Jokomyoji Temple
浄光明寺
A Shingon-sect temple of the Sennyuji school connected to Ashikaga Takauji. Its storehouse holds a nationally designated Important Cultural Property, a triad of Amida statues, and the temple sits in a quiet valley in Ogigayatsu, retaining the un-touristy stillness that defines Kamakura at its best.
A temple tied to Ashikaga Takauji
Jokomyoji is said to have been founded during the Kamakura period and is known for its deep connection to Ashikaga Takauji, first shogun of the Muromachi shogunate. Legend holds that Takauji took temporary refuge here during a period of political upheaval, and the temple is often featured as an Ashikaga-related historical site.
The nationally designated Amida triad
The storehouse holds a nationally designated Important Cultural Property, a triad of Amida statues, viewable only on limited days and times (mornings and afternoons on Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays; closed in rain, in August, and around New Year's). Checking the viewing schedule before visiting is recommended.
The quiet valley of Ogigayatsu
Located in a valley (yato) in Ogigayatsu behind Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the temple sits in a quiet setting somewhat removed from the busy center of town. From the hill behind it, you can look out over the Ogigayatsu area and experience Kamakura's distinctive valley terrain firsthand.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
A pleasant season with fresh greenery in the valley and quiet grounds.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
In August, when the storehouse is closed to viewing, you can still enjoy strolling the grounds.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
A season when autumn leaves stand out beautifully in the Ogigayatsu valley.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
Viewing is suspended around New Year's, so it's best to plan a visit outside that period.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 30 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Not touristy, so you can visit quietly
- Best time to visit
- Aim for one of the days the Amida triad is viewable (Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, or a public holiday)
| Address | 2-12-1 Ogigayatsu, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:00-16:30 (storehouse: Thu/Sat/Sun/holidays 10:00-12:00 and 13:00-16:00; closed in rain, August, and around New Year's) |
| Admission | Adults (high school age and up) ¥300, elementary/junior high students ¥150 |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 15 min walk from Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line / Enoshima Electric Railway (west exit))