About Meigetsu-in Temple
Meigetsu-in Temple is a Rinzai Zen temple of the Kencho-ji school located in Yamanouchi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Its origins date back to 1159 (Heiji 1), when Yamanouchi Tsunetoshi built “Meigetsu-an” to commemorate Shudo Toshimichi, who died in the Heiji Rebellion. Later, in 1256 (Kencho 8), Hojo Tokiyori, the 5th regent of the Kamakura Shogunate, founded Saimyo-ji Temple. Tokiyori’s son, the 8th regent Tokimune, built Zenko-ji Temple in 1282 (Koan 5), using Saimyo-ji Temple as its predecessor. Meigetsu-an became a sub-temple of Zenko-ji Temple.
During the Muromachi period, it flourished to the point of being counted among the ten most important temples in the Kanto region. However, Zenko-ji Temple was abolished during the anti-Buddhist movement in the early Meiji period. Meigetsu-in Temple, the only remaining sub-temple, continues to exist today.
Points to Note During Your Visit
Breathtaking Seasonal Views from the Window of Enlightenment (Round Window)
The greatest highlight of Meigetsu-in Temple is the “Window of Enlightenment” in the main hall. The circular window, approximately 1.5 meters in diameter, frames the landscape of the main hall’s rear garden like a picture, showcasing the beauty of each season: the fresh greenery of spring, the hydrangeas of early summer, the autumn leaves, and the snowy landscape of winter. This circular window, symbolizing “enlightenment” and “truth” in Zen Buddhism, is also a popular photo spot.
The “Hydrangea Temple” with Approximately 2,500 Dwarf Hydrangeas
Meigetsu-in Temple is affectionately known as the “Hydrangea Temple.” Approximately 2,500 dwarf hydrangeas are planted on the temple grounds, and in June, the entire temple grounds, from the approach to the temple, are dyed a uniform blue. This blue is called “Meigetsu-in Blue” and captivates many visitors. It is said that the planting of hydrangeas, which are easy to care for, began as a way to compensate for the labor shortage after the war.
Rear Garden of the Main Hall (Iris Garden)
Normally closed to the public, the rear garden of the main hall is specially opened only during the hydrangea season in June and the autumn foliage season from late November to early December. Approximately 3,000 irises bloom here, offering a different atmosphere from the view from the “Window of Enlightenment.”
Tomb of Hojo Tokiyori
At the back of the temple grounds is the tomb (a Hōkyōintō pagoda) of Hojo Tokiyori, the 5th regent of the Kamakura Shogunate. Tokiyori is known for founding Saimyōji Temple and contributing to the development of Zen Buddhism.
Other Highlights
- Kaisando (Founder’s Hall): A hall dedicated to Zen Master Misasagi Shugen, the founder of Meigetsuin Temple.
- Tsurube-no-i (Bucket Well): An ancient well counted as one of the Ten Famous Wells of Kamakura.
- Yagura (Turtle Cave Tombs): A type of horizontal burial chamber unique to Kamakura, with several scattered throughout the temple grounds.
- Meigetsuin Yagura: The largest yagura to the left of the main hall houses statues of Shakyamuni Buddha and the Sixteen Arhats.
Benefits and Goshuin (Temple Seals)
Meigetsuin Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple, is believed to offer benefits for peace of mind and spiritual cultivation. In particular, as a temple associated with Hojo Tokiyori, it attracts visitors praying for military success and family prosperity.
Goshuin (temple seals) can be obtained at the reception in front of the main hall. In addition to the standard goshuin with the calligraphy of “Meigetsuin” and the temple’s crest, seasonal limited-edition goshuin are sometimes available.
Access and Visiting Information
Access by Train
- Get off at Kita-Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line, approximately 10 minutes on foot.
- Exit the station and proceed along the railway tracks towards Kamakura. Turn left without crossing the level crossing. The entrance is located past Engaku-ji Temple and Tokei-ji Temple.
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
- Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM in June)
- Admission Fee: 500 yen for high school students and above, 300 yen for elementary and junior high school students (500 yen extra for the main hall and rear garden)
- Closed: Open every day
Parking
There is no dedicated parking lot. We recommend using nearby paid parking lots or public transportation. It gets especially crowded during hydrangea season, so early morning visits are recommended.
Summary
Meigetsu-in Temple is a representative Zen temple of Kamakura, where the history associated with Hojo Tokiyori, the “Meigetsu-in Blue” hydrangeas, and the beauty of the four seasons viewed from the Window of Enlightenment harmonize beautifully. For those who want to avoid crowds and visit in peace, other seasons besides hydrangea season are also recommended.
