Must-Try Foods In Engakuji Temple (Kamakura) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Engakuji Temple, Kamakura, Japan

Engakuji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple located in the historic city of Kamakura, is known for its serene atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Founded in 1282, Engakuji has been a center of Zen Buddhism, where monks and laypeople alike would partake in vegetarian cuisine, in line with the Buddhist precept of not harming living beings. This cuisine, known as shojin ryori, is based on seasonal vegetables, legumes, and grains, and is designed to support the Zen way of life that emphasizes simplicity and mindfulness.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes at Engakuji Temple, Kamakura, Japan

1. Shojin Ryori - A traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal that is balanced and made without animal products. (Veg)
2. Matcha Tea - Finely grounded green tea, often accompanied by a traditional Japanese sweet. (Veg)
3. Tofu Dishes - Various dishes made from tofu which can range from savory to sweet. (Veg)
4. Tempura - Lightly battered and deep-fried vegetables, a tasty treat perfect with a side of dashi-based dipping sauce. (Veg)
5. Soba Noodles - Buckwheat noodles, which can be served hot or cold, often with a variety of dipping sauces. (Veg)
6. Onigiri - Rice balls filled with vegetarian ingredients like pickled plum (umeboshi) or seaweed. (Veg)
7. Miso Soup - A traditional Japanese soup made with fermented soybean paste and various vegetables. (Veg)
8. Pickles (Tsukemono) - Assorted Japanese pickled vegetables, which may include radish, cucumber, or eggplant. (Veg)
9. Kamaboko - A type of cured surimi, a processed seafood product, often served sliced as a side dish. (Non-Veg; contains fish)
10. Yakitori - Grilled chicken skewers, a popular Japanese street food that can be found around the temple area. (Non-Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants Near Engakuji Temple, Kamakura, Japan

• Kamakura Gozan
  Address: 4 Chome-10-28 Ogigayatsu, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0011, Japan
  Famous Food: Shojin Ryori (traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). (Veg)
• Kamakura Matsubara-an Keyaki
  Address: 2 Chome-8-1 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0006, Japan
  Famous Food: Handmade soba noodles. (Veg)
• Oyama Address: 1 Chome-1-5 Omachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0007, Japan
  Famous Food: Tempura. (Veg and Non-Veg options)
• Tosai
  Address: 1-8-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture 248-0006
  Famous Food: Fresh tofu dishes and Yuba (tofu skin). (Veg)
• Hachinoki
  Address: 2 Chome-22-32, Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016, Japan
  Famous Food: Shojin Ryori in a traditional setting. (Veg)
• Komachi-Dori Street Food Stalls
  Address: Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0006, Japan
  Famous Food: Assortment of street food including Yakitori. (Non-Veg)
• Onari
  Address: 1 Chome-1-12 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0006, Japan
  Famous Food: Onigiri with various fillings. (Veg options available)
• Vegan Cafe Kamakura
  Address: 2 Chome-13-6 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0006, Japan
  Famous Food: Plant-based meals and desserts. (Veg)
• Ishikawa Brewery Shop
  Address: 2-9-26 Komachi, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa-ken 248-0006, Japan
  Famous Food: Kamaboko, a local specialty. (Non-Veg)
• Ajisai
  Address: 2 Chome-1-5 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0006, Japan
  Famous Food: Miso soup and traditional Japanese set meals. (Veg and Non-Veg options)