no bright colours. There are several buildings to explore, plus the garden. Another contrast is that this place is not crowded, unlike Tsurugaoka.
Unfortunately I ran out of time to take the hike up to the viewpoint. A definite thing to do next time; it sounds very worthwhile based on reviews and comments online.
Since I had come this far, it was actually closer to walk to the Kita-Kamakura JR station rather than walking back to the JR Kamakura station, which meant that there was time for a short visit to Jochi-ji temple on the way. (The Tokei-ji temple would also be on the way to the Kita-Kamakura station).
Like Tsurugaoka, it is beautifully landscaped (in my opinion, better-landscaped), but the contrast is the style of the buildings, all earth tones, with no bright colours. There are several buildings to explore, plus the garden. Another contrast is that this place is not crowded, unlike Tsurugaoka.
Unfortunately I ran out of time to take the hike up to the viewpoint. A definite thing to do next time; it sounds very worthwhile based on reviews and comments online.
Since I had come this far, it was actually closer to walk to the Kita-Kamakura JR station rather than walking back to the JR Kamakura station, which meant that there was time for a short visit to Jochi-ji temple on the way. (The Tokei-ji temple would also be on the way to the Kita-Kamakura station).
Written July 27, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
chowso
Gloucester, UK1,758 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
This is a lovely temple in Kamakura and wasn’t very busy when we visited. It is quite a large complex and has a small garden included in the entrance fee. There are a number of interesting buildings and statues to explore. We didn’t do the trail and observatory but I wish we had as it was a clear day and I’m sure Fuji would’ve been viewable!
Written April 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
simon_and_emma69
Workington, UK60 contributions
Feb 2020
Very beautiful temple that is still a working monastery as well. there is an easy to follow guided map and plenty of information to explain the various buildings and points of interest. We spend longer here that we expected, just soaking in the relaxing atmosphere. Definitely worth a stroll out of town for.
Written March 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
J S
Palm Springs, CA396 contributions
Oct 2017 • Friends
Beautiful temple complex. Several shrines to see. Beautiful grounds. Impressive temple doors. Nice place to slow down and just relax. Worth a visit of the many temples in Kamakura.
Written October 20, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christian Ardito
Bentonville, AR529 contributions
Oct 2016
Kenchoji Temple is one of several in Kamakura on the way to Hasedera Temple and Kotoku-In.
It's worth a visit of maybe 30 to 45 minutes. Just keep in mind that you would have to spend several days in the area if you want to visit all the smaller temples in Kamakura. If you are going for a day trip, I really recommend focusing on the Hasedera Temple and Kotoku-In.
It's worth a visit of maybe 30 to 45 minutes. Just keep in mind that you would have to spend several days in the area if you want to visit all the smaller temples in Kamakura. If you are going for a day trip, I really recommend focusing on the Hasedera Temple and Kotoku-In.
Written October 30, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cpulte
Yokohama, Japan6 contributions
Apr 2014 • Couples
Kenchoji is difficult to reach. And for some reason does not attract Japanese tourists the way other temples do in Kamakura. Maybe it is because the main hall was moved there from another location. Still, it is quite ancient. I believe that the bell from the bell tower is some 700 years old. I'm guessing that the grounds are the largest in Kamakura, and temple, itself, is huge. The old gnarled cypress trees at the center of the grounds are amazing, although some of them appear to be reaching the twilight of old age.
What sets Kenchoji apart is its authenticity. It houses the oldest Zen monastery in Japan and you cannot turn around without bumping into a monk. After a day of fighting the crowds, the quiet is incredibly welcoming. It is the trees. Being surrounded by trees. At the back of Kenchoji you can enter one of the many hiking trails. Probably the most incredible sight in all of Kamakura is the view of Kenchoji from on top of the mountain the trail leads up
One last attraction is the meditation room. On Saturday nights, beginning at 5 PM, I believe, the room is open to the public. An opportunity to practice a little Zen in the oldest Zen temple in Japan. What not to like?
What sets Kenchoji apart is its authenticity. It houses the oldest Zen monastery in Japan and you cannot turn around without bumping into a monk. After a day of fighting the crowds, the quiet is incredibly welcoming. It is the trees. Being surrounded by trees. At the back of Kenchoji you can enter one of the many hiking trails. Probably the most incredible sight in all of Kamakura is the view of Kenchoji from on top of the mountain the trail leads up
One last attraction is the meditation room. On Saturday nights, beginning at 5 PM, I believe, the room is open to the public. An opportunity to practice a little Zen in the oldest Zen temple in Japan. What not to like?
Written March 17, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PJ
Sydney, Australia46 contributions
Oct 2014 • Solo
Very beautiful temple complex. Take your time to wander around. Make sure you go all the way up to the observatory which has wonderful views of the area including Mt Fuji - on a clear day :-)
I was lucky and was rewarded with a stunning view - after days of rain in Tokyo.
