Hōkoku Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. The temple is dedicated to the bodhisattva Hachiman and serves as the headquarters of the Hachiman branch of Jōdo-shū Buddhism. The temple is also known as Hachiman-gū and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Kamakura. The temple was founded in the late 12th century by the famous Japanese priest and founder of Jōdo-shū Buddhism, Hōnen. Hōnen was born in the province of Echigo (modern-day Niigata Prefecture) in 1133 and traveled to Kamakura in 1175, where he established Hōkoku Temple as his main temple. The temple was built on land donated by Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first shogun of the Kamakura Shogunate. Hōkoku Temple was initially a small temple with only a few buildings. However, over the centuries, the temple grew in size and importance and became one of the most significant centers of Jōdo-shū Buddhism in Kamakura. The temple was also a popular place of pilgrimage for Hachiman devotees from all over Japan. The temple has undergone many renovations and rebuilds over the centuries, with the current main hall and pagoda being built in the late 19th century. The main hall houses the statue of the bodhisattva Hachiman and is an important site of worship for Jōdo-shū Buddhists. The temple also has a large pond, a treasure house, and a number of other buildings, including a lecture hall and a library. One of the most notable features of Hōkoku Temple is its large and well-maintained garden, which covers a large area of the temple grounds. The garden is a peaceful and serene place, filled with blooming flowers and towering trees. It is a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Another interesting feature of Hōkoku Temple is its connection to the famous Kamakura-period swordsman and martial artist, Miyamoto Musashi. Miyamoto was a devotee of Hachiman and visited Hōkoku Temple several times throughout his life. In 1643, Miyamoto wrote a famous treatise on strategy and martial arts, called “The Book of Five Rings,” which is said to have been influenced by his visits to Hōkoku Temple. Hōkoku Temple is also known for its annual Hachiman Festival, which is held in October. During the festival, the temple grounds are filled with thousands of visitors, who come to enjoy traditional Japanese music and dance performances, food stalls, and other festivities. The festival is a great opportunity to experience the rich culture and history of Kamakura and to learn more about Jōdo-shū Buddhism. In conclusion, Hōkoku Temple is a fascinating and historically significant temple located in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture. With its rich history, beautiful gardens, and connection to famous figures like Miyamoto Musashi, it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and religion. Whether you are a devout Jōdo-shū Buddhist or simply a lover of Japanese history and culture, Hōkoku Temple is sure to leave a lasting impression.