day trip kamakura

The Perfect Kamakura Day Trip From Tokyo (One Day Itinerary)

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Planning to take a Kamakura day trip from Tokyo? We’ve put together the perfect one day itinerary for first-time visitors!

Kamakura is a picturesque town with an ocean view, old shrines and temples, and delicious local food. Located in Kanagawa Prefecture, around one hour away from Tokyo and Yokohama, this place is the perfect getaway for those who would like to escape the busy streets of the big cities for a while.

In the aftermath of the Gempei War (1180 – 1185), the first shogun of Japan (Minamoto no Yoritomo) made Kamakura the capital of his military government which lasted for over a century. In Japan, this era is known as the Kamakura Period (1185 – 1333).

Knowing this, it probably won’t come as a surprise that Kamakura turned into a flourishing town. Today, it’s known for its many temples, beaches and hydrangea flowers blooming in June.

Planning the perfect trip to Kamakura is not easy, as it depends highly on the season which temples and shrines are especially worth visiting. We’ve put together this guide to show you where to go to enjoy one day in Kamakura regardless of the time of the year. Let’s take a look!

• 9. Take the train back to Tokyo 

Kamakura Day Trip Overview & Map

No time to read the full guide? No problem! Here is a quick overview of the Enoshima and Kamakura day trip itinerary and a map with all points of interest:

One Day Kamakura Itinerary 

Here is how you can make the most out of a day trip to Kamakura including Enoshima. 

1. Travel to Kamakura from Tokyo 

Kamakura is easily accessible from Tokyo via the Odakyu or Yokosuka Line . Make sure to depart in the early morning as most temples and shrines in Kamakura and Enoshima close around 4PM or 5PM.

The Yokosuka Line departs from Tokyo Station (with stops in Shimbashi, Shinagawa and Yokohama along the way) and will directly bring you to Kamakura Station for around 900 Yen. 

If you’ve purchased the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass , you have to board the train from Shinjuku. This special ticket gives you unlimited train rides on the Odakyu and Enoden Line for 24 hours and discounts for participating facilities in the designated area. 

As this guide assumes that you’ll have only one day to explore the whole area and see the most important places in a convenient order, it will follow an itinerary starting from Shinjuku Station via the Odakyu Line, going to Enoshima and then to Kamakura.

2. Arrive at Katase-Enoshima Station  

The train ride to Katase-Enoshima Station , the last stop on the Odakyu Enoshima Line, will take you a little bit more than one hour.

The architecture of the station building is fairly unique and definitely worth some attention upon arrival. It’s a recreation of the underwater palace of the ancient dragon deity Ryūjin – a well-known figure in traditional Japanese folklore.

From Katase-Enoshima Station you need no more than a 10-minute walk to reach Enoshima.

Tip : Since there aren’t any convenience stores in Enoshima, you might want to buy some snacks or drinks near the station beforehand (if you haven’t already in Tokyo). But no need to worry! You won’t face any trouble finding street food stalls or restaurants on the island. 

3. Explore Enoshima

Enoshima is a small island off the coast of Japan – a 30-minute train ride away from Kamakura – and has been a source of inspiration for some of the famous 19th-century woodblock prints by Katsushika Hokusai and Utagawa Hiroshige, as well as local myths.

According to legend, Enoshima was created when a dragon with five heads tormented the people of Koshigoe and stole their children. For many days, dense clouds formed over the sea near the coast until an island rose from the troubled waters, summoned by a heavenly maiden called Benzaiten who soothed the dragon’s temper.

Your first stop on Enoshima will be Nakamise Street . Shops on this narrow slope alley mainly sell street food and souvenirs. Particularly popular among visitors are Tako Senbei – octopus-flavoured crackers that are at least seven times the size of a regular Japanese Senbei. 

Walking up the alley you’ll eventually reach the entrance gate of Enoshima-jinja , the main shrine of the island dedicated to Benzaiten. You can either climb up the staircase or buy an escalator ticket to reach the shrine and the higher locations. Either way, just keep following the path uphill from here.

With some smaller observatory terraces surrounded by trees, and the sea peeking through the greenery here and there on the way, Enoshima is an utterly beautiful and scenic destination with many photo-worthy spots.

For a view from high above, enter Samuel Cocking Garden on the top of Enoshima. With the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass, you can get a discount for the Enoshima Sea Candle . This is a 60-metre-high observatory tower in the botanical garden. Facing West, you can even spot Mt. Fuji on the horizon if you visit on a nearly cloudless day.

Before returning to Nakamise Street, explore the sharp-edged cliffs and gloomy caves in the southwestern corner of Enoshima. Among the most famous spots are Enoshima Iwaya Cave , which was naturally carved by the sea, and Yama Futatsu , two mountains scenically framing the ocean waves in the background. Or ring the Dragon Love Bell , a memorial in honour of the Enoshima legend.

In total, you should not spend more than 2–3 hours on the island given that you want to explore both Enoshima and Kamakura in one day. If you prefer to explore more temples in Kamakura (see number 7 ), you can also skip or cut short on Enoshima by going directly to Hase-dera via the Enoden Line.

4. Take the train to Hase-Dera 

After leaving Enoshima, hop on the Enoden Line and lean back for around 20 minutes until you reach Hase Station. Hase-Dera lies within walking distance of the train station, around 5 minutes on foot. A discount on the admission fee is included in the Freepass.

With its beautiful garden behind the entrance, small koi carp ponds and a wooden terrace with an ocean view close to the main hall of the temple, Hase-Dera is an ideal place to take a small break. 

The temple itself was built in the 8th century. It’s home to an eleven-headed gilded statue of Kannon, the Japanese goddess of mercy, measuring approximately 10 metres in height. 

Also known as a worthwhile hydrangea spot in June, Hase-Dera has a trail entirely lined by these blue-purple flowers. Due to its narrowness, access to the hydrangea path is limited to those who possess a separate numbered ticket. You can get one at the temple entrance.

5. Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura

The Great Buddha (or Kamakura Daibutsu) is arguably the most representative landmark of Kamakura. From Hase-Dera you can reach Kōtoku-in, the temple that is home to this huge monument built in the 13th century, within 10 minutes on foot.

With 13.35 metres in height including the base, it is one of the biggest bronze Buddha statues in Japan. Even though this is an impressive and must-see sight, there is not much to see in Kōtoku-in, so you won’t need a lot of time to visit this place.

6. Stroll around Komachi Street 

After leaving Kōtoku-in, go back to Hase Station and take the Enoden Line to Kamakura Station. The train ride will take you only 5 minutes. 

Adjacent to Kamakura Station lies Komachi Street , a small alley with lots of restaurants, cafés and shops that sell all sorts of local specialities and souvenirs. It’s the perfect opportunity to savour some good food and get familiar with the local cuisine.

Kanagawa Prefecture is famous for Namashirasu-don , a rice bowl topped with raw whitebait – tiny sardines that are mild in flavour and creamy in texture. You’ll find this tasty dish in restaurants everywhere across Kamakura and Enoshima. 

7. Explore the temples of Kamakura

Depending on how long you spent exploring Enoshima, you might not have time to see the other temples around Kamakura. However, if you do, there are tons to choose from. Our favourites include Hokoku-ji, Meigetsu-in, and Kenchō-ji.

All of the temples below are located northeast of Kamakura Station, which means they are not accessible by the Odakyu or Enoden Line (and therefore not included in the Freepass). 

Hokoku-ji is famous for its bamboo grove and tea house. From Kamakura Station, you can reach this temple in around 10 minutes by bus or 30 minutes on foot. 

Meigetsu-in is one of the most frequently visited temples of Kamakura in June, thanks to all of the hydrangea flowers blooming during the rainy season. It’s also known for the round window of the main temple hall, majestically framing the view of the garden behind it. Going there from Kamakura Station will either take you 10 minutes by train (with arrival at Kita-Kamakura Station) or 30 minutes walking on foot.

Established in 1253, Kenchō-ji is known to be the oldest and most important Zen temple of Kamakura, rich in history and a hoard of multiple national treasures of Japan. 

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8. Watch the sunset in Inamuragasaki

Depending on how favourable the weather conditions on the day of your visit are, watching the sunset by the ocean is the perfect way to end this Kamakura itinerary. 

Take the Enoden Line from Kamakura Station to Inamuragasaki Station and walk to Cape Inamuragasaki , an often overlooked destination in Kamakura. You’ll pass by Inamuragasaki Station on your way back to Fujisawa Station, which makes a detour to this spot before returning to Tokyo fairly easy.

While walking along the shore, take in the view of the sea and the mountains on the horizon. For an even better view, hike up the stairs of Inamuragasaki Park . On a clear day, you’ll be gifted with a fantastic view of Mt. Fuji!

9. Take the train back to Tokyo 

After watching the sunset, it’s time to go back to Tokyo. Take the Enoden Line from Inamuragasaki Station to Fujisawa Station and board the Odakyu Line back to Shinjuku. You can check out the train schedules for the Odakyu Line bound for Shinjuku on their official website.

If you don’t use the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass and want to go back to Tokyo directly from Kamakura Station, you can also return by using the JR Yokosuka Line. 

What is the best season to visit Kamakura? 

No matter if it’s for chasing plum and cherry blossoms in spring, an extensive autumn stroll through a temple garden or taking a picture of the Great Buddha on a snowy day – a trip to Kamakura is beautiful during any season.

Yet, one of the most magical times to visit Kamakura must be the hydrangea season . Throughout June, famous temples like Meigetsu-in (also known as the hydrangea temple), Hase-Dera and other spots are covered in copious amounts of blue, pink and purple.

You can find out more about the seasons in Kamakura on the city’s official tourism website.

How to get to Kamakura from Tokyo 

As previously outlined, there are multiple ways to conveniently get from Tokyo to Kamakura.

You can either board the train from Shinjuku Station, take the Odakyu Line to Fujisawa Station and transfer to the Enoden Line to arrive in Kamakura. If you go all the way to Katase-Enoshima Station you need to walk a couple of minutes to Enoshima Station and board the Enoden Line from there. 

Or you can directly go to Kamakura by JR Yokosuka Line departing from Tokyo Station, as well as Shinagawa, Shimbashi and Yokohama Station. If you do so, you can use the JR Pass .

Is Kamakura worth a day trip? 

Yes, a day trip to Kamakura from Tokyo is totally worth it. Kamakura is a beautiful town with a long history, serene temples and a lovely view of the ocean. If you only have one day to dedicate to it in your Japan itinerary , you can definitely see a lot of the main sights.

However, one day will not be enough to see everything. Temples and shrines, as well as most shops and restaurants, tend to close early, so expect to visit all the important sights between 8AM and 5PM .

While going to Enoshima and Kamakura in one day is certainly possible, it might be bit too packed for people who like slow travelling. If you prefer taking your time exploring cities, consider adding an extra day to your Kamakura itinerary.

Is the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass worth it for one day? 

The Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass gives you unlimited train rides on the Odakyu and Enoden Line for 24 hours. On top of that, there are discounts for some facilities and sights in and around the Enoshima and Kamakura area.

The Freepass is available for 1.640 Yen from Shinjuku or 840 Yen from Fujisawa. Normally, a round trip from Shinjuku to Enoshima by Odakyu Line costs around 1.200 Yen. In addition, every single train ride in the designated area comes at an expense of around 200 Yen.

If you ride the train at least three more times and save money through discounts on some local attractions, the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass will be worth it for one day. And if you’re planning to follow this Enoshima and Kamakura day trip itinerary, we definitely recommend it!

However, don’t forget you’ll be limited to the Odakyu and Enoden Line. If you want to see temples such as Meigetsu-in that are located further away from these lines, you might have to pay for buses or extra train rides up to Kita-Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line. 

On your way back, you’ll also have to take the Odakyu Line to return to Shinjuku instead of going directly from Kamakura Station via the Yokosuka Line, so calculate a little extra time for that.

Conclusion – One Day in Kamakura 

Kamakura is a great destination for a day trip from Tokyo. Even though it’s hardly possible to see everything in only one day in Kamakura, you’ll have enough time to cover a few sights, savour some good food and enjoy the ocean view.

If you have a little bit more time on your hands, you won’t regret staying in the area for two days. That way, you’ll be able to thoroughly explore both Enoshima and Kamakura.

If you’re looking for more day trips from Tokyo, check out our guides on how to spend one day in Nikko and Hakone .

Sabrina holds a bachelor’s degree in Japanese Studies and has spent the past one and a half years studying in Germany, Japan, and Korea as a graduate student in Transnational European and East Asian Studies. In 2018, her journey led her to Kyoto where she experienced Japan’s traditional side for twelve months. Currently living near Tokyo, she enjoys her free time reading novels, trying all things matcha, and exploring the 47 prefectures of her favourite country.

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4 thoughts on “The Perfect Kamakura Day Trip From Tokyo (One Day Itinerary)”

Hey Sabrina, Navigatio team, your info was super helpful and pretty much covered all my questions. This page has been a lifesaver for planning my first-ever trip to Kamakura and Japan this November!! thank you! 💗✨ anyway, quick questions of these Kamakura trip: 1. Should I still get the Kamakura free pass if I already have a Suica card? I’ll be traveling from Shinjuku 2. I’m really keen on catching some sea views from the train while traveling around the region. Any tips or recommendations for that? Thanks a ton!

Hi Devita! Thank you for your lovely words, that means a lot to our team! Regarding your questions:

1. You can use both the Kamakura Free Pass or your Suica card to travel to Kamakura – however, since the Kamakura Free Pass includes a return ride from Tokyo and unlimited rides on the public transport in Kamakura, it can work out cheaper to use this 🙂 2. The Enoden Line would be a good shout – especially near Kamakura Koko Mae Station, which is located next to the beachfront!

i want to do a daytrip to Hakone from Kamakura is it worth the 2.5 hr train one way. i am most interested in the Hakone shrine, ship on lake Ashi, ropeway. outdoor museum. my primary interest is not soaking in a hot spring.

That’s definitely doable 🙂 I have a separate one day Hakone itinerary on the website too – that may help with this 🙂

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A Tokyo Travel Guide

Kamakura Day Trip Itinerary

Make the most of a day out in the charming coastal town of Kamakura, only 1 hour from Tokyo, with our Kamakura Day Trip Itinerary.

Kamakura has been called “Little Kyoto” by many, not least because of its numerous temples and shrines around the area. It’s a charming little coastal town, with hiking trails and sights aplenty. Located just an hour outside of Tokyo, it makes a fantastic day trip outside the capital. Make the most of a day out in Kamakura with this itinerary.

