Kamakura Things to Do: A Tranquil Experience

Epic things to do in Kamakura Japan 
Traveling to southern Kanagawa ken (prefecture), east-central Honshu, Japan and wondering what to do? Are you preparing an itinerary with the best places to visit in Kamakura City? Obviously, you would want to fit in the best Kamakura attractions.

We were recently in Kamakura Kanagawa and had a wonderful sightseeing spree in the city. Here is the perfectly tailored Kamakura Japan Guide that will answer your queries and help you spend a memorable day in the city.

Hasedera Temple

Best Things to Do in Kamakura Japan – The Ultimate Japan Guide Kamakura

Amidst a collection of remarkable experiences and a few missed opportunities, I’ve curated for you an itinerary for a day in Kamakura, Japan, along with a bonus two-day plan. We’ll kick off with a lineup of must-visit shrines, delve into the culinary delights that the city offers, explore the optimal timing for a visit, and round it off with recommendations on accommodations in this captivating city.

If you are booking your trip to Kamakura last minute, don’t worry. We have you covered. Here is a list of best tours that you can take while in Kamakura.

From Tokyo: Kamakura and Enoshima 1-Day Bus Tour: Take a journey back to the ancient capital of Japan, home of the Samurai. Get a taste of the scenic landscape, visit ancient shrines, and stroll around Enoshima Island, all in a single bus tour of Tokyo.

From Tokyo: Kamakura, Hachimangu Shrine & Enoshima Day Tour: Explore Japan’s rich history and heritage on a day trip from Tokyo. Discover the Buddha of Kamakura, Hachimangu Shrine, Enoden Electric Railway, Shonan Coast, Enoshima Shrine, and Komachi-dori Street.

Kamakura: Private Guided Walking Tour with Local Guide: Explore the best of Kamakura with a private guide on a 4 or 6-hour tour. Enjoy the full freedom and flexibility of customizing your own itinerary.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this blog.

What to Do in Kamakura

About Kamakura

Kamakura stands as one of Japan’s ancient capitals, sharing its historical significance with Kyoto and Nara between the 12th and 14th centuries. Serving as the seat of the Kamakura shogunate from 1185 to 1333, this coastal town rests gracefully on Sagami Bay, nestled within Honshu Island.

Renowned for its rich historical sites, seasonal landscapes adorned with vibrant flowers and foliage, and a tantalizing array of gourmet offerings, the city beckons travelers. Boasting beaches and scenic hiking trails, it’s conveniently close to Tokyo, making it a viable day-trip destination.

Komachi Street

Kamakura Things to Do

Kamakura’s wealth of temples and historical landmarks might pose a challenge for visitors short on time, making it daunting to prioritize where to explore. Streamline your itinerary and uncover the city’s highlights within a day with this comprehensive guide to Kamakura Japan.

Kamakura Shrines and Temples

The tranquil city of Kamakura is studded with temples (65) and shrines(15). I had this strong desire to see as many as I could, but that would be possible with a two-day or three-day itinerary of Kamakura City. The city has gained popularity for its tranquil atmosphere with the presence of so many temples and shrines. I’ve curated six distinct shrines that stand out in their own unique ways.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, established in 1063, is a grand Shinto shrine. Its worship hall majestically rests atop a terrace, accessible via a broad stairway, though entry into the temple itself is restricted to walking around its grounds. Positioned 2.6 km northeast of Hase station, this shrine draws local devotees and serves as a favored venue for weddings, occasionally offering glimpses of traditional ceremonies. Throughout the year, the shrine hosts various events, making each visit a potentially vibrant experience.

For an optimal experience, visit during the cherry blossom or azalea seasons.

Pro Tip: The entrance path leading to the shrine is flanked by Sakura trees, creating a picturesque spectacle during spring, offering a mesmerizing view from the shrine grounds.

Timings: open from 5 AM to 8.30 PM during April to September; from 6 AM to 8.30 PM during October to March and 24 hours from January 1-3.
Tickets: Entry to the grounds is free; 200Y for the shrine museum in the Hongu (Main Hall).

Two other important attractions are located north of Kamakura station. So, if you have time crunch decide on which side of Kamakura station you wish to explore. We took train to Hase, south of Kamakura, to visit Hasedera Shrine and then to Kotoku-in Temple.

Hasedera Temple in Kamakura

This temple is famous for the large wooden statue of Kannon (9.18m), the 11-headed goddess of mercy. It is said two sculptors carved two Kannon statues out of a sacred tree. One of them was enshrined here at Hasedera, the other was thrown into the ocean with a prayer to make it reappear and save people elsewhere. Observe carefully to see eleven heads on top of head of the main statue, the reason how it got the name “Eleven-headed Kannon”.

The observation deck provides gorgeous view of Yuhigahama, the Mura Peninsula and the Sagami Bay.

Timings: Open every day from 8 AM to 5 PM. (there are chances of temporary closure, please do check once.)
Tickets: Adults – 400Y, Children – 200Y.
Parking available for a fee. 1000Y for large vehicles for half an hour.

Kotoku-in Temple

The Daibutsu at Kotokuin is known as Kamakura Daibutsu. This is famous for the roughly 13m high bronze statue of Great Buddha. The miracle is that it is still standing after a 15th-century tsunami. Initially this statue was kept inside Daibutsu-den or the great Buddha Hall when it was completed. Sadly, the Daibutsu-den building was destroyed by earthquakes and tsunamis.

Timings: April to September – 8 AM to 5.30 PM, October to March – 8 AM to 5 PM, and admission to the interior of the Daibutsu – 8 AM to 4.30 PM.
Tickets: Adults ¥200, school students ¥150 and to enter the interior of the Daibutsu (which children enjoy a lot) ¥20.
Parking: No parking facilities.

Read more: Big Buddha Kamakura

Kotuki-in Temple

Hokokuji Temple and Bamboo Garden

To east of Kamakura Station is the Hokokuji Temple (Takedera Temple). It’s a relatively small temple but the walk along the path in the bamboo grove is recommended if you have time enough. It is worth spending some time in the Japanese landscape around the temple. Some say it is smaller but better than Arashiyama in Kyoto because you can actually walk through the grove!

Ofuna Kannonji Temple

This temple is visible from Ofuna station A short steep climb takes you to the statue of huge Kwan Yin/Goddess of Mercy’s head. The visit becomes a touching experience when you come to know that the statue incorporates stones from ground zero of Hiroshima and Nagasaki to commemorate those who died in the explosions of the atomic bombs. A fire originating from the atomic fires of Hiroshima burns in a mushroom-formed statue.

You can walk around the huge statue under the shade of trees. Not many tourists around but locals keep dropping in to offer their prayers.

Entrance fee to Kannon-ji Temple is Y300. Tour time is around half an hour.

Engaku-ji Temple

Engakuji Temple, one of the most prominent and historically significant Zen Buddhist temples, is officially known as Zuirokusan Engaku Kosho Zenji. It was founded in 1282 by Hojo Tokimune, the eighth regent of the Kamakura shogunate. The temple was established to honor the fallen soldiers who had died defending Japan against the Mongol invasions in the late 13th century.

The architecture of Engakuji Temple reflects the traditional Zen style – simple, elegant and the beautifully landscaped gardens in harmony with nature. The temple complex features several structures, including the Butsuden (Buddha Hall), Sanmon (Main Gate), Shariden (Reliquary Hall), and the serene Hojo (Abbot’s Quarters).

Today, it stands as one of the leading Zen training centers in Japan with a renowned Zen training center where monks and practitioners engage in zazen (seated meditation), sutra chanting, and other Zen rituals. If you are keen in experiencing Zen Buddhism firsthand, then this is the right place. The temple offers meditation sessions and lectures.

Timings: 8.30 Am to 4.30 PM (4 PM from Dec to Feb).
Tickets: This is a free sight. No tickets required.

Zeniarai Benten Shrine

Zeniarai Benten Shrine, also known as Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Jinja, is a unique shrine with unusual religious belief. It was founded in the 13th century by Hojo Tokiyori. The shrine is dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of wealth, fortune, and water. Locals believe the mystical powers associated with money purification. It makes them rich when they wash their money with the spring water of the shrine. So, if you are seeking blessings for financial success, then this the shrine you must visit.

The architecture of Zeniarai Benten Shrine reflects a blend of Shinto and Buddhist influences, with its vermilion-lacquered buildings and tranquil garden settings. The main hall, or honden, houses the enshrined deity and features intricate wood carvings and ornate decorations. The shrine’s design harmonizes with the surrounding natural landscape, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

Open timings: 8 AM to 4.30 PM, open all days
Tickets: It is a free sight. No tickets required.
How to reach: No public transportation available. It takes around 20–30 mins walk from each station

Kamakura Museum of Literature

This museum serves as a local event venue, as classic studies and also as a retreat house in the event of Tsunami or other natural disasters. Everything here is in Japanese though. A beautiful rose garden enhances the visit experience.

