[2025 Kamakura Attraction] Travel Guide for Hokoku-ji (Updated Feb)

A short walk up an incline from the main road, the temple and bamboo garden are very scenic and peaceful. It's a popular site and is used by a number of tours from Tokyo as a stop so I would definitely recommend going early if you want to see it when it's quieter. However, both times I have been the tour groups have been respectful and there has still been plenty of room to take in the surroundings. The bamboo grove is relatively small compared to the well known Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, but is more peaceful and is still big enough to have a stone and wood path to walk through the garden. There's a pond next to one of the Temple buildings when you leave the bamboo garden which is a good spot to see the burial caves from and to keep an eye out for dragonflies and other creatures. #givethanks #givethanks

In the midst of Tokyo's hustle and bustle, I decided to take a day off and head to Kamakura to seek the long-lost tranquility and Zen. The Great Buddha of Kamakura, a statue standing by the sea, is the spiritual place I yearn for. Early in the morning, I departed from Tokyo, taking the Odakyu Line or JR Kamakura Line along the winding coastline, arriving in Kamakura in about an hour. As I stepped out of the station, I was greeted by the fresh sea breeze and the faint scent of pine trees, and I felt a wave of relaxation wash over me. I wandered aimlessly through the streets of Kamakura. The streets here are lined with various small shops selling handicrafts and local delicacies. I particularly enjoyed stopping at these stalls to taste the local specialties - shiso mochi and matcha ice cream, which gave me a taste of Kamakura's unique charm. Soon, I arrived at Kotoku-in, where the Great Buddha of Kamakura is located. Entering this serene space, surrounded by trees, it seemed to isolate the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The figure of the Great Buddha gradually appeared before me, a 13.35-meter-tall bronze statue, sacred and solemn, exuding an invisible power. In front of the Great Buddha, I sat quietly, closed my eyes, and felt the atmosphere around me. The gentle breeze, the rustling of leaves, at that moment, time seemed to stand still. Many thoughts surfaced in my mind, but in this tranquility, they gradually subsided. The presence of the Great Buddha made me feel an infinite sense of peace and serenity, as if all my worries were blown away by the wind. After leaving the Great Buddha, I decided to explore other nearby temples. First, I visited Hase-dera, known for its beautiful gardens and Kannon statue. Walking along the winding paths, I admired the splendid flowers, and my soul was cleansed. Then, I went to Hokoku-ji, where the bamboo grove and Zen rooms made me feel the profoundness of Zen. As my journey in Kamakura drew to a close, I arrived at Yuigahama Beach. The gentle waves lapped against the shore, and the golden glow of the setting sun reflected on the sea, creating a breathtaking scene. I sat on the beach, gazing at the distant horizon, feeling a rare sense of peace, with all my thoughts settling in this tranquility. As night fell, I took the train back to Tokyo. During this day's journey, the tranquility and Zen of the Great Buddha of Kamakura helped me rediscover inner peace and strength. This trip to Kamakura was not just a journey, but a spiritual cleansing, allowing me to find that long-lost serenity in the midst of a busy life.

#cherryblossom2024 Throughout our vacation, I embarked on an exhilarating adventure to the lively metropolis of Japan. The onset of spring transformed the region into a utopia, and wandering through Hokokuji Temple brought about a sense of rejuvenation. Encircled by breathtaking scenery in this tranquil sanctuary, we were captivated by the breathtaking vistas that never failed to astound us, crafting indelible memories. Among the myriad of cultural gems that Kamakura boasts, Houkokuji Temple stands out as a true oasis of tranquility and beauty. The temple's enchanting bamboo grove, though modest in size, exudes an undeniable allure that captivates the senses and transports guests to a realm of peace and serenity. Here, one can savor the delicate flavors of matcha paired with traditional Japanese sweets, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that tantalize the palate. As you meander through the verdant forest surrounding the temple, you will encounter three shallow caves that hold a profound historical significance. These caves are believed to be the final resting place of revered Kamakura priests and samurai, such as Ietoki and Yoshihisa Ashikaga, whose legacies continue to echo through the corridors of time. The path leading to the temple itself is a testament to the artistry and precision of Japanese landscaping, with a zen stone garden that showcases the meticulous art of karensui, or dry landscape gardening, characterized by intricately raked gravel that evokes a sense of harmony and balance. The exquisite and enchanting haven has ingrained itself in my memory for a lifetime. The sheer delight of revisiting and savoring every moment in this exceptional retreat is beyond compare.#trip

#japantrip Very nice garden with an attached bamboo area. Also, the whole landscape around is beautiful. If you are going to buy a ticket for the garden make sure to add the green tea ticket as well. Probably the most relaxing tea time I've ever head with those surroundings. Additionally, if you arrive early, you can participate some meditation on Sundays for free.An absolutely stunning temple, the little bamboo grove is bursting with life and photo opportunities. There are fewer people here than other temples, but you definitely won't be alone either. It seems popular with most local and international tourists and I can see why, it has a serene atmosphere with the sounds of trickling water and soft conversations. Matcha tea is very bitter, pure matcha with no sweeteners. Be warned! But, if you are looking for an authentic match tea this is the place, at the cost of ¥600. Total stay about 30-45 minutes if you have the tea, 20 if you don't. Not suitable for those with mobility issues or in a wheelchair as there is an initial slope and then there are several stairs. Respectful kids welcome, but the signs all ask visitors to be quiet so no running around. If in Kamakura would 100% recommend going, or if you really want a photo with bamboo but want to avoid the crowds in Kyoto.

A peaceful temple, with a small, but gorgeous bamboo garden. Getting there is around 35 min from Kamakura station and the entrance fee is 300¥ (1000¥ with some extra green tea and access to a little tea house). It‘s a great alternative to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, but without all the crowds and much smaller. Absolutely loved this very peaceful place! I wish to go to kyoto this year to visit arashiyama bamboo forest. #2024wish

The Hokokuji Bamboo Temple is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kamakura, Japan. It is only known to locals as the "Bamboo Temple." What I loved most in the trip is the the great view and most importantly, Tea Appreciation activity. I paid ¥600 overall for entering the Bamboo Forest and Tea Appreciation. #wintergetaway