Jochi-ji Kamakura
A serene Zen temple nestled in the hills, offering a peaceful escape with unique tunnels and a bamboo garden.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Jochi-ji Kamakura
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Zen temple nestled in the hills, offering a peaceful escape with unique tunnels and a bamboo garden. +1
"Mysterious yet ever so peaceful, like stepping into an Indiana Jones film set. "
🚶♀️ Start of Daibutsu Hike
Jochi-ji is the starting point for the Daibutsu hiking trail, perfect for active explorers. :athletic_shoe:
🍵 Enjoy Matcha
Sip on a cup of matcha in the outdoor area for a relaxing break. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tranquil Bamboo Path
Main Garden
Wander through a peaceful bamboo grove, a smaller but charming alternative to Kyoto's famous Arashiyama.
Mysterious Tunnels & Cliff Niches
Beyond the main hall
Explore intriguing tunnels and cliffside shrine niches, offering a unique and adventurous feel.
Hotei's Comical Statue
Temple grounds
Find the cheerful statue of Hotei, the god of happiness, adding a touch of lightheartedness.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Cash is King Here
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Start of Daibutsu Hike
Jochi-ji is the starting point for the Daibutsu hiking trail, perfect for active explorers. :athletic_shoe:
🍵 Enjoy Matcha
Sip on a cup of matcha in the outdoor area for a relaxing break. :coffee:
💰 Cash Entry Fee
Remember to bring cash for the ¥300 entrance fee. :moneybag:
🤫 Respectful Exploration
Be mindful and respectful, especially when exploring the cemetery areas. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Start of Daibutsu Hike
Jochi-ji is the starting point for the Daibutsu hiking trail, perfect for active explorers. :athletic_shoe:
🍵 Enjoy Matcha
Sip on a cup of matcha in the outdoor area for a relaxing break. :coffee:
💰 Cash Entry Fee
Remember to bring cash for the ¥300 entrance fee. :moneybag:
🤫 Respectful Exploration
Be mindful and respectful, especially when exploring the cemetery areas. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Jochi-ji Temple is praised for its tranquil atmosphere and unique features like tunnels and cliff niches, offering a peaceful escape from busier Kamakura sites. While not as grand as other temples, its serene beauty and the start of the Daibutsu hike make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking quiet contemplation or a touch of adventure. +1
"¥300 entry. Interesting Buddhist temple, ranked 4 out of the big 5 in Kamakura. Quieter than the temples and shrines on the other side of the JR tracks. Cliff walls with shrine niches and tunnels. Graveyards. Toilets and temple store as well."
Douglas Aberdeen
"Nestled in the tranquil hills of Kita-Kamakura, Jochi-ji Shrine in Kamakura is a calm and less-known beauty. Fourth of the Five Great Zen Temples, it provides a quiet haven free from the throngs with rich vegetation and a lovely garden path covered with moss leading to its wooden temple construction. The calm environment is perfect for introspection; the little monument of Hotei, the god of happiness, gives a comical element. Though its subtle beauty and spiritual quiet create a lasting impression, it is not grand like some of Kamakura's more well-known temples. For Zen aficionados, this is a must-see."
Manpreet Singh
"One of the most beautiful places I’ve been to so far. Mysterious yet ever so peaceful. The moment you see the entrance, you feel like you’re transported to an Indiana Jones or Tomb Raider film set.
Loads of other areas to explore apart from the main shrine. There is a tunnel that you need to crawl through to get to the other side of the shrine area, might be creep for some as there’s a cemetery but just be respectful and all is good. Amazing amazing shrine!"
J N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kita-Kamakura Station (approx. 1 hour). Jochi-ji Temple is a short walk from Kita-Kamakura Station. +1
Yes, it's easily accessible from Kita-Kamakura Station. Many visitors also use the Enoden Line to explore Kamakura and its surroundings.
Jochi-ji is located in Kita-Kamakura, north of the main Kamakura tourist area. It's a good starting point for hikes, but a longer walk from central Kamakura.
Consider the Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass for unlimited rides on the Enoden Line and roundtrip fare from Shinjuku.
Limited parking may be available, but it's generally recommended to use public transport due to potential congestion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is ¥300 per person and is cash only.
While specific hours can vary, it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check for the most current information closer to your visit.
No advance booking is typically required for Jochi-ji Temple. You can purchase tickets at the entrance.
It's generally less crowded than other major Kamakura temples, especially on weekdays. Weekends can see more visitors.
Information on special events is not widely publicized online, but checking the temple's official website or local listings might provide details.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most outdoor areas, but it's always good practice to be respectful and avoid intrusive shots, especially inside temple buildings.
The bamboo path, the mysterious tunnels, and the cliffside niches offer unique photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at temples and shrines in Japan to maintain peace and prevent disturbance. It's best to assume it's not permitted.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create a beautiful, serene atmosphere for your photos.
Be mindful of any posted signs regarding photography, especially in sacred areas.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Explore the bamboo garden, mysterious tunnels, cliff niches, and the statue of Hotei. It's also the start of the Daibutsu hike. +1
Yes, you can see the main highlights in about 10-15 minutes if you're short on time.
Yes, restrooms are available on the temple grounds.
Yes, you can purchase and enjoy matcha in the outdoor area.
Absolutely. Its tranquil setting makes it ideal for introspection and a peaceful escape. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the temple itself is serene, the nearby Daibutsu hiking trail offers a manageable outdoor activity for active families. It's a good idea to bring snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Remember that the entry fee is cash-only, so be prepared.
🚶♂️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Crucially, Jochi-ji is the starting point for the Daibutsu hiking trail. This makes it a must-visit for hikers looking to combine temple exploration with a scenic trek through Kamakura's natural landscapes. The trail offers a refreshing way to see more of the area and connect with nature.
🧘♀️ Zen & Spiritual Seekers
The temple's understated beauty, the quiet bamboo grove, and the peaceful garden paths invite a deeper connection with the Zen philosophy. Visitors seeking a more authentic and less commercialized spiritual experience will find Jochi-ji to be a profoundly calming and enriching destination.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Daibutsu Hiking Trail
Hikers can expect a moderate trek with some inclines, rewarded by glimpses of lush greenery and occasional viewpoints. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes to reach the Daibutsu, depending on your pace. It's a fantastic option for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and want to combine temple visits with a nature walk.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months. The trail can be a welcome respite from the summer heat, offering shaded sections under the trees.
A Peaceful Alternative to Crowded Temples
Ranked as the fourth of Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples, Jochi-ji might not have the grandeur of some others, but its subtle beauty and peaceful atmosphere are its main draws. The temple's setting against the mountainside, with its moss-covered garden paths and quiet bamboo grove, creates an environment perfect for introspection and a moment of calm.
If you're seeking a more personal and less hurried spiritual experience, Jochi-ji is an excellent choice. It allows visitors to appreciate the Zen Buddhist aesthetics and the natural surroundings without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by large groups.
Unique Features: Tunnels and Cliff Niches
The tunnels, some of which require crawling through, lead to different sections of the temple grounds, adding an element of discovery to your visit. Adjacent to these are numerous small shrines carved into the cliff faces, creating a visually striking and somewhat solemn landscape. This area also includes a cemetery, reminding visitors of the temple's long history and its role in the community.
These features offer a different kind of exploration compared to the typical temple visit, making Jochi-ji a memorable stop for those looking for something a bit out of the ordinary. Remember to be respectful when exploring these areas, especially the cemetery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit