Temple · Kita-Kamakura
Kenchoji Temple 建長寺
Kamakura's oldest Zen temple and first of its five great Zen temples, founded in 1253 by regent Hojo Tokiyori.
Hours8:30-16:30
PriceAdult (high school and up): ¥500
Elementary/junior high: ¥200
Elementary/junior high: ¥200
Getting thereJR Kita-Kamakura Station, 15 min walk
Time needed1-2 hours
Best timeLate November to early December (autumn leaves)
Address8 Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 247-8525
Websitekenchoji.com
About
Kenchoji's large halls run up a valley in Kita-Kamakura, from the Sanmon gate past the bronze bell (a National Treasure) to the Butsuden and Hatto halls. Behind the abbot's quarters is a Zen garden, and trails climb to Hansobo shrine with views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Highlights
- Sanmon gate and Butsuden hall
- Bonsho temple bell (National Treasure)
- Zen garden behind the abbot's quarters
- Hike up to Hansobo and the Ten-en trail
Tips
- Cash only for admission
- Tripods and monopods are not allowed
- Connects to the Ten-en hiking trail toward Zuisenji
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-11
Plan it in Tabitomo
Save Kenchoji Temple to your trip, see reviews and photos from travelers, and get directions.
Open in the appNearby
- Meigetsuin TempleTemple · 600 m away
- Saryo Kazahana (Kita-Kamakura)Tea Houses & Shops · 740 m away
- Tsurugaoka HachimanguShrine · 910 m away
- Egara Tenjin-sha ShrineShrine · 970 m away
- Jochiji TempleTemple · 1.0 km away
- Engakuji TempleTemple · 1.1 km away
- Kamakura-gu ShrineShrine · 1.1 km away
- Jufukuji TempleTemple · 1.1 km away