Jōchi-ji, Sagami Travel Guide

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Discover tranquility at Jōchi-ji Temple in Kamakura, a historic Zen retreat with beautiful gardens and a touch of good fortune.

Jōchi-ji, nestled in Kita-Kamakura, is a serene Zen Buddhist temple dating back to the 13th century. Ranked fourth among Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples, it offers a tranquil escape with its historic structures, lush gardens, and a touch of good fortune.

A brief summary to Jōchi-ji

1402 Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Yamanouchi, Kanagawa, 247-0062, JP
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Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Jōchi-ji.

Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
Take a moment to rub the belly of the Hotei statue for good luck.
Combine your visit with a hike on the Daibutsu hiking trail, which starts near the temple.

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A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Jōchi-ji, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Kita-Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line), take the west exit and walk south for about 8 minutes. The temple is located a short distance from the station, near the start of the Daibutsu hiking trail. Follow the signs, and you'll see Jōchi-ji rising from the forest. Cost: Free
Public Transport

Take the JR Yokosuka Line to Kita-Kamakura Station, one stop north of Kamakura Station when coming from Tokyo. From there, it's an 8-minute walk to the temple. Cost: JR train fare from Kamakura Station to Kita-Kamakura Station is approximately 140 JPY.

Discover more about Jōchi-ji

Jōchi-ji, officially known as Kinpōzan Jōchi-ji, is a Buddhist Zen temple of the Rinzai sect located in Kita-Kamakura. It holds the distinction of being the fourth of Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples, offering visitors a serene glimpse into Japanese Zen Buddhism and history.Founded in 1283 by Hōjō Munemasa and his son Hōjō Morotoki, Jōchi-ji's construction was influenced by Chinese monks, evident in its Song dynasty architectural style. The temple has three founding priests: Nanshu Kōkai, Daxiu Zhengnian, and Wuan Puning. Though much of the original temple complex was lost to fire and the Great Kantō Earthquake of 1923, the rebuilt structures maintain the temple's tranquil atmosphere.At the entrance, the Shōrō-mon gate, a two-story belfry gate combining Japanese and Chinese architectural elements, stands as a highlight. Inside the main hall, the Donge-den, are three Buddha statues representing the past, present, and future: Amida Nyorai, Shaka Nyorai, and Miroku Nyorai. Behind the main hall, visitors can explore the graveyard, bamboo groves and find the statue of Hotei, the god of happiness; rubbing his belly is said to bring good luck. The temple also features the Kanro-no-I, one of Kamakura's Ten Famous Wells, known for its pure waters.Jōchi-ji provides a peaceful retreat, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of its gardens and the quiet contemplation of Zen Buddhism.