According to history, Kaizoji Temple was supposedly a giant temple under a different name during the Kamakura period, but was lost to a fire. Since then, it has clearly been rebuilt. Though, no one can say whether or not the rebuilt temple holds a flame to its previous form.
Kaizoji Temple is easily reached, as the majority of the traveling involves moving straight down a road. To get started, head leave Kamakura Station’s south exit, then head straight. Walk towards the green Kinokuniya sign, until you reach the light. Take a right there and just head straight down that road!
Continuing through Kamakura, if you see this road, you are on the right path. You will follow this road all the way down, even as it begins curving. You will see a railway underpass, but do not go down there. Instead, just follow the road at your left as it begins to straighten out. From there, Kaizoji temple is a straight shot.
Just to be sure, you will eventually come upon point, but to reach Kaizō-ji Temple, do not take the left. You will soon reach your destination if you simply head straight.
This is what Kaizoji Temple looks like from the outside. If you take either left or right road far enough, you will eventually reach residential areas, so be careful not to go too far.
Just a little ways up the right path, you will find both this bamboo over a little pool of water.
You will also come upon this little entrance on the right. Very well-kept, it leads to another stone path way that brings you before the temple’s bell and front desk.
You even get a decent view of the entire courtyard as well.
This building stands by itself on the far left of Kaizoji Temple.
Inside were various Buddhism-related items.
Over towards the side and back you can find this building and actually look inside. I imagine that special events take place or that monks chant here.
The room’s inside really gives a formal atmosphere. With any interest to Buddhist rituals, there could be a lot to learn from seeing the insides of Kaizoji Temple.
The view of the courtyard from the annexed building.
To the building’s right are three caves with various statues inside.
In the very back, there is another area inaccessible to the public. This is a shame, since from this picture alone, the area looks extremely beautiful. Kaizoji Temple on the whole is gorgeous.
There are also sixteen wells from which water comes out which have never gone dry. To visit this area, a little standing post just inside the temple asks for a 100 yen donation. While the temple may not be as big as centuries ago, there is still so much to see here. Not only that, but there are so many Buddhism-related items that I felt like I never lacked anything to look at. If you are looking for a temple that offers so many things, Kaizō-ji Temple is an amazing experience.
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