Sugimoto-dera Temple

Overview

Sugimoto-dera is a Tendai Buddhist temple established in the early Kamakura period, making it one of Kamakura's oldest temples. Known as one of the city's most ancient temples, it offers a captivating atmosphere of tranquility and history. Tradition holds that its founding dates back to 731 (Tenpyo 3), when Gyoki, a traveling monk, believed this site was ideal for enshrining a Kannon statue, and personally carved an eleven-headed Kannon statue to be placed there. Later, in 734 (Tenpyo 6), it is said that Empress Komyo, guided by a Kannon Bodhisattva oracle, wished for stability in the eastern provinces and commissioned the Right Minister, Fujiwara no Fu SAE, and Gyoki to construct the main hall. Sugimoto-dera is also famous as the first temple on both the Bandō Sanjūsankannon pilgrimage route and the Kamakura Sanjusankannon pilgrimage route, attracting many worshippers. The temple grounds feature a main hall dating back to the Kamakura period and a moss-covered stone staircase leading to it, allowing visitors to leisurely explore while immersing themselves in Kamakura's history. The moss-covered stone steps are a popular photo spot, capturing the essence of Kamakura's charm. The main hall, a gabled and thatched roof structure, retains the atmosphere of the Kamakura period. The principal image, the Eleven-headed Kannon Bodhisattva, is a hidden Buddha, unveiled only on the 1st and 18th of each month. Sugimoto-dera is a precious place where you can experience Kamakura's history and culture. Be sure to visit when you come to Kamakura.