Plum Blossoms at Ankokuronji (安国論寺)
The Charm of Ankokuronji’s Plum Blossoms
Ankokuronji Temple is a renowned spot in Kamakura, where red, white, and weeping plum blossoms add vibrant colors to the temple grounds. As visitors pass through the temple gate, they are greeted by white and weeping plums on the left side of the path, red plums beside the main hall, and a magnificent white plum tree in front of Nichiren Iwaya Cave, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
History and Background
Ankokuronji (安国論寺) was founded in the mid-13th century as a Nichiren sect temple and is located near Nagoezaka. Away from the bustling city center, it offers a peaceful retreat where the red, white, and weeping plum blossoms harmonize with the temple’s historic architecture. The red plum tree in front of the main hall extends its branches over the building, presenting an especially striking sight.
Best Season to Visit and Highlights
- Late February to Early March: The red and white plum blossoms reach full bloom, creating the most stunning scenery of the season.
- Late January to Mid-February: The early blooming white and weeping plums signal the arrival of spring.
The red plum tree in front of the main hall is over 350 years old, standing as a symbol of Ankokuronji. Despite its age, it continues to bloom beautifully, captivating visitors with its enduring elegance.
The Myoho Cherry Tree and Fuji Viewpoint
Ankokuronji is also home to the Myoho Cherry Tree, said to have sprouted from the staff of Nichiren himself when he struck the ground. This legendary tree blooms in spring, adding a layer of historical depth to the temple’s natural beauty.
Additionally, the Fuji Viewpoint within the temple grounds offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Fuji, Kamakura’s cityscape, and Yuigahama Beach on clear days. The combination of plum blossoms and scenic landscapes makes Ankokuronji a uniquely captivating destination.
Seasonal Beauty at Ankokuronji
Beyond plum blossoms, the temple is renowned for its diverse seasonal flora, including cherry blossoms, hydrangeas, flowering crabapples (kaido), and autumn foliage. Notably, the temple features an ancient camellia tree designated as a city landmark and one of Kamakura’s most historic crabapple trees, both worth seeing.
Conclusion
Visiting Ankokuronji during plum blossom season offers a rare opportunity to experience both history and natural beauty. If you are exploring Kamakura, be sure to stop by this tranquil temple and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of spring. The serene landscape will provide a moment of peace and rejuvenation.
Toshi’s Evaluation (2026)
| Evaluation Category | Score | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | 8 | The quiet valley setting offers a tranquil landscape with scattered plum blossoms, moss-covered stone steps, a main hall and gate, and harmony with bamboo and mixed woodlands. However, compared to plum blossom-focused spots in Kamakura (鎌倉), the volume of flowers is relatively modest. |
| Accessibility | 7 | It’s about a 15–20-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅), or a few minutes’ walk from the “Nagoe (名越)” bus stop accessed via the East Exit. While there are multiple routes, the location is slightly farther and may be less intuitive for first-time inbound visitors. |
| Historical Value | 9 | Regarded as the site where Nichiren established his hermitage and wrote the “Rissho Ankoku Ron,” this temple holds significant value in medieval Kamakura (鎌倉) history and is a key site in Nichiren Buddhism. Its historical and religious importance ranks high among Kamakura’s temple group. |
| Comfort | 9 | Known as a quiet temple with fewer tourists than the major sites near Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅), it offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere for visitors, making it one of the more comfortable spots to explore within the city. |
| Reviews | 8 | Travel sites generally show ratings in the low 4s, with many positive comments praising its quiet atmosphere and status as a hidden gem. However, some note its relatively small scale. Overall, it maintains a well-balanced position among mid-to-upper tier spots in Kamakura (鎌倉). |
Total Score: 41
Overall Evaluation: Located in a valley slightly away from central Kamakura (鎌倉), this “hidden gem” offers a well-balanced mix of historical significance, peaceful natural surroundings, and low visitor traffic. It’s an excellent spot for those looking to enjoy temple scenery typical of Kamakura while avoiding the crowds during plum blossom season.