Ennoji Temple
円応寺
Perched on a small rise across from Kencho-ji Temple, this Rinzai-sect temple of the Kenchoji school is known for its seated statue of Enma, the King of Hell, said to date from the Kamakura period, along with its set of "Ten Kings" statues. It's a rare temple where visitors can come face to face with the deities said to judge souls in the afterlife, and is also known as "Arai Enma-do" or "Juo-do."
The "Laughing Enma" and "Man-Eating Enma"
The principal image, a seated statue of King Enma, stands an imposing 190.5 cm tall, with the head believed to date from the Kamakura period. Its expression seems almost to smile, earning it the nickname "Laughing Enma," while a local legend involving a child visitor gave rise to the alternate name "Man-Eating Enma" — a Buddhist figure with a uniquely colorful history.
A hall of the Ten Kings
The main hall houses statues of Enma alongside the other judges of the underworld, including Shoko-o and Datsueba, conveying the worldview of the "Ten Kings" faith in which the dead are judged for the sins of their earthly lives. The seated statue of Shoko-o, in particular, has a realistic expression reminiscent of the Unkei school of sculpture.
Located across from Kencho-ji
The temple originally stood along the Nameri River in the old Yui area but was relocated to its present site the year after suffering tsunami damage from the 1703 Genroku earthquake. It is said to occupy the former site of Daito-an, a sub-temple of Kencho-ji, and sits on a rise across the Kamakura Kaido road from Kencho-ji.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
The fresh greenery of Kita-Kamakura envelops the grounds, making for a peaceful visit.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
With few visitors, you can take your time facing the Ten Kings statues in the cool of the hilltop.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
The surrounding trees change color, and more visitors stop by as a finishing point for a Kita-Kamakura walk.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
Winter viewing hours end at 15:00, so plan your visit time accordingly.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 20-30 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Fewer visitors than Kencho-ji, allowing for a quiet visit
- Best time to visit
- Best visited before or after a visit to Kencho-ji
| Address | 1543 Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:00-16:00 (9:00-15:00 from December to February) |
| Admission | Adults ¥200 |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 15 min walk from Kita-Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line)