Kamakura is a historical town about 1 hour south from Tokyo by train. It is known as the seat of the first Shogunate government founded in the late 12th century. Kamakura attracted new Buddhism. Many temples and shrines were built here. This article shows four popular and sacred spots in Kamakura.

1. Engakuji temple

Engakuji temple was founded in 1282. There are national treasures such as the Bell and Shari-den Hall. When you enter the temple ground, you will see a huge gate called the Sanmon. Sanmon means a gate for getting delivered from earthly bondage into three states of emptiness, no substances, no wants. It is believed to clear away earthly desires. People must walk through Sanmon and break off from this world to pray the principal image of Buddha in the Butsuden with a purified mind.

2. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine

The shrine was originally founded in Zaimokuza, about 2 km south from its present site, in 1063 to be dedicated to Hachiman Kami, the guardian deity of the Genji (Miyamono) clan. In 1180, the descendant Miyamoto Yoritomo moved the shrine to its present site. In 1191, he set the shrine as the center of the Kamakura Shogunate. The Hongu (Main Shrine) is a National Important Cultural Property.

3. Great Buddha in Kotokuin temple

In this temple, there is the Great Buddha. It is a national treasure. The height is 13.35 meters including the base. It is the second biggest bronze statues in Japan after the Great Buddha in Nara city. The statue was constructed in 1252. It was placed inside of the great Buddha Hall when completed. However, the great Buddha Hall was destroyed by earthquakes and tsunami. You can enter the inside of the Buddha statue.

4. Hase temple

This temple was originally built in the 8th century. Juichimen-Kannon, the main object of worship, is one of the largest wooden statures of Kannon in Japan. Juishimen means eleven faces. The kannon statue has eleven faces. The Kannon sees eleven worldly things at the same time. The temple has an impressive view and beautiful flowers throughout the seasons.

5. Location

6. Reference
(1) Kamakura Tourist Map
(2) The Brochure of Engakuji temple
(3) The home page of Kamakura

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