I was deeply impressed by the harmony of the straight lines and the water features designed by Kengo Kuma. This place is the pinnacle of modern temple architecture. It’s conveniently located to visit along with Takanawa Gateway Station. A perfect, brief escape from the city bustle. Definitely worth a visit if you are nearby!
Amazing shrine, beautiful colors at the end of December. Not crowded at all when we visited at 11am.
Many cherry trees, Sakura season seems to be incredible there.
The access road to the temple pass threw a residential where the street are very narrow. Still accessible with a small bus if you’re confident. Parking available at the entry.
Off the beaten path a bit, but a lot of character! Mid-January and the plum trees were already starting to bloom!
Located in the somewhat remote Momijigayatsu Valley (Valley of the Autumn Leaves), a visit to Zuizenji Temple is well worth the 30 minute walk from Kamakura Station and the 200 yen entrance fee. It is classified as a historic site and is home to several objects classified as Important Cultural Properties and is a noted Place of Scenic Beauty.
The temple was established in 1327 by Muso Soseki, who was both its founding priest and chief architect. What is special about Zuizenji is the care that Soseki took to create the gardens, which are such a prominent feature that the buildings on the property seem modest by comparison, blending into the natural surroundings. We visited in mid-March, when the Chinese Violet Cress (諸葛菜) we’re in full bloom.
A stop at one of the small cafes in the area on the return trip can round out a very pleasant afternoon in this particularly scenic and historical part of Kamakura.
Lovely temple. When we went there was no one else there and there are a few parking spots. I love the old mossy broken stairs and the new stairs both leading to the top
