Ten-en Hiking Course
By Foot
The Ten-en Hiking Course is a scenic route in Kita-Kamakura connecting the ridges of the “Kamakura Alps”—Mt. Tendai, Mt. Ohira, and Mt. Jubu. The name “Ten-en,” which literally translates to “heavenly garden,” was inspired by a quote from Admiral Heihachiro Togo (1848–1934), a prominent figure during the Russo-Japanese War, who likened his visit here to “playing in the garden of heaven.” Stretching approximately 5 kilometers with an estimated walking time of 2.5 hours, the trail is dotted with areas offering views of Mt. Fuji and Sagami Bay. With few tourists, you can take in nature’s beauty at your own pace. There are minimal elevation changes—the highest point being 159.2 meters—making the trail accessible even to beginners.
(1) Kenchoji Temple
(2) Trailhead: Hansobo Shrine Entrance
(3) Shojoken Observatory
(4) Juo-Iwa Rock
(5) Trailhead: Kakuonji Temple Entrance
(6) Imaizumidai Trail Junction
(7) Mt. Ohira
(8) Restroom (the only one on the trail)
(9) Ten-en Summit Area
(10) Kaifuki Jizo
(11) Trailhead: Zuisenji Temple Entrance
(1) Kenchoji Temple
(2) Trailhead: Hansobo Shrine Entrance
(3) Shojoken Observatory
(4) Juo-Iwa Rock
(5) Trailhead: Kakuonji Temple Entrance
(6) Imaizumidai Trail Junction
(7) Mt. Ohira
(8) Restroom (the only one on the trail)
(9) Ten-en Summit Area
(10) Kaifuki Jizo
(11) Trailhead: Zuisenji Temple Entrance
1 Day
1[1] Kenchoji Temple
Kenchoji Temple is one of the starting points of the Ten-en Hiking Course and Japan’s first monastery for training Zen priests. It was founded in 1253 by Hojo Tokiyori (1227–1263), the fifth regent of the Kamakura shogunate. The main buildings are arranged in a line, with the Somon main gate and the Sanmon gate at the entrance. The latter gate is a temple icon and has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan. It is said that passing through this gate frees the mind from all earthly attachments. Before heading to the Hansobo trail entrance at the far end, view a seated statue of the bodhisattva Jizo, the central deity of the temple, in the Butsuden (Buddha Hall) and a ceiling painting of a cloud dragon in the Hatto (Lecture Hall). An admission fee of 500 yen is required to enter the temple grounds.
15 minutes min by foot
2[2] Trailhead: Hansobo Shrine Entrance
Hansobo Shrine is a sacred site dedicated to Kenchoji Temple’s Hansobo Daigongen guardian deity—a buddha or bodhisattva who manifested himself to save all living beings. Located on a towering back hill on the northeastern side of the temple grounds, the shrine is reached by climbing approximately 240 steps. A large rock carved with a tengu goblin fan, as well as 12 statues of both long-nosed and crow tengu goblins in various sizes, can be found along the path, creating a unique atmosphere. The many deciduous trees display vibrant colors during the autumn foliage season. With a lookout point and benches near the shrine, the site also serves as a convenient spot to rest.
5 minutes min by foot
3[3] Shojoken Observatory
This viewpoint is located about 150 steps up from Hansobo. The stairs are steeper and narrower than those from Kenchoji Temple to Hansobo Shrine. As you climb, your field of view opens up, offering a sense of liberation. At the top of the stairs, a spectacular vista will spread out before you. On clear days, you can see Mt. Fuji and look out over Kamakura’s streets, Sagami Bay, and the vast horizon. From this point onward, the path turns into an unpaved hiking trail. Watch out for exposed tree roots and large rocks.
10 minutes min by foot
4[4] Juo-Iwa Rock
At the Shojoken trail junction in the upper part of the Shojoken Observatory, take a right and continue along the narrow path. You will see a large rock come into view, carved with images of Nyoirin Kannon (Cintāmaṇicakra), Ketsubon Jizo (Blood Bowl bodhisattva), and Enma Daio (Yama, King of Hell). This rock is called the “Wameki Juo,” meaning “wailing ten kings of hell,” due to a legend that it made eerie sounds every night. The site is also well known as one of the most “spiritually powerful places” in Kamakura. It commands a stunning view and has been selected as one of Kanagawa’s 50 most scenic spots. You can look almost directly down onto Wakamiya Oji Avenue and take in a comprehensive view of the unique topography of Kamakura, which is surrounded on three sides by mountains
40 minutes min by foot
5[5] Trailhead: Kakuonji Temple Entrance
The Ten-en Hiking Course has a trailhead that provides direct access to the midpoint of the route. It is the Kakuonji Temple entrance, located south of Kakuonji Temple. Hike roughly 20 minutes from here, and you will reach the Imaizumidai Trail Junction on the Ten-en Hiking Course. This trailhead is convenient for taking a shortcut to visit no more than the Juo-Iwa Rock or Hansobo Shrine. While the Kakuonji Temple entrance may be modest with only a signpost, the trail leading to the Imaizumidai Trail Junction passes the Hyakuhachi Yagura, which are artificial caves containing five-ringed stupas and Buddhist statues, offering a glimpse into Kamakura’s history.
