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Jomyo-ji Temple: A Zen Retreat in Kamakura

Discover tranquility at Jomyo-ji Temple in Kamakura: a Zen garden, historic temple, and serene tea house await in the hills of eastern Kamakura.

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Nestled in the hills of eastern Kamakura, Jomyo-ji Temple offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Ranked fifth among Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples, it features a historic main hall, a tranquil rock garden, and a delightful tea house where visitors can savor matcha while contemplating the Zen atmosphere.

A brief summary to Jomyo-ji

  • 3 Chome-8-31 Jomyoji, Kamakura, 3 Chome Jomyoji, Kanagawa, 248-0003, JP
  • +81467-22-2818
  • 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

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the temple's peaceful atmosphere.
  • Enjoy a traditional matcha tea and Japanese sweets at the Kisen-an tea house overlooking the rock garden.
  • Take a stroll through the cemetery behind the main hall for a glimpse into the history of the Ashikaga clan.
  • Combine your visit with nearby Hokoku-ji Temple, known for its stunning bamboo forest.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kamakura Station, take bus number 鎌23, 鎌24, or 鎌36 from the East Exit. The bus ride to Jomyoji bus stop takes about 10 minutes and costs 220 yen. Jomyo-ji Temple is a short walk from the bus stop.

  • Walking

    Jomyo-ji Temple is approximately a 30-40 minute walk from Kamakura Station. From the station, head east and follow the signs towards Hokoku-ji Temple. Jomyo-ji Temple is a short distance from Hokoku-ji.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Kamakura Station to Jomyo-ji Temple takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is 1,200-1,500 yen. Taxis are readily available at the East Exit of Kamakura Station.

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Discover more about Jomyo-ji

Jomyo-ji Temple, officially known as Tokasan Jomyo Zeniji, is a Zen Buddhist temple of the Rinzai sect. Founded in 1188 by Taiko Gyoyu under the patronage of Ashikaga Yoshikane, it holds a significant place in Kamakura's rich history. Unlike other top-ranked temples in Kamakura, Jomyo-ji wasn't founded by the Hojo clan, but has strong ties to the Ashikaga clan, who later established the Muromachi Shogunate. During its peak, Jomyo-ji comprised seven buildings and several pagodas. Although fires and battles destroyed many structures over time, the main hall, reception hall, main gate, and warehouse remain. The main hall houses a statue of Shaka Nyorai, the historical Buddha. One of Jomyo-ji's highlights is the restored tea house, Kisen-an, which overlooks a meticulously maintained Japanese rock garden. Here, visitors can partake in a traditional tea ceremony, enjoying matcha and Japanese sweets while immersed in the garden's peaceful ambiance. The clear sound of the *suikinkutsu*, a buried water instrument, adds to the Japanese aesthetic experience. Behind the main hall, a path leads to the Ashikaga family cemetery and a Western-style restaurant with panoramic views of Kamakura. Jomyo-ji is also the ninth temple in the Kamakura 33 Kannon Pilgrimage, attracting spiritual visitors. Declared a National Historical Site, Jomyo-ji offers a glimpse into Kamakura's past and a tranquil space for contemplation.

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