Kaizoji Temple can be found deep within Ogigayatsu, with lush greenery all around. Once affiliated with the Shingon sect of Buddhism, the temple now belongs to the Kenchoji school of the Rinzai Zen sect. In 1153, Fujiwara no Nakayoshi (d. 1256) took on responsibility for the temple at the behest of Prince Munetaka (1242–1274), rebuilding the complex in a seven-building layout called shichido garan. However, during the dissolution of the Kamakura shogunate in 1333, all the buildings were destroyed by fire amid the fighting. Consequently, in 1394, Ashikaga Ujimitsu (1359–1398), the second Kamakura Kubo (governor-general of Kamakura), ordered samurai lord Uesugi Ujisada (1374–1416) to rebuild the temple in the Zen style. It was founded by priest Shinsho Kugai (Genno Zenji; 1329–1400), famously known for his role in the noh song Sessho Seki (“killing stone”), and thereafter came under the patronage of the Ogigayatsu branch of the Uesugi clan. According to a 1791 map of the temple precincts, the main complex layout was virtually identical to the present configuration, with seven minor temples depicted in addition to the main buildings.

The Yakushido (Buddha hall) was transferred here from Jochiji Temple in 1775. The hall houses an image of Yakushi, the Buddha of Healing (also known as Naki Yakushi, or “Weeping Yakushi”), which contains another head of Yakushi in its body, along with other statues such as the Twelve Divine Generals. At the entrance to Kaizoji is the Sokonuke no I well (“bottomless well”; one of the ten wells in old Kamakura), while a cavern at the southern end of the temple precincts contains the Juroku no I Wells (“sixteen wells”).

Kaizoji Temple is also well known as one of the best temples for flower-viewing in Kamakura, with various species blooming throughout the seasons. The Hall crabapple in spring, Chinese trumpet vine in summer, bush clover in early fall, and plum blossom in early spring are particularly worth seeing. Behind the Hondo (main hall) is a well-maintained stroll garden with a pond; however, it is unfortunately closed to the public.

Temple No. 26 of the Kamakura 33-Kannon pilgrimage and No. 15 of the Kamakura 24-Jizo pilgrimage.