Notes Before You Go

• A direct, one-way journey from Tokyo Station costs JPY920 one way. Use an IC card or purchase tickets from the machines outside the JR station barriers. The journey is an hour each way.
• We suggest aiming to arrive by around 8:30am. This will give you a full day there, with ample time to explore at a leisurely pace.
• Itinerary timings are approximate. Adjust them to suit your schedule. Add or subtract places from this itinerary as you prefer, but it’s generally better to enjoy a few places properly than to sprint through many places.
• This itinerary is a guideline. There are far more temples and shrines than can be realistically included for a comfortable day out; this is one that’s on the leisurely side of days out. But it’s easily adjustable, and is meant to allow for enough time to shop and explore. If you like walking, throw in a hiking trail or visit a few more temples, such as Meigetsuin or Engakuji Temple near Kita-Kamakura Station.
• This is a walking itinerary. Although you can reduce the amount of walking by taking the Enoden train or even buses at times, there’s still plenty of walking involved. Short of renting a bicycle, it’s one of the best ways to explore Kamakura. Put on your most comfortable shoes and give it a shot.

Kamakura Itinerary

Here is our full one-day itinerary. Scroll to the bottom of this page to find a Google map which has the whole route and all the places mentioned marked on it.

7:30am JR Tokyo Station

Start at any JR gate in Tokyo Station. We’ve taken the underground Marunouchi entrance in this case.

You’ll be looking for the signs pointing to the Yokosuka Line. Platforms for trains on this line are located several floors below, so if you’re heading on a downward escalator, you’re most likely going in the right direction.

Trains on Platforms 1 and 2 are bound for Zushi, while trains on Platform 3 and 4 are bound for Narita .

Look for platforms 1 and 2 heading towards Zushi. You’ll know they’re the right ones when you see “via Kamakura” written next to the final destination on the signboard.

In the morning, trains towards Kamakura depart frequently - around every 5 minutes - so you won’t be left waiting too long before the next train arrives. You will be traveling during rush hour, so expect to be surrounded by commuters in black suits. Many will alight at Shinagawa Station, and again at Musashi-Kosugi Station, so you’ll have some room to breathe then. Grab a seat while you can, because the journey from Tokyo to Kamakura takes about an hour.

8:30am Breakfast in Kamakura

Once you’ve arrived at Kamakura Station, the first order of the day is to have breakfast - or, at the very least, coffee. You deserve it after surviving an hour of Tokyo’s morning rush. You can grab coffee, pastries and onigiri (rice balls) at several places near the station.

9:15am Tsurugaoka Hachimangū

Now that you’ve fueled up, it’s time to head over to Tsurugaoka Hachimangū - Kamakura’s most important shrine. Dedicated to Hachiman, the tutelary god of warriors, the shrine complex was moved to its current site in 1180 and has remained there since. It is also the reason Kamakura has no tall buildings - none of the structures in town are allowed to tower above the shrine.

There are two ways to reach the shrine - either via the main approach, or the shopping street. The latter will likely mean many stops for window shopping.

The scenic and less distracting route is via the main approach. Exit the station, turn left at the McDonald’s into the shopping street, marked by a large torii gate.

Walk straight for a block. Take the next right. You’ll come out to the main road. Cross the road at the traffic lights just to your left.

You’ll arrive at the main approach to the shrine, marked by a large torii gate.

Walk up the main approach, and the shrine will come into view.

If you need to shop, it may be worth visiting the shrine first and then returning this way via the shopping street.

Entrance to Tsuruoka Hachimangu is free. The shrine complex is much larger than it appears. While visitors tend to crowd around the main buildings, it is very pleasurable to duck off the main drag, either to the left or right, accessible via the red curved bridges.

You’ll find quiet paths flanked by babbling brooks and small canals, ponds filled with vivid orange and white koi, and depending on the season, lotuses. Take some time on the benches in front of the pond to enjoy the view.

In February, there’ll be a peony garden right next to the entrance of the shrine on the right, accessible for an additional JPY500 or so. It is entirely worth the additional entrance fee.

10:15am Myohonji

Myohonji is one of the oldest Nichiren Buddhist temples in Kamakura. Spacious and imposing, the temple complex is flanked by mountains and connected to the Gionyama hiking trails. Because it’s relatively far from the beaten tourist track and requires a little walking through the backstreets to get there, there are usually fewer visitors, and can be beautifully tranquil on weekday mornings. (That being said, it doesn’t make that much difference when the autumn leaves are out in full force.)

Exit the shrine and head back down the way you came. This time, instead of walking down the central approach, stay on the left side of the road. You’ll pass Verve Coffee Roasters and Maruyama Coffee - perfect for another caffeine break.

At the traffic lights at ニノ鳥居前 Ninotorii-mae, turn left. You’ll know when you see the Family Mart on your left.

Walk until you reach a T-junction. Turn left. Walk past 7-11 then take the next right - it’s a small street just after 7-11, pictured above.

Cross the small bridge and take the next right turn. The entrance to Myohonji is a short walk ahead to the left.

When you see the gate pictured above - it will be on your right - turn left and walk up to find the Myohonji temple complex.

There’s much to see on the temple grounds. Take a moment to sit down and examine the joinery of the temples eaves - it’s remarkable just how intricate it is.

If you’re lucky, one of the priests will be conducting the morning prayers. The sound of the prayer bell and chanting, the birds chirping in the surrounding forest, dappled sunlight filtering through the trees… visiting Myohonji is like a personal meditation retreat.

11:15am Walking to Lunch

It’s not quite time for lunch, but once you’ve walked the distance there it will be.

First, retrace your steps to the bottom of the Myohonji temple complex. At the kindergarten, turn left into the narrow road.

Keep walking straight. Stop by a shrine or two on the way, if you like. When you reach the main road, turn right.

This section of road up till the Geba Crossing is not a designated shopping street like Komachi-dori Shopping Street near the station, which makes it delightfully non-touristy. (For now.) At first glance it looks bereft, with old houses and little else. But as always, first impressions are misleading. You’ll want to spend some time walking and exploring the numerous little shops and cafes on both sides of the street, on your way to the next destination.

I do suggest a particular spot for lunch later in this itinerary. But, there are lunch options a-plenty along this street for you to discover and walk into. There’s a small Korean diner that conducts fermentation workshops; an organic vegetable cafe tucked away in the back of an old machiya house; a dilapidated-looking Chinese-style noodle shop with many regulars slurping away.

Then there’s all the other shops ranging from old-school bakeries to ceramic shops. My favorite was a meticulously curated stationery store filled with ultra-cute, gift-worthy items - like tiny envelopes, cheerful postcards and stickers. This is a real slice of local Kamakura that’s worth slowing down for.

12:30pm Lunch at Soba Bar Fukuya

Keep walking along this road. You will pass two large train crossings, and a large intersection (Geba Crossing) with Mobil and Softbank on the left side.

The soba bar will be on your left shortly after the second railway crossing, on the ground floor of Hostel Yuigahama.

It is hard to overstate how much I like Soba Bar Fukuya’s Yamagata-style noodles. Their noodles are the closest approximation I can get in this part of Japan without actually hopping on a bus up north. They serve rustic, slightly thick-cut buckwheat noodles with meat (niku soba), or my personal favourite, tori chuka, ramen noodles in chicken broth.

It's said in Japan that noodle connoisseurs tend to have their soba cold regardless of the weather, in order to better appreciate the firm, al dente texture of each slurp. Even in the depths of winter. Yes, I recommend having them stone cold, even in February. A deep, sweet, dashi and chicken-rich broth that’s long on flavour and short on fat is fantastic when cold.

Jiggly soba pudding makes a great, not-too-sweet end to lunch.

A few other recommended restaurants along the way are marked on the accompanying Google Maps.

1:15pm Walking to Hasedera Temple

Finding Hasedera Temple is simple: exit the soba bar and turn left. Walk along the main road until you reach the temple. Alternatively, take the Enoden two stations down, from Wadazuka Station (a short walk from the soba bar) to Hase Station.

Between the soba bar and Hasedera is approximately 1.3km of walking. You could skip this, but I do recommend going on foot. As you may have surmised, there’s plenty in the way charming shops and buildings to explore.

Crafts, antiques, French patisseries, kooky curry cafes, secondhand kimono, sundry shops, blue-and-white ceramics and indigo-dyed clothes - even if you’re not a hardcore shopper, it’s still fun to browse and get a feel for this part of town.

At the end of the road, when you can’t go any further, you’ll arrive at Hasedera Temple. Like every other major temple in Kamakura, it’s clearly signposted. Entry to the temple is JPY300.

You could easily spend around 45 minutes exploring the temple grounds. It's home to all kinds of little nooks and crannies, and charming little statues and decorations. Crawl into the cave housing hundreds of tiny Benzaiten statues, stroll around the lotus pond, or enter a small temple hall at the top and spin the prayer wheels. Take your time here,and watch out for kite hawks above.

Give yourself enough time to climb to the top of the temple and enjoy the view of Kamakura from above. If the timing’s right and you’re here during the rainy season, walking along “Prospect Road” is a must. This hyperbolically-named path is a small walking loop built into the hillside at the top of the temple. It’ll be clearly marked and you’ll spot the gorgeous hydrangea bushes a mile away.

3:00pm Kotokuji Temple

Once you’re finished with Hasedera Temple, it’s time to head to the final stop of the day - Kotoku-in Temple, which houses Kamakura’s Great Buddha.

Head back towards the main road from the entrance of the temple. If you’d like a quick coffee break, turn left into the road just before the intersection. The turning is pictured above.

Kannon Coffee is a great little place to refuel with coffee, cookies, or handheld crepes. You can also save this for a later pit stop after visiting the next temple.

Once you’re on the main road, turn left. Cross the road now or later on, but you’re heading up the gently inclining Daibutsu shopping street. You can’t miss this either: there will most likely be tourist buses roaring up and down the road, and a steady stream of other visitors coming to and from the temple. Keep walking until you see the entrance to Kotoku-in Temple.

It’s a reasonably spacious temple, but the main thing to see here really is the Great Buddha. For an additional 10 yen, you can enter the statue itself, which is really quite impressive.

Exit the temple and meander back down the shopping street in the direction of Hasedera Temple.

At this point, you can either stop for coffee or ice cream at one of the numerous cafes and shops along the road. Or, if it’s already that time of the evening, have an early dinner. (Or you can do all of the above. No one is judging.)

4:00pm Returning to Kamakura Station

To return to Kamakura Station, walk back along the shopping street leading away from Hasedera Temple and turn left at the intersection with Mobil on it.

Alternatively, walk to Hase Station on the Enoden line. From Daibutsu Shopping Street, keep walking straight, with the ocean in front of you. In a few minutes, you’ll see train tracks in front of you. Hase Station is to the left on the tracks. Buy a ticket here and hop on the train bound for Kamakura Station. Trains depart regularly.

However, if the timing’s right, you don’t take the train back to Kamakura Station just yet. Walk over to the beach straight past Hase Station, find a spot, and enjoy the sunset.

Once you’ve reached Kamakura Station, you can transfer to the JR lines and retrace your morning’s journey to take the Yokosuka Line back to Tokyo Station.

Itinerary Bonus

If you have time to spare by the time you’ve visited the Big Buddha and you’re feeling particularly fit and energetic, we recommend hiking back to Kamakura Station via Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine to finish your day trip here.

This hiking course is around 2.2km and takes around 75 minutes to complete, but I’d estimate a little more time and distance than this, since you’ll have to walk to the start of the route, and then onwards to Kamakura Station after visiting the shrine. This option is only recommended if you have appropriate footwear and you’re reasonably confident about hiking. We can’t really recommend doing the hike when it’s raining. This will also take you back to Kamakura Station, so you can either eat your evening meal in the area or return to Tokyo for dinner.

Once you exit Kotokuji Temple, turn right and follow the road upwards, away from the direction you came in.

You’ll know you’re going the right way when you see signs like the one above. As the picture suggests, take the staircase before the tunnel when you see it.

The hiking course is very clearly signposted, and it’s pretty much impossible to stray from the designated path. It begins with a moderately stiff climb and alternates between flat, gentle sections with steeper uphills and downhills - you’re essentially crossing a small mountain to get to the other side.

There’ll be a sign every few hundred meters, as though to reassure you that you’re on the right track. (If only life was the same way!)

Around 700m in, you’ll see a sign pointing to a cafe.

Following the sign will take you to a charming terraced cafe set into the hillside, overlooking the trees below. (You could drive here from the other side and walk in through the front door - but where’s the fun in that?) It’s a nice place for a mid-hike cup of tea.

Otherwise, continue along the hiking path towards the shrine.

Enter the shrine through a chilly, low, echoey tunnel.

The idea at this shrine is to wash your money in its waters, as it’s said that this will cause it to return to you fivefold when spent. Visitors don’t just wash coins here. You’ll see some people rinsing stacks of paper notes, and then drying them carefully with handkerchiefs afterwards! Spend them wisely and what you’ve spent will return to you quintupled. Let’s hope that’s true.

Once you’ve explored the shrine, continue walking down the hill. Keep following the signposts to Kamakura Station. You’ll know you’re going the right way when you begin to hear more cars and see more tiny cafes. You’ll also pass a Starbucks on your left, a sure sign that you’re nearing a station. Eventually, you’ll reach the West Exit of Kamakura Station, where you can buy a ticket that’ll take you home to Tokyo.

Kamakura Day Trip Map

View the full size version of our Kamakura map which has each of the places discussed above marked on it

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Recommended Accommodation for Kamakura

Although Kamakura is an easy day trip from Tokyo, you might want to slow down and spend a night there. This will give you a break from the city and allow you to explore the area in more depth. Here are some recommended accommodations.

• Kamakura Prince Hotel (View on Booking.com or Agoda.com ) This hotel is located at Shichirigahama Beach, a few stops down from Kamakura Station on the Enoden line. It’s just far enough from the tourist hotspots but close enough that they’re very accessible. The hotel rooms are brightly lit, with floor-to-ceiling windows; some have panoramic ocean views, making for beautiful sunsets from your bed. Highly recommended for those looking for somewhere comfortable and a little special.
• Kamakura Park Hotel (View on Booking.com or Agoda.com ) A European-style hotel located 5 minutes away from the beach on foot. Both Japanese and Western-style rooms with stunning ocean views are available at this hotel. A spa is also available on-site for guests who just want to relax. Major temples and stations - Hasedera Temple and Hase Station, for instance - are located within 10-12 minutes walking distance from the hotel. They also offer bicycle and car rental services. If you are checking out but exploring for the day, the 24-hour front desk also offers luggage storage.
• Inn By The Sea Kamakura (View on Booking.com or Agoda.com ) Run by Helen and Hisashi, this cozy and friendly guesthouse is a short walk from Yuigahama Beach and features Japanese-style guest rooms with tatami floors and traditional futon bedding. Stays can include breakfasts, and they are usually happy to cater to special eating requirements with detailed advance notice.
• Hostel YUIGAHAMA + SOBA BAR (View on Booking.com or Agoda.com ) A clean, brightly-lit, welcoming guesthouse with an excellent soba bar on the ground floor. Previously a Japanese-style storehouse, the building was renovated, with one cozy double room and several dormitory-style rooms. It’s an 8-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station and a 10-minute walk from the beach. They also offer bicycle rental.
• Kiyaza Kamakura Resort (View on Booking.com ) A brightly-lit, charming guesthouse situated 3 minutes away from the beach. Both dormitory beds and private rooms are available, and depending on your group numbers you can choose either Japanese or Western-style rooms. Enjoy the garden, hang out with a drink on the terrace, or chat to other guests at the bar. It’s great if you’re looking for a reasonably priced but quiet place a little further away from the main tourist spots.

