Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura)

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura)

A walk in Kamakura to listen to the sounds of the bamboo grove at Hokokuji Temple

Hokokuji Temple, located in Jomyoji Temple in Kamakura, is a Zen temple known for its deep serenity, and the bamboo grove that stretches across its grounds is called the "Bamboo Temple. The sight of moso bamboo growing straight up into the sky, lined all around the temple, is like a world apart from everyday life. Walking through the bamboo grove, the sound of the bamboo swaying in the wind and even the slightest sign of your feet echoes in your mind, enveloping you in the sensation that time is gently passing by. It is an atmospheric place typical of Kamakura to visit when you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and calm your mind.

Key points for photography

The key to taking pictures is to choose a composition that conveys a sense of serenity, with an awareness of the vertical lines of the bamboo stretching straight up to the sky. Taking a shot looking up in a vertical composition makes it easier to express the height of the bamboo grove and the feeling of being enveloped in the air. When the sun is shining through the trees, the contrast between light and shadow is created, adding depth to the bamboo's expression. In locations where the background tends to be monotonous, it is also effective to create a rhythm by being conscious of the spacing between pathways and bamboos. By choosing a quiet time of day when there are few people around, you can capture the dignified atmosphere unique to Hokokuji as it is in the photograph.

Best viewing and photography timing

Best Season

early summer

Recommended times

Access & Basic Information (Check Before Shooting)

Item Details
Address 2-7-4 Jomyoji, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
subject bamboo thicket
Admission fee Yes
Admission Time Yes
Parking lot None
Restroom Yes

The day I visited this place in the past

Route taken on June 1, 2025.

Year 2025

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura) | Bamboo groves and paths grazing the ground

This photograph was taken from a low angle, just above the ground, along the bamboo grove path at Hōkoku-ji Temple.
Year 2025

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura) | The Rhythm of the Undulating Bamboo Grove

This photograph captures the bamboo grove at Hōkoku-ji Temple from a low, diagonal angle, aiming to convey the rhythmic undulation of the bamboo swaying in the wind.
Year 2025

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura) | Looking up at Hōkoku-ji's bamboo grove with a wide-angle view

This photo was taken in wide-angle mode, looking up from below at the famous bamboo grove of Hōkoku-ji Temple.
Year 2025

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura)|A tranquil space where moss and light spread

This photograph captures the scene woven by moss spreading throughout Hōkoku-ji Temple and the light filtering through, creating a soothing space where one can feel the beauty of nature and the temple's tranquility.
Year 2025

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura)|A moment in the bamboo grove where bamboo leaves glisten

This photograph captures the light streaming through the bamboo grove at Hōkoku-ji Temple, illuminating and making the bamboo leaves glisten.
Year 2025

Hokokuji Temple (Kamakura)|Scenery of moss, stone steps and soft light

This photograph captures the moss within the grounds of Hōkoku-ji Temple, the soft light filtering through it, and the appearance of the stone steps, all in a single frame.
Year 2025

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura) | Bamboo Grove of Light and Shadow · Fantastical Yin and Yang

This photograph captures the sunlight filtering through the bamboo grove at Hōkoku-ji Temple, consciously aiming to depict the "yin and yang" scene where the shadows and light of the bamboo beautifully emerge.
Year 2025

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura) | Focus on a single bamboo stalk reaching toward the sky

This photograph was taken in the bamboo grove of Hōkoku-ji Temple, focusing on a single bamboo stalk to emphasize how it stretches straight up toward the sky.
Year 2025

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura)|Bamboo Grove and Lanterns Depicting a Serene Harmony

This photograph captures the lanterns and bamboo scenery within the bamboo grove at Hōkoku-ji Temple, creating a profoundly evocative image that conveys the harmony of traditional Japanese beauty and nature.
Year 2025

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura) | Gentle Scenery of Jizō Statues and Hydrangeas

This photograph captures the Jizō statues lining the entrance path near Hōkoku-ji Temple and the hydrangeas blooming beside them.
Year 2025

Hōkoku-ji Temple (Kamakura) | The temple buildings seen through azaleas

This photograph captures the temple buildings through azaleas blooming within the grounds of Hōkoku-ji Temple, creating a beautiful harmony between the vivid colors of the flowers and the historic architecture.
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