Kencho-ji

(Source : pixta)

Kencho-ji was built in 1253 by Tokiyori Hojo, who at the time ruled the Kamakura government. It is the first specialized Zen Buddhism temple in Japan that had over 1,000 monks during its most prosperous time. Having continued its tradition, strict training under precise guidelines is still practiced here to this day. Its main gate, sanmon gate, main hall and hatto hall are all built in a characteristic straight line, utilizing the valley shape of the land, and there are many people who come to visit. The temple has multiple national treasures and important cultural heritages and one can feel its history once you step foot into the place.

(Source: pixta)

Main Hall Enshrines a Giant Buddha

The main hall was moved from Zojo-ji in Tokyo in 1647. The Jizo Bosatsu Zazo enshrined has a seated height of about 2.4 meters and is a giant statue that measures up to 5 meters including its base. Although it has a kind face, its enormous size is quite impressive.Exterior

(Source: pixta)

Hatto (Lecture Hall)

Hatto is a building in which the abbot holds lectures. The highlight of Kencho-ji's hatto is the Unryuzu (dragons and clouds painting) painted on the ceiling. The 10-meter-long and 12-meter-wide giant ceiling mural is as big as 80 tatami mats. When you look up, you can experience a strange feeling as if the dragons are looking down at you from the ceiling.Exterior

(Source: 日本の建築＆庭園)

(Source: 古都鎌倉－日帰り歴史スポット！)

Hojo Garden

The building in which old monks used to live is called hojo and has been converted into a facility where visitors can perform trial meditations. There is a Japanese garden adjacent to the hojo. Fresh vegetation spreads across and ponds and pine trees are planted carefully. Anyone will feel relaxed when looking at this view from the hojo.

(Source: 山旅日記)

One of Top Three Famous Bells of Kamakura

Kencho-ji's bonsho (Buddhist bell) was made in 1225. It is selected as a national treasure as one of Kamakura's top three bells, along with Enkaku-ji and Joraku-ji. It is hung on the right hand side facing the sanmon gate and is a giant bell about 2 meters tall.