Ume at Daigyoji Temple
The Beauty of Daigyoji Temple’s Plum Blossoms
Daigyoji Temple is a historic temple located near Kamakura Station, known as a place for prayers for safe childbirth. The temple grounds are famous for their seasonal flowers, but during the plum blossom season, red and white plum trees beautifully adorn the area, captivating visitors.
Highlights – Plum Blossoms Along the Main Hall and Pathways
The plum blossoms at Daigyoji Temple begin blooming in late January and reach full bloom from mid-February to early March. Various types of plum trees are planted throughout the temple grounds, creating a striking contrast between the red and white blossoms. The plum trees around the main hall and along the pathways harmonize beautifully with the historic architecture, offering a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere.
Enjoying Plum Blossoms in a Serene Setting
Unlike bustling tourist spots, Daigyoji Temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal place to quietly admire the plum blossoms. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the temple grounds, enjoying the gentle fragrance of the blossoms in a calm and relaxing setting.
History and Significance of Daigyoji Temple
Daigyoji Temple is believed to have existed since the early Kamakura period and was a site where Minamoto no Yoritomo held military councils. Following a victorious battle, the temple’s name was changed from “Daigyoji” to “Daikouji.” Additionally, it is said that the temple enshrines the spirits of women who passed away due to difficult childbirth, leading to its reputation as a place of worship for safe deliveries, affectionately known as “Onmesama.”
Other Flowers to Enjoy with Plum Blossoms
In addition to plum blossoms, visitors can also enjoy camellias and wintersweet (robai) during the season. Near the main hall, Rikyu plum blossoms bloom, further enhancing the beauty of the temple grounds. The period from mid-February to early March is particularly scenic, making it an excellent time for photography.
Accessibility and Visiting Information
Daigyoji Temple is conveniently located just a three-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station’s east exit. Despite its proximity to the station, the temple maintains a quiet and serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Admission to the temple grounds is free, and visitors can enjoy an unhurried stroll without the crowds.
Conclusion
When exploring Kamakura, be sure to visit Daigyoji Temple and experience the serene beauty of its plum blossoms, offering a moment of peace and reflection
Toshi’s Evaluation (2026)
| Evaluation Category | Score | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | 8 | Although the temple grounds are small and located near Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅), the red and white plum blossoms harmonize beautifully with the main hall and approach path, creating a serene, garden-like atmosphere. While not large in scale, the density and layout of the plum trees make it highly photogenic. |
| Accessibility | 10 | Located just a 2–3 minute walk from both the JR and Enoden Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅) East Exit, and situated along Wakamiya-oji Avenue (若宮大路), the location is extremely convenient and easy to find, even for first-time visitors. |
| Historical Value | 8 | Known as “Onmesama,” this temple has long been associated with prayers for safe childbirth and holds a respected position in Kamakura (鎌倉) for that reason. While locally well-known, it does not enjoy the nationwide fame of Kamakura’s major temples. |
| Comfort | 7 | Despite being close to the station, the temple remains relatively quiet and less crowded than larger temples. However, the grounds are small, seating is limited, and steps pose accessibility challenges. |
| Reviews | 7 | Many reviewers appreciate the beauty of the blossoms and the convenient location, though some mention the limited size of the grounds. Overall, it receives mid-range evaluations. |
Total Score: 40
Overall Evaluation
Daikyo-ji Temple’s (大巧寺) plum blossoms offer a rare combination of serenity and convenience, located just steps from Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅) yet maintaining a peaceful ambiance. It’s an ideal spot for visitors seeking a quick but authentic plum-viewing experience with a traditional temple atmosphere in the heart of Kamakura.