Site of Yofuku-ji Temple

After his campaign in the north, Minamoto no Yoritomo is said to have built a great temple here, modeled on a two-storied hall he had seen at Chuson-ji in Hiraizumi. The main hall was finished in 1192 and it was one of the largest temples in Kamakura, until a fire destroyed it in 1405.

Highlights

• The district name “Nikaido,” meaning “two-storied hall,” is said to come from this temple’s great hall.
• Excavations confirmed the foundations of the main hall, and the site is now a National Historic Site.

For travelers at Wakaremichi

No buildings remain. The real sight here is the wide sky opening up at the end of the valley, and imagining the great temple that once stood under it.

Opening hours, fees and closing days may change. Please check official information before you go.