Hokokuji Temple (報国寺)

What is Hōkokuji Temple?｜A Zen Temple Rooted in Samurai History

Tucked away in the quiet eastern hills of Kamakura, Hōkokuji Temple is a serene Zen sanctuary belonging to the Kencho-ji branch of the Rinzai school. Founded in the early 14th century, shortly after the start of the Muromachi shogunate, it is closely associated with two major samurai clans—the Ashikaga and Uesugi families.

The temple’s first head priest, Tengan Eko, studied Zen Buddhism in China and later compiled a collection of poems called Tōkikishū. His signature seal used for the work is now designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, testifying to the temple’s rich cultural significance.

Highlights｜The Bamboo Grove and Zen Aesthetics

Hōkokuji is lovingly called the “Bamboo Temple” for its grove of over 2,000 tall Moso bamboo stalks, creating an atmosphere that feels otherworldly.
As sunlight filters through the leaves and wind rustles the stalks, visitors are immersed in a deeply tranquil setting. Walking paths lead past stone statues and moss-covered monuments, creating the feeling that time has slowed.

At the heart of the grove lies Kyūkōan, a quiet teahouse where you can enjoy a bowl of matcha and a seasonal sweet (600 yen). Sipping tea in this space surrounded by bamboo is a beautiful practice in mindfulness, a gentle way to reset your pace and spirit.

The temple also features a kare-sansui (dry landscape) garden, which is accented in spring by yellow Cornelian cherry blossoms and in early autumn by the rich hues of amaranth flowers.

Cultural Significance｜Buddha, Ancestors, and Zen Thought

The temple’s principal deity is a seated statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, radiating calm and introspection. Although a statue of his disciple Kāśyapa once stood here, it was lost in a fire in the early 19th century.

Also within the temple grounds are over 100 stone gorintō (five-ringed stupas)—memorial monuments that reflect the devotional practices of the Kamakura period.

Unique Traditions｜Goshuin, Yagura, and Samurai Legacy

You can receive a goshuin (calligraphy stamp) at Hōkokuji, with elegant script and a bamboo motif.

A short walk from the main temple leads you to yagura, cave tombs carved into the rock. Among them lies the tomb of Ashikaga Yoshihisa, a samurai lord who perished in the 15th-century Eikyō Rebellion. His grave, along with that of his ancestors, offers a glimpse into medieval Japan’s political and spiritual history.

Access and Opening Hours｜Ideal for Early Morning Explorers

From Kamakura Station, Hōkokuji is a 25-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride to the “Jōmyōji” stop, followed by a 3-minute walk.

If you’re staying at Toshi’s Place, you can easily ride the Enoden Line from Hase Station to Kamakura, then hop on a bus or enjoy a peaceful stroll through the eastern hills.
Morning visits are especially recommended to enjoy the bamboo grove’s serenity and shifting light.

• Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Admission: 300 yen / Matcha set: 600 yen
• Parking: Limited; use nearby public lots if driving

Best Time to Visit｜Seasonal Beauty and Morning Stillness

Each season offers a different charm:

• Spring (Mar–Apr): Cherry and Cornelian blossoms contrast with the deep greens of bamboo.
• Early Summer (May–Jun): Snowball viburnum blooms while the fresh wind moves through the grove.
• Autumn (Late Nov): Golden ginkgo trees light up the temple, complementing the evergreen bamboo.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): The quietest season—perfect for deep reflection and Zen-inspired solitude.

Guests at Toshi’s Place can use their flexible morning schedule to explore before the crowds arrive. Its self-catering setup makes it easy to enjoy a tea experience at Kyūkōan or take a peaceful walk before checkout.

Nearby Spots｜Local Gems to Explore On Foot

The area around Hōkokuji is filled with historical and nature-rich sites:

• Sugimotodera Temple: One of Kamakura’s oldest temples, known for its mossy stone steps (5 min walk).
• Jōmyō-ji Temple: A quiet Zen temple with a dry garden and tea café (7 min walk).
• Mount Kinubari: Offers short hikes and views from the former site of Yoritomo’s residence (20 min walk).
• Kamakura-gū Shrine: Dedicated to Prince Morinaga, son of Emperor Go-Daigo (10 min walk).

These can easily be combined into a half-day outing from Toshi’s Place.

Who Will Enjoy This Temple Most?｜Personalized Suggestions

• Solo travelers seeking silence: The bamboo grove offers a peaceful place to reflect
• History & Zen enthusiasts: Discover Ashikaga clan ties and authentic temple culture
• Photographers & nature lovers: Capture light, shadow, and seasonal beauty
• Morning explorers: Guests at Toshi’s Place can enjoy the grounds before the crowds arrive

Final Thoughts｜A Sacred Bamboo Sanctuary Worth Your Morning

Hōkokuji is more than just a scenic stop—it’s a place of quiet power, shaped by nature, history, and Zen.
The wind through bamboo, the hush of gravel underfoot, the taste of tea in silence—this is Kamakura at its most spiritual.

If you’re staying at Toshi’s Place, take advantage of your flexible morning time to visit before the crowds arrive.
It’s the kind of experience that doesn’t just fill your camera roll—it stays with your soul.