Gokurakuji is a small temple in the mountains just outside of Kamakura proper. It is famous for being the residence of retired Hôjô Deputy Regent Lord, Shigetoki. While he was there, Shigetoki worked to find enlightenment at the temple while leaving behind valuable information to his descendants. He wrote two letters, the more notable being the Gokurakuji Letter which is one of the earliest written examples of bushidô, or the Way of the Warrior, as it pertains to how warriors should act in positions of authority.

For the casual: 4. For the educated: 7.

Gokurakuji is not a looker. It is small with a linear orientation. Though the grounds are tended to beautifully, the temple cannot afford the landscaping to really distinguish it as a lavish location. Gokurakuji's importance stems from the high ranking warrior who lived there. At a first glace, it’s clear that the temple was built specifically for a less than extravagant lifestyle but was still close enough to the city that Shigetoki could make his way back incase he was needed.