About
Deep within the tranquil forests of Kamakura, weaving your way through lush green trees, you will eventually come upon a towering boulder standing before you. This is the mysterious rock known as “Jūōiwa,” which has remained through the flow of time.
Since ancient times, this rock has been revered by the local people. According to legend, Jūōiwa is the gathering place of the Ten Kings who govern the afterlife, and it is here that one’s deeds in life are judged. For this reason, visitors naturally find themselves becoming solemn and reflecting on their own actions.
On the surface of the rock, you can see traces of wind and rain that have been etched over many years. Moss-covered areas and cracks formed by weathering speak of the power of nature and the passage of time. Around it, seasonal flowers bloom in profusion—cherry blossoms flutter in spring, deep green leaves flourish in summer, autumn leaves color the rock, and in winter, a dignified air drifts in the silence.
Scattered around Jūōiwa are ancient stone Buddhas and memorial towers, giving visitors a sense of the weight of history. The local people have regarded this place as a spiritual anchor, expressing gratitude to their ancestors and respect for nature through seasonal festivals and events.
Standing in this place, you are enveloped in a feeling as if your heart is being cleansed, far removed from the bustle of the city. The chirping of birds, the sound of the wind, and the rustling of the trees resonate like a natural orchestra. If you close your eyes, you can sense that the prayers and wishes of people from long ago still live on in this land.
Jūōiwa is not just a rock, but a place engraved with stories and feelings that transcend time. By visiting here, you will face your own inner self and be moved by the beauty woven by nature and history.