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Kita Kamakura

Powerspots of shrines in Kita Kamakura

There are several places in Japan called power spot. The power spot is a Japanese English word. According to one theory, it means a sacred place where you can feel the mysterious power, and it is a place where visitors can feel well or calm down. One knowledgeable person says that the power spot can be thought of as a place where the power of the earth is full. So, when you go to that place, you feel strangely empowered. I think there are some theories, but in short, if you believe it, that’s real. It seems that the places are all over the world, but here in Japan there are many power spots especially in shrines.

For example, the land of Kamakura is deep in the mountains, has a lot of greenery, and has many historical temples and shrines that have continued since the Kamakura period, so it is also a place with many power spots . Engakuji Temple and Meigetsuin Temple in Kita-Kamakura are one of such power spots.

(Engakuji Temple) After passing through the entrance of Engakuji Temple and entering the precincts, there is a large, large wooden gate. This is called Sanmon. It is said to be the gate to the Buddhist temple, which is the world of nirvana and liberation, by removing various anxieties. It was rebuilt in 1785, the year of the 500th anniversary of the founder monk and zen master Mugaku Sogen Zen. I am a little fascinated by the fact that such wooden structures still stand firmly in the dignified air of Kamakura.

(Meigetsuin Temple) Meigetsuin is known as a famous place for hydrangea, and is commonly known as ajisai-dera temple. It was founded before 1394. It is a Zen temple of the Rinsai sect Kenchoji school, which is one of the Kamakura Buddhism. Here, flowers are constantly blooming all year round, like Japanese allspice in winter and plums and cherry blossoms in spring. In addition to enjoying these beautiful flowers, you can also enjoy the dry landscape garden. The view from the circular window called “Enlightenment Window” in the main hall is a magnificent one that represents Kamakura, and you can see the beauty of the four seasons by cutting it out like a painting in a round frame. A power spot that calms your mind.