Engaku-JI temple is a large complex of Buddhist temples, one of the five great Zen monasteries ("Five mountains") in kamakura. In the morning in the summer, there are meditation classes for everyone. One of the buildings of this complex – and rebuilt in the early part that holds the tooth relic of the Buddha is declared a national treasure of Japan. The temple bell Engaku-JI temple is the largest (height 2, 6 meters) in kamakura and also has the status of national treasures.

The temple was built in 1282 by order of the Regent HOJO, Tokimune, which virtually ruled Japan at the time. During the period of his government of the Mongolian warriors Kubilay Khan was twice invaded the land of Japan. In those battles killed many Japanese soldiers, in memory of the valor and which was erected Engaku-JI.

The first Abbot of the temple became a Zen monk to Mugaku the RDX invited by the Regent of China. The RDX went a legend, though he was able to avoid execution, demonstrating the executioners of the degree of their enlightenment.

Before the construction of the complex suffered from fires, the strongest of which occurred in 1563, the territory of Engaku-JI temple holds more than 40 buildings, lived 250 monks. During this fire damaged and the main Shrine of the monastery – Buddha statue of håkan Syaku Nyorai of the thirteenth century. The main pavilion Butsudan, where it was kept, was burned completely and the wooden figures were only the face. In the XVII century the statue was restored, adding to the Buddha, Brahma and Indra (the Japanese name of Montana and Taishakuten).

202 th the rector of the Church Imakita Inert in 1875 attempted to strengthen the position of the monastery and make it mainly in the Kanto district. But the same earthquake of 1923 again caused great damage, destroying numerous buildings. Some buildings have been restored, and some sights of the temple remained intact. For example, did not suffer the bell Ohana cast in 1301. Also survived Sammon gate. On them and on the other gate posted signs with calligraphically written the name of the monastery is the original "autographs" of two Japanese emperors Tsuchimikado (second half of XV century) and Fushimi (1265-1317 years).

Pavilion Ciciba is the tomb of the Regent and founder of Engaku-JI HOJO, Tokimune, who died in 1284, two years after the construction of the temple. Under the building are the tombs and other people who have made great contributions to the construction of the temple. In the pavilion Sambucus once verification was conducted and the selection of priests who have reached the state of Nirvana. Here is the main image of bodhisattva Kannon. In the hall Kozyrin meditation are for everyone. In the large pavilion HOJO held ritual ceremonies, sermons, lectures, and exhibitions and charity concerts.