Tokyo Sights

Kamakura-gu (Kamakura Shrine)

Kamakura-gu (Kamakura Shrine) Review

This Shinto shrine was built after the Meiji Restoration of 1868 and was dedicated to Prince Morinaga (1308-36), the first son of Emperor Go-Daigo. When Go-Daigo overthrew the Kamakura Shogunate and restored Japan to direct imperial rule, Morinaga—who had been in the priesthood—was appointed supreme commander of his father's forces. The prince lived in turbulent times and died young: when the Ashikaga clan in turn overthrew Go-Daigo's government, Morinaga was taken into exile, held prisoner in a cave behind the present site of Kamakura Shrine, and eventually beheaded. The Treasure House (Homotsu-den), on the northwest corner of the grounds, next to the shrine's administrative office, is of interest mainly for its collection of paintings depicting the life of Prince Morinaga. To reach Kamakura Shrine, walk from Yoritomo's tomb to Route 204, and turn left; at the next traffic light, a narrow street on the left leads off at an angle to the shrine, about five minutes' walk west.

    Contact Information

  • Address: 154 Nikaido, Kamakura, 248-0002
  • Phone: 0467/22-0318
  • Cost: Kamakura Shrine free, Treasure House ¥300
  • Hours: Daily 9--4
  • Location: Downtown Kamakura

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