3 Hokokuji (報國寺)
Belonging to the Kenchoji school of the Rinzai sect, Hokokuji (報國寺) is a Zen temple that is well-known for its magnificent bamboo grove of more than two thousand Moso bamboos, earning it the name “Bamboo Temple.”
After passing the gate and moss garden, you will arrive at the main hall, which was rebuilt in the 1920s after the original structure was destroyed during the Great Kanto Earthquake, and right next to it stands a unique bell tower with a thatched straw roof. When you walk to the back, you will find the famous bamboo grove and a teahouse where you can enjoy a cup of green tea served on a Kamakura-bori styled tray and take in the serene view.
Depending on the season, you can also expect a peaceful and tranquil walk amidst flowering quince and rose in the spring, conandron in the summer, and sakura and camellia Japonica in the winter.
Hokokuji Temple, 2 Chome-7-4 Jomyoji, Kamakura, Kanagawa | (+81) 04 6722 0762