VIDEO: Kamakura’s Engakuji Temple near Tokyo shines bright in autumn colors

Engakuji Temple in Kita Kamakura (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Most of Japan has already entered the koyo, or autumn, season. In Kamakura, the old samurai capital of Japan, you can enjoy the autumn fall leaves in the picturesque area.

Head to Kita (northern) Kamakura, home to many classical Zen temples, via the JR Yokosuka Line. From Kita-Kamakura Station, Engakuji Temple offers an amazing koyo view during peak season.

The temple dates to the year 1282 and was developed as one of the area’s largest Zen centers. The grounds are home to dozens of antique buildings, ponds and monuments that will transport you to old Japan. Among them, the Shariden reliquary hall and the impressive Ogane bell, which stands 2.6 meters tall bell, are designated national treasures.

My wife and I took advantage of the nice weather and visited Engakuji to check out the temple and the stunning fall foliage.

While hiking in the vast temple grounds, maple trees surrounding the banks of the Myokoike pond and framing the Somon temple gate were exactly the sights we wanted to see while in search of fall scenery. We couldn’t leave there before shooting a bunch of photos of ourselves in front of the bright and colorful leaves.

You too can enjoy the season at Engakuji until mid-December. However, this temple and the surrounding attractions of Kita Kamakura are beautiful no matter what time of year you visit. Don’t miss it!

Engakuji Temple in Kita Kamakura (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

JR Yokosuka Line (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

JR Yokosuka Line (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Engakuji (Buddhist temple)

Address: 409 Yamanouchi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Admission: High schoolers and older 500 yen, elementary and middle schoolers 200 yen
URL
Tel: 0467-22-0478