JUNE 2026
Hokoku-ji Temple: The Bamboo Temple. The 1923 Great Kantō earthquake destroyed most of the temple structures including the original straw roof on the main hall. A similar roof is maintained on the bell tower today.
The temple is No. 10 on the Kamakura 33 Kannon pilgrimage.
The family temple of both the Ashikaga and Uesugi clans, Hōkoku-ji was established by founding priest Tengan Eko in 1334
The Experience: The grove features narrow winding stone paths, leading to a traditional tea house (Kyukoan) where visitors can sip matcha green tea surrounded by the stalks
The Plant: Moso is a giant timber bamboo native to China. It is easily recognized by its exceptionally thick, dark green culms (stalks) that can grow up to 28 meters (around 92 feet) tall.
Design Styles: The specific large, heavily mossed lanterns with tiered, pagoda-style roofs found at Hokokuji often fall under the Tachigata (pedestal) or Yukimi-gata (snow-viewing) styles of stone lanterns
06.03.26 - Typhoon Jangmi. First Typhoon of the Season. Lot's of rain. Quick pass. Wind not bad.