Kamakura Travel Tips
Kamakura (鎌倉), a coastal gem in Kanagawa Prefecture, is less than an hour from Tokyo and steeped in history. Once the political heart of Japan in the late 12th century, Kamakura was chosen by Minamoto Yoritomo as the base for his military government. For over a century, it flourished under the Minamoto shogunate and later the Hojo regents, shaping the course of Japanese history.
Today, Kamakura is a must-visit destination, often dubbed the "Kyoto of Eastern Japan." With its wealth of temples, shrines, and historical sites, it offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Visitors can also enjoy sandy beaches, making Kamakura a delightful blend of culture and leisure.
Attractions
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1Great Buddha of KamakuraSecond tallest bronze Buddha statue in Japa
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2Hachimangu Shrine (Tsurugaoka Hachimangu)Kamakura's most important historical shrine
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3Hasedera TempleFamous for the Kannon statue
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4Kenchoji TempleKamakura's oldest Zen temple, Mount Fuji views
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5Meigetsuin TempleHydrangea blooms and moon folklore
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6Komachi-dori StreetShopping, street food, historic atmosphere
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7Engakuji TempleHistoric Zen temple with autumn beauty
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8Yuigahama BeachBeautiful beach with Mount Fuji views
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9Zeniarai BentenCoin washing, Benten goddess, historic shrine
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10Zaimokuza BeachBeautiful beach with Mount Fuji views
Events
Tours
See allBook tours in Kamakura through our trusted partner, Viator, for great service and prices. When clicking on one of the links below, you will be redirected to their website.
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$55From Tokyo: Kamakura & Enoshima 1-Day Bus TourEscape the fast-paced life of Tokyo and journey to Kamakura, the ancient capital of Japan and home of the Samurai. This tour offers history, culture, and natura
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$152Exciting Kamakura - One Day Tour from TokyoThis is a Kamakura private tour using by public transportation. Kamakura is called “the Kyoto of Eastern Japan”, because it used to be the capital of Japan
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$187Kamakura Bamboo Forest and Great Buddha Private TourYou can enjoy a guided sightseeing tour only with your family and friends. This tour is a tour using public transportation. This is a guided private tour that
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$83Your Own HANKO Name Seal Activity in Kamakura.A craftsman will engrave a craft HANKO stamp. Want to know how to write your name in Japanese? Here are some ways to write your name in Japanese and make an o
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$159Kamakura Heritage Bike or Walk Tour with ex-Rickshaw guideDiscover the Ancient Charm of Kamakura: Private Bike or Walking Tour! Book for a unique adventure through the historical wonders of Kamakura, where you can cho
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$104Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed GuideJust south of Tokyo, lays the beautiful and historical Kamakura. Kamakura’s temples and shrines are home to gardens that are beautiful in any season. You ca
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$84Private tour in Kamakura: Matcha tea tasting & photo shootExplore Kamakura on a private 3-hour walk, guided by a professional photographer who will capture the highlights of your adventure. Meet at JR Kamakura Station,
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$50Kamakura Walking Tour - The City of ShogunExplore Kamakura's history, culture, and natural beauty with our guided walking tour. Visit iconic sites like Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the Kamakura Great B
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$152Kamakura Private Customizable Half Day TourDiscover the beauty and history of Kamakura on a fully customizable 4-hour private guided tour. From the iconic Great Buddha to serene temples, Kamakura offers
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$114Kamakura Half Day Walking Tour with Kotokuin Great BuddhaKamakura, where the first Japanese Samurais were, has a lot of historical temples, shrines, and other historic sites. It’s an international sightseeing city w
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Itineraries
Nearby
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Reviews
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5/5 - Excellent
Kamakura is a beautiful and peaceful city that offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. Famous for its Great Buddha (Daibutsu), the city is home to numerous temples and shrines, each with its own unique charm. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Hasedera Temple are just a couple of the highlights, and wandering through their serene grounds provides a sense of tranquility. The surrounding hills and beaches also offer wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Beyond its historic sites, Kamakura has a vibrant local scene with quaint cafes, shops, and restaurants. The hiking trails connecting the various temples are a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area, while the nearby Yuigahama Beach adds a coastal touch to your visit. Kamakura’s mix of spiritual sites, stunning landscapes, and charming atmosphere makes it an ideal day trip from Tokyo, offering both peaceful retreat and cultural exploration.3 weeks ago — by Wesley