The Setting: Genpei Pond (源平池 - Genpei Ike)

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The Setting: Genpei Pond (源平池 - Genpei Ike)

The large pond you see at the entrance is not just one, but actually two ponds collectively known as Genpei Pond. They were built in 1182 by Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura Shogunate.

· The Name's Meaning: The name "Genpei" comes from the two rival clans: the Genji (Minamoto clan) and the Heike (Taira clan).
· Symbolism: The pond on the left (when facing the shrine) has white lotuses and represents the Heike. The pond on the right has red lotuses and represents the Genji. This design was meant to pray for the victory of the Genji (which Yoritomo achieved).

The Lotus Flowers Themselves

· Best Time to See Them: The lotuses are in their full glory during the peak of summer, from mid-July to mid-August. During this time, the pond is a breathtaking sea of large, vibrant green leaves and stunning pink and white flowers.
· The Experience: There's something incredibly peaceful about watching the lotus flowers bloom. They open in the morning sunlight and slowly close as the day progresses. The sight of dragonflies hovering over the water and the gentle sound of the leaves rustling in the breeze is the essence of a Japanese summer.

What to Do There

1. Walk the Paths: Stroll along the paths that cross over and run alongside the ponds. The famous dankazura (a long, raised pathway lined with cherry trees) leads you straight from the pond area up to the main shrine buildings.
2. Take Photos: The contrast of the lush lotuses, the dark pond water, the stone torii gate in the pond, and the backdrop of the shrine's forest is incredibly photogenic. It's a favorite spot for photographers, especially in the early morning light.
3. Look for Wildlife: The pond is home to countless koi carp and turtles that swim lazily amongst the lotus stems. It's always fun to watch them.
4. Visit the Shrine: After enjoying the pond, make sure to walk up the steps to the main shrine complex. It's one of the most important Shinto shrines in all of Japan, rich with samurai history.

A Practical Guide for Your Visit

· Location: 2-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture. It's a very short walk from Kamakura Station (about 10-15 minutes).
· Access: The shrine grounds are always open and free to enter. Access to the main hall's courtyard may have hours and a small admission fee.
· Seasonal Advice:
· Summer (July-August): Perfect for the lotus. It can be hot and humid, so go in the morning.
· Spring (April): The cherry blossoms along the dankazura are absolutely magnificent.
· Autumn (November-December): The foliage around the pond and shrine turns brilliant red and orange.

So, let's go! Enjoy the peaceful beauty of the lotus pond—a perfect blend of nature, history, and Japanese culture.

Have a wonderf