Visit Japan Web Meigetsu-in Temple
Visit Japan Web invites you to explore Meigetsu-in Temple, affiliated with the Kenchoji School of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. Located approximately a 10-minute walk from Kita Kamakura Station, the temple is easily accessible via English-language signage. After a short walk on a pedestrian path alongside the railway tracks, a left turn leads visitors along the narrow Meigetsugawa River towards the temple.
Renowned Japanese filmmaker Yasujiro Ozu (1903 – 1963), best known for his film Tokyo Story (1953), resided in close proximity to this area during his later years. Continuing along the river, visitors will soon come across the temple gate. Admission fees are collected to enter the temple grounds.
Meigetsu-in Temple is particularly renowned for its flower gardens. The main temple area showcase an abundance of predominantly blue hydrangeas in full bloom during June and July. The iconic Weathered Stone Staircase serves as the hallmark image of Meigetsu-in. It leads to an inner gate of the temple, bordered by blue hydrangeas on either side.
Upon passing through the inner gate, you will soon arrive at the Main Temple Building, also known as the Hondo. In front of the Hondo, there is a traditional Japanese stone and gravel garden displaying pink azaleas. The Hondo itself includes a long tatami-floor hall leading to a large round window. Nearby, there are several smaller historic structures such as the Founder’s Building (Soyu-do), which dates back to around 1380, a sacred cave containing ancient stone statues, and a historic well. Additionally, the grave of Tokiyori Hojo (1227 – 1263), the fifth regent during the time of the Kamakura Shogunate (1192 – 1333), is located nearby.
