Autumn Leaves of Jomyo-ji Temple (浄妙寺)
Discover the Autumn Beauty of Jomyo-ji Temple (浄妙寺)
Located in eastern Kamakura, Jomyo-ji Temple (浄妙寺) is an ancient Zen temple of the Kencho-ji School, ranked fifth among the Kamakura Gozan. As autumn deepens, its precincts are enveloped in red and yellow hues from maples, Japanese zelkovas, and a magnificent golden ginkgo tree—creating a peaceful yet vivid scene that captivates every visitor. The leaves are best viewed from late November to early December, making Jomyo-ji one of the last temples in Kamakura where autumn lingers.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
The best viewing season at Jomyo-ji Temple (浄妙寺) is from late November to early December. During this time, the maple and kaede trees along the approach and around the main hall turn brilliant red, while the towering 20-meter ginkgo before the hall glows in gold. The blend of red and yellow paints a scene like an autumn painting, evoking a calm, dreamlike beauty unique to the season.
Photo Highlights and Must-See Spots
The main hall area offers some of the most striking autumn views, where crimson maples and golden ginkgo trees create perfect compositions for photos. Behind the main hall lies a dry landscape garden of white sand and stones, whose minimal beauty contrasts elegantly with the colorful leaves. Beyond that is Kisen-an (喜泉庵), a tea house where guests can enjoy matcha and sweets while admiring the foliage. Nearby, the suikinkutsu (水琴窟) gently echoes with dripping water, deepening the tranquil mood of autumn.
Perched on a hill, the Ishigama Garden Terrace offers a unique blend of Japanese and Western charm. The renovated Western-style villa and English garden create a refined atmosphere where you can savor Western cuisine or afternoon tea surrounded by autumn leaves.
Embrace the Quiet Hours of Morning
Though autumn draws many visitors, early mornings remain calm. Around 9 a.m., soft sunlight filters through the trees, casting a golden glow across the temple grounds. If you’re staying at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス), a kitchen-equipped smart accommodation, you can take advantage of the quiet morning hours for a mindful walk before breakfast. The path to the main hall and the subtle sound of the suikinkutsu offer moments of pure peace.
How to Get There from Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス)
Jomyo-ji Temple (浄妙寺) is about a 30-minute walk from central Kamakura. For guests at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス), it’s the perfect distance for a morning stroll. Nearby, you’ll find Hokoku-ji Temple (報国寺) with its bamboo grove and Sugimoto-dera Temple (杉本寺), making it easy to enjoy a half-day Zen and autumn walk through Kamakura. Small cafés and wagashi shops along the way provide delightful stops for rest and taste.
Wrap-Up: Autumn Leaves and a Local Way to Experience Kamakura
The autumn scenery of Jomyo-ji Temple (浄妙寺) blends the quiet grace of Zen with golden elegance. From the tea house and garden to the Western terrace, every corner reflects harmony between nature and culture. Staying at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス) allows you to explore at your own pace and savor Kamakura’s late autumn in its most serene and reflective form.
Toshi’s Evaluation (2025)
| Evaluation Item | Score | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | 9 | The combination of historic temple buildings and vibrant autumn leaves (mainly maples and ginkgo) offers stunning scenic views and excellent photo spots. The tranquil garden paths and zen atmosphere further enhance the visual appeal. |
| Accessibility | 9 | Convenient bus access from Kamakura Station, plus clear signage and a short 2-minute walk from the nearest bus stop. Parking and partial barrier-free access are available. |
| Historical Value | 10 | As one of Kamakura’s Five Great Zen Temples, Jomyo-ji is a site of major historical and cultural importance, widely recognized in Japan and abroad. |
| Comfort | 8 | Facilities such as restrooms, benches, and cafes/teahouses are available. Visiting on weekdays is generally quiet, but peak season weekends can get crowded. |
| Reviews | 8 | Online reviews (Google, SNS, etc.) are consistently positive (average 4.5–4.7), praising the autumn scenery and tranquil atmosphere, though some mention crowding during high season. |
Total Score: 44
Jomyo-ji Temple’s autumn leaves are renowned for their beautiful harmony with historic architecture and a serene ambience. The site offers a deeply memorable experience, combining tradition, nature, and comfort for international travelers.