Matchavisena

Hi! I’m back to share more about my unforgettable journey to Kamakura. You can read the first part here: Kamakura (Part 1) : Exploring an Ancient Cities Near Tokyo.

My next destination was Hokokuji Temple, a Buddhist temple that offers a unique experience, enjoying traditional matcha ceremonies while looking out bamboo forest. At this temple, I felt the harmony of nature, religion and tradition. Let’s continue my story!

Ceremonial Matcha with Bamboo Garden View

Hokokuji temple is located at northeast of Kamakura St, about 2,5 km away. You can take a bus from Kamakura St to Jomyoji Bus Stop (around 12 minutes, ¥220 one way) using suica and then walk around 3-5 minutes to reach the temple.

If you want to enjoy your leisure time by walking from St. Kamakura to the temple it’s ok, like I did. I took me about 40 minutes. Actually, it was fun when I strolled around while seeing the local houses, which reminded me with Doraemon’s neighborhood. Unfortunately, I came in summer, so it was quite hot and I ended up soaked in sweat. Therefore, I recommend taking the bus to save the time and stay comfortable.

In front of Hokokuji Gate

Upon arrival, I was welcomed by a traditional Japanese wooden gate and a stone pathway with a tiny japanese garden and small statues leading to the ticket counter. The entrance fee is ¥400 per person and ¥1.000 per person if included the matcha. For visitors with strollers or wheelchairs, it may be a bit challenging due to stone pathway and some stairs. The temple is surrounding by Japanese garden and bamboo garden. Don’t worry if you’re not confident walking long distances, because the area is not too large.

The garden leading to the ticket counter

Near the ticket counter, there is a bell tower and the main hall where the Budha Statue is enshrined. This building is used annual ceremonies. Another building, ”Kashodo”, where the Zazen (seated meditation practice in Zen Buddhism) is practiced. I chose not to enter the buildings because I didn’t want to disturb visitors who were there to pray. So, I just observed from the outside.

Kashodo

Inside the temple area, you will find “Yagura”, the caves with traditional tombs inside it (include the founder of Hokokuji Temple, Ashikaga Ietoki). Nearby is the Bamboo garden and In the corner stands a small tea-house called “Kyukoan”. Visitors who purchase the matcha bunde can redeem their ticket there and enjoy a cup of traditional matcha while appreciating the Bamboo garden view.

Kyukoan - traditional tea house

Visiting Hokokuji temple was the perfect choice when I needed a quite and calming place. The athmosphere felt like time traveling to an ancient era, just like scenes from my favourite anime, Demon Slayer. I highly recommend visiting and don’t miss the matcha!

A small river near Jomyoji Bus Stop

Oh ya, near Jomyoji Bus Stop, I saw a small river with some large fish). It looked like an ordinary river, but still cleaner than most public parks in my hometown.

Indonesia’s Independence Day is one of the most awaited national day each year. The day is marked not only by formal ceremonies organized by institutions and schools, but also by traditional games and even large commercial promotions. These celebrations continue to play an important role in strengthening national identity, as they preserve cultural heritage, encourage social unity, and remind citizens of the sacrifices of their ancestors.

Independence Day reminds people of traditional games such as the greasy pole climbing (panjat pinang), tug of war (tarik tambang), cracker-eating contest (lomba makan kerupuk), sack race (balap karung), and marble race (balap kelereng) which have been passed down from generation to generation. Even overseas, Indonesian diasporas sometimes organize these games to show respect for the Indonesian nation. Undoubtedly, such activities represent an essential part of the national identity that is inseparable from Indonesia citizenship. Fortunately, these traditions continue to be preserved as many regions across Indonesia continue to hold them with the aim to commemorate Indonesia’s Independence.

Beyond cultural preservation, Independence Day celebrations also serve as a unifying force. Citizens from diverse background-across age groups, ethnicities, religions, and professions- participate in the festivities. This collective participation reinforces the idea that, despite differences, all Indonesians share a common identity as members of the same nation.

Furthermore, these celebrations are not only about enjoyment but also about reflection. The spirit of Independence Day reminds people of the struggles and sacrifices made by the nations’s founders in gaining freedom. Through ceremonies and symbols of unity, the younger generation learns to value nationalism and develop pride in being Indonesian. This ensures that national identity remains strong even in an increasingly globalized world.

In the end, Independence Day celebrations remain highly relevant in modern society. Traditional games preserve cultural uniqueness and ceremonies remind people of their shared history. Far from being outdated, these events continue to serve as creative and meaningful ways of strengthening Indonesia’s national identity at home and abroad.

Talking about Japan is a never-ending story. There are so many places waiting to be explored. Even after visiting multiple times, it still feels like there’s never enough time to truly experience all that Japan has to offer. From well-known cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka to hidden gems that often appear on our Instagram FYPs with stunning landscapes that may not be famous but are just as breathtaking.

This time, our family trip to Japan was spent entirely in Tokyo. It wasn’t just because of the limited time, we also had to consider a business trip in the city, which made it difficult to visit other places. Still, I couldn’t help but feel that something was missing. I felt the urge to explore somewhere outside the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. So, we finally decided to take one day trip to Kamakura.

Kamakura at a Glance

Just about an hour from Tokyo, I arrived at Kamakura Station. Located in Kanagawa Prefecture, south of Tokyo, Kamakura is a charming seaside city known for its rich history and ancient landmarks, such as Kotoku-in Temple’s Great Budha (well-known as a tall Budha Statue), Hasedera Temple and Hokokuji Temple.

On this trip, I visited only one temple. It was Hokokuji Temple, famous for its bamboo forest and serene matcha tea ceremony experience. I also enjoyed local cuisine at Café Yoridokoro, took a ride on the iconic Enoshima Train, and relaxed by the beach to unwind.

Hunting for street food along Komachi Street

Komachi Street

Right after arriving at Kamakura Station, I started looking for something to fill my stomach. There were plenty of food stalls around the station, but the main area spot for food hunting is at Komachi Street. Unfortunately, the road was packed with tourists (mostly local) and the early summer heat didn’t help. Our toddler got cranky (to be honest, so did my hubby and I).

In the end, we just grabbed a few sweet treats: strawberry candy (Tanghulu), matcha ice cream (my favorite), and a refreshing matcha latte. After that quick recharge, we head straight to Hokokuji Temple (more on that in Kamakura Part 2).