Kenchoji

The first and highest-ranking of Kamakura's five great Zen temples, Kencho-ji was founded in 1253 and remains an active training monastery. The temple complex unfolds along a central axis, the Chinese-style Sanmon gate, the Buddha Hall, the Dharma Hall with its dramatic ceiling dragon painting, and the beautiful garden designed by the monk Muso Soseki, designated a National Scenic Beauty. A hiking trail from the back of the complex climbs to a hilltop viewpoint where, on clear days, you can see Mt. Fuji beyond the city rooftops.