Engakuji

Founded in 1282 to honor the Japanese and Mongol soldiers who fell during the attempted Mongol invasions, Engaku-ji is one of Kamakura's five great Zen temples and the head temple of its own branch of the Rinzai school. The complex is extensive, a long approach passes through the massive Sanmon gate, past sub-temples and meditation halls, to the Shariden (Relic Hall), a National Treasure said to house a tooth of the Buddha. The grounds are especially beautiful in autumn when maples blaze against the dark wooden buildings. Weekend zazen (seated meditation) sessions are open to the public.