Goryo-jinja Shrine
御霊神社（権五郎神社）
A small shrine standing right alongside the tracks of the Enoshima Electric Railway. The sight of the train passing just beside the torii gate makes it one of Kamakura's most photogenic spots. It enshrines the Heian-period warrior Kamakura Gongoro Kagemasa and is affectionately known locally as "Gongoro-san."
The Enoden line and the torii gate
The Enoshima Electric Railway passes right beside the shrine's stone torii gate, making this an extremely popular spot among railway enthusiasts and photographers who capture the train and gate together in a single frame. The Enoden train appearing to the sound of the crossing bell creates a scene full of Kamakura's distinctive charm.
Kamakura Gongoro Kagemasa
The enshrined deity, Kamakura Gongoro Kagemasa, was a fierce warrior of the late Heian period who served Minamoto no Yoshiie. He is famous for the story of continuing to fight even after being shot in the right eye during the Later Three-Year War, and is worshipped as a deity for eye ailments and protection from lightning.
The Mask Procession
The shrine's September festival features the unusual "Mask Procession" (Menkake Gyoretsu), a traditional ritual in which participants parade wearing ten kinds of unusual masks, and it is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
The combination of cherry blossoms on the grounds and the passing Enoden train is especially beautiful, drawing extra attention as a photo spot.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
Hydrangea season (June) offers a chance to photograph blooming hydrangeas against the backdrop of the shrine and the Enoden train.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
The Mask Procession takes place at the September festival. Autumn foliage also allows for a calm, quiet visit.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
Winter's clear air is ideal for photographing the Enoden. Fewer visitors also allow for a quiet visit.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 15-30 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Consistently popular as an Enoden photo spot; crowds gather around train arrival times (roughly every 10 minutes)
- Best time to visit
- Early morning (8:00-9:00) offers the best light direction for photos; backlit shots are also possible
| Address | 4-9 Sakanoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open access to the grounds |
| Admission | Free |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 3 min walk from Hase Station (Enoshima Electric Railway)
- 5 min walk from Gokurakuji Station (Enoshima Electric Railway)