Tokyo Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Tokyo guide
• Check Tokyo accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Tokyo
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Tokyo to Osaka and Tokyo to Hiroshima
• You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Compare airline flight prices and timings for the best Japan flight deals . Check my guides to arriving at Narita Airport and at Haneda Airport .
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Tokyo much easier - here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Tokyo District Map

• Imperial Palace Area
• Tokyo Station
• Shimbashi Shiodome Hamamatsucho Shinagawa
• Akihabara Kanda
• Roppongi Akasaka
• Harajuku Aoyama
• Ebisu Daikanyama Meguro

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The Ultimate Kamakura Day Trip From Tokyo Itinerary & Guide

Posted on Last updated: June 7, 2021

Imagine an idyllic, seaside city, teeming with ancient Buddhist temples, a tranquil atmosphere, gorgeous beaches and plenty of resorts. A stunning destination nestled within the coastline, just south of Tokyo.

It’s found in the medieval centre of Japan and comes with a deeply storied past, reflected through its architecture and traditions.

For those exploring the sights and sounds of metropolitan Tokyo, breaking away to visit Kamakura is an absolute must.

It provides a way for you to soak in the wonders of this charming, spiritual and historic destination. It is a must-see Japanese city , with so much to offer every kind of traveller.

Its places like these that make me grateful I left the corporate world to see more of the world. With over 100 temples and shrines, it can be hard to know where to begin.

I’ve put togeher this guide to help you make the most out of a day trip to Kamakura. I went there recently during my 2-week Japan trip as a day trip from Tokyo and have compiled all the best things to see and do in Kamakura.

Here’s everything you need to know to have the perfect 24 hours in Kamakura, Japan!

• 1 Getting from Tokyo to Kamakura by train
• 2.1 Stop 1: Engakuji Temple
• 2.2 Stop 2: Komachi Street
• 2.3 Stop 3: Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple
• 2.4 Stop 4: Kotoku-in (The Big Buddha of Kamakura)
• 2.5 Stop 5: Kamakura Zaimokuza Beach

Exploring Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple in Kamakura

Getting from Tokyo to Kamakura by train

The easiest way to get from Tokyo to Kamakura is by train. Although you can take a series of boats, buses or taxis, the fastest, cheapest and simplest way of getting to Kamakura from Tokyo is via the train system.

This way, getting to Kamakura is a journey full of wonderful sightseeing opportunities, as well as true Japanese public train experience!.

If you’re staying in either Shinjuku or Shibuya, then a direct train with the JS Shonan-Shinjuku Line (¥920) is the best way to get to Kamakura.

When considering how to get to Kamakura, your other options include catching the JR Yokosuka Line train from Tokyo Station (¥920) or Shinagawa Station (¥720). If you have the Japan Rail Pass , this journey will be included in the pass.

All of these train rides include scenic views of Japan as you travel from Kamakura to Tokyo. The journey lasts just over one hour, making it wonderfully quick and convenient.

Click here to purchase your Japan Rail Pass!

Komachi Street, the main shopping and street food street in Kamakura

Day Trip Itinerary for Kamakura, Japan

After being here and falling in love with Japan, I have learnt the best ways to navigate this breathtaking coastal landmark.

Learn how to capture the beauty of the city, with stops at the many temples, gardens and of course, the Kotoku-in Temple’s Great Buddha.

This itinerary will cover what to do in Kamakura to have the ultimate day trip.

Stop 1: Engakuji Temple

Entrance fee: ¥400 for adults and ¥100 for children

Daily opening hours: 8:00 am – 16:30 pm (March to November) and 8:00 – 16:00 (December to February)

Kamakura is well known for its magnificent temples, some sharing insight into the history of Buddhism and its influence on Japanese culture.

The Engakuji Temple is one of the most significant, old and exquisite temples to be encountered on your Kamakura day trip, and it is the perfect first stop.

Exploring the gardens of Engakuji temple

Introduce yourself to the magical architecture of the city, and immerse yourself head-first into the mystifying essence of its history. The prominent zen temple was first founded in the 13th-century by a Japanese regent named Hojo Tokimune.

Over the years, it gained more popularity and by the 19th century, it had become one of the most revered temples in Kamakura.

This massive, beautiful and intricately designed temple has mesmerizing, finely-carved details that showcase the talent of early Japanese architecture.

Some of the highlights of the temple include its impressive Sanmon Gate with its intricate wooden carvings and authentic Japanese details.

Exploring Engakuji temple close to Kamakura

You can also see the Butsudan where you’ll find an extraordinary wooden statue of the Shaka Buddha and go for a walk to the bell tower (which has been dubbed a National Treasure) in the exquisitely landscaped garden.

Stroll around this temple and allow yourself to bask in the unique features and characteristics of one of the most fascinating Kamakura attractions.

We wandered around alone but in hindsight it would have been more fun to ask for a guide or as part of a tour , as it would have allowed us to learn a bit of the beautiful places we were seeing.

Tip: If you’re wanting to start your day off with a sip of authentic Japanese green tea, then I suggest that you stop off at the tea garden. It’s situated near the bell tower, within the serene temple gardens.

Click here to go on a Shrines and Temples Walking Tour in Kamakura

Stop 2: Komachi Street

Entrance fee: Free

Daily opening hours: 24/7

Next, make your way to the JR Kamakura Station. You can catch a direct train here and then take the east exit. After a short walk, you’ll see a large, eye-catching red gate that marks the entrance.

As you enter, you’ll encounter the ever-bustling Komachi Street, also known as Komachi Dori . This street is a charming place to visit to get a feel for life within this ornate, historic Japanese city.

Komachi Street in Kamakura

While you’re on this street, explore the many cool shops and taste some of the best Asian street food, such as Japanese sweets and snacks, such as Tempura Karari and Dango Skewers.

The shops have everything under the sun, and you’re bound to find something beautiful in every one of them.

This is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend your morning. You can enjoy a mouthwatering meal at one of the traditional restaurants, or stick to sampling the many types of scrumptious street foods.

The relaxed atmosphere of Komachi Street showcases the surprisingly easy-going nature of this political centre. Known as Kamakura’s best shopping street, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a few hours of retail therapy.

Find places with authentic and beautiful souvenirs, such as Japanese knives, kimonos and other amazing odds and ends. There are even a few art galleries that exhibit inspiring local artworks.

Enjoying beef buns and other tasty street food from the stalls in Komachi Street in Kamakura

Stop 3: Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple

Entrance fee: Free (excluding the garden and Shrine Museum)

Daily opening hours: 5:00 am – 21:00 pm (opens at 6:00 am between October to March) Gardens only open in spring.

Right at the end of Komachi Street, you’ll find the prominent Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple. This sacred site is revered as the most important Shinto shrine in the whole of Kamakura and is an absolute must-see.

Arriving at Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple in Kamakura

The main temple building of Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple in Kamakura

This ancient temple has been around since 1180. It carries a magnificent history and stands with spiritual significance for the locals. It is a sacred shrine for Hachiman, a Japanese patron god of Minamoto family and of the samurai.

From the moment you lay eyes on the shrine, you’ll be blown away. The bright red colour and intricate designs make for quite the sight.

Make your way to the terrace of stairs that lead up to the magnificent main hall (also known as the Hongu or Jogu).

Here, you will find a stunning, yet small, shrine museum, which has a ¥200 yen entrance fee. You can see artefacts and treasures owned by the shine on display, such as traditional Japanese masks, swords and ancient documents.

Tying wishes and offerings at Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple in Kamakura

Some of the torii shaped wishes that visitors hang up at Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple in Kamakura

Afterwards, head back down the stairs and admire the music and dance performance stage, known as the Maiden. You may even be lucky enough to visit on a day when there is a show going on.

Allowing you the chance to enjoy a truly magical performance during your Kamakura trip.

You can also enjoy a secondary shrine to the right of the stairs, the Wakamiya Shrine, found amongst a variety of charming auxiliary buildings.

Finally, take a walk to the enchanting shrine ponds. There are two significant, multi-island ponds onsite, one representing the Minamoto Clan and other the Taira Clan.

There is also an exquisite garden surrounding the Minamoto Pond, famous for its peonies and diverse, colourful plants. It’s only open in the spring, and the entrance fee is ¥500. It’s well worth a visit if you’re here during that season!

Torii gates at Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Temple in Kamakura

Stop 4: Kotoku-in (The Big Buddha of Kamakura)

Entrance fee: ¥300 for adults, ¥150 for elementary school kids and free for children under the age of 6.

Daily opening hours: 8:00 am to 17:30 pm (April to September) and 8:00 am – 17:00 pm (October to March)

Once you’re done seeing the wonders of the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine, jump on a bus and head on to the most famous landmark in Kamakura city, Kotoku-in.

No day trip to this legendary city would be complete without a stop here, as this is the city’s main attraction. Also known as the Great Buddha, this outstanding monument stands as a symbol for Amida Buddha , one of the most revered Japanese icons.

The Great Buddha is seen in a meditation pose, radiating peaceful energy throughout the grounds that is tangible in the air and felt in the soul.

The statue is made out of bronze, and it towers a mighty 13.35 meters, making it the second-tallest bronze Buddha in the whole of Japan.

It is a proud National Treasure within Kamakura, and the surrounding gardens are considered to be apart of this national, historic attraction.

Not only is the statue a breathtaking, spiritually significant landmark, it also holds an immense amount of history, having been around since 1252. Feast your eyes on this meaningful monument and soak in the ambience of the peace represented by Amida Buddha.

For an additional ¥20, you can enter the interior of the Great Buddha and experience the zen-filled space from the inside. This is by far one of the most beautiful Buddha statues in the world!

Before you leave for your last stop, take a stroll around the grounds. Admire the divine gardens and perhaps even pop into the temple store.

The famous big buddha of Kamakura in Japan

Stop 5: Kamakura Zaimokuza Beach

Daily opening hours: 9:00 am – 17:00 pm

Before leaving from Kamakura to Tokyo, end off a long day of explorations and new experiences with a bit of sunset chills on the lazy coastline of Kamakura at Zaimokuza Beach. This is one of the musts on my list of Kamakura things to do.

Kamakura’s coast is adorned with some of the most pristine, beautiful beaches, such as:

• Zaimokuza Beach
• Yuigahama Beach
• Inamuragasaki Beach
• Shichirigahama Beach
• and Koshigoe Beach.

Although you can spend your last remaining hours watching the sun go down over the ocean on any one of these majestic beaches, I suggest the sea-bathing spot of Zaimokuza Beach.

This beach has a welcoming, calm sea that’s shallow enough for you to enjoy a dip after your day of Kamakura sightseeing. Through the especially transparent ocean water, you can even see schools of fish and glimmering seashells.

During the sunset, the view from this beach is mesmerising, with a glimpse of Enoshima Island in the distance. This adds to the already spectacular sight of the red-orange tinges over the ocean.

Breathe in as you remember your favourite parts of the day. Then head back to your hotel in Tokyo to rest up after a long day of unforgettable ventures in Kamakura.

For further exploration, go on a tour of Enoshima Island.

Zaimokuza Beach in Kamakura

Final thoughts on the perfect Tokyo to Kamakura day trip

Once you visit Kamakura, your perception of Japan will expand, and you’ll have a better idea of the country’s diverse, colourful history and culture.

This is the perfect getaway for anyone wanting to understand some of the Japanese philosophies and traditions.

There are plenty of historical, beautiful and exciting places to visit in Kamakura, but there’s also a very unique character to the city and that is an experience in itself. It might not be as famous as Kyoto , Osaka or Nara , but it’s definitely a city worth of a visit.

A day trip to Kamakura is a must when in Tokyo, it presents a thrilling escape and adds so much more to your travels in Japan.

I hope that my complete day trip itinerary has given you everything you need to know to have the most incredible time in Kamakura. Be sure to pack your camera for this one, as you’ll want to capture each and every second of your Kamakura travels.

Looking for more Japan travel tips? Check out these guides!

• Day trip to Himeji Castle
• Discover Miyajima Island
• The most beautiful places in Tokyo

Enjoyed reading about my one day Kamakura itinerary? Pin it!

Suggested Kamakura Full Day Walk

The following is a full-day model course for average-paced travelers that covers the major attractions in Kamakura on foot over about five kilometers. Parts of the route include a bit of hiking , and proper walking shoes are recommended, especially during or after wet weather.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Hotels around Kamakura

A Day Trip to Kamakura You’ll Never Forget

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

This article was written by Sarah Hodge, prolific writer and lover of spiritual & cultural sights in Japan.

A convenient one-hour trip from Central Tokyo via the JR line, Kamakura is a history and nature lover’s paradise. Doing a Kamakura day trip is not only easy but also a great way to immerse yourself in Japan’s traditional and spiritual culture. For temple lovers, it is an essential stop on your Japan itinerary !

The seat of Japan’s first shogunate under Minamoto no Yoritomo, Kamakura was briefly the capital of Japan from 1185 – 1333 before power transferred back to Kyoto. Over the centuries, it has developed into one of the most important spiritual centers of Japan and is a pilgrimage destination. Kamakura is also a great place to take a traditional cooking course !

Modern Kamakura is a relaxed beach town with a laid-back vibe. Besides its dozens of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, you’ll find beach-themed gifts, surf shops, gelato shops and galleries lining the narrow streets in Hase en route to the Great Buddha, Kamakura’s most famous sight, and Hasedera, another important temple nearby.

Below I’m going to share all the possibilities you could fill one day in Kamakura with, including my recommended Kamakura day trip itinerary, how to rent a yukata or kimono is kamakura, hiking in Kamakura, what to eat in Kamakura, Kamakura’s top souvenirs, how to get from Tokyo to Kamakura, and accessing Kamakura for the impaired.

