Bring 300 yen in cash for the admission fee, which is collected partway up the initial stairs from the torii gate, and an additional 100 yen if you wish to purchase candles and incense to offer at the main hall.
At a Glance
Known as the 'Moss Temple,' Sugimoto-dera features lush green moss covering its famous staircase and grounds, creating such a picturesque scene that it's become a popular spot for wedding photo shoots and traditional ceremonies.
The temple's iconic moss-covered stone staircase is now closed to foot traffic because centuries of pilgrims' footsteps have worn deep grooves into the steps, creating a visible record of devotion spanning generations.
Same as opening hours
This temple offers goshuin, but we don't have photos yet. Be the first to share yours!
Bring 300 yen in cash for the admission fee, which is collected partway up the initial stairs from the torii gate, and an additional 100 yen if you wish to purchase candles and incense to offer at the main hall.
Take bus number 4 from Kamakura Station bus stop and get off at Sugimoto Kannon-mae stop, as the temple is within walking distance from the station but the bus is more convenient for reaching this hillside location.
Do not walk on the famous moss-covered stone staircase at the entrance, as it is now closed to foot traffic for preservation, but you can photograph it and use the alternative staircase on the left side to reach the main hall.
Visit during autumn foliage season or when the moss is at its greenest after rainy periods to see the temple's most photogenic features, including the moss-covered stairs that give this temple its nickname as a moss temple.
Look for the worn grooves in the moss-covered staircase where centuries of pilgrims' footsteps have left visible marks in the stone, a tangible reminder that this is Kamakura's oldest temple dating back to the Nara period and the first stop on the...
Take time to rest on the benches in the shaded areas of the temple grounds, where you can enjoy surprisingly cool breezes even on hot summer days thanks to the mature trees and elevated location.
Seasonal celebrations and special occasions
Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture
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Timetable data: Public Transportation Open Data Center
Renting needs the operator's app and a Japanese phone number. docomo day passes are sold at convenience stores. Data sources
