How to Properly Explore Kamakura Part 4: Sugimotodera Temple 坂東三十三観音第一番札所 杉本寺

Sugimotodera Temple

Why here? Start with part one here 

1. If you like thatched roof temples


2. You like Kannon statues dressed up.


3. You want to view several important cultural properties up closely, not far away.


4. The first temple of the Bando 33 Kannon Pilgrimage


5. You are serious about Buddhist mythology and esoteric.

It's the oldest and first established temple in Kamakura!   I come here because the place is consecrated and offers the visitor an opportunity to offer prayers and supplications with candles.   When I visit this place I offer prayer only simply because of the atmosphere.   This is not a touristy temple, in other words, no photos are allowed in the main hall, and if you pray you have to remove your backpack.    You should write your prayer in Japanese characters on candles, not any other language.   The biggest candle is 1000 yen / $10 and it's almost a foot long and three inches wide.

Remember, unlike other touristy temples, you do not place your candle in the candle holder yourself, that is the temple priests job!  Respect the somberness and reverence of this particular temple.    These are career monks and practitioners and many of them are in their 70s and 80s.   Again, this is not a touristy temple, but a serious one that you will love.

Points of interest for prophotogs:

1. Center steps covered in moss.  The view on a clear day is noteworthy.


2. The thatched roof of the temple - rare


3. The jizo statues on the way up and down the narrow stair case.