It is considered to be the oldest intact building in Tokyo Prefecture and a unique example of Kamakura period architecture.

The temple records state that a Jizō hall was built in 1278 under the sponsorship of Kamakura Regent Hōjō Tokiyori.

It is worth noting that the temple may have been founded and constructed during the ministry of Tokiyori's son, Hōjō Tokimune under whose authority Japan successfully defended itself against Mongol Invasions.

It contains significant architectural innovations, including the use of elastic Japanese cypress, steel support chisels, decorative but functional brackets, and cantilevers.

However, in 1933, when the hall was repaired, the roof was changed from thatched to shingled to restore it closer to the original construction configuration.

[5][6][7] Despite major reconstruction in 1407, Shōfuku-ji's Jizō hall is held to be one of the most representative and intact examples of Kamakura architecture.

Outside the hall are a number of wooden dolls that, when a family member or friend is sick, are to be taken to the ill person's home.