The temple survived a fire in 1189, after which the three Kannon statues were famously rescued from the flames.
The main gate, the Niomon, is a thatched structure that houses two figures carved by the sculptor Unkei.
The temple name Sugimoto literally translates to 'beneath the Japanese cedar tree'.
It is the first stop on the historic 33-temple Kannon pilgrimage of the Kanto region.
The temple is affiliated with the Tendai sect of Buddhism.
Sugimoto-dera is the oldest Buddhist temple in Kamakura, officially founded in 734 AD. It serves as the first temple of the Bando Sanjusankasho, a 33-temple pilgrimage circuit in the Kanto region. The main hall, or Hondo, is a thatched-roof structure featuring a weathered aesthetic typical of the Tendai sect. Three principal statues of the Eleven-faced Kannon are enshrined within, including one attributed to the monk Gyoki. The temple grounds are noted for a moss-covered stone staircase, which is currently closed to foot traffic to preserve its condition. Visitors enter the precinct through a thatched Niomon gate guarded by two wooden Nio statues. The temple is situated at the base of a wooded hillside in the Nikaido district, known for its seclusion compared to central Kamakura sites.
From the base of the moss-covered stone staircase looking upward toward the thatched-roof main hall.
Follow the secondary path to the main hall, as the historic moss-covered stone stairs are strictly off-limits to visitors.
Bring small change for the temple entrance fee, as electronic payment methods may not be accepted.
Take time to view the Jizo statues scattered throughout the moss gardens near the entrance.
Do not attempt to walk on the protected moss-covered stone steps leading to the main hall.
Maintain silence, remove footwear before entering the interior of temple buildings, and do not photograph the sacred statues inside the Hondo.