Table of Contents

Kamakura Day Trip Essentials

– The best time to visit Kamakura is in spring (try March for cherry blossoms) or in autumn for beautiful foliage. If you visit Japan in winter , you may even see snow on the Great Buddha!

– Sign up for Klook with my referral link to get 350JPY off any of the Klook activities and tours I recommend below.

– If you don’t want to bother with the planning, here’s a guided full day tour of Kamakura from Tokyo on Klook, and here’s another one on GetYourGuide.

– You can rent a kimono or yukata in Tokyo before you go , for taking photos in Kamakura.

– If you’re visiting Hakone as well, you can save money with this 3-day Hakone and Kamakura transportation pass .

– Here’s a recommended Kamakura shrines and temples walking tour , or you can get escorted around in a traditional rickshaw !

Introducing Kamakura

The two main attractions that most visitors come to see are Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine , founded in 1180 (which features yabusame , horseback archery, in April and September) and the serene Great Buddha of Kamakura (see cover image) at Kotokuin (1252), but there are numerous smaller temples and shrines off the beaten path that also merit a visit.

Along with Kyoto, Kamakura is the heart of Rinzai Zen (there are three major Zen sects in Japan). Both Kyoto and Kamakura have temples based on “gozan,” the Chinese Five Mountain System. In Kamakura, they are Kenchoji (1253), Engakuji (1282), Jufukuji (1200), Jochiji (1281), and Jomyoji (1188).

If you are interested in participating in zazen (Zen seated meditation), Kenchoji offers guided meditation practice in English several times a year. Here is Kenchoji’s current schedule and application form .

Kamakura’s temples have a unique feature known as yagura , or cave tombs , that were built by samurai and priests. The soft porous limestone is riddled with these distinctive tombs; Jochiji, Tokeiji, and Hokokuji have some excellent examples.

Another distinctive quality is the many temples with outstanding Moso bamboo groves including Hokokuji, Hasedera, and Meigetsuin.

Related articles: Read about how to plan a day trip to Mt. Fuji from Tokyo , hiking the sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage , and visiting Kyoto in autumn .

Other notable shrines in Kamakura include the Sasuke Inari (fox) shrine , Zeniarai Benten Shrine (it’s said if you wash your coins here, they will double in value!), and Kuzuhara Oka Shrine , which connects to the Daibutsu hiking trail as well as offers a stunning scenic overlook and gorgeous cherry blossoms in March.

All of these are about a 30-minute walk from Kamakura Station.

Sample Kamakura Day Trip Itinerary

To see the best of Kamakura in one day, here’s my suggested Kamakura itinerary. Of course, you may want to modify this based on what you want to see the most!

– Disembark from Kamakura Station and walk along Komachi Street (10 minutes) to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Rent a kimono along the way if you’d like!

– After visiting the shrine, return to the station and catch the bus or Enoden Tram to Hase Station

– Visit the Great Buddha at Kotokuin and Hasedera Temple (5 – 10 minutes from Hase station on foot).

– If you’re looking for inner Zen, stop for a vegetarian Shojin Ryori meal at Hachinoki near Kita-Kamakura station, and visit Tokeiji temple and Jochiji temples while you’re there.

– Instagrammable highlights include the circular window at Meigetsuin (Kita-Kamakura), The Great Buddha at Kotokuin (Hase), the smiling jizo statues at Hasedera, the teahouse gate at Jochiji and the bamboo forest at Hokokuji

– Complete your day by surfing, watching the sunset on Yuigahama Beach or doing one of the hiking trails recommended below.

For those who enjoy a side of culture with their sightseeing, Kamakura Mind offers a wide range of hands-on craft and culture experiences in English, including guided tours, Zen meditation with the head priest of Jochiji Temple, wheel-thrown pottery, introduction to the tea ceremony, Japanese incense, indigo dyeing, Kamakura carving with a 29th generation woodcarver, cooking classes, nature walks, and other custom experiences.

How to Rent a Yukata or Kimono in Kamakura

If you are interested in renting a yukata or kimono for your day trip to Kamakura, there are numerous rental shops along Komachi Street heading toward Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, such as Vasara (which has two locations). Expect to spend about 3000 – 5000 yen for a full-day rental.

You can also rent a kimono or yukata in Tokyo and bring it with you.

Hiking in Kamakura

Kamakura offers several well-traveled hiking trails and nature hikes that traverse the steep hills surrounding the city (hiking poles are recommended as the terrain is very steep and uneven; probably not a good choice for those with very young children).

The Daibutsu hiking course in West Kamakura begins behind Jochiji Temple and ends at the Great Buddha (Kotokuin) and takes about 60-90 minutes to hike (oftentimes I will hike halfway to Genjiyama Park and then turn back).

The northern Tenen Hiking Course connects Kenchoji Temple in North Kamakura with Zuisenji Temple, while the Gionyama Hiking Course connects Yagumo Shrine with Harakiri Yagura, the cave tomb where the last Hojo regent Takatoki committed ritual suicide in 1333, thereby ending the Kamakura Shogunate.

Getting from Tokyo to Kamakura

Kamakura’s temples and shrines dot the rolling hills surrounding the coast (one reason Kamakura was chosen as the seat of the first shogunate was due to its natural defenses). Depending on which ones you are interested in visiting will determine how you arrive.

From Tokyo Station, take JR Yokosuka Line (918 yen, 55 minutes) or from Shinjuku Station, take Shonan Shinjuku line (920 yen, 60 minutes) toward Kamakura.

For the collection of temples including Engakuji, Meigetsuin, Tokeiji, and Kenchoji, you will want to disembark at JR Kita-Kamakura station (North Kamakura) one stop before Kamakura Station. For all other sights, continue on to Kamakura station.

Assuming you are arriving from Tokyo, Yokohama or points north, your train will arrive on Platform 1 of Kamakura Station (if you are coming from Yokosuka or points south, you will arrive on Platform 2).

You can also travel from Tokyo to Kamakura by private transfer .

Getting to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Descend the stairs and follow signs for East Exit.

As you exit Kamakura Station via the East Exit, you will find coin lockers and public restrooms immediately to your right next to the Koban (police box).

The Kamakura Tourism Information Office is directly to the left next to the ticket machines; they open at 9:00 and are a great resource for maps, guidebooks and information in English, Chinese, Korean and other languages.

If you need cash, the Bank of Yokohama to the left of the TI has an International ATM (use machine number one at the very back); be aware that most Japanese ATMs do NOT accept international credit or debit cards issued outside of Japan. The general exception to this is Japan Post and 7-11 ATMs, so this is a convenient time to get cash if necessary

To go to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, turn left (you can either stroll down Komachi-dori, a popular shopping / souvenir street, or continue for one block straight and then turn left onto the main road facing Hachimangu (less crowded, more upscale shops and restaurants).

Getting to Hokokuji (bamboo grove)

To reach Hokokuji, take bus 23, 24, or 36 from Kamakura Station bus stand 5 to Jomyoji Temple stop (10 minutes from Kamakura Station, 220 yen one-way, it’s about a 5-min walk to Hokokuji).

Getting to Hase (for Great Buddha and Hasedera)

Hasedera and the Great Buddha (Kotokuin) can be reached by either transferring to the Enoden Tram and taking it for three stops to Hase (EN-11), or by catching a bus from Kamakura Station (see below). (Use photos: Meigestuin, Hasedera, Engakuji)

For the Enoden Tram, head down the stairs, turn left and follow signs for West Exit, walk through the tunnel and follow the signs for “Enoden.”

STOP. Don’t go through this exit gate; turn left where the steps are and look for the “Enoden Gates” sign. (There are restrooms here to your right and also another set of restrooms beyond the Enoden gates if the lines are long). If you are using a PASMO or Suica card, touch your card to the reader and proceed through the gates, or purchase a ticket from the ticket machines outside the gates.

Go through the gates and proceed straight ahead to the tracks. (There is only one boarding platform; the Enoden line opened in 1902 and is a single track between Kamakura and Fujisawa).

To reach Hase, take the Enoden for three stops to EN-11, Hase.

As you exit the platform, you will have to wait for the tram to exit the station and clear the tracks before you can cross to the exit gates.

After exiting the gates, turn right and follow the sidewalk straight for about a 5-minute walk (to Hasedera) or a 10-minute walk (to Kotokuin). Note the sidewalks are VERY narrow and very crowded on weekends. When you return to the station, it can be a bit hard to spot the entrance as the outside is currently covered for renovation; look for the green-and-white stripes in front of the tracks on the left-hand side right before the traffic light. (Use photo: Hase Station Left Side)

Where to eat in Kamakura

There are a large number of restaurants lining Komachi Street and on the road to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine, including international (Turkish, French, Italian), Japanese, hamburgers (my colleagues have said great things about Rooftoops Café and Diner), and even craft beer at Rudy Brew.

As a center of Rinzai Zen, Kamakura also has a long history of shojin ryori , vegan temple cuisine (one of the better-known dishes, Kenchin Jiru, is actually named for Kenchoji Temple where it is said to have originated).

You can sample shojin ryori at the exquisite Hachinoki in Kita-Kamakura (it is conveniently located to Kita-Kamakura station as well as across from lovely Tokeiji, the only surviving nunnery of the Amagozan system in Kamakura).

Another great place to try shojin ryori in Japan is at the sacred hilltop village of Koyasan. Read about how to do a temple stay in Koyasan , including enjoying the best shojin ryori.

You can also take hands-on shojin ryori classes from Mari Fujii, author of The Enlightened Kitchen and sisters Akemi and Satsuki, who have written several cookbooks on shojin ryori and have been featured on NHK, at Atelier Café Kamakura .

Kamakura also has some excellent artisanal gelato shops; highly recommended are Collina Kamakura Gelato and Kamakura Gelato. If you are in need of a coffee fix, there’s a local branch of Nagoya-based Kannon Coffee right next to Hasedera, which has adorable Great Buddha-shaped cookies and homemade baked goods.

Another great choice is Santa Cruz-based Verve Coffee next to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, with a sleek, spacious interior, plenty of seating and super-friendly baristas (I highly recommend the orange-infused Latte Valencia).

One more interesting food experience you can enjoy in Kamakura is learning how to make your own bento box .

Important note: Kamakura has issued a city ordinance against eating and walking; if you purchase food from street vendors, particularly along Komachi Dori, it’s better to consume the food at the stall and dispose of your trash there. There are no fines or citations for violating the request, but a little courtesy goes a long way.

Best Souvenirs in Kamakura

Hands-down the most famous souvenir associated with Kamakura is Hato Sable, dove-shaped butter cookies reminiscent of the white doves at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.

The flagship shop is in a cavernous white building on the left-hand side as you are walking towards Tsurukagoka Hachimangu Shrine. My personal favorites are the delicious walnut and caramel Kurumikko shortbreads at Kamakura Beniya , available at several locations around town.

The most interesting local craft is Kamakurabori, distinctive carved and lacquered items made from katsura wood. There are a number of shops and galleries where you can find pieces ranging from affordable to exquisite; Kamakurabori chopsticks and chopstick rests are a good option.

The Hakkodo gallery run by the Goto family (one of the last remaining Kamakurabori families in Kamakura) is located across from the entrance to Hachimangu Shrine. You can also sign up for a hands-on class carving your own Kamakurabori chopsticks with Kyukei Goto-san (a 29th-generation master carver) through Kamakura Mind .

It is even possible to see Mt. Fuji from the western side of Kamakura. See here for all the best spots to see Mount Fuji .

Kamakura Accessibility Info

Japanese train stations have multiple features for the visually impaired, such as tactile pavement (for easy navigation using a cane), handrails have information in Japanese braille, talking ticket machines, and some stations / bathrooms have an audio guide or Braille layout map (in Japanese).

JR trains offer at least one wheelchair-accessible bathroom on board (when the station attendant helps you board, it will likely be the same car with the accessible bathroom).

Kamakura Station is fully wheelchair accessible and includes multipurpose bathrooms.

At Hase Enoden Station, there is NO elevator / ramp; if you use a wheelchair, please inform station staff at Kamakura Enoden Station before boarding and they will arrange for a temporary ramp at Hase station so you can disembark. Note that sidewalks are VERY narrow and crowded in Hase along the main street and may be a tight squeeze for wider electric wheelchairs.

Kotoku-in Temple in Hase is fully wheelchair-accessible with ramps and restrooms. At Hasedera, only the lower level / garden is accessible by wheelchair as the main temple requires climbing several sets of stairs, but the gardens are very pleasant (there are newer, very spacious multipurpose toilets located next to the parking lot at Hasedera). Most temples / attractions offer free admission with a disability card. (Use photos: accessible Hasedera)

It is possible to book a one-day guided barrier-free tour of Kamakura and Enoshima departing from / returning to Tokyo; see more information here .

Read about the Kumano Sanzan , three very beautiful and important Shinto-Buddhist shrines on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage.

About the Author

Sarah Hodge is a freelance travel and culture writer for Tokyo Weekender magazine and Stars and Stripes Japan newspaper and has traveled extensively around Japan.

A frequent visitor to Kamakura, her areas of interest include Japanese cuisine, kimono, Zen Buddhism, Japanese gardens and pilgrimages (she has visited Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, and hopes to walk part of the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage next year).

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Kamakura Day Trip Itinerary: Fun Day Around Japan’s Former Capital

Kamakura , a city located in Kanagawa Prefecture , about an hour south of Tokyo, is brimming with ancient Japanese history and culture. It was the political capital of Japan and the birthplace of the first military government, and Kamakura was so integral in the history of Japan that there is a period named after it. In modern times, Kamakura is still important in Japan as one of the biggest attractors of tourists in Japan and housing many temples , shrines , artifacts, and the famous bronze national treasure, the Great Buddha statue. The small coastal city offers amazing historical and architectural attractions, traditional festivals, amazing beaches , and local traditional foods. After living in Japan for a decade, I keep coming back to Kamakura whenever I am looking for a fun, educational, and memorable adventure. Here is a recommended day trip itinerary for Kamakura to ensure you get a taste of all the city has to offer.

Notes Before You Go to Kamakura

・ Getting to Kamakura from Tokyo: A direct, one-way ticket from Tokyo Station on the JR Yokosuka Line (towards Zushi) costs 920 yen and takes around 56 minutes. If your hotel is on Tokyo’s west side, you can take the Shonan- Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku Station; the trip costs 920 yen as well and takes around 59 minutes. Just make sure to catch the direct train otherwise you will need to transfer at Ofuna Station and the trip will take about 10 minutes longer. ・To spend a full day, aim to arrive at 9:00 am. ・This is a walking itinerary that also uses the Enoden Line. You can reduce time by renting a bicycle. Be sure to wear comfy shoes. ・There are many other spots to explore that aren’t in this itinerary!

