What other travelers are saying about Hokokuji Temple
This place was very cute and totally worth visiting, especially if you're already in the Kamakura district. I arrived right when they opened at 9 AM, and there was already a bit of a line forming so definitely get there early if you want a quiet, peaceful experience without the crowds.
I believe it was cash only, so I’d recommend bringing cash just in case. The grounds are small but lovely, with a really serene vibe that lets you take your time walking through and soaking everything in. Compared to the crowded bamboo forest in Kyoto, this one felt way more relaxed and enjoyable.
There’s also a tea experience available for an extra ¥1,000. I didn’t do it myself, but friends who have say it’s absolutely worth it and adds a peaceful touch to the visit.
If you haven’t done the Kyoto bamboo forest or found that one too hectic, this is a great alternative. Quiet, cute, and calming, definitely a place to slow down and just enjoy.
If you do not go to Kyoto and want to see a nice garden with bamboo, I highly recommend coming here. It’s a nice day trip from Tokyo and you could easily spend an hour here. The garden is stunning! It is a bit out of the way but still easy to access. Not too many people but still quite a few. Great spot for photos.
Small but mighty! Went to Kyoto and it was waaaaaay too busy, so we didnt get a chance to visit Arashiyama in our last trip. This time, We took a day trip from Tokyo and started here as the first temple stop while in Kamakura. It was absolutely lovely. We probably only spent 20 minutes here but we enjoyed the stroll to see the gardens and bamboo grove. We were able to take a good shot without people in the background. I definitely recommend a visit here. We chose to walk to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu because traffic was a bit busy around 11 on a Friday - it took about 20 minutes but we were able to stop at a cute bakery on the way and admire the houses of the neighborhood.
Houkokuji has a ¥400 entry fee for adults. You can also pay extra for a cup of green tea, which you can enjoy in a charming tea shed overlooking the bamboo grove, super relaxing experience.
The bamboo forest here is like a smaller version of the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, but it’s still really pretty and gives off a calm, peaceful vibe. A great spot to slow down and soak in the atmosphere!
Small but very beautiful garden and temple.
Little ways away from the main area so the tourist crowd isn't as big. Definitely worth visiting in Kamakura. You get all the beautiful picturesque garden shots here.
Small fee to enter, free for kids under elementary school.
There is also option to get the green tea. We avoided that since we had kids, but it seems like it's worth it too.
There is limited parking there but plenty of paid parking on the roads.
All in all, a great small garden that is worth visiting. You can complete the walkthrough in about 30 min but it can be longer depending on how fast you take photos or enjoy the scenery.
