Kenchoji Temple
In Japanese: 建長寺
Founded in 1253 by regent Hojo Tokiyori, the first of Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples and the first temple in Japan to call itself a Zen temple. Its gate, halls and Chinese-style gate stand in a line.
National Treasure (temple bell); Important Cultural Properties (Sanmon gate, Butsuden, Hatto, Karamon)
Nearby
- Meigetsuin Temple (Hydrangea Temple) ≈ 10 min by car
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine ≈ 15 min by car
- Engakuji Temple (Kita-Kamakura) ≈ 15 min by car
- Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine ≈ 15 min by car
- Hokokuji Temple (Bamboo Garden) ≈ 20 min by car
Travel times are rough estimates by car.
- Getting there
- 15 min walk from Kita-Kamakura Sta. (JR Yokosuka Line), or 5 min by Enoden bus to Kenchoji
- Fee
- Adults 500 yen, children 200 yen
- Good to know
- 8:30–16:30; cash only
- Time needed
- 1 h
Checked against the official Japanese website on 2026-10-15. Report outdated info