Chōshō-ji

Chōshō-ji is a Buddhist temple in Zaimokuza that holds numerous statues scattered across its grounds and within its halls for visitors to encounter. The Hokke-dō main hall is designated as an Important Cultural Property and displays crafted objects including a gong and decorated wooden furnishings.

Founded in 1263 by Ishii Nagakatsu, this temple is one of three sites claiming to be where Buddhist teacher Nichiren developed his teachings. That historical connection established it as an important location in the evolution of the Nichiren Buddhist school.

The temple draws visitors interested in the Nichiren Buddhist school, a teaching tradition with deep roots here that shaped the spiritual life of this area. The grounds preserve practices and reverence that have remained central to the community for centuries.

The temple is reachable on foot in roughly 15 minutes from Kamakura station by heading southeast, or by bus from Zushi. The grounds are fairly straightforward to navigate, though visitors should understand this is an active temple where some areas may not be accessible at certain times.

Each February, about 150 Nichiren priests gather for the Daikokutōe Seiman Matsuri ceremony to perform rituals for the nation's protection. This annual event offers a rare glimpse into how the religious community comes together to practice its traditions.