Autumn Colors at Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine (銭洗弁財天宇賀福神社)
Discover the Autumn Colors at Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine (銭洗弁財天宇賀福神社)
Known for its blessings of good fortune, Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine transforms into a calm oasis of color as autumn deepens. Surrounded by nature, this sacred place offers a tranquil space to enjoy the season away from the bustle. Pair your visit with a stroll through nearby Genjiyama Park for a gentle Kamakura walk that connects nature, history, and reflection.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Foliage around the shrine typically begins changing in mid-November and reaches its peak between late November and mid-December. Compared to other parts of Kamakura, the colors last longer here—sometimes even into December. Even after the peak season, late visitors can still find quiet moments among lingering hues, making it a hidden delight for autumn lovers.
Photo Highlights and Must-See Spots
Within the grounds, a tunnel-like stone passageway, a red bridge, and ponds fed by spring water create scenic contrasts with the autumn leaves. Though the scale of the foliage is modest, the beauty is understated and calm. In early winter, small pink flowers of Himetsurusoba bloom near the paths, adding a gentle accent to the fading leaves. With a bit of attention to light and exposure, you can find many photogenic compositions throughout the grounds.
Embrace the Quiet Hours of Morning
Early mornings bring a special sense of peace. The sound of flowing water and rustling leaves fills the air, inviting quiet contemplation. Guests staying at Tosh’s Place can easily visit before or after breakfast, enjoying the shrine without crowds and experiencing a slower, more personal side of Kamakura.
How to Get There from Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス)
Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine is about a 20-minute walk from Kamakura Station. The route through Genjiyama Park offers both scenic and seasonal charm. It’s also possible to stop by during a walk along the Great Buddha hiking trail by taking a short detour. From Tosh’s Place, it’s an easy and flexible outing—perfect for a calm morning or evening stroll.
Wrap-Up: Living the Kamakura Way with Autumn Serenity
While not widely known as a major foliage spot, Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine offers a soothing retreat when combined with Genjiyama Park. The mix of maple leaves, delicate Himetsurusoba blossoms, and the sound of sacred water creates an atmosphere of quiet beauty. Staying at Tosh’s Place lets you explore this peaceful side of Kamakura at your own rhythm—living the season as locals do.
Toshi’s Evaluation (May 2025)
| Evaluation Item | Score | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | 8 | The temple grounds and rocky walls harmonize with the autumn foliage, creating a magical seasonal atmosphere. It’s very photogenic and widely praised by many visitors for its scenic value. |
| Accessibility | 5 | It takes 18–25 minutes to walk from Kamakura Station, requiring the traversal of steep slopes and tunnels. Many reviews mention that it’s somewhat inconvenient to visit. |
| Historical Value | 10 | Said to have been founded by Minamoto no Yoritomo, the shrine is famous throughout Japan for bringing good fortune with money, and holds very high historical and cultural value. |
| Comfort | 7 | The premises are relaxing, but weekends and holidays can become crowded. Some visitors cite dissatisfaction with restroom facilities and slopes. |
| Reviews | 8 | Overall, the average rating is high (4.2 to 4.5). Most visitors praise the experience, but mention access and crowds as minor negatives. |
Total Score: 38 points
The scenery, history, and experiential value remain highly rated this year as well. Some physical challenges regarding accessibility and comfort affect the overall score, but the evaluation is entirely consistent with previous years.