20 minutes min by foot
6[6] Imaizumidai Trail Junction
Heading east from the Juo-Iwa Rock, the trail becomes a rugged narrow path densely overgrown with trees. Moss-covered rocks are found alongside a continuous stretch of rocky ground. It is an authentic ancient road with tunnel-like caves and roped-off stone steps along the way. After about 20 minutes of walking with small ups and downs, you will reach the Imaizumidai Trail Junction. In one corner of the junction area, the gaps in the trees offer limited views of Iwaizumidai 6-chome Park and residential areas.
25 minutes min by foot
7[7] Mt. Ohira
From the Imaizumidai Trail Junction, proceed along the rugged narrow path with rocky ground to the summit of Mt. Ohira. At an altitude of 159.2 meters, it is the highest point on the Ten-en Hiking Course. This is also the highest peak and point in Kamakura. Just below the summit is a grassy open area that offers excellent views.
8[8] Restroom (the only one on the trail)
Descend about five minutes from the summit of Mt. Ohira and a restroom located next to the Kamakura Country Club will come into view. There is also an outdoor faucet available for washing hands. This is the only restroom on the Ten-en Hiking Course, so it is a good idea to take a bathroom break here.
5 minutes min by foot
9[9] Ten-en Summit Area
As you walk along the wide, gently sloping paved path, you will see a small open space. While it is surrounded by thickets of trees and bushes, there are spots offering sweeping views of Kamakura’s city streets and Sagami Bay. It is the best place for hikers to spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy their packed lunches. Nearby is an information board showing the Ten-en Hiking Course route and the current location.
15 minutes min by foot
10[10] Kaifuki Jizo
From the Ten-en Summit Area, the path once again becomes unpaved and narrow. The mostly downhill trail goes through thickets dotted with moss-covered boulders and a refreshing bamboo grove. There is also a rock engraved with the name Nichigenso, the former villa of Admiral Heihachiro Togo. When you descend to the mid-slope of Mt. Tendai, you will find a small Kaifuki Jizo statue nestled in the thickets. According to legend, this Jizo statue blew a conch shell to guide the retainers of the Hojo clan to the place to bury the severed head of Hojo Takatoki (1303 –1333), the 14th regent of the Kamakura shogunate. The retainers had ran away carrying his head after he took his own life when the shogunate fell in 1333.
20 minutes min by foot
11[11] Trailhead: Zuisenji Temple Entrance
After passing the Kaifuki Jizo, a narrow path extends through a mixed forest lined with several tunnel-like caves. As you descend, the decline becomes gentler. Watch out as there are many branching paths. Since this area has cell phone reception, it is recommended that you check where you are going on your smartphone’s map. As you near the base of the trail, a residential area will come into view, and the path will lead to the Somon gate of Zuisenji Temple. End your hike with a visit to Zuisenji’s famed rock garden, designated a Place of Scenic Beauty of Japan. To return to Kamakura Station, walk in the direction of central Kamakura to Kamakuragu Shrine. From the Daitonomiya bus stop, catch a bus headed to Kamakura Station.
he Ten-en Hiking Course has relatively few ups and downs, aside from the initial stairs between Kenchoji Temple and the Shojoken Observatory. Signposts are found at most trail junctions, making the trail easy to follow even for hikers unfamiliar with the area. The many deciduous trees along the path provide not only scenic views but also a vibrant display of seasonal colors. Make a casual visit and enjoy the timeless landscapes of Japan in a serene atmosphere.
*This hiking trail is a natural mountain path. Some areas are slippery or steep. Please come fully prepared, such as by wearing clothing that is easy to walk in and footwear suitable for hiking. Please use extra caution after rainfall as the path can become muddy and especially slippery.
*Do not enter the trail on a bicycle or motorcycle.
*You are responsible for any injuries sustained on the trail. Please use the trail at your own risk.
*Hornets are active from summer through fall. Please be careful not to provoke them.
*Open flames are not permitted.
*While trail running has become popular, please do not hold races on the hiking trail as they are very dangerous. In the case of solo trail running, please be fully aware of your surroundings to prevent accidents, such as by slowing down when passing others and sharing the trail with other hikers.
