Myohoji Temple
妙法寺
Known as "Kamakura's Moss Temple," this Nichiren-sect temple is famous for the moss-covered stone steps leading from its vermilion-lacquered Nio gate up to the Lotus Hall — a dreamlike scene. Tucked away from the crowds of the main tourist areas, it has a quiet, devoted following as a hidden gem.
The moss-covered stone steps
Beyond the Nio gate, the entire flight of stone steps leading to the Lotus Hall is covered in deep green moss, and it's this mysterious scenery that has earned the temple the nickname "Kamakura's Moss Temple." Some sections of the steps themselves are off-limits for preservation, so visitors take an alternate route to reach the inner grounds.
A hermitage tied to Nichiren
This storied temple is said to occupy the site of one of the hermitages Nichiren built at Matsubagayatsu, and from the high ground at the back of the grounds you can look out toward Yuigahama Beach. Nestled in a quiet mountain valley, the grounds offer a beautiful contrast of greenery and moss throughout the seasons.
Grounds full of stillness
Tucked quietly at the back of a residential area in Omachi, the temple offers a stillness that contrasts sharply with the bustling center of town. Since viewing hours are limited, it's a good idea to check the opening times before visiting.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
Fresh spring greenery layers over the moss for a lush, vivid scene.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
A season when the moss turns especially vibrant right after rain.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
A beautiful time when the autumn colors of the surrounding trees contrast with the green moss.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
With fewer visitors, you can take your time appreciating the moss in the stillness.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 20-30 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Limited viewing hours mean relatively few visitors
- Best time to visit
- Morning right after rain is best for enjoying the beauty of the moss
| Address | 4-7-4 Omachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:30-16:30 (weekends and holidays only from the 2nd week of July to mid-September, and from the 2nd week of December to mid-March) |
| Admission | Junior high age and up ¥300, elementary school students ¥200 |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 20 min walk from Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line / Enoshima Electric Railway)
- 10 min walk from Kamakura Station (By bus to "Nagoe" stop, then about a 5-minute walk)