Jomyoji Temple
1 / 10

Jomyo-ji Kamakura

4.2
·950 reviews·Kamakura, Japan

A serene 12th-century Zen temple in Kamakura, known for its tranquil dry garden and affordable tea ceremony.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Jomyoji Temple

Jomyo-ji Kamakura

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 12th-century Zen temple in Kamakura, known for its tranquil dry garden and affordable tea ceremony.

4.2
(950 reviews)

"This is one of the hidden gems of Kamakura. The entrance Fee is 100 Yen. For that you get an incredible garden without many Tourists and a chance to enjoy good Tea. Highly recommended!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Visit on a weekday morning for the most peaceful experience. Weekends can get busy!

🍵 Savor the Matcha

The tea house offers a lovely matcha experience with garden views. Don't miss it!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Zen Dry Garden

Zen Dry Garden

Main Garden

A meticulously raked landscape of gravel and rocks, radiating pure calmness and Zen philosophy.

Strolling Garden

Strolling Garden

Behind Main Hall

A lush, mossy path with a tranquil pond, offering a different kind of natural beauty.

Matcha Tea Ceremony

Matcha Tea Ceremony

Tea House

Sip traditional matcha and enjoy sweets while overlooking the serene Zen garden.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Jomyo-ji Temple offers a peaceful escape. Arrive early on weekdays to truly savor its serene Zen garden and avoid crowds. Consider visiting in spring or autumn for the best seasonal beauty.

Affordable Zen Experience

With an entrance fee of just 100 yen, Jomyo-ji is incredibly budget-friendly. The optional matcha tea ceremony is also reasonably priced, offering a meditative experience without breaking the bank.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low
When
Spring & Autumn
Why
Beautiful seasonal colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Arashiyama bamboo forest alternative near Tokyo for your next japan trip! 📍 Hokokuji Temple 報国寺 #japan #travel #kamakura
@trystane
65.4K likes • 978.6K views

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Visit on a weekday morning for the most peaceful experience. Weekends can get busy! TikTok

🍵 Savor the Matcha

The tea house offers a lovely matcha experience with garden views. Don't miss it! Reddit

day trip is not enough ⛩️🏄 🗻🌊 ✨ the Must Visit Places in Kamakura ✨ 📍Hokoku-ji (bamboo garden🎋) 🎖️8/10 a beautiful bamboo "garden"—not nearly as large as the famous one in Kyoto, but much more peaceful if you visit on a weekday. weekends are crowded. there’s also an outdoor area where you can enjoy a cup of matcha 🍵 (matcha tickets need to be purchased at the entrance) 📍Meigetsu-in (hydrangea/fal...
@japantravelbasics
51.6K likes • 995.8K views
reddit.com

Kamakura + Enoshino Day trip (itinerary questions)

💰 Budget-Friendly Gem

Entry is only 100 yen, making it a super affordable stop in Kamakura. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Enjoy both the dry Zen garden and the lush strolling garden for a complete experience. Reddit

reddit.com

What's your favourite temple / shrine?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Beat the Crowds

Visit on a weekday morning for the most peaceful experience. Weekends can get busy! TikTok

🍵 Savor the Matcha

The tea house offers a lovely matcha experience with garden views. Don't miss it! Reddit

💰 Budget-Friendly Gem

Entry is only 100 yen, making it a super affordable stop in Kamakura. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Enjoy both the dry Zen garden and the lush strolling garden for a complete experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(950 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Jomyo-ji Temple is praised as a tranquil hidden gem offering a peaceful Zen garden and an affordable tea ceremony experience. While some find it less grand than other Kamakura temples, its charm lies in its quiet atmosphere and authentic cultural immersion. It's a perfect spot for reflection away from the crowds.

"Jōmyō-ji is one of Kamakura’s quieter Zen temples and a true hidden treasure. Founded in the 13th century, it belongs to the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism and offers a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere compared to the busier temples in the area.

The temple is best known for its beautiful karesansui (dry Zen garden), a carefully raked landscape of white gravel and rocks that radiates calmness. Visitors can sit on the wooden veranda and take in the serene view, which is especially lovely in spring and autumn. Behind the main hall, there is also a lush strolling garden with a pond, mossy paths, and seasonal flowers. On the temple grounds you’ll also find a tea house, where you can enjoy traditional matcha and sweets while overlooking the Zen garden, a truly meditative experience.

Tickets and admission:
General admission to the temple and gardens: 100 yen (very affordable).
Tea house experience with matcha and sweets: 600–1,000 yen, depending on the set you choose.

