Founded in 1063 by the Genji family, the creators of the Kamakura Shogunate, it became the center of politics and culture during the Kamakura Period. Large landscaped grounds contain several vermilion colored buildings. At the entrance there is an arch bridge. At the Spring and Autumn Festivals, there are displays of horseback archery. Dedicated to the god of education.
Many Japanese students visit here to pray for success in their examinations.
The students buy small wooden plaques Ema on which they write their scholastic wishes and hang them around the shrine. During February, Japanese Plum Blossoms Ume can be seen. The shrine stands in a dense grove of trees and has a Treasure House. Ranked fifth among the Five Great Zen Temples of Kamakura. The process of making Kamakura-bori is displayed.