Kamakura's Takedera in December

Bamboo temple, Hokokuji, on an early winter afternoon

Larry Knipfing Jun 14, 2015 - 1 min read

<p>Stepping back at taking a look at the bamboo grove at Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura</p>

<p>The bamboo grove at Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura</p>

<p>Fresh green bamboo at Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura</p>

<p>Come early in the morning, or late in the afternoon to see the shadows do their magic - Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura</p>

<p>Otherworldly effects using ICM (Intentional Camera Movement) techniques - Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura</p>

<p>More otherworldly effects using ICM (Intentional Camera Movement) techniques - Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura</p>

<p>More beautiful shadow play at Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura</p>

<p>Path through a Zen Heaven - Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura</p>

<p>The green matcha tea service at Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura</p>

<p>Buddhist image near Hokokuji Temple, Kamakura</p>

I often visit Kamakura, and in fact I was once lucky enough to live there for 15 years. Hokokuji Temple, also known as Takedera - the Bamboo Temple - is a must visit each and every time I am in the area. It is that special. Bamboo flourishes in Japan, but it is rare to find such a splendid grove of bamboo trees like the grove here at Hokokuji. I recommend visiting the temple early in the morning or in the late afternoon when the angle of the sun is just right, and the shadows are doing wonderful things. And when you are buying your ticket at the entrance, be sure to spend a few hundred yen more on the green matcha tea service. Sit and watch and listen and know that you are indeed in Japan!

More info

Find out more about Hokokuji Temple.

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...