Jōmyō-ji offers a quiet, authentic Zen experience and is a perfect stop for those who want to escape the crowds and reflect in a peaceful setting. It’s not as famous as other Kamakura temples, but its charm lies in its tranquility and the harmony of nature and architecture. If you’re visiting Kamakura, this is a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy the essence of Zen."

Natalia G.

"Jomyo-ji has a ¥100 entry fee for adults. Honestly, it felt a bit underwhelming compared to other temples nearby. The garden is quite small, and there’s a large cemetery at the back. When I visited, there was even a funeral happening, which made it a bit awkward. Overall, not the most impressive stop in the area."

Melvin J.

"This is one of the hidden gems of kamakura.
The entrance Fee is 100 Yen. For that you get an incredible garden without many Tourists and a chance to enjoy good Tea.
Highly recommended!"

Christian Overkämping

What People Like

Peaceful Zen garden
Affordable entry fee
Tranquil atmosphere

What People Dislike

Small garden size
Can feel underwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Kamakura Station, you can take a bus towards the Hokokuji Temple/Jomyo-ji Temple area. Look for buses heading towards 'Hokokuji' or 'Jomyo-ji'. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, it's a pleasant, albeit longer, walk or a short taxi ride. Reddit

Yes, Jomyo-ji Temple is accessible by bus from Kamakura Station. Several bus routes stop near the temple, making it convenient for visitors using public transportation. Reddit

While it's possible to walk, Jomyo-ji is a bit further out than some of the more central temples. It's a pleasant walk if you have time, but consider a bus or taxi if you're on a tighter schedule. Reddit

Many visitors combine Jomyo-ji with Hokokuji Temple (known for its bamboo grove) as they are located close to each other. You can also group it with other temples in the eastern part of Kamakura. TikTok

Information on specific parking facilities at Jomyo-ji Temple is limited. It's generally recommended to use public transport or nearby public parking if you are driving, as temple parking can be scarce. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The general admission fee for Jomyo-ji Temple and its gardens is a very affordable 100 yen per adult. Reddit

No, tickets are typically purchased on-site at the temple entrance. It's a simple process, and advance booking is not usually required. Reddit

Jomyo-ji Temple generally opens around 8:30 AM and closes around 4:30 PM. It's always a good idea to check the latest hours before your visit, especially during off-season or holidays. Reddit

Yes, the tea ceremony is an additional experience with a separate fee, usually ranging from 600 to 1,000 yen for matcha and sweets. Reddit

The Japan Rail Pass covers JR lines, so it can be used to get to Kamakura Station. However, it does not cover local buses or non-JR trains within Kamakura. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is its beautiful and tranquil dry Zen garden (karesansui), a peaceful landscape of raked gravel and rocks. The serene atmosphere is a key draw. Reddit

Jomyo-ji does not have a large bamboo garden; that attraction is at the nearby Hokokuji Temple. Jomyo-ji is known for its Zen gardens and peaceful ambiance. TikTok

The tea ceremony involves enjoying a bowl of traditional matcha green tea and a Japanese sweet while seated on the veranda overlooking the Zen garden. It's a meditative experience. Reddit

Compared to other Kamakura temples, Jomyo-ji is generally much quieter and less crowded, especially on weekdays. It's considered a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in the gardens, but be respectful of the serene atmosphere and other visitors. Some areas might have restrictions. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Jomyo-ji Temple has a tea house where you can enjoy matcha and traditional Japanese sweets. There are no full-service restaurants within the temple grounds. Reddit

The tea house primarily serves matcha green tea and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets). It's a light refreshment experience rather than a meal. Reddit

Yes, there are local restaurants and cafes in the surrounding area of Kamakura, particularly closer to the main town and station, offering various Japanese cuisines. Reddit

It's generally not recommended to picnic within temple grounds. It's best to enjoy your meals at designated dining areas or restaurants outside the temple. Reddit

The tea and sweets at the tea house are reasonably priced, typically between 600 and 1,000 yen. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The dry Zen garden offers stunning minimalist compositions. The mossy paths and pond in the strolling garden also provide beautiful, serene photo opportunities. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted in the gardens, but always be mindful of other visitors and any posted signs. Some interior temple buildings might have restrictions. TikTok

Early morning light can be beautiful for capturing the tranquility of the gardens. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also offer soft, appealing light. TikTok

Focus on the clean lines, the textures of the gravel, and the placement of the rocks. Try to capture the sense of stillness and order. TikTok

Tripod usage might be restricted to ensure the flow of visitors and to maintain the peaceful atmosphere. It's best to check on-site or inquire beforehand if you plan to use one. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jomyo-ji Temple offers a peaceful respite, but its primary appeal is its serene gardens, which might be less engaging for very young children. However, the tea ceremony can be a novel experience for older kids, introducing them to Japanese culture. The strolling garden with its pond might capture their attention more than the dry Zen garden. Reddit

