A little backstreet gem (Photo: Larry Knipfing)

Kamakura's Joei-ji Temple

Also known as "Botamochi" Temple, this is a little gem

Larry Knipfing   - 1 min read

Joei-ji is one of those small, beautiful backstreet temples that Kamakura is so famous for. Built in 1606, the temple was a training ground for monks for centuries. The affectionate nickname "Botamochi" is actually the name of a Japanese bean and rice sweet. The temple derives its name from a legend involving Nichiren, the founder of the Buddhist sect of the same name and the sweet. A mass and festival takes place each year on September 12th to commemorate the legend. It is just down the street from Myohon-ji, in a quiet little residential area.

Larry Knipfing

Larry Knipfing @larry.knipfing

Born on Long Island, New York in 1958, I have spent the last 30 years of my life living in Japan, and enjoying every minute of it! I especially love photography, and Japan is definitely one of the most beautiful places in the world to photograph! My other love is fiction writing and I have pub...