My suggestion is to hire a bicycle in Kamakura and ride around the area.
Highly recommended!
I was lucky and was rewarded with a stunning view - after days of rain in Tokyo.
My suggestion is to hire a bicycle in Kamakura and ride around the area.
Highly recommended!
Written October 5, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eurmac
Eureka, CA209 contributions
Nov 2012 • Family
There is sooo much to see in Kamakura. I’ve been there in the spring and the fall which are wonderful times to go. Both times we got off the train at the Kita-kamakura Station and walked south along Kamakura Kaido (Road 21 on Google maps) stopping at various shops, restaurants and temples along the way. This last trip we also stopped at the Kencho-ji (Temple) and really enjoyed it. All the buildings and gardens are breath-taking, but here are a few things we especially appreciated.
We sat for a long time on the steps of the Ryuoh Den facing the Kara-mon which we called the golden gate (see picture), imagining being there in another era. The fairly easy walk up to the observatory was also very nice. Along the way we loved the quiet, gentle sounds of the bamboo grove, the cliff covered with “fierce” tengu temple guardians and then the views from the observatory. You look out south to the city and temple below and north (I think) to Yokohama. I’ve included pictures.
We could have spent all day there.
We sat for a long time on the steps of the Ryuoh Den facing the Kara-mon which we called the golden gate (see picture), imagining being there in another era. The fairly easy walk up to the observatory was also very nice. Along the way we loved the quiet, gentle sounds of the bamboo grove, the cliff covered with “fierce” tengu temple guardians and then the views from the observatory. You look out south to the city and temple below and north (I think) to Yokohama. I’ve included pictures.
We could have spent all day there.
Written March 26, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Unagi Travel
Tokyo, Japan796 contributions
Apr 2018 • Solo
It's a Rinzai Zen temple in Kamakura which ranks first among Kamakura's so-called Five Great Zen Temples. No nails are used to build this gate.
Written August 10, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rick049
San Francisco, CA1,287 contributions
May 2016 • Couples
I feel almost ashamed that I was not aware of this place when I planned our visit to Kamakura. We came to see the obvious sights, primarily the Great Buddha (Kotokuin), the famous Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and the Hasadera Kannon Temple. At the information kiosk in the Kamakura station, on requesting a map and directions, the very helpful and informative woman told us not to miss Kenchoji. Because of its location, we decided to visit it first. I am so glad we did! It turned out to be the most interesting and beautiful of all the sights on our itinerary, and incidentally the least crowded. Kenchoji is one of the six most important Zen Temple Monasteries in Japan, and perhaps the most important of all of them. Founded by one of the Chinese monks who first brought Zen (Cha'an) meditation from China to Japan, it is very old and very beautiful. The deeply serene and spiritual atmosphere is all-pervasive, and impossible for even the most highly-strung modernized Westerner to miss. I was profoundly moved and grateful for the advice of that kind information kiosk lady who pointed us in this direction. If you have the slightest interest in Zen, in Japanese history and culture, or in beautiful spiritual places, make this your top destination in Kamakura.
Written May 2, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
est-il possible de visiter ce temple en fauteuil roulant ? quel est le meilleur accès depuis kamakura ?
Written January 9, 2019
Bonjour Corinne.
Alors sans autre! Vous pouvez jeter un oeil sur Google Maps en affichant la vue par satellite, en 3D et vous verrez que le bus n'est pas très loin et qu'il y a un parking probablement avec des places pour les personnes handicapées.
Après si vous arrivez à la gare, prenez le bus: 5 minutes, 4 arrêts, 180 Yens.
Belle visite :-)
Written January 9, 2019
How long should the visit of this temple take on a day tour to Kamakura by train from Tokyo?
Written December 12, 2018
It really depends on what else you want to see or do in Kamakura. If the question is asking for the minimum, I would allow an hour from the temple back and forth from Kitakamakura or Kamakura Stations and minimum one hour at Kenchouji to view the main attractions. My webpage (Rediscovering Japan/Kamakura) may be helpful to give you an image of a day tour to Kamakura, leaving Tokyo at 9am and returning around 5pm.
Written December 12, 2018
How long should the visit of this temple take on a day tour to Kamakura by train from Tokyo?
Written December 12, 2018
Is there any bus from Kita-kamakura station to go to Kenchoji Temple? And from Kenchoji temple, is ther any bus to go to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu?
Written March 3, 2016
You can use Enoden-bus, Kita-Kamakura to Kenchoji, also Kenchoji to Hachimangu.There is one bus in 15,or 20 minutes.
Same as Andrew1234,I will recommend you to walk the Route 21.Although There are some gentle slopes,The road is paved by asphalt.So it's easy to walk.Have a nice trip!
Written March 5, 2016
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