Kaizo-ji Temple
海蔵寺
An old Rinzai-sect temple tucked at the end of a quiet valley (yato) in Ogigayatsu. Known as a "temple of flowers" for its beautiful narcissus, bush clover, and cotton rose through the seasons, it also has a mysterious rock cave at the back of the grounds called "Juroku-sei" (Sixteen Wells).
A temple of flowers
Kaizo-ji is known as a "temple of flowers" that can be enjoyed year-round: narcissus in spring, cotton rose and Chinese bellflower in summer, and bush clover and wild chrysanthemum in autumn — a different flower greets visitors each time. The grounds are close to Eishoji and Jufuku-ji, and the three temples together make for a pleasant flower-viewing walk.
Juroku-sei (Sixteen Wells)
A rock cave at the back of the grounds contains "Juroku-sei," 16 holes carved into the stone. This mysterious space, where water still wells up, has long been regarded as a place of spiritual significance and sacred water, giving the temple a distinctive atmosphere within Kamakura.
History and revival
Kaizo-ji is said to have been founded around 1253, but fell into disrepair after being destroyed by fire during warfare. It was revived in 1394 by the priest Shinsho Kugai. Since then, it has quietly kept its flame of faith alive in this peaceful valley.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
Narcissus (January-March) and dandelions color the grounds. A quiet early-spring stroll through the peaceful grounds.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
Chinese bellflowers (June-July) and cotton roses (August-September) decorate the grounds. The valley air stays pleasantly cool even in summer.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Bush clover (September) and wild chrysanthemums (October-November) are at their best — a calm season for admiring the flowers.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
Narcissus begins to bloom, its clean white flowers beautiful in the crisp winter air.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 20-30 minutes
- Crowd levels
- One of Kamakura's more hidden spots — rarely crowded
- Best time to visit
- Time your visit to the flowering season; combining it with Eishoji and Jufuku-ji is efficient
| Address | 4-18-8 Ogigayatsu, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:30-16:30 |
| Admission | Free |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 15 min walk from Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line / Enoshima Electric Railway)