
Myohon-ji Temple
A 13th-century Buddhist temple in Kamakura, offering a tranquil escape with beautiful gardens and a connecting hiking trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace

Myohon-ji Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century Buddhist temple in Kamakura, offering a tranquil escape with beautiful gardens and a connecting hiking trail.
"A serene place with no crowds, worth the hike for a quiet, contemplative visit."

Wear Comfy Shoes
You might walk through gardens and a connecting trail. :athletic_shoe:
Allow 1 Hour Visit
Perfect for a short, contemplative stop in Kamakura. :stopwatch:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Peaceful Temple Gardens
Temple Grounds
Wander through lush, well-maintained gardens that feel like a hidden forest. A truly tranquil escape.
Hikigayatsu Valley Setting
Temple Location
Nestled in a quiet valley, this temple offers a serene atmosphere, a welcome contrast to busier attractions.
Connecting Cemetery Trail
Past the Main Temple
Explore a local trail that begins at the temple's cemetery, offering a glimpse into local life and nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Hike or Stroll?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes
You might walk through gardens and a connecting trail. :athletic_shoe:
Allow 1 Hour Visit
Perfect for a short, contemplative stop in Kamakura. :stopwatch:
Hidden Gem Status
Often less crowded, offering a truly serene experience. :sparkles:
Explore the Trail
Don't miss the cemetery trail behind the temple for more exploration. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes
You might walk through gardens and a connecting trail. :athletic_shoe:
Allow 1 Hour Visit
Perfect for a short, contemplative stop in Kamakura. :stopwatch:
Hidden Gem Status
Often less crowded, offering a truly serene experience. :sparkles:
Explore the Trail
Don't miss the cemetery trail behind the temple for more exploration. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Myohon-ji Temple for its serene atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and tranquil setting, often noting it as a peaceful escape with fewer crowds. Some mention the connecting cemetery trail as an interesting addition. A few reviews note that the main building might be under reconstruction, but the overall experience remains highly positive for those seeking a quiet, contemplative visit.
"Beautiful and well presented shrine. You feel like you are in the middle of a Forrest. Very well maintained and super easy to walk to. There is a toilet if you need to visit. Very quiet and tranquil."
Damien Smith
"Chokozan Myohon Temple in Kamakura offers a tranquil, spiritual retreat. Surrounded by nature, its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a serene spot for reflection. With fewer crowds, it’s a perfect place for a quiet, contemplative visit."
Oskar Vovčak
"Serene place with no crowds , I recommend you see this place if you are in Kamakur , it is a long hike to it but it is worth it . Short visit , aprox 1 hour"
davazno1
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Myohon-ji Temple is about a 10-minute walk from Kamakura Station, located in a quiet, green area away from the main streets.
It's easily accessible on foot, making it a convenient stop during your Kamakura exploration.Yes, it's situated in the Hikigayatsu Valley and is generally easy to locate once you're in the vicinity of Kamakura Station. Look for signs directing you to the temple.
The temple is best reached by walking from Kamakura Station. While Kamakura has a local bus system, walking is the most direct and recommended method for this particular temple.
Information on dedicated parking for Myohon-ji Temple is limited. It's advisable to use public transportation to reach Kamakura Station and then walk to the temple, as parking can be challenging in the area.
Many visitors find it best to visit Myohon-ji Temple as part of a broader Kamakura itinerary, perhaps after exploring other key sites. The walk from the station is pleasant and allows you to see more of the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Myohon-ji Temple is generally free to enter, allowing visitors to explore its peaceful gardens and grounds without charge.
While specific hours can vary, temples in Japan are typically open during daylight hours. It's best to assume it's open from morning until late afternoon.
Some visitors have noted that the main building might be under reconstruction. However, the gardens and grounds are usually accessible and still offer a tranquil experience.
No advance booking is required for Myohon-ji Temple, as it's a free-access site. You can visit spontaneously as part of your Kamakura day trip.
Yes, many visitors find a short visit of about an hour is sufficient to appreciate the temple's serene atmosphere and gardens.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush gardens, the temple's architecture, and the serene atmosphere are prime photo opportunities. Capture the tranquility and the natural beauty of the Hikigayatsu Valley setting.
Photography rules can vary, especially if parts of the temple are under reconstruction. It's always best to observe any posted signs or ask temple staff if unsure.
The cemetery trail is a local path, and while generally permissible, it's respectful to be mindful of any private residences or memorial areas. Focus on the natural scenery.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the gardens, while late afternoon might offer softer light. Consider the weather for the best atmospheric shots.
While not explicitly stated, general etiquette for visiting religious sites applies. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times or if the site is undergoing maintenance.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The temple is known for its quiet and tranquil atmosphere, offering a spiritual retreat surrounded by nature. It's a place for reflection and peace.
Compared to other Kamakura temples, Myohon-ji often has fewer crowds, making it a great spot for a more personal and contemplative experience.
Founded in 1260 by Nichiren's follower, Yoshimoto, on his family's former estate, it holds historical ties to the Hiki clan and the samurai era.
Yes, there are restroom facilities available for visitors at the temple.
You can explore the beautiful, well-maintained gardens, the cemetery, and a connecting local hiking trail that offers a different perspective of the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and water, and be mindful that the temple is a place of worship. The connecting cemetery trail offers a bit more adventure for older children who enjoy gentle walks. It's a good option for families wanting to balance more active sightseeing with moments of quiet reflection.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Contemplatives
The temple's tranquil gardens and the connecting trail provide ample opportunity for quiet contemplation and a break from the typical tourist trail. It's a place where you can simply be present and appreciate the spiritual and natural beauty surrounding you.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
This historical context adds a layer of depth to the visit, allowing you to imagine the events that unfolded in this very valley centuries ago. The temple's serene setting belies its dramatic past, offering a peaceful sanctuary that has endured through time.
While the main building might be undergoing reconstruction, the historical significance of the site remains palpable. The surrounding gardens and the connecting trail offer a chance to connect with the legacy of this ancient Buddhist temple.
Exploring the Natural Surroundings
Beyond the immediate temple grounds, a notable feature is the cemetery that connects to a small local trail. This trail offers an opportunity for a gentle hike, allowing visitors to experience more of the natural beauty of the Hikigayatsu Valley. It's a chance to step away from the more structured temple visit and immerse yourself in the local landscape.
The combination of the temple's spiritual ambiance and its natural setting makes Myohon-ji a refreshing destination. It's a place where you can find both inner peace and an appreciation for the surrounding environment, a perfect antidote to the bustle of city life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit