Buddhist temple
Hōkoku-ji
報国寺（ほうこくじ）
Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture
A Zen temple of the Kenchō-ji school of the Rinzai sect in Jōmyōji, Kamakura City, with Shaka Nyorai as its principal image. It is known for its bamboo garden, moss-covered approach and dry landscape (karesansui) garden.
English pages are the site’s own translations of its Japanese pages. The sources cited are in Japanese. 日本語で読む
Prayers associated with this place
Principal image: Shaka Nyorai
History and things to know
According to the temple's tradition, it was founded in Kenmu 1 (1334) by Uesugi Shigekane to mourn Ashikaga Ietoki, with Tengan Ekō (Butsujō Zenji) invited as its founding priest. In the Eikyō Rebellion, Yoshihisa, son of the Kamakura kubō Ashikaga Mochiuji, is said to have taken his own life here, and the yagura on the grounds are said to be the graves of Ietoki and Yoshihisa. The oldest building standing today is the bell tower of Hōreki 7 (1757).
Introduced by this site, based on materials from the shrine or temple and public bodies.
Related kami and buddhas
Before you visit
Opening hours, access, areas open to visitors, and events can change. Please check the latest guidance from the shrine or temple itself before you go.
Official website of the shrine or temple (may be in Japanese)
Sources (in Japanese)
- 報国寺「御祭神・御本尊・由緒の公式案内」（2026-10-22 確認）
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