9:00 am: Coffee and Breakfast in Kamakura

The first thing you will want to do when arriving at Kamakura Station is to have a nice breakfast and coffee to give you the energy boost you will need to enjoy this amazing city. There will be lots of walking and exploring, so ensuring your body is ready for the adventure is a good idea. Two of my recommendations are as follows. ・ Garden House Kamakura If you are looking for an interesting, local, popular, and highly rated sit-down place to eat near the station, Garden House is a good choice. Not only do they serve food made from local products like Kamakura ham and seasonal vegetables, but they also serve Kamakura craft beer brewed and served exclusively at this establishment. You might want to hold off on the beer until lunch and have coffee instead. I really liked this place because not only did the cabin-like decor go well with the local fresh foods they used, but the restaurant had both indoor and outdoor areas, which was perfect for people who were there with pets. The food was presented well, and the taste was just as delicious.

• Address 15-46 Onarimachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0012, Japan
• Phone Number 467-81-5200

・5 Crossties Coffee If you are looking for a lighter, quicker breakfast experience, the 5 Crossties Coffee located next to the tourist information center near the station has coffee, sandwiches, salads, and of course, coffee. I found the service to be quick but friendly, and I definitely recommend getting one of the morning sets they have as they are really inexpensive but filling.

• Address 1-chōme-1-1 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0006, Japan

Exploring around Kamakura Station - especially around the vicinity of the East Exit - you will come across a load of amazing cafes and restaurants with a mouth-watering selection. So whether you are craving Japanese or Western-style options, this area has you covered.

9:30 am: Walk to Hokokuji Temple and Bamboo Forest

If you are keen on walking, a great option is to stroll from Kamakura Station along Route 204 to Hokokuji Temple , also known as Bamboo Temple . The walk, which takes about 30 minutes, will take you through the city with houses and shops on one side and, ultimately, wooded areas and a stream on the other. This course is a great way to see the beautiful city of Kamakura as well as take a nice stroll. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Kamakura Station bound for Jomyoji that takes about 10 minutes and costs 200 yen. Exiting the bus, it is a short walk to the Hokokuji Temple area. One thing you will notice right away is the amount of lush greenery this temple has. With a gate surrounded by trees, a garden with a small Buddha statue (as a preview of other bigger Buddha to come later in the day), the temple is surrounded by serene, green beautiful nature . The temple is relatively compact, but the highlight is the bamboo gardens located behind the temple . You can purchase a combo ticket for the bamboo garden and matcha tea house for 600 yen to get the full ‘Zen’ experience. In addition, the main yard has a garden with big rocks surrounded by white stones raked in patterns and bonsai trees decorated in a traditional Japanese garden motif. The bamboo forest houses some 2,000 tall bamboo trees and makes for an amazingly peaceful walk and picture stop. Just beyond the forest are Buddhist statues and caves (not open to the public), which are ancient tombs of the Ashikaga clan.

To better enjoy the atmosphere and peaceful aura, a matcha tea house located inside the forest , called Kyukoan, provides a place to sip authentic matcha tea served with traditional Japanese sweets and a view of the bamboo forest . The walk through this forest and time at the tea house was personally one of the nicest and calmest moments I have had in Japan. Sitting with my tea looking out over the bamboo forest , and taking in all the quiet sounds of nature really made me appreciate Kamakura and life a lot more.

• Address 2-7-4, Jomyoji, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa, 248-0003 View Map
• Nearest Station Kamakura Station （JR Yokosuka Line / JR Shonan Shinjuku Line / Enoshima Electric Railway Line）
• Phone Number 0467-22-0762

11:00 am: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

After leaving the forest relaxed and refreshed, walk back towards Kamakura Station about 20 minutes to Kamakura 's most important shrine , Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. There is a long road through the city center with torii gates that lead to the shrine . Tsurugaoka Hachimangu itself is atop a staircase and can be seen from afar as you approach. This shrine , which has more than 18 million visitors a year, was dedicated to Emperor Ojin and is the geographical and cultural center of Kamakura . It is a vast area with many things to see and is free to enter. There are also smaller shrines , museums , and two ponds located at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, making it a great place to see different flowers and plants depending on the season . The garden , which houses cherry blossoms in the spring , lotus in the summer , and peonies in the winter , is along the pond and has an additional fee to enter. According to locals, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is one of the most popular locations in Japan for Japanese to visit for hatsumode (first visit to a shrine in the New Year), with over 2.5 million visitors each New Year season .

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is also the location of the Yabusame, traditional horse archery tournament, which happens twice annually, in mid-April and mid-September. A walk through the grounds and a small prayer at the shrine can make your Kamakura experience an unforgettable and spiritual experience.

• Address 2-1-31, Yukinoshita, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa, 248-8588 View Map
• Nearest Station Kamakura Station （JR Yokosuka Line / JR Shonan Shinjuku Line / Enoshima Electric Railway Line） 10 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 0467-22-0315

12:00 pm: Lunch Around Kamakura Station

Walking the roadway away from the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and back towards Kamakura Station, you will come across a famous shopping and restaurant street called Komachi Dori. This street which is parallel to the road that leads to the shrine , is filled with tourists and locals alike. You will see crowds walking along the street, shopping at the unique and interesting shops selling clothing, ceramics, souvenirs, and traditional Japanese goods. The roads are essentially for pedestrians during the day, so there is plenty of space for people to stroll the streets and explore all the shops, cafes , and restaurants Kamakura has to offer.

a. Try sampling the local cuisine: Shirasu-don and Shojin Ryori For lunch, many shops offer the local Kamakura specialty of shirasu, whitebait, which are tiny white fish. I have sometimes seen these in dishes in Tokyo but never eaten them. But since they are a local delicacy, I decided to give them a try. Eaten raw, boiled, or fried, many dishes include shirasu in their sets. Placed on rice, added into noodle soup, or even in ice cream, this delicacy is definitely a must-try. Those who are vegetarian will be happy to know a famous cooking style of Kamakura , called Shojin Ryori. This type of cooking, popularized by Buddhist Monks, uses rice, tofu , vegetables, and Japanese ingredients to make a variety of small dishes served as a set so you can enjoy a variety of tastes and flavor experiences.

b. Or instead of lunch, opt for snacking along the way For those who want to keep moving and spend more time exploring, there are also a variety of street food shops available in Kamakura that serve delicious, easy-to-eat foods that are budget-friendly as well. For example, a popular choice for locals and tourists in Kamakura is croquettes. These deep-fried food rolls come with various fillings such as beef, plum, sweet potato, and even chocolate . Some other interesting street foods that you should try are Inari sushi in a cup, dango (mochi balls on a stick) with red bean paste and matcha topping, and an Osaka favorite Takoyaki , octopus balls, but with shirasu topping for a Kamakura touch. Personally, since I start with a big sit-down breakfast, I tend to eat at the food stands as it allows me to try a variety of different Kamakura specialties while still being able to adventure around the area and check out the sights.

1:00 pm: Hase Temple

After a nice lunch and a productive morning, it's time to take the Enoden Train to Hase Station to see Hase Temple , the surrounding garden , caves, and a picturesque view of the Kamakura coast. The Enoden Train Line is a light rail line with 15 stations going from Kamakura to Fujisawa in Kanagawa. The fare from Kamakura Station to Hase Station is 190 yen and takes less than ten minutes. The train is a cute and iconic ride that allows you to ride along the coast and see the smaller, less touristy areas of Kamakura along the way.

Once at Hase Station, a five-minute walk will take you to the entrance of the Hase Temple , which has an eye-catching red lantern and pine trees front. The temple and surrounding area are filled with so many things to see; it is the perfect place to roam around and soak in all the culture leisurely.

The main hall has Japan's largest wooden statue of the eleven-headed goddess of mercy, Kannon. The temple and the main hall are surrounded by beautiful gardens , ponds, and little Jizo statues, which are protectors of children and travelers. Since the temple was built on a slope in the mountain , there is a small restaurant and lookout point overlooking the Kamakura coast. Another great part of this temple is the Benten cave, lit with candles, has sculptures built into the walls, and little tiny stone figures are placed all around the cave. The cave is winding and has many low ceilings and protrusions, so taller people should be careful when navigating through the cave. Finally, if you visit Hase Temple in early summer (mid-June to mid-July), you’re in for a treat: a section of the temple has a path lined with over 40 kinds of hydrangea, making for a gorgeous and photogenic stroll.

• Address 3-11-2 Hasaya, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, 248-0016 View Map
• Nearest Station Hase Station （Enoshima Electric Railway Line） 5 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 0467-22-6300

2:30 pm: Kamakura Daibutsu

Now for the main event, the reason most people come to Kamakura ; the Great Buddha. Before seeing it, I wondered if this place was just an overrated and overhyped tourist trap. But after seeing it up close several times, I understand why it attracts so much attention and visitors. The symbol of Kamakura and designated one of Japan's National Treasures, this bronze statue of Buddha, which is the second largest in Japan, is located in the Kotokuin Temple grounds, about a 10-minute walk from Hase Temple . The entrance is only 200 yen, and the area is open until 5:30 pm, so you can relax, take as many pictures or videos as you want, and reflect on the magnificence and grandeur of the giant bronze sculpture. The Great Buddha statue stands at over 13 meters (43 ft) and weighs approximately 93 tons. The statue is hollow, so make sure also to check out the inside (an extra 50 yen) when you visit. The grounds around the statue are also a nice backdrop with stones, commemorative trees, and a temple shop to pick up a lucky charm or Buddha-related souvenir.

• Address 4-2-28, Hase, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa, 248-0016 View Map
• Nearest Station Hase Station （Enoshima Electric Railway Line） 7 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 0467-22-0703

3:30 pm: Walk Back to Kamakura Station Along the Shonan Shoreline (Or Train it!)

After seeing the Great Buddha up close and personal and taking in all the energy and culture from the temple and shrine , it’s time to see the beach area of Kamakura ! It’s particularly popular in the summer but definitely still worth a visit in other seasons . One of the most popular beach areas is Yuigahama, essentially just south of Hase Temple . Strolling around here, you will go past several beachside cafes and burger joints if you feel peckish. For those who have had enough of walking for the day and would like a rest but would still like to catch a glimpse of the scenic coast, the Enoden Electric Train heading back to Kamakura is a good option.

In the summer , the Yuigahama beach area is crowded with tourists and locals, with beach huts and pop-up bars open to all. It’s the ideal place for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and seeing great views of Enoshima Island, the coastline, and even Mount Fuji .

• Address Yuigahama, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa, 248-0014 View Map
• Nearest Station Kamakura Station （JR Yokosuka Line / JR Shonan Shinjuku Line / Enoshima Electric Railway Line） 5 minutes on foot

4:30 pm: Explore Around Kamakura Station

Once you are back close to the Kamakura Station area, there are plenty of shops and cafes to explore. You may want to head back to the Komachi Dori shopping district to pick up some omiyage (souvenirs) or get famous Kamakura desserts like crepes or sweet potato ice cream. Near the station, you will also find many interesting local bars and restaurants that serve the Kamakura area craft beers and various types of local food.

Bonus Places/Side Trips in Kamakura

Renting a bicycle is a perfect alternative and can dramatically increase your range and ability to explore even more. There is a rental spot near the East Exit of Kamakura Station. Insider tips: Many of the bicycles will be rented out by around 10 am, so be sure to get yours before the crowds descend. Also, the electric-assist bicycles cost a little more than the standard ones but are highly recommended - especially if you want to avoid tiring yourself out. Otherwise, if you fancy getting insights from a local, you might wish to consider hiring a rickshaw driver to take you around the station and surrounding area. Many rickshaw drivers are standing along the main road en route to the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine . You can check out the bicycle rental shop located across the street from Kamakura Station, right near the Starbucks. Here are some of the places you might want to go to if you want to extend your adventure in Kamakura .

Zeniarai Benten Shrine A different kind of “money laundering,” this is said to be among the most popular shrines in Kamakura because of the legend that washing money in the spring waters located in the caves nearby will bring happiness and prosperity.

• Address 2-25-16, Sasuke, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa, 248-0017 View Map
• Nearest Station Kamakura Station （JR Yokosuka Line / JR Shonan Shinjuku Line / Enoshima Electric Railway Line） 25 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 0467-25-1081

Itsuki Garden Cafe Terrace Itsuki Garden is a garden terrace cafe located about 15 minutes away from Kamakura Station, next to the hiking trails that lead to the Great Buddha. The first time I entered the grounds and was seated, I was impressed by the picturesque design and detail. Because it is located in the forest , it really felt like I had found a hidden treasure. Originally a private residence, the owner created many terraces and transformed this forested cottage area into an outdoor cafe with tables that seem to float in the trees when seen from above. Closed only on Tuesdays, if you are looking for a break during your hike or bike ride and want to enjoy a drink and food while surrounded by the quiet natural beauty of Kamakura , then this might be a good place to check out.

Inamuragasaki Park Literally a hidden gem, this area of Kamakura has beautiful sand that glitters in the night, allegedly due to its high iron content. A popular spot for couples to come during sunsets and at night, sitting on the rocks, you can watch the surfers in the water, the sunset views of Enoshima Island and Mount Fuji , and listen to the calming waves crash along the beach.

Enoshima Island Taking the Enoden Electric Train from Kamakura Station to Enoshima Station and then walking across the bridge will bring you to this small but interesting island. Alternatively, you can bike from Kamakura Station across to the island on the connecting bridge. There are a variety of things to see on the island, such as the Enoshima Shrine ; the Sea Candle lighthouse , which is an observation area surrounded by gardens ; Iwaya caves located in the cliffs of Enoshima and even an Island Spa where you can get a massage or soak in a hot spring .

• Address 2-3, Enoshima, Fujisawa-shi, Kanagawa, 251-0036 View Map
• Nearest Station Katase-Enoshima Station （Odakyu Enoshima Line） 10 minutes on foot

Whether this is your first time in Japan and looking for day trips outside of Tokyo with great views and Japanese culture, or you are a seasoned traveler looking to explore Kamakura in further detail, there is something to see, eat, and experience. Filled with cultural landmarks , historical significance, natural beauty , and unique delicacies, Kamakura is definitely a traveler’s paradise and should not be missed. Several times before, I highly recommend Kamakura and will be revisiting it many times while I am still in Japan.

