Hokokuji: The Bamboo Temple

Hokokuji, nestled in the hills of eastern Kamakura, is a captivating Zen Buddhist temple of the Rinzai sect, often called the 'Bamboo Temple'. Founded in 1334 by priest Tengan Eko, it commemorates Ashikaga Ietoki, grandfather of the first Ashikaga Shogun. The temple served as the family temple for both the Ashikaga and Uesugi clans, steeped in history and tradition. While the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 destroyed many original structures, including the main hall's thatched roof, most have been carefully rebuilt. The main hall houses a statue of Shaka Nyorai, the historic Buddha and temple's principal image. To the left, a unique bell tower retains a traditional thatched straw roof, reminiscent of the original main hall. The temple's most enchanting feature is the bamboo grove behind the main hall, a former Buddhist training area. Over 2,000 moso bamboo stalks create a mesmerizing scene, with narrow pathways leading to a traditional tea house. Here, visitors can savor matcha tea while immersed in the grove's serene atmosphere. The temple also features caves believed to hold the ashes of Ashikaga lords and memorial towers for warriors killed in the 1333 battle of Kamakura.