Admission
- Adult (18+)Free
At a Glance
Gokurakuji is a historic Buddhist temple in Kamakura, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful natural setting. As one of the important temples in the area, it offers visitors a peaceful retreat with traditional architecture and seasonal gardens.
The temple provides a serene space for contemplation, less frequented than the area's larger temples. What distinguishes Gokurakuji is its peaceful ambiance and the harmonious relationship between its traditional architecture and natural surroundings. The seasonal gardens transform throughout the year, creating different experiences for visitors in each season. Those who take time to explore the grounds will notice the subtle details of the temple's traditional architectural elements.
Gokurakuji exemplifies the Japanese Buddhist tradition of finding spiritual meaning in natural beauty, making it a meaningful destination for both religious pilgrims and respectful visitors interested in Japanese Buddhist tradition.
The temple was founded in 1259 by Ninshō, a monk who established Japan's first free medical clinic and welfare facilities here, treating leprosy patients and the poor when no one else would help them.
At its peak, Gokuraku-ji had 49 sub-temples spanning the entire valley. Today's elementary school playground sits where the main temple halls once stood before repeated fires reduced it to its current modest size.
Gokuraku-ji Station became famous as a filming location for TV dramas, causing such crowds that reviewers note the station area is now busier than the peaceful temple itself, creating an ironic contrast.
The temple's name means 'Pure Land Paradise,' chosen because the area was called 'Hell Valley'—a place where corpses were abandoned and the destitute gathered, which the temple transformed into a sanctuary.
Quick (15-30 minutes)
Hase Station
More ways to continue from this place.
Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture