Tokeiji Temple
東慶寺
Known as the "divorce temple" or "refuge temple," this Rinzai-sect convent has deep historical significance as a sanctuary for women. In the Edo period, women seeking to leave their husbands could take refuge here — a historically important site in the story of women's liberation in Japan. The grounds bloom through the seasons with plum, narcissus, iris, and hydrangea, earning it the affectionate title "temple of flowers."
The history of the divorce temple
Founded in 1285 by Kakusan-ni, wife of Hojo Tokimune, as a convent. During the Edo period, a system known as "divorce temple law" allowed women fleeing their husbands to gain a divorce if they stayed at the temple for a set period — a practice that continued for about 600 years until it was abolished in the Meiji era.
Flowers through the seasons
Plum blossoms in spring (February) and narcissus, early-summer irises and hydrangeas, and autumn bush clover keep the grounds blooming year-round. The June hydrangea season is especially beautiful, drawing many visitors.
Graves of notable figures
The temple is the resting place of many notable figures in Japanese philosophy and culture, including D.T. Suzuki, Kitaro Nishida, and Shigeo Iwanami. The cemetery on the grounds can be visited during your temple visit.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
Plum blossoms in February and March are beautiful, with narcissus blooming around the same time. The soft spring light makes for a peaceful visit to the grounds.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
June is peak season for hydrangeas and irises; the colors of the flowers, wet with Kita-Kamakura rain, are exceptionally beautiful.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
September and October, when bush clover colors the grounds, are the best for autumn; foliage can also be enjoyed.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
The stillness of the snow-covered grounds is exceptional. From late January, as plum blossoms begin, you can sense the approach of spring.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 30-45 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Crowded during plum and hydrangea seasons; a weekday visit is recommended if combining with Engaku-ji and Kencho-ji
- Best time to visit
- Weekday mornings during flower season (February plums, June hydrangeas)
| Address | 1367 Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:30-16:00 (until 15:30 from November to March) |
| Admission | Adults ¥500, elementary school students ¥200 |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 5 min walk from Kita-Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line)