Kenchō-ji, Buddhist temple in Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Japan.
Kenchō-ji is a Zen temple in Yamanouchi, Kamakura, serving as headquarters of a Rinzai sect lineage. The compound spreads across a hillside with a main hall, bell tower, and terraced gardens reflecting Chinese design principles.
The compound was founded in 1253 by regent Hōjō Tokiyori and Chinese monk Lanxi Daolong. It soon gained first rank among the five Gozan temples and shaped religious life in Kamakura for centuries.
The name comes from Hōjō Tokiyori's era title Kenchō and marks the time of foundation. Visitors today witness monks practicing morning chants or engaging in brush writing and meditation within the quiet halls.
The compound lies about 15 minutes on foot from Kitakamakura Station or is reachable by a short bus ride. Pathways run over gravel and stone slabs with some steps, so sturdy shoes help.
A portrait of founding abbot Lanxi Daolong from 1271 is designated a national treasure and records early contact between Japan and China. In addition, the archive holds more than 1,000 handwritten documents from the Kamakura period documenting daily life and teachings of the community.
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