There are many attractions in Kamakura Northwest Area. First, Zeniarai Benten Shrine, one of the Kamakura Five Great Water Sources, is a shrine founded by Minamoto no Yoritomo after receiving a divine revelation in a dream. It is said that washing money in the Zeniarai Water will bring good fortune, and the shrine is surrounded by steep cliffs on all sides with the entrance being a tunnel. In addition, there are three sub-shrines located within the precincts of Kamakura Shrine: Ue no Mizu Jingu, Shimo no Mizu Jingu, and Shichifukujinsha. Furthermore, a popular lucky charm called “Negai Kanaū Nasu-Mamori” is sold there, and eggplants have been considered auspicious from ancient times and are believed to fulfill wishes.
Sasuke Inari Shrine is located in the quiet residential area northwest of Kamakura Station and is characterized by its fantastic scenery with many red torii gates. The shrine is revered as “Shusse Inari” and is said to provide benefits such as success, prosperity in business, and matchmaking. Many white foxes are also displayed, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere.
Kaizo-ji Temple is a Rinzai Zen temple known for its seasonal flowers. The Yakushi-do hall houses a Yakushi Nyorai statue, and there are also beautiful gardens and a well. The plum blossoms in spring, kaido vines in summer, and bush clover in autumn are particularly famous.
Finally, Jufuku-ji Temple, founded by Hōjō Masako, houses a seated statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and a large Niō statue. While the precincts of Jufuku-ji Temple are designated as a national historic site and not open to the public, visitors can walk along the approach from the mountain gate to the middle gate.
There are many spots related to nature and legends in Kamakura Northwest Area, including shrines and temples. Understanding the features of each place will make your trip more enjoyable when visiting.
| Zeniarai Benzaiten 銭洗弁天 | Sasuke Inari Shrine 佐助稲荷神社 |
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| Kaizo-ji 海蔵寺 | Jufuku-ji 寿福寺 |
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