Genjiyama Park

A lush green park with many hills, located 1.5 km from Kamakura Station. There is a grand statue of Minamoto no Yoritomo. We recommend that you bring a good pair of walking shoes.

Address: 4 Chome-649-1 Ogigayatsu, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa-ken

Beaches in Kamakura

Yuigahama Beach on Sagami Bay is a place you must hit if you are looking for some water-based adventure. It is a popular surfing spot.

Kamakura Walking Tour

Suggested tours: Do check out these well-tailored walking tour of Kamakura Japan:

• Exciting Kamakura – One Day Tour from Tokyo
• Kamakura Traditional Private Geisha Experience and Banquet Show
• Private Car Tour to see Highlights of Kamakura, Enoshima, Yokohama from Tokyo
• Kamakura Walking Tour – The City of Shogun

Where to eat in Kamakura

Komachidora Street near Kamakura station is a great place to taste the local dishes. Komachi-dori Street is not just about shopping and dining; it’s about immersing oneself in Kamakura’s rich cultural heritage and embracing the vibrant energy of this enchanting destination.

Restaurant Kaikoan in Hasedera Temple serves meals prepared according to teachings of monks for vegetarian cuisine. If you are seeking vegetarian food in Kamakura, you know where to go. They serve you Temple Pasta, Vegan meat pasta, Temple Curry and Daikichi Dango. Open between 10 AM to 4 PM.

Teraya Café just outside the ticket office of Hasedera temple offers variety of drinks made from carefully selected coffee beans and special soft serve ice cream.

What to eat in Kamakura

Shirasu – Kamakura is surrounded by the sea in one side. So, you can expect ample fish-based dishes. Most popular among them, the local specialty is shirasu (white bait). Shirasu is the name for small, young, white sardines, and Kamakura’s location close to the sea makes it the perfect spot to try them. The Suruga Bay fed by the Fuji, Abe, and Oi rivers attracts vast amounts of plankton. It is known as one of the leading whitebait fishing grounds in Japan. I had this in the breakfast buffet of the hotel we were staying. Tastes yumm with hot rice and some sauce if you prefer.

Shirasu – Kamakura delicacy

Ichigo Dango – A popular dessert, Kamakura street food, is ichigo dango, which is strawberry mochi (rice cake) balls on a stick. These beautifully decorated, chewy rice cakes are layered with sweet fresh strawberries to offer a delicious mix of textures and flavors. I had the green motcha on a stick in Komachidora street.

Best time to Visit Kamakura

Kamakura is surrounded by sea and mountains. That gives you an excellent opportunity to experience all 4 seasons. The city has plenty of flower themed gardens and paths. You can visit anytime around the year and you will be greeted with different flowering trees and plants.

During Spring the Yoshino cherry trees and rhododendrons are gracefully lining up the pathways and streets. During Summer there are the Chinese trumpet vines and crape myrtle trees.

Come Autumn and you will see plenty of Japanese clovers and delightful leaf color change. Winter isn’t boring either. There are the Christmas/Yuletide camellia and dancing daffodils.

In the rainy season you can enjoy the competition of more than 40 varieties of Hydrangeas along the Prospect Path in Hasedera Temple.

Where to stay in Kamakura

If you are city hopping in Japan and you plan to visit Kamakura just for a day then the best deal would be to take up a hotel near the station. Here are some suggestions

Budget Hotels

We had a comfortable stay in Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kamakura, 4-minute walk from Ōfuna train station.

Hotel Mets Kamakura Ofuna, 6-minute walk from Ofuna train station.

Luxury Hotel

Guesthouse Dohei – 3-star hotel with a good 4.4 rating in Google. 19 minutes walking distance from Ofuna station.

Green motcha in Komachi Street

Kamakura day trip from Tokyo

If you plan to travel from Tokyo or halt for a night in Ofuna, you can plan the Kamakura Day trip with these attractions and activities. Mine was something similar.