Other fun things to try in Kamakura

• Address Akao Building 1A, 5-6, Onarimachi, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa, 248-0012 View Map
• Nearest Station Kamakura Station （JR Yokosuka Line / JR Shonan Shinjuku Line / Enoshima Electric Railway Line） 3 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 0467-37-9297

• Address Koike Building, 1-9-24 Yukinoshita, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, 248-0005
• Phone Number 0467-23-3999
• Sightseeing in Kamakura, Japan: Visiting the Ancient Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
• Day Hiking Near Tokyo: 5 Easy Hikes You Can Do While Visiting Japan
• Kamakura Japan: Relaxing cycling tour and cafe hopping along the coast!
• 5 Magnificent Hydrangea Gardens Near Tokyo: When to Go and What to Do!
• Kamakura Travel: 1-Day Foodie Itinerary to Kamakura!
• Kamakura Day Trip: Top 6 Popular Spots Along the Shonan Coast!
• 20 Things to Do in Kamakura Through the Seasons

Written by:

Sohail Oz Ali

Sohail Oz Ali is a Canadian Youtuber, author and blogger who has lived in Hokkaido, Nagoya and now resides in Chiba. Between visits to Karaoke and revolving sushi restaurants, he enjoys walking his dog, watching Japanese love dramas and teaching English. You can also find him roaming the streets of Japan looking for the next big YouTube video trends.

• Area Kamakura
• Category Historical Places Shrines Other Nature
• How To: Visiting Popular Spots

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Kamakura: Things to Do on a Day Trip From Tokyo

Ancient shrines and temples — even a giant Buddha statue — connected by hiking trails. A seaside town with good food, artsy boutiques, and hip cafes. Sandy shores and the occasional wave, plus fireworks and beach shacks in summer. Kamakura has ALOT going for it. No wonder it ‘s one of Tokyo’s most popular day trips .

Video guide to Kamakura

Kamakura: Why visit?

A long-ago political capital alongside Nara and Kyoto, Kamakura is a great place to get your taste of ancient Japan if you can’t reach Kansai.

Where is Kamakura?

Kanagawa Prefecture About an hour south of Tokyo

Kamakura is a destination on the Shōnan Coast, south of Tokyo and Yokohama and on the shores of Sagami Bay. It’s easy to reach by train from either city — one reason it’s such a popular daytrip.

Pro tip: Go deeper into Kita Kamakura, with brunch and a guided temple tour .

Getting to Kamakura

JR lines to Kamakura Station ¥ 670 – ¥ 950

Depending on your departure station, getting down to Kamakura from Tokyo takes about an hour and costs between ¥ 670 and ¥ 950 one-way. Both JR Shōnan–Shinjuku and JR Yokosuka line trains can take you there direct.

Cheapo tip: If you’re traveling from Shibuya Station, rather than the JR Shōnan–Shinjuku Line, you can save a few yen by taking the Tōyoko Line to Yokohama Station, and then changing to the JR Yokosuka Line towards Kamakura.

You can also get to Kamakura via the local Enoden Line that runs between Kamakura and Enoshima, in which case you can make use of the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass.

What rail passes cover travel to Kamakura?

You can use the JR Pass , the Tokyo Wide Pass , or any JR East regional rail pass to travel to Kamakura by JR lines. However, since getting to Kamakura from Tokyo doesn’t cost much, we don’t recommend using a pass. Unless maybe you’ve got an extra day to use up.

The Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass

1-day pass Odakyu Line from Shinjuku (or Fujisawa) to Katase-Enoshima and the local Enoden Line ¥ 810 from Fujisawa; ¥ 1,640 from Shinjuku

This pass won’t take you all over Kamakura (it does not include local buses), but it is convenient if you are planning on a day trip to Enoshima with a little bit of Kamakura thrown in. Whether you choose the digital or physical pass, both can take you on one round-trip journey from Tokyo using Odakyu Lines to Fujisawa Station — this is only worth it if you are coming from Shinjuku Station. It’s worth noting that you’ll need to pay extra if getting on the faster, fancier train: the Romancecar.

At Fujisawa Station, you’ll have to change to get to Katase-Enoshima. You can take as many trains as you want between Fujisawa and Katase-Enoshima, as well as on the Enoden to Kamakura and back. You can also get discounts on local attractions, including Hasedera Temple.

Pro tip: There are some really good guided tours of Kamakura available. -->

Tours from Tokyo to Kamakura

Kamakura can be an easy place to get lost in — which is half the fun. However, if you’d like to save time then it’s worth jumping on a tour. You can combine Enoshima and Kamakura in one day with this tour for around ¥ 8,000 , which includes transport from Tokyo and a few iconic anime spots.

If you’d like an air-conditioned bus and a guaranteed English-speaking guide then there’s also this tour from Viator for ¥ 9,000 .

How to get around Kamakura

Kamakura is so lovely that even the transport is part of the experience. There are plenty of buses as well as the JR line, so if you don’t fancy walking, you will still be able to see plenty of sights!

The Enoden Line (The Enoshima Electric Line)

The Enoden Electric Railway was founded on Christmas Day in 1900 and has kept every inch of its old-fashioned charm. Popular in anime, manga, and TV dramas, it adds a touch of nostalgia — be it from childhood stories or local old-school trams.

Tickets can be bought from vending machines. If you are unable to buy one in time, you can also use IC touch transport cards or contactless credit cards.

Local Kamakura buses

You may have to use a bus to reach the more difficult areas of Kamakura, including the north and east. For general bus tickets, take a numbered ticket as you board and then simply pay the amount signified on the board above the exit in exact cash when you leave. You can also go contactless and touch your IC card in and out.

Kamakura Free Environment Bill

1-day pass Kamakura buses and Enoden train till Hase Station ¥ 900

While having a slightly funny-sounding name, this pass does allow you unlimited access to the Enoden Bus and Keikyu Bus routes around Kamakura, as well as the Enoden train line from Kamakura until Hase Station only. You can pick it up at the Enoden Kamakura Station or Hase Station.

You can also opt for only unlimited Enoden Bus rides for ¥ 600 — this ticket can also be bought online here (Japanese only).

If you just want unlimited rides on the Enoden train all day — including to Enoshima and Fujisawa Station — then you can opt for an Enoden hop-on, hop-off ticket for ¥ 800 .

• Enoden Line: From Kamakura Station to Hase Station.
• Kamakura Sta. East Exit Bus Terminal No.2—Kitakamakura Sta.
• Kamakura Sta. East Exit Bus Terminal No.4—Daitonomiya
• Kamakura Sta. East Exit Bus Terminal No.5—Jomyoji
• Kamakura Sta. East Exit Bus Terminal No.1, 6—Daibutsumae
• Kamakura Sta. East Exit Bus Terminal No.3—Nagoe

Top things to do in Kamakura

Kamakura is most famous as the home of one of Japan’s great Daibutsu — or Great Buddha — statues. It’s also generally known for its temples, which include many Zen temples, as well as some truly old and atmospheric ones.

Thanks to its hilly location, Kamakura is also a great destination for hiking. A real bonus is that you can take some trails between sights. There are also some lovely beaches, as well as shops in town.

Things to do in Kamakura: Temples

Ok, so there are plenty of temples and shrines to choose from, but these are some of the loveliest! We have divided them by the nearest station to help with planning. If you are arriving at Kamakura Station from Tokyo, we suggest you first stop at the temples in northern Kamakura (you can get off a station before at Kita-Kamakura Station), then either walk the Daibutsu Trail (60–90 minutes) or catch the Enoden train from Kamakura Station to the temples in the south-west (near Hase Station). There are plenty of ways to do it, so choose your own adventure!

Start at Kita-Kamakura Station

Explore the forests of engakuji temple.

2-minute walk from Kita-Kamakura Station ¥ 500

Engakuji Temple was built in 1282 to console the souls of the fallen soldiers following the second invasion attempt by the Mongols and is one of the leading Zen temples in Japan.

It stands surrounded by impressive sloping cedar forests and has a series of stunning structures leading to the main hall (the Butsuden) which houses a wooden statue of the Shaka Buddha. Beyond the hall is the Shariden; a hall which enshrines the tooth of Buddha and can only be seen from a distance for the majority of the year. There is a particularly beautiful spot by the large bell — with a tea house where you can try traditional tea and sweets. It is particularly popular in autumn as it is surrounded by beautiful red leaves which peak in early December.

• Engakuji Temple

Admire the gardens and grounds of Tōkeiji Temple and Jōchi-ji Temple

5-minute walk from Kita-Kamakura Station ¥ 200 for each temple

Tōkeiji was once known as the “Divorce Temple” as it offered refuge to women escaping abusive husbands and mother-in-laws before women could initiate divorce. The former nunnery (now a monastery) is the only remaining one of the original network of five called the Amagozan. As well as being known for its pyramidal roof, it has particularly beautiful gardens with a wide variety of flowers that blossom throughout the year.

• Tōkeiji Temple

Jōchi-ji Temple is right next door and nestled in a hillside cedar forest. Although it was badly damaged in the Great Kanto Earthquake,  you can still see the three surviving wooden statues of the Buddhas of Past, Present, and Future which have been designated as important cultural assets. Follow the moss-covered stairs to the beautiful bell tower and explore the grounds.

• Jōchi-ji Temple

Hike to Hase Station (About 60-90 minutes)

Marvel at the great daibutsu at kotoku-in.

10-minute walk from Hase Station (Enoden) or 8-minute bus from Kamakura Station ¥ 300

Originally housed in a temple hall, the impressive 93-ton Amida Buddha has been out in the open air for over 500 years, sitting tall at just over 13 meters. One of the most famous icons of Japan, the bronze Buddha is only out-sized by its counterpart in Nara but is still stunning.

The original statue was wooden and destroyed in a storm a few years after being finished in 1243. Its bronze replacement was funded and finally finished ten years later, with three halls being destroyed around it over the years. Once upon a time, the statue was gilded, and you can still see flecks of gold around the ears, and against the bright blue skies, it makes for a very pretty picture indeed.

• Great Buddha of Kamakura

Explore the many mysteries of Hasedera Temple

5-minute walk from Hase Station (Enoden) or 11-minute bus from Kamakura Station ¥ 400

This Jodo-sect temple is home to Japan’s tallest wooden statue: the 11-headed Kannon Goddess of Mercy and is known for its tree-guarded entrance.

Standing 9 meters tall and gilded, the Kannon is an impressive sight and was supposedly originally carved from the same tree as the similar statue in Nara’s Hasedera Temple. The statue is housed in the main hall, and the surrounding grounds are beautiful. The Kannon Museum is next door where you can see treasures such as temple bells, statues, and scrolls (entry is an additional ¥ 300 ). There is also a wooden bookcase which, if rotated, promises to give you knowledge of all the texts within.

Built on the slope of a wooded hill, the temple has a wooden terrace that offers amazing views of Kamakura. The temple entrance is at the bottom of the slope with a pretty, traditional garden, complete with ponds and a small temple hall and cave with dozens of statues dedicated to the Goddess of Health and Beauty, the Goddess of Music, and many fearsome protectors of Buddha.

• Hasedera Temple

Enjoy the apple blossom at Kosokuji Temple

Catch the enoden back to jr kamakura station, follow the path to tsurugaoka hachimangū shrine.

10-minute walk from Kamakura Station (East Exit) Free

After visiting the temples in the southwest, you can head back to Kamakura Station on the Enoden Line and see the most important shrine in Kamakura: the Tsurugaoka Hachimangū. It’s not hard to miss; with a cherry blossom-lined pathway leading through the city center, you will be led straight to its gate.

You may notice two ponds on either side of the entrance: the left pond with three islands represents the Minamoto clan while the other represents their arch enemies, the Taira clan with four islands (four sounding like death in Japanese). The temple was founded in 1063 before being modified and moved to its current site in 1180 by the founder and first shogun of the Kamakura government, Minamoto Yoritomo. Dedicated to Hachiman, the family’s patron god, the shrine grounds feature a stage, a main hall with a terrace, a museum, and a secondary shrine.

• Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine

Relax in Hōkokuji Temple (aka Bamboo Temple)

12-minute bus from Kamakura Station ¥ 300

This small and unassuming temple of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism may seem average on first impressions, but it has a secret. Beyond the simple gate and just behind the modest main hall lies a beautiful bamboo grove, with a forest of over 2000 stalks surrounding the picturesque tea house nestled in the grounds of the temple.

Traditional matcha and sweets can be tried for ¥ 600 (incl. entrance) in the teahouse. Although this temple is slightly out of the way from others, it can be a great place to take a breather and escape the crowds! It takes about 20 minutes from the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and you can catch a bus back to the station after.

Access : At JR Kamakura Station, take the bus at terminal 5 to Jomyoji—from there a 2-minute walk.  -->

Hōkokuji Temple

Things to do in Kamakura: Shopping

Komachi Street is a major shopping street in central Kamakura, filled with souvenirs, treats, and restaurants — perfect after a day of exploring the shrines and temples.

You’ll have no trouble finding it either, with the large red torii gate to your left when you leave Kamakura Station, you can follow the street straight up to Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine. Started as a market at the shrine, it now expands with myriad side streets and alleys, all offering local food and products

Things to do in Kamakura: Hiking trails

With this many temples, shrines, mountains, and valleys all so close together, it would be a shame not to make the most of them and explore the wild side of Kamakura. There are three main sections you can hike, depending on what you prefer to see and how much time you have in town. This includes the Daibutsu Hiking Trail we mentioned above. We outline all of them in our handy hiking in Kamakura article .

• The west side of town is home to the Daibutsu hiking trail which  stretches from Kita-kamakura Station, past Tokeiji and Jochiji temples, through the hills to The Great Buddha and Hasedera, taking about 1-1.5 hours to complete.The Gionyama Trail is the shortest of the three and takes only about half an hour to complete. It begins nearby Kamakura Station at the Myohonji Temple and leads to the Yagumo Shrine and the Harakiri Yagura (cave tombs) as well as lovely views of the city.
• The Tenen Trail starts at Kenchoji and curves around the northern hills, past Shishimai Valley and ends at Zuisenji, taking about 1-1.5hrs to finish. There are more tombs along the way and plenty of chances to see beautiful autumnal leaves if you happen to be there in fall.
• Along the Nagoe Pass are even more cave tombs—the Mandarado Yagura Caves are a cluster of caves straight out of a Glibli movie.

Things to do in Kamakura: Beaches

Yuigahama and Zaimokuza are two of Kamakura’s most popular sandy beaches and can be enjoyed by sunbathers, swimmers, and surfers alike! Since they are some of the closest to Tokyo and Yokohama, they do get very busy during beach season (July to August); there will be a lot of people on the 1 km stretch of sand. There are plenty of cafes, shops, and rental spots for swimming gear too!

Not too far away is Enoshima, a holiday island with some of the closest beaches to Tokyo as well as shrines, aquariums, and even caves. It has so much to offer we gave it its own guide !

Kamakura festivals

While Kamakura has plenty to keep you busy on a regular day, it is never better than during a festival. The streets are lined with stalls, busy crowds, and great displays.

