“Did you know Kamakura has only one nunnery?” That’s Eishoji Temple. Founded in 1636 by Okatsu no Tsubone, Eishoji Temple holds a special place in Kamakura’s history. She later became known as Eishoin. This Jodo-shu temple offers tranquility and a unique glimpse into the lives of women who dedicated themselves to Buddhism.
Eishoji Temple’s story is deeply entwined with the Mito-Tokugawa family. Daughters of the Mito clan served as chief nuns here before the Meiji period. This connection led to Eishoji being called the Mito Palace or Nunnery of Mito. Imagine princesses leaving their opulent lives to serve here.
The temple’s origins trace back even further. It is thought to stand on the former residence of Ota Dokan. He was an ancestor of the architect of Edo Castle. Okaji no Kata, a concubine of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founded the temple. She became the adoptive mother of Tokugawa Yorifusa, who later governed Mito Domain.
Walking these grounds, you are surrounded by history. Several structures at Eishoji Temple are designated as Important Cultural Properties. These include the temple building, the main gate, and the belfry. These vestiges offer a glimpse into the temple’s establishment. The temple gate was damaged during the Great Kanto earthquake in 1923, but volunteers rebuilt it.
Eishoji offers different sceneries through the year, with seasonal flowers such as wisterias and red spider lilies. In May you can enjoy green tea served under the beautiful white wisteria. In December you can explore vibrant orange leaves in the autumn time. Passing through the little gate at the back of the premises, you will be in awe of the spectacular view of a bamboo grove.
Eishoji Temple invites quiet contemplation. The temple is open from 9:00 to 16:00. Note that Eishoji is closed on Thursdays. There is an admission fee: 300 yen for adults, 200 yen for high school students, and 100 yen for junior high students and younger. Though parking isn’t available, it’s a pleasant 15-minute walk from Kamakura Station’s west exit.
Eishoji Temple faced challenges after the Meiji Restoration. The practice of appointing priestesses from the Mito Domain ceased. However, the temple persevered. Today, Eishoji stands as a testament to the resilience and dedication of its community.