Kamakura · Kita-Kamakura

Kenchoji

How to get there and what to see · facts checked 2026-10-24

First of Kamakura's five great Zen temples and the first in Japan to call itself a Zen temple, with a National Treasure bell, a line of great halls and a path up to the hills.

Nearest station: 15 min walk from Kita-Kamakura Station
Hours: 8:30–16:30
Admission: Adults (high school and up) ¥500, elementary and junior high ¥200; cash only

What to see

Temple bell (National Treasure): cast for Hojo Tokiyori in 1255 and said to be the most beautiful in the Kanto region.
Sanmon gate, Butsuden, Hatto and Karamon gate, all Important Cultural Properties. The temple asks visitors to pay respects first to the Jizo Bodhisattva in the Butsuden.
Garden: designated a national Place of Scenic Beauty.
Hansobo: at the very top of the grounds, where the Ten-en hiking trail begins.

Seasons

Magnolia and cherry in spring, iwatabako in summer, bush clover and autumn leaves in autumn (Kamakura tourism association).

History

Founded in 1253 by the regent Hojo Tokiyori, who invited the Chinese monk Rankei Doryu as its first abbot. It was Japan's first full Zen training monastery in the Song Chinese style.

Getting there

About 15 minutes on foot from JR Kita-Kamakura Station, or 5 minutes by Enoden bus toward Kamakura Station (get off at Kenchoji). From Kamakura Station it is 10 minutes by Enoden bus toward Ofuna, or about 30 minutes on foot.

Address：8 Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa

Directions in Google Maps →Official website →

Before you go

No tripods or monopods. The grounds are non-smoking, and you must stay on the footpaths.

Map of sights in Kamakura

Tap a red pin to open that sight's page.

Nearby sights

← Kamakura guide: trains from Tokyo

Sources

Hours, prices and history come from the official websites and public tourism pages listed here. They can change, so check the official site before you go.