All About Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura, Japan, Kamakura, Japan

Kamakura is an old town located south from Tokyo, which was once the capital of Japan established by Minamoto samurai clan in 1192. Today it is an interesting destination for both of international travelers and Japanese locals. The greatest thing to see in Kamakura is undoubtedly The Great Buddha. But must-sees are not all for travelers. Kamakura has many cozy sites to explore the Japanese Middle Age. This article is all about Hokokuji (also, Houkokuji) Temple. It is extremely beautiful - Seeing is believing.

When I passes through the gate, I thought I was right to visit here. I was amazed to see much green in Buddhist temple style.

Hokokuji Temple was originally built by a priest and Ashikaga samurai clan in 1334. The important fact is that it is a Zen temple - When Kamakura was the capital of Japan, some new sects of Buddhism were established to save people living in unstable times.

Hokokuji Temple belongs to Rinzai Sect, one of the Zen sects started in Kamakura era. It is a Zen temple that concentrates culture and history of Kamakura of Kamakura.

However, compared with big temples and shrines in Kamakura, Hokokuji Temple is small - in good meanings. You can explore “local Japanese temple” atmospheres that are not in big tourist spots. Getting off the bus at a local bus stop, going along a local path, and you’ll find the Zen temple. Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).