A snapshot of one-day Itinerary of Kamakura City

• Breakfast in hotel
• Hasedera Temple
• Snack break in Teraya Café just outside the ticket office of Hasedera temple
• Kotuki-in
• Lunch in Komachidera street
• Hokokuji Temple
• Ofuna Kannonji Temple near Ofuna station
• Take train back to Tokyo.

For two-day itinerary of Kamakura

Day 1.

• Breakfast in hotel
• Kotuki-in Temple
• Hasedera Temple
• Lunch in Restaurant Kaikoan in Hasedera Temple
• Yuigahama Beach on Sagami Bay for surfing
• Back to Hotel

Day 2.

• Breakfast in hotel
• Hokokuji Temple
• Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
• Lunch in Komachidori street
• Kencho-ji Temple
• Engakuji Temple
• Ofuna Kannonji Temple near Ofuna station
• Retire to hotel or take train back to Tokyo.

How to reach Kamakura from Tokyo

Reaching the City is relatively easy due to its proximity to Tokyo. Distance from Tokyo to Kamakura is 62.6 km. Here are some common ways to get there:

By Train:

• From Tokyo: Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station or the Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku Station to Kamakura Station. The train ride takes approximately 1 hour.
• From Yokohama: You can also take the JR Yokosuka Line directly to the city from Yokohama Station. The journey usually takes around 25-30 minutes.

By Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway): From Fujisawa: If you’re coming from the Enoshima area or Fujisawa, the Enoden line runs to Kamakura. It’s a charming, slower train that provides a scenic coastal route. JR pass doesn’t cover this.

By Car: Driving is also an option. From Tokyo, it’s around a 1 hour or a little more drive, depending on traffic. Caution: parking in Kamakura can be limited, especially on busy days.

By Bus: There are highway buses that connect the two cities. The journey takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): While the shinkansen doesn’t directly stop in Kamakura, you can take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Yokohama and transfer to a JR Yokosuka Line train to reach Kamakura.

Opting for the train is often the most convenient mode of transportation due to its efficiency and frequency of services.

What is the meaning of Kamakura in Japanese?

The origin of the name Kamakura is connected to the fact that the place being surrounded on three sides by mountains, was likened both to a cooking hearth (kamado, kama) and to a warehouse (kura), because both only have one side open. Thus, the name.

Is Kamakura worth visiting?

Kamakura City makes an ideal travel destination for its historic spots, seasonal flowers and foliage, and gourmet. There are beaches and hiking trails too. The city is near enough to Tokyo that you could cover it with a day trip.

How many days are required for Kamakura sightseeing?

One day is sufficient in Kamakura if you pick and choose the varied experiences here well. For a laid-back vacation in the city, I have planned two-day itinerary too, scroll down for that.

Kamakura City Map

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about planning a trip to Kamakura City, Japan

How do I get to Kamakura from Tokyo?

Kamakura is easily accessible from Tokyo by train. You can take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station or the Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku Station. The journey takes approximately one hour.

What are the must-visit temples and shrines in Kamakura?

Some of the must-visit temples and shrines include Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kotoku-in Temple (home of the Great Buddha), Hasedera Temple, and Engakuji Temple.

Is it possible to explore Kamakura in a day?

Yes, it’s possible to explore the major landmarks of Kamakura in a day trip from Tokyo. However, to truly experience all that the city has to offer, consider spending a night or two in the area.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Kamakura?

Kamakura offers several outdoor activities such as hiking trails in the surrounding hills, beach activities at Yuigahama and Zaimokuza beaches, and exploring the nature trails at Meigetsu-in Temple.

Are there any seasonal events or festivals in Kamakura?

Kamakura hosts several seasonal events and festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Kamakura Matsuri (Kamakura Festival) held in April, featuring parades and traditional performances.

Can I rent a bicycle to explore Kamakura?

Yes, renting a bicycle is a popular way to explore Kamakura. There are several rental shops near Station where you can rent bicycles for the day.

What are some traditional Japanese foods to try in Kamakura?

The city offers a variety of traditional Japanese foods. Some must-try dishes include Kamakura-style shirasu-don (rice bowl topped with small fish), Kamakura vegetables, and traditional sweets like yubeshi (citrus-flavored rice cakes).

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Indrani Ghose is an Indian Travel Writer and Blogger based in Bangalore, India. She has written for numerous publications across the globe – including Lonely Planet, The National UAE, Whetstone Asia, Deccan Herald. You can follow her on her social media handles Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook to see the wonderful destinations, beautiful offbeat places and get instant updates about them.