Hokokuji Temple

Hokokuji Temple (報国寺, Hōkokuji), a tranquil sanctuary tucked away in eastern Kamakura, is a must-visit for those seeking both natural beauty and historical significance. Founded during the Muromachi Period, this temple was once the family shrine of the Ashikaga and Uesugi Clans, two powerful samurai families. Though the main hall was reconstructed after the Great Kanto Earthquake, it still houses a revered statue of Shaka Nyorai, the Buddha of Wisdom. A picturesque bell tower with a traditional thatched roof stands nearby, providing a charming reminder of the temple's historical roots and its connection to Kamakura’s samurai era.

One of Hokokuji's most enchanting features is its bamboo grove, where over 2,000 bamboo stalks create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can meander along winding paths, surrounded by the rustling of bamboo, leading them to a quaint tea house. Here, visitors can savor matcha while enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Adding to the site’s historical depth, nearby cave tombs house the ashes of Ashikaga lords, further enriching the temple’s connection to the powerful samurai families who once shaped Kamakura’s history.