On a day in late February I visited Gokurakuji Temple in Kamakura in search of spring. However, I only found a few plum blossoms just starting to bloom in front of a temple, as well as very interesting photographers trying to capture a train coming out of a tunnel. Disappointed, I followed a road sign and took a walk toward Jojuin Temple looking for a herald of spring. This temple is famous for gorgeous hydrangeas decorating the pathway in June, but in late February there didn't seem to be any flowers there. However when I looked closely, I found small flowers and green new leaves here and there. Surely spring was coming!
- 1 min read
Road to Jojuin Temple in Kamakura
Take a leisurely walk looking for spring!

Community writer

Looking up at the main gate and the sign of Jojuin Temple

You'll notice this sign on the street when you walk to Jojuin Temple from Gokurakuji Temple near Gokurakuji Station

An old and battered stone marker of Jojuin Temple stands at the foot of stone steps leading to the temple.

This pathway is famous for beautiful hydrangeas in June, but in late February, there were only dead leaves decorating the path...

...but when I looked closely, I found these pretty flowers! Spring is surely coming!

Solemn faces of dark stone jizo statues and tomb stones

Again, dead leaves here and there

But there were some new leaves coming out in fresh green!

Then I found one small plum blossom on a pathway, how pretty!

This is the west entrance of Jojuin Temple

The view of Yuigahama Beach seen from the top of the stone steps leading to the temple

Although sunny, it was a cold day, but apparently surfers didn't care!

Wooden sign says, 'Nishi-kekkai', which means the west entrance to a sacred area
Join the discussion
Elena Lisina
6 years ago
Atmospheric shots, nice as always, Takako-san!
Thank you always for reading my article, Elena!
Veronika Tomanova
10 years ago
Yeah, I think it was too early. Maybe you can give it another try in April. Keep it up!
Thank you Veronika. Yes, I will try again!
4 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Arima Onsen: One of Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring Towns
Hyogo - Sponsored -
2
24-Hour Yaro Ramen in Shibuya Revolutionizes Noodles With an All New Type of Ramen Taking Over Tokyo
Tokyo - Sponsored -
3
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
4
Hotel NORD Otaru, Your Front-Row Seat to Otaru’s Canal District
Hokkaido - Sponsored -
5
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
6
12 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Shibuya
Culture -
7
Three Tokyo Bars Named Among World's 50 Best
Planning -
8
Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
9
Ultimate Japan Car Culture Journey - From Auto Salon 2026 to the Open Road
Chiba -
10
Explore Ako, Tatsuno, and Himeji with Ease From Kamenoi Hotel Ako
Hyogo - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
4
Bad Bunny Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour
Tokyo -
5
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
6
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
7
September Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
9
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
10
Tokyo Christmas Market
Tokyo