• January:  Chona-hajimeshiki (a festival to celebrate the beginning of the working year for local construction workers who use traditional tools for the ceremony at Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine).
• April: Kamakura Festival (a week of events celebrating the city and its history).
• May: Kusajishi (archers in samurai outfits fire arrows at straw deer while reciting old poems at the Kamakura Shrine).
• June: There will be many temples celebrating hydrangeas throughout the month.
• July or August: Kamakura Fireworks (an hour-long fireworks display at Yuigihama Beach).
• September: Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Grand Festival (a famous festival featuring yabusame , horseback archery).

Accommodation in Kamakura

Kanagawa Prefecture has plenty to see and has three main Tokyo day trips — Hakone , Kamakura, and Enoshima — within its borders. While Hakone can be a tad expensive and Enoshima has limited accommodation choices, Kamakura is just right. Kamakura has budget hotels that start from ¥ 8,000 a night, such as Gen Hotel Kamakura , as well as swankier options like the evergreen Kamakura Seizan .

This post was originally published in April 2017 and last updated in May 2023. While we try to ensure that all information is correct, dates and other details may vary.

• Kita-Kamakura Station
• Komachi Street
• Hase Station
• Kosokuji Temple
• Kamakura Station
• Bamboo forest

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A day trip to Kamakura

The ancient Japanese city of Kamakura holds such an impressive collection of sights, this itinerary will help you see the best!

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: August 21, 2023

Things to do in Kamakura

When you think about the best temples in Japan, often it’s Kyoto that comes to mind first. And that makes sense – after all, it was once the capital of Japan and it has a large collection of historic buildings as a result of that.

However, it’s not the only former capital of Japan. There’s another city, Kamakura, that was effectively the country’s capital during the Kamakura period of history between 1185 and 1333.

It was during this period that the country saw the creation of the samurai warriors and the feudalism in Japan. To support this, enormous temple complexes were built with religious and political significance. It was an extremely influential part of the country’s history and what remains in Kamakura today reflects that.

There’s a reason it’s sometimes called the ‘Kyoto of the East’ and there was even an attempt to list it as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (but was not successful).

For visitors to Japan, a day trip to Kamakura is one of the best ways to spend your time. But there are lots of things to do in Kamakura and you’ll need to have a bit of a plan to make the most of the trip.

To help you, I’ve put together this Kamakura day trip itinerary that will take you to the highlights and show you a good mix of the variety on offer here.

Not only are there generations of history and culture to explore, but there’s also a beautiful natural landscape. I’ll show you how to experience it all.

Kamakura day trip itinerary

Most people will arrive in Kamakura by train – and I’ll have some more information later on the best tickets to use to get to Kamakura from Tokyo or Yokohama.

But while it may seem sensible to get off at Kamakura station, I’m actually going to start this itinerary at Kita-Kamakura station (literally: North Kamakura).

You can see on the map below my suggested route – but, a word of warning here, it has a lot of walking in it. If you would prefer not to do so much walking, I’ll have other options for you. And I’m also going to suggest some alternative sightseeing along the way, in case you have some specific interests.

Engaku-ji Temple

The first temple complex of the itinerary is one of the most significant. It’s called Engaku-ji and is ranked as the second of Kamakura’s Great Zen Temples.

Engaku-ji was founded in 1282 and it stretches up the slope of a hillside with the main buildings in a straight line, as was the style at the time. As you enter, you’ll see the dramatic wooden main gate at the top of the first set of stairs. Further up, there are actually 18 individual temples in the grounds.

Take particular note of the main hall (butsuden) with a sacred statue from the Kamakura period and the great bell (the largest in Kamakura). You’ll also notice how the landscaping in the complex creates a sense of peace – something you’re going to see a lot more of during the day.

Jochi-ji Temple

Just a short walk from Engaku-ji, on the other side of the train tracks, is the next temple: Jochi-ji. Although it’s ranked fourth of Kamakura’s Great Zen Temples, it is actually quite small. That’s because the original buildings have all been destroyed and the recreation of the site is not as big as it would once have been.

Still, I think it’s a really beautiful and peaceful temple. In fact, because it is small and doesn’t have too many visitors, it offers a nice contrast to many of the other sites you’re going to see today.

Be sure to go through the small cave at the top to see the charming little graveyard.

Daibutsu Hiking Trail

One of the other reasons I recommend Jochi-ji is because this is where the Daibutsu Hiking Trail begins, so you would probably come here anyway.

I love this trail and would highly recommend you do it. It takes about an hour through some lovely forest and takes you to the next set of main temples on the other side of the hill. Plus there are a couple of interesting things to see along the way.

However, if you don’t want to do the walk, you can get the bus to the Daibutsumae stop (changing at the Kamakura stop) and skip ahead in this itinerary. (I’ve got more information about using the bus in Kamakura later in this post).

I’ve marked the Daibutsu Hiking Trail on the map above but it’s quite easy to follow. The path is obvious and there are signposts at any intersections. Just follow the signs to the ‘Daibutstu (Big Buddha)’, which is the final stop of the walk.

Kuzuharaoka Shrine

If you’re doing the hiking trail, you’ll walk past the small Kuzuharaoka Shrine. It would not be worth the effort to visit otherwise, but it’s a good place to stop seeing as you’re here anyway.

The shrine was built on the site where a traitor was executed in 1333. These days, though, the shrine is dedicated to matchmaking and it’s where hopeful lovers come to pray to find the one.

Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine

A bit further along the hike, you’ll see an option to do a slight detour to visit the Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine. I highly recommend you do this.

Part of the fun of Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine is the entrance, which is through a tunnel cut into a cliff face. But what you’ll find inside is also really interesting.

The shrine is for people who want to get richer and it’s said that if you wash your money in the spring water of the shrine’s cave, it will multiply. Go and have a look at all the worshippers putting their 1000 yen notes in the water and then drying them off!

OPTION: Itsuki Garden cafe

If you need a break along the hike, there’s a lovely little cafe where you can get a drink or something to eat.

Look out for the signs to the Itsuki Garden Cafe before the final downhill stretch to the end of the trail. The outside tables have a nice outlook down to the bottom of the hill.

Kotoku-in Temple (Big Buddha)

Technically this temple is called Kotoku-in but most people know it by the Japanese name Daibutsu and the English translation, Big Buddha. It is the iconic image of Kamakura and a must-visit on a trip here.

There isn’t much temple to see here – the focus is squarely on the large bronze statue of Buddha. But it’s impressive enough that you won’t be disappointed. Historians think the statue dates from 1252 and was built after a wooden version was destroyed by a storm.

The Big Buddha statue is about 14 metres tall (including the base) and you can join the queue of tourists to go inside and have a look at the interior.

OPTION: Hase-dera Temple

Hase-dera Temple is actually quite interesting and is one of the oldest temples in Kamakura, having been founded around the 8 th century.

However, I would suggest skipping it if you are taking all of my other recommendations, because you won’t be able to fit everything in. But if you didn’t do the hike, you should have time to pop in because it’s only about a ten minute walk from the Big Buddha.

Hase-dera Temple is famous for the statue in the main building which, at 9.18 metres, is one of the largest wooden statues in Japan. Another interesting (but sad) element are the hundreds of small Jizo statues that are placed by parents who lost a child before they were born.

Hase-dera also has nice views of the city and the gardens are very pleasant.

Kamakura City

By now you’re probably getting hungry, so I would suggest heading into the central part of Kamakura city, which you can do by bus (or its about a 20 minute brisk walk).

There are lots of restaurants here and I’m not going to recommend any particular ones. However, I will mention the cafe at the Kamakurabori Museum because they have an interesting lunch option. You can get a vegetarian set menu that is modelled on the meals that the Buddhist monks of Kamakura would have eaten.

While you’re in the centre of Kamakura, have a wander along the Komachi Dori Shopping Street, which is full of places to buy souvenirs and snacks.

For something very traditional in the city where the samurai culture was founded, have a look at the Masamune sword shop, which has a heritage that goes all the way back to the original Kamakura period of history 700 years ago.

Hokoku-ji Temple

Hokoku-ji Temple is not one of the most historically-significant temples in Kamakura – but it is one of the most famous with tourists. That’s because of the stunning bamboo forest which has become a favourite backdrop for photographers and instagrammers.

It was founded in 1334, the year after the Kamakura period officially ended, and has a large main building with a beautiful landscaped garden and pond next to it.

The bamboo forest is behind the main building and on the other side is a teahouse. Stopping here to have some traditional tea with the bamboo for a view is quite spectacular and worth doing.

Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu

Heading back into the centre of the city, the next stop is Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. This is the most important Shinto shrine in Kamakura (as opposed to most of the others, which are Buddhist). It’s hard to miss because it’s set on a hill in the geographic centre of the city with a long 1.8 kilometre approach from Kamakura city.

The shrine was founded in 1063 and moved to its current site in 1180. The main building at the top of the staircase includes a small museum which has a small entrance fee (and is probably not worth it). You also get fantastic views of the city from this terrace.

On the ground level, you’ll find some interesting elements including fish ponds, a performance stage, and a special garden.

Kencho-ji Temple

Depending on how quickly you’ve been moving today, you may be starting to run out of time. But don’t be tempted to skip this last suggestion – it’s one of the most important (and, in fact, I would suggest you drop something else from the itinerary rather than miss this one).

Kencho-ji is ranked first amongst Kamakura’s Great Zen Temples. It was built in 1253 and is the oldest Zen training monastery in Japan. And, as you’ll see, the complex is really large.

From the entrance, you’ll see the main wooden gate and then, beyond that, the Butsuden with an important statue of Jizo Bodhisattva. The Hatto building next to it is the largest wooden temple building in eastern Japan.

Further on is the complex’s main building, which you can go inside and walk around the balcony. From the far side, you get a wonderful vantage point of the beautiful zen garden.

If you have the time or the inclination, there are a couple of others paths you can follow within the Kencho-ji grounds that will take you to smaller shrines and viewpoints in the hills. They are a lovely way to see a bit more of the natural environment here.

Tours to Kamakura

Even though you can follow my suggested Kamakura day trip itinerary and see all the highlights, you may prefer the idea of having everything arranged for you. With a guided tour, you’ll get all of that plus someone who can explain the history and point out the most significant things.

If you’re interested in a guided tour to Kamakura, here are a few options that I would recommend:

Getting from Tokyo to Kamakura

If you’ve spent any time in Tokyo already, you will have realised that the transport can be a bit confusing because so many different private companies offer different options. Going from Tokyo to Kamakura can seem just as overwhelming at first because you have a few choices.

The first option is to use the JR Yokosuka Line . It goes from Tokyo station to Kamakura and stops at Kita-Kamakura station. It costs 920 yen (US$8.10) each way and takes about an hour. This is the best option if you are staying closer to Tokyo station than Shinjuku station and won’t need too much public transport once you reach Kamakura.

The second option is to use the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line . It also takes about one hour and costs 920 yen (US$8.10) each way. It doesn’t come as often but may be more convenient if you’re staying near Shinjuku. However it normally doesn’t stop at Kita-Kamakura, so you’ll have to use my suggested itinerary in a slightly different order.

The third option is to use Odakyu Railways . The train leaves from Shinjuku station but it takes about 90 minutes each way. However, it’s cheaper at 1470 yen (US$13) return and you’ll be able to use the Enoden train in Kamakura, which will get you from the main station to Hasedera Temple (and near the Big Buddha). This is a good option if you’re staying near Shinjuku and want to save a few dollars.

If you have a JR Rail Pass , it will work with either the JR Yokosuka Line or the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line. (A JR Rail Pass can save you a lot of money when travelling Japan, so have a look at the details here .)

Getting from Yokohama to Kamakura

I’ve written recently about things to do in Yokohama and why the city is worth a visit for a couple of days. It’s also quicker to get from Yokohama to Kamakura, so it might make sense to do a Kamakura day trip from here.

If so, it’s very easy to use the train. From Yokohama station, you can catch either the JR Yokosuka Line or the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line. Either one will take about 25 mins and cost 340 yen (US$3) each way.

Getting around Kamakura

Kamakura is small enough and the main sites are close enough to each other that it is possible to walk between everything if you want. However, that does add up to a lot of walking in one day and takes up a bit of time, so you may prefer to use public transport.

If so, a good option is to buy the Kamakura Free Kankyo Tegata travel pass. It costs 570 yen for an adult or 290 yen for a child and offers unlimited bus rides for the day, which will be able to take you to all the main sights I have mentioned in the itinerary.

You can buy it at the tourist information office at Kamakura station or at the Engakuji souvenir shop near Kita-Kamakura station.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN KAMAKURA

Although you can visit as a day trip from Tokyo or Yokohama, Kamakura is a great place to stay overnight. Here are my accomodation tips.

For a cool backpacker vibe, I would recommend Iza Kamakura Hostel & Bar .

There is a very comfortable place called Guesthouse Shibafu , which is great value for Kamakura.

If you want more of a standard hotel room, Sotetsu Fresa Inn is an excellent option.

And when it comes to luxury, the Kamakura Park Hotel is lovely and even has water views.

Time Travel Turtle was supported by Kanagawa Tourism but the opinions, over-written descriptions and bad jokes are his own.

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2 thoughts on “A day trip to Kamakura”

Wow.. The Place is simply amazing and the pictures justify it…Thanks for sharing !!

all very good thanks as I am doing a Japanese conducted tour and your information will help me very well. thanks

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What to do in Kamakura | My Perfect One Day Itinerary

If you have spent some time in Tokyo, searched out all the off the beaten path destinations within the city, and like me, you crave some fresh air, some nature, and a little bit of relaxation, then it’s time to on a one day trip to Kamakura may be just what you need.

I have put together my one-day itinerary with 10 great ideas to help you know what to do in Kamakura and enjoy an unforgettable day trip.

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Note – Please know, some of the external links on this page are affiliate links, this means that if you purchase after following one, I make a small commission from the sale at no additional cost to yourself.

The Kamakura Period: A snippet of history

While the name Kamakura appears in texts as early as 712 the city of Kamakura first became important in 1192 when Minamoto no Yoritomo , a prominent figure in Japanese history, founded the Kamakura Shogunate and with this the Kamakura Period started.

As de facto ruler over most of Japan and Kamakura becoming de facto the capital of Japan for over 140 years, it is a significant city from a historical standpoint.

The rule of Kamakura ended in 1333 when the city was sacked by Emperor loyalists and a chaotic period followed, in which Kamakura stayed significant as the capital of Kanto region and even dominated the area economically.

Unfortunately, it didn’t end well for Kamakura. It was almost burned down in 1526, and when in 1603 the Tokugawa Shogun decided to move the capital of Japan to nearby Edo (now Tokyo), Kamakura was never able to recover its former glory and power.

