Zuisenji

Tucked into a valley at the quiet eastern edge of Kamakura, Zuisen-ji is often called the city's most beautiful temple, and with good reason. The Zen garden carved into the rock cliff behind the main hall was designed by the monk Muso Soseki in the 14th century, featuring a natural cave, waterfall, and stone carvings that harmonize with the surrounding forest. Plum blossoms arrive in February, followed by narcissus and then hydrangeas. The walk through the residential neighborhood to reach it is part of the charm, by the time you arrive, the tourist crowds have thinned to almost nothing.