Consider visiting Jomyo-ji as part of a broader Kamakura itinerary that includes more interactive or visually stimulating sites for children. Its affordability makes it an easy addition, and the quiet atmosphere can be a welcome break for everyone. Remember to keep noise levels down to respect the temple's ambiance. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Jomyo-ji Temple is a dream for budget travelers. The entrance fee is an incredibly low 100 yen, making it one of the most accessible attractions in Kamakura. This allows you to experience a beautiful temple and its gardens without a significant financial outlay. Reddit

The optional matcha tea ceremony is also reasonably priced (600-1000 yen), offering a cultural experience that feels like a splurge but isn't. For those looking to save even more, simply enjoying the gardens and the peaceful atmosphere is a rewarding experience in itself. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Seekers of Peace

For solo travelers seeking a moment of quiet reflection, Jomyo-ji is an ideal destination. Its reputation as a quieter, less crowded temple makes it perfect for introspection. You can spend ample time contemplating the Zen garden or enjoying the tea ceremony at your own pace. Reddit

The serene environment is conducive to mindfulness and escaping the typical tourist rush. It's a place where you can truly connect with the essence of Zen Buddhism and enjoy a peaceful interlude during your travels. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the Zen Garden

Jomyo-ji Temple is renowned for its karesansui, or dry landscape garden. This style of garden uses meticulously raked white gravel to represent water, and carefully placed rocks symbolize islands or mountains. The goal is to create a minimalist, abstract representation of nature that encourages contemplation and meditation. Visitors are invited to sit on the veranda and absorb the serene, ordered beauty of the garden, a core practice in Zen Buddhism. The simplicity and precision of the design are meant to evoke a sense of peace and mindfulness. Reddit

Unlike lush strolling gardens, the Zen garden at Jomyo-ji is about emptiness and suggestion. The patterns in the gravel are not random; they are carefully created to guide the eye and the mind. The rocks are chosen for their shape, texture, and placement, each element contributing to the overall harmony. This garden is a living artwork, designed to be experienced rather than just observed, offering a profound connection to Zen principles. Reddit

While not as expansive as some famous Zen gardens, Jomyo-ji's garden is praised for its tranquility and the intimate experience it offers. It's a perfect example of how a small space can be transformed into a powerful meditative environment. The contrast between the stark gravel and the natural elements of the surrounding greenery adds to its visual appeal. Reddit

Experiencing a Traditional Tea Ceremony

The tea ceremony, or chanoyu, at Jomyo-ji Temple offers a chance to engage with a centuries-old Japanese tradition in a beautiful setting. For a modest fee, visitors can enjoy a bowl of matcha (powdered green tea) and a wagashi (traditional Japanese sweet) while seated on the veranda overlooking the Zen garden. This is more than just drinking tea; it's a ritual designed to foster harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. Reddit

The experience is intentionally slow-paced. The preparation of the matcha is done with deliberate movements, and the act of drinking it is meant to be savored. The sweet is typically eaten before the tea to balance its slightly bitter taste. Sitting there, with the quiet beauty of the garden before you, provides a moment of calm reflection away from the hustle and bustle of travel. Reddit

Many visitors find the tea ceremony at Jomyo-ji to be a highlight, describing it as a truly meditative and authentic experience. It's a wonderful way to connect with the essence of Japanese culture and find a moment of peace. The combination of the serene environment and the mindful ritual makes it a memorable part of any visit. Reddit

Jomyo-ji vs. Hokokuji Temple: A Tale of Two Gardens

While both Jomyo-ji and Hokokuji Temple are located in the same vicinity and offer tranquil experiences, they are distinct. Hokokuji Temple is famous for its impressive bamboo grove, often referred to as an 'Arashiyama alternative' near Tokyo. Visitors flock to Hokokuji to walk through towering stalks of bamboo, creating a dramatic and immersive natural spectacle. TikTok

Jomyo-ji, on the other hand, is celebrated for its Zen dry gardens and its overall peaceful, less crowded atmosphere. While Hokokuji offers a more visually striking, almost overwhelming natural beauty with its bamboo, Jomyo-ji provides a subtler, more contemplative experience centered around minimalist design and quiet reflection. Reddit

Many travelers recommend visiting both if time permits, as they offer complementary experiences. Hokokuji provides the 'wow' factor of the bamboo forest, while Jomyo-ji offers a deeper sense of peace and traditional Zen aesthetics. TikTokReddit

You may also like