Engaku-ji

The area north of Kamakura town centre is home to many Rinzai sect temples, among them the famous Engaku-ji, the largest Zen temple in Kamakura, situated bang in front of Kita-Kamakura Station. The temple was founded in 1282, although the main gate was reconstructed in 1780. The precincts, which extend a long way up into the hills, house more than 15 smaller sub-temples. To the left of the main entrance you can often see people practising Zen archery. On the hill to the right is the famous temple bell – the biggest in Kamakura.