Can visitors experience traditional Japanese tea at Hokoku-ji?

Yes, Hokoku-ji has a tea house within the bamboo grove where visitors can enjoy matcha tea. Drinking tea in this serene setting allows people to experience Japanese tea culture while surrounded by nature.

What is the best time to visit Hokoku-ji?

The temple is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is in spring or autumn. Spring brings fresh green bamboo and blooming flowers, while autumn adds golden hues to the surrounding trees, enhancing the peaceful scenery.

How do you get to Hokoku-ji Temple?

Hokoku-ji is located in eastern Kamakura and is easily accessible by bus from Kamakura Station. Visitors can take a bus bound for Jomyo-ji and get off at the "Jomyoji" stop, then walk a few minutes to the temple.

How long does a visit to Hokoku-ji usually take?

A typical visit lasts about 30 to 45 minutes, but those who wish to enjoy matcha tea or meditate in the bamboo grove may stay longer.

A traditional Japanese wooden temple with a sloped roof, surrounded by lush green trees and shrubs on a sunny day. The scene is peaceful and serene, with vibrant foliage framing the building.

A row of small, weathered stone statues with moss growing on them is lined up on a green, mossy ground in a peaceful outdoor setting. Some statues are detailed, while others appear eroded.

A traditional Japanese Zen garden with white gravel, rocks, trimmed shrubs, and a wooden building with stairs, surrounded by lush green trees under a partly cloudy sky.

A bamboo water spout pours water into a small pond surrounded by lush green plants, ferns, and lily pads in a tranquil garden setting.

A view looking up at tall, dense bamboo stalks with vibrant green leaves, sunlight filtering through the foliage, creating a bright and serene forest atmosphere.

Kamakura

Hokoku-ji (Bamboo Temple)

4.4 (5582)Buddhist TempleTourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipPoint Of InterestAssociation Or OrganizationEstablishment

Last updated May 29, 2026

Hokoku-ji, also called the Bamboo Temple, is a historic Zen temple in Kamakura. It was built in 1334 during the Kamakura period and was a place of meditation for the Ashikaga samurai clan. The temple belongs to the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism, which focuses on deep meditation and mindfulness.

What makes Hokoku-ji special is its breathtaking bamboo grove, with over 2,000 tall, green stalks. Walking through the grove creates a peaceful feeling, as the sunlight filters through the leaves and the wind makes a soft rustling sound. Many visitors find this place perfect for quiet reflection.

Near the bamboo grove, there is a small tea house where people can enjoy a bowl of matcha while surrounded by nature. The temple’s main hall has a statue of Buddha, adding to its spiritual atmosphere.

Hours

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Phone

+81 467-22-0762

Website

www.houkokuji.or.jp

Overview

Address

2-chōme-7-4 Jōmyōji, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0003, Japan

Hours

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Traveler reviews

Hokokuji Temple was so peaceful and beautiful. Walking through the bamboo grove felt like stepping into another world. It’s calm, green, and really spiritual. The temple architecture is simple but elegant, and the whole place has such a relaxing vibe. A must-visit in Kamakura if you want quiet, nature, and stunning scenery. Perfect for photos and unwinding.

SilentWitness

Aug 2, 2026

This is a very small temple. We walked from center of town and took us about 16 mins. There are buses 23, 24 back to Kamakura. The bus stop is right at the front of the entrance. Entrance fee is 400 yen and 600 yen gets you a cup of green tea. If you are short of time I would give this place a pass. We were there for 15 mins. Not worth the hike to be honest.

Frederick Wong

Mar 22, 2026

Houkokuji Temple in Kamakura is a beautiful, serene escape famous for its stunning bamboo grove. While the temple grounds are a bit smaller than I expected, the forest is incredibly atmospheric and peaceful. The highlight of the visit is definitely the small tea house nestled within the trees; sitting there with a cup of fresh matcha while looking out at the towering bamboo is an unforgettable experience. It’s a perfect, quiet spot to pause and soak in the scenery.

Amazing forest so peaceful and quiet! I read that some people were disappointed because it's little, we weren't! It's totally worth it! We took also a matcha in the forest and it was a beautiful experience to do 🍵✨🎍

We didn't have time to go to Kyoto to see the bamboo forest there, but while we were in Kamakura, we got to experience this garden and it's bamboo forest. Definitely worth it to experience the serenity.