The oldest Zen temple in Kamakura, founded in 1200 by the monk Eisai (who also introduced tea cultivation to Japan) at the request of Masako, wife of Minamoto no Yoritomo. Ranked third among Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples, Jufuku-ji is today one of the most tranquil spots in the city — a narrow path leads back into the forest to the graves of Masako and Yoritomo's son Sanetomo.
The temple does not open its inner grounds to casual visitors, so only the outer garden and the cave tombs behind are accessible. Worth pausing here for ten minutes on the walk between Kamakura Station and Kita-Kamakura. Free admission to grounds.