Zuisen-ji Temple

A Rinzai Zen temple founded in 1327, with the great garden designer Muso Soseki as its first priest. It stands deep in a valley called Momijigayatsu, “the valley of maples,” and became the family temple of the Ashikaga lords who governed Kamakura. The precinct is a National Historic Site.

Highlights

• The garden made by Muso Soseki, with a cave and a pond carved directly out of the rock. It is valued as a garden that keeps its Kamakura-period form. To protect it, you view it from outside rather than walking in.
• Known as a temple of flowers: narcissus in deep winter, plum in early spring, hydrangea in early summer, and autumn leaves in December.
• The trailhead of the Ten-en hiking course beside the main gate: yet another fork in the road, leading up to the ridge.

For travelers at Wakaremichi

This is where the Valley Path ends. On a clear day, turn around and look back at the way you came.

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