Aug 9, 2014 - 1 min read

The Garden at Rai Tei in Kamakura

Bamboo grove, stone Buddhist images, pagodas, & Mt Fuji

By Jessica A Paje

Community writer

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the bamboo grove located at the 50,000 square meter garden of Rai Tei restaurant, Kamakura

An amazing view of Mt. Fuji at sunset on a warm summer evening

San-mon Temple Gate of the historic Juen-zan Koshou-ji Temple in Kamakura's Nishi-mikado area, forms the entrance to Rai Tei

A view of Rai Tei restaurant from the Japanese garden

Rai Tei's bamboo garden is just as beautiful as Hokokuji Temple & Sagano Bamboo Groves

Charming passageways throughout the bamboo groves

Close-up of one of the charming passageways in the bamboo grove. Can you see the smiling face?

Standing in the middle of the gorgeous bamboo grove

Thatched roofing on this peculiar structure

Hakkaku-dou Hall is octagonal and sits on the edge of the hill

Inside the first floor of Rai Tei. Tables & chairs made from pine logs damaged by sawyer beetles long ago.

We enjoyed a small plate of fruit on this warm summer day; garden fees of 500yen per person were then waived.

Sun dial just outside of the Ro-an Tea Room

Sekizo Juo Zo. A set of stone images of the 10 Judges of Hell.

Hyakubutsu-gake. Hyaku meaning "100" are enshrined here.

The garden at Rai Tei restaurant in Kamakura covers 50,000 square meters and includes a bamboo grove, stone Buddhist images, pagodas, and if you’re lucky, a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji. A circuit-style design, the difference in elevation is 20 meters and is comprised of eleven distinct areas. The winding paths are finished with stepping-stones that add such charm to the luxurious green landscape. Another visit is in store for me during the Autumn and Spring months.

Entrance to the garden is 500yen per person, but if you plan on dining at Rai Tei the cost will be waived. Reservations are required for Kaseiki (Course Menu) on the second floor, while walk-ins for a light meal are welcome on the first floor.

For more details, please read the related article Rai Tei Restaurant in Kamakura City.