Hokai-ji: A Serene Buddhist Retreat in Kamakura
Explore the tranquil beauty of Hokai-ji, a serene Buddhist temple in Kamakura, offering a peaceful retreat and rich spiritual heritage.
Nestled in the historic city of Kamakura, Hokai-ji is a captivating Buddhist temple that invites visitors to experience tranquility and spiritual reflection. Known for its beautiful architecture and serene gardens, this temple serves as a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Tourists can explore its peaceful grounds, admire intricate carvings, and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature that surround this sacred space. A visit to Hokai-ji is not just about sightseeing; it's about immersing oneself in the rich cultural heritage of Japan.
A brief summary to Hokai-ji
- 3 Chome-5-22 Komachi, Kamakura, 3 Chome Komachi, Kanagawa, 248-0006, JP
- +81467-22-5512
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and stunning light for photography.
- Dress respectfully and follow local customs when visiting the temple.
- Take your time to enjoy the gardens; they are especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
- Engage with the monks to learn more about the temple's history and Buddhist practices.
- Check the temple’s hours before visiting, as they may vary seasonally.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Hakone, take the Hakone Highway (Route 1) towards Odawara. Continue on Route 1 for about 30 minutes until you reach the Kamakura area. Once you arrive in Kamakura, follow signs for the city center. Hokai-ji is located at 3 Chome-5-22 Komachi. Parking is limited in this area, so it's recommended to find a nearby public parking lot before walking to the temple.
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Public Transportation - Train
From Hakone, you can take the Odakyu Line from Hakone-Yumoto Station to Odawara Station. At Odawara Station, transfer to the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line or the JR Yokosuka Line towards Zushi or Ofuna. Get off at Kamakura Station. From Kamakura Station, it's a 15-minute walk to Hokai-ji. Head west on Komachi Street for about 1 km until you reach Komachi 3 Chome, where the temple is located. Note that the train fare from Hakone-Yumoto to Kamakura is approximately 1,400 yen.
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Public Transportation - Bus
Alternatively, from Hakone, you can take a direct bus from Hakone to Kamakura. Check the latest schedule at the Hakone Tourist Information Center. The bus ride takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Once you arrive at Kamakura Station, follow the same directions as mentioned earlier: walk about 15 minutes west on Komachi Street to reach Hokai-ji. The bus fare is approximately 1,000 yen.
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