Soto-Zen sect Buttkaizan Ofuna Kannon Temple (曹洞宗 仏海山 大船観音寺)
Flow of the course
About 45 min from the previous stop
About 60 min here
About this spot
Visible even from Ofuna Station platform, this temple is renowned for its approximately 25-meter-tall white-robed Kannon (Avalokiteshvara). Just one station from Kamakura by JR, the bodhisattva watches over the city with a gentle smile from atop a small hill; up close, the presence is awe-inspiring. You can even enter the statue's interior chamber. Surrounded by trees, the grounds form a peaceful sanctuary enhanced by hydrangeas in early summer. Conclude your journey with a heartfelt bow of gratitude.
Tips
It's about a 5-minute walk from the west exit of Ofuna Station, but the approach is an uphill climb. The temple closes in the evening, so allow plenty of time.
Best time to visit
Allow 45 minutes; late afternoon sunlight beautifully illuminates the white Kannon statue
How was this spot?
Access & map
〒247-0072 Kanagawa Prefecture, Kamakura City, Okamoto 1-chome 5-3
Model course featuring this spot
Kita-Kamakura: The Path of Hydrangeas and Zen
Kanagawa
Explore features & model courses
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