Engakuji Temple

This Deep Valley is a Unique Feature of Kamakura's Landscape

The eighth regent, Hojo Tokimune (ruled from 12681284), invited Mugaku Sogen from China to establish this Rinzai Sect temple to placate the spirits of warriors who fell in the two battles against the Mongol invaders. This is the head temple of the Rinzai Engakuji Sect and ranks second among Kamakura's Five Great Rinzai Temples. The principal image is a statue of a seated Hokan Shaka-nyorai. The garden with ponds, including the Myokoike Pond and the Byakuroike Pond, is listed as a national scenic site. Shariden Reliquary Hall from the defunct Taiheiji Temple was moved to this temple precinct. The hall is a remarkable structure from the Muromachi Period (1336-1573) and is listed as a National Treasure. A Zen meditation session is held early each morning and on weekends.