Enno-ji Temple

This is an unusual temple in that the principal object of worship is Enma Daio. Believed to have been established in 1250, the temple was originally built in Hase then relocated to Yuigahama by Ashikaga Takauji. After collapsing from the earthquake and tsunami in 1703, it was moved to its current location. It is said that the seated statue of Enma Daio in the main hall is the work of Unkei, who was the top Buddhist sculptor in the Kamakura period. The 190-cm-high statue, a designated National Treasure, projects a powerful, dignified appearance. Enma Daio is believed to grant child-rearing and academic achievement; this statue is also called ”Smiling Enma”,”Enma Swallowing a Baby” and ”Enma Child-rearing,” each name being associated with a folk tale. In the main hall we also find statues of the Ten Judges of Hell, who, according to an ancient view of the afterlife, evaluated all living things seven days after their death. Photography is prohibited here. A 15-minute walk from JR Kita-Kamakura Station.