Kamakura gradually returned to being a small fishing village similar to what it had been before the beginning of the Kamakura Period in Japan in 1192.

Because of its cultural assets, beaches and mystique surrounding the small city of Kamakura, it became a popular spot for the wealthy to relax during the 19th and 20th century and has remained a popular tourist destination ever since.

If you want to learn more about the history of Japan consider reading A Brief History of Japan before your trip.

What to do in Kamakura

• Rent a Yukata or Kimono
• Ride the Enoshima Electric Railway to Hase Station
• Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Savor the view at the top of Hasedera Temple
• Go shopping at Komachi Dori
• Make a wish at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
• Stroll through the Bamboo Grove of Hokokuji
• Admire the Moss Stairs of Sugimoto Dera
• Relax or take a wander along Yuigahama Beach
• Try some delicious local treats

My perfect Kamakura day trip itinerary

In this Kakamura day trip itinerary, there is a lot of culture and history involved, mainly in the form of many temple and shrine visits. But there are also other highlights like the beach and delicious food to be found in Kamakura. From a cultural standpoint, in my opinion, Kamakura is the perfect spot for a 1 day trip from Tokyo.

I usually get up around 8 or 9 a.m. and make my way to Kamakura. You will reach Kamakura comfortably in about an hour by train. If you want to know how to get to Kamakura from Tokyo, please find the information at the bottom of this post.

I also recommend having Google Maps available, I know it can be hard to get around a foreign country without WIFI, but if you don’t have an international data plan for your phone, you can reserve a sweet little pocket WIFI or a sim card comfortably from home and pick it up at the airport when you arrive in Japan.

1. Rent a Yukata or Kimono

There is nothing nicer than exploring beautiful Kamakura dressed in a Japanese summer Kimono, called a Yukata. You can rent a Yukata or a Kimono close to Kamakura Station for the day. There are shops where you just walk in but if you want to be save you can also make a reservation at Kyoto Kimono Rental Wargo.

2. Ride the Enoshima Electric Railway to Hase Station

Your first and second stops should be the famous Great Buddha of Kamakura and Hase Dera Temple. They are within walking distance of each other, and you can most conveniently reach both by taking the Enoshima Dentetsu (Enoden) train line from Kamakura Station to Hase Station.

From the Station walk along the main street with many small interesting shops and restaurants and try not to buy too much.

3. Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura

At the end of the main street, you will find the Kamakura Great Buddha which is part of the Kotokuin Temple. The entrance fee is 200 Yen, and for an additional 20 Yen, you can even visit the inside of the enormous bronze statue.

At the inside, you can learn about how the statue was constructed about 800 years ago (around 1252). Initially, there was a wooden statue housed in a great hall, but funds were raised to build a bronze statue and a new building after the old were damaged. For the first 250 years or so the great bronze Buddha stood covered in a hall, but due to repeated damage since around 1498, the Kamakura Daibutsu (as it is called in Japanese) stands in the open air.

The inside of the Kamakura Buddha is a confined space so don’t go if you are claustrophobic. And in summer it can get uncomfortably hot, and you will be drenched in sweat after your short visit inside. This just as a warning.

Visiting information Name : Great Buddha (大仏) of Kotoku-in (高徳院) Admission : 200 Yen (2 USD) + 20 Yen (0.20 USD) for a visit to the interior of the Buddha statue Opening hours : 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Address : 4 Chome-2-28 Hase, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa-ken 248-0016

4. Savor the view at the top of Hasedera Temple

The second highlight in the Hase Area is Hase Dera also called Hase Kannon. Legend has it that the temple was first constructed in the Tempyo era between 729 and 749, but according to records found in the temple, it first gained importance during the Kamakura Period.

Because the Hasedera temple sits on the slope of Mount Kamakura, there are a lot of stairs involved if you want to explore the whole temple complex. Around the entrance at the bottom, there are some beautiful ponds with koi swimming in them housed in a typical Japanese style garden.

The stairs lead to different little altars on the way to the great Kannon hall where a big wooden Kannon statue is housed. If you climb even higher, you will get a beautiful view of Kamakura beach and the city of Kamakura.

The Hasedera temple is especially popular in June to July when the Hydrangea are in full blossom. It can get really crowded during that time. But in my opinion, the temple is worth a visit any time of the year.

Visiting information Name : Hase Dera Temple (長谷寺) Admission : 300 Yen (3 USD) Opening hours : 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Address : 3 Chome-11-2 Hase, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa-ken 248-0016

5. Go shopping at Komachi Dori

The always crowded shopping street in Kamakura is Komachi Dori. Here you can not only rent a Yukata for the day but also buy amazing souvenirs and eat delicious food.

Many shops selling sweets or other snacks also offer food samples and I love to go from one to the next and try everything.

6. Make a wish at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu with its big red torii is the most important Kamakura shrine. The city of Kamakura grew around Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and its 1.8-kilometer long approach. Established in 1063, it was a shrine which house the Hachiman kami a god for warriors. With the establishment of the Kamakura Shogunate Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder moved the shrine to its current location and called on the Hachiman kami to protect his rule in Kamakura.

People who know about religious history in Japan won’t find it strange to learn that for almost 700 years the shrine was also an essential Buddhist temple, until the 1868 Shinto and Buddhism separation order.

This is the reason why even today many architectural parts of the shrine are Buddhist in origin. Unfortunately, because of this order, many of the Buddhist building and other cultural assets had to be destroyed and so the integrity of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and many other famous temples and shrines suffered because of the separation of Buddhism and Shintoism.

Visiting information Name : Tsurugaoka Hachimangu (鶴岡八幡宮) Admission : Free Opening hours : Always open Address : 2 Chome-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa-ken 248-8588

7. Stroll through the Bamboo Grove of Hokokuji

The Kamakura bamboo forest of Hokokuji Temple (also known as the bamboo temple) in the east of Kamakura is another point of interest and a charming place to spend a bit of time, relax and maybe even drink some tea while enjoying the cool and quiet.

It is a much smaller bamboo grove than the one in Kyoto’s Arashiyama district, but in my opinion, because of its size it is much more intimate and a better place to experience a bamboo grove. A small path, just wide enough for two people to pass, winds through the bamboo stalks. There are also some caves to explore and a little tea house, where you can sit down, sip some bitter matcha tea and enjoy the quiet of the atmosphere so different from the hectic in Tokyo.

Visiting information Name : Hokokuji Temple (報国寺) Admission : 200 Yen (2 USD) + 500 Yen (5 USD) for Tea Opening hours : 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Address : 2 Chome-7-4 Jōmyōji, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa-ken 248-0003

8. Admire the Moss Stairs of Sugimoto Dera

Not too far from Hokokuji Temple is Sugimoto Dera, another temple with an ancient history. It was founded in 734 which makes it the oldest temple in Kamakura. According to a legend the temple is nicknamed the Geba Kannon (Dismount Kannon) because non-believers would fall from their horses when they passed by.

I really like the temple because of the stone steps that are overgrown with moss leading from the bottom to the top where the Kannon is housed. It is too dangerous to use these steps anymore, and there are now new paths to the sides that will lead up.

Visiting information Name : Sugimotodera (坂東三十三観音第一番札所 杉本寺) Admission : 200 Yen (2 USD) Opening hours : 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Address : 903 Nikaidō, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa-ken 248-0002

9. Relax or take a wander along Yuigahama Beach

If you feel tired after learning so much about Japan’s history, culture and religion it is time to relax. And there is no better place to do that than Yuigahama beach. You can rent some chairs and a parasol and lie down on the beach. While you watch the Japanese youth having fun, playing in the sand and taking a swim in the ocean, you can eat some Japanese shaved ice bought at one of the stalls.

Kamakura beach is not only beautiful in summer but a stroll along the nearly empty beach in spring is also a lot of fun, and you can find a variety of ocean inhabitants. I saw some starfish, little crabs, a little ray and even an octopus who lived in an old can of coca cola.

10. Try some delicious local treats 

Eat Shirasudon at Akimoto

In every region of Japan, there is usually some typical food to try, and Japanese people love to seek out this food when they are traveling. I am much the same and always try to find out what the typical food of the region is before I visit.

In Kamakura it is Shirasu. Tiny little see-through fish that turn white when they are boiled. In Kamakura Shirasu is usually prepared as a Donburi (a rice bowl dish), the fishes are topped on rice either raw or cooked or deep fried. Seasoned with a little bit of wasabi and soy sauce and served with miso soup. If you are into Sushi, you will love Shirasudon.

While you can literally find Shirasudon at every corner in Kamakura, I recommend you seek out a restaurant called Akimoto. It serves either Shirasudon or a set of Shirasudon and Tempura made from local vegetables. The price at around 3000 Yen (30 USD) for lunch is quite steep but I was literally moaning and drooling all the time while eating because it was so delicious.

Visiting information Name : Akimoto (秋本) Opening hours : 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Closed Wednesday Address : 248-0006 Kanagawa-ken, Kamakura-shi, Komachi, 1 Chome−6−15 i-ZA Kamakura

Try purple sweet potato soft serve ice cream at Imoyoashi

If you feel like a refreshment (and even if you don’t feel like one) I strongly recommend you stop at Imoyoashi for sweet potato soft serve ice cream.

You might think it sounds weird, but trust me, it’s so delicious. I love trying Japanese soft serve ice cream everywhere I go in Japan, but I think my favorite so far might actually be the sweet potato ice cream from Kamakura. So don’t miss a fantastic food experience!

The shop is located on the way between Hase Station and the Great Buddha. If you keep your eyes open, you won’t miss it!

Visiting information Name : Imoyoashi Kamakura Daibutsuten (いも吉館鎌倉大仏店) Opening hours : 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Address : 1 Chome-16-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture 248-0016

Give flavored peanuts a go at Mameya

Another recommendation on the way between Hase Station and the Great Buddha is Mameya where they sell peanuts with a coating in over 70 flavors. You can try every single flavor they have for free, and it is a lot of fun finding your favorite.

There are peanuts in sweet flavors like soda or pineapple but also salty and spicy flavors like chili or curry. I liked the green curry best, and so I bought a pack to take home. Taka and I actually fought about who got to eat more, that’s how delicious the peanuts from Mameya are.

Visiting information Name : Kamakura Mameya (鎌倉まめや) Opening hours : 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Address : 2 Chome-14-16 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture 248-0016

Bonus idea: Visit Enoshima Island

Off the coast of Kamakura, lies an island called Enoshima. You can get from Kamakura to Enoshima Island conveniently by crossing a bridge, either on foot and also by car.

There are so many things to experience (gardens, observation decks, caves and temples and shrines and of course restaurants and cafes with delicious food) on Enoshima that it is a whole day trip in and of itself.

While I love visiting Enoshima, I couldn’t include it in this post. But I thought you should know about it and maybe do a little research yourself if you are interested in exploring even more of Japan and the different day trips from Tokyo.

How to get to Kamakura from Tokyo

Now that you have all the necessary Kamakura day trip itinerary information it is also essential to know how to get from Tokyo to Kamakura by train.

Different trains connect Tokyo and Kamakura directly from different stations. I always take the JR Yokosuka Line from Shimbashi Station (it also stops at Tokyo Station). This will take 50 minutes and cost about 800 Yen (8 USD) one way.

From Shinjuku to Kamakura, for example, you can take the Shonan-Shinjuku Line, which also stops in Ikebukuro. This will also take roughly an hour and cost 920 yen (9 USD).

As you can see, depending on where you are in Tokyo different trains leave for Kamakura Station. But they are all JR trains and therefore free to use if you have a Japan Rail Pass, the cheapest way to get around Japan.

If you are planning on visiting other parts of Japan as well (like Kyoto or Hiroshima) I recommend you buy a Japan Rail Pass . It can only be purchased before you arrive in Japan.

One day tours from Tokyo to Kamakura

There are a couple of tour companies that offer guided tours to Kamakura. If you are interested in having a guide and a simple way to get to Kamakura with much extra information then check out these tours:

Where to stay in Kamakura

I have personally never spent the night in Kamakura but some people want to enjoy Kamakura for more than just a day trip.

There are many more temples to see than just the ones I have mentioned, such as the Zeniarai Benten Shrine, not far from the Kita Kamakura Station, and there are also beautiful hiking trails all around the Kamakura area.

Best Hostel in Kamakura

The WeBase Hostel Kamakura has bunk bedas in dormitory rooms as well as double rooms available. The beautiful hostel is located very close to the Yuigahama beach.

It has an excellent rating on Booking.com and everything I would look for in a hostel. It is clean, in a great location, according to reviews the staff and the facilities are also excellent and the WIFI is supposed to be very good as well.

Check the latest prices for a stay at WeBase Hostel Kamakura right now and book as soon as possible before prices go up or all available beds are booked, which can happen quite quickly in Japan.

Best budget ryokan in Kamakura

If you are looking for an authentic experience in Kamakura, staying at a Ryokan is a must. It might be a little bit more expensive than staying at a hostel or hotel, but it is an experience.

Kakiya Ryokan is very close to Enoshima, and only a short Enoden ride away from the center of Kamakura. The Japanese style rooms have Tatami straw mats and Futon beds and you have access to an authentic shared bathroom.

There are not many Ryokan in Kamakura and therefore I suggest you check out Kakiya Ryokan right now using Booking.com .

Final thoughts on what to do in Kamakura

This Tokyo to Kamakura day trip is packed with history, culture and delicious food. If you are planning to stay in Tokyo, I recommend you also have a look at my 5 days in Tokyo itinerary. And if you plan on traveling around Japan, my 2 weeks in Japan itinerary will probably be very helpful.

There are other beautiful Tokyo day trips that you shouldn’t miss, for example, a day trip to view Mt Fuji in all its beauty.

If you have any questions about Kamakura, Tokyo or Japan, in general, please don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments below. I will be happy to answer all your questions and to get to know you a bit better.

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One-Day Itinerary in Kamakura – The Best Day Trip from Tokyo by Train

• Post author: Beti
• Post published: February 14, 2024
• Post category: Japan
• Post comments: 0 Comments

If you’re seeking an easy day trip from Tokyo by train, Kamakura is the best choice. This comprehensive guide covers a one-day itinerary in Kamakura, including all main attractions, tips on transportation and directions, my favourite places to eat in Kamakura, and much more!

Kamakura has it all: rich history and beautiful temples, both mountains and sandy beaches, charming streets with local crafts, a laid-back atmosphere and easy access from Tokyo. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s home to the 13th-century Big Buddha, as well as surfers cruising the town on bicycles with boards attached. Kamakura is both a historically important point on the map of Japan and a cool seaside town. 

I visited Kamakura many times in all seasons and have always loved it. Kamakura is such a refreshing break from the concrete jungle in Tokyo. Don’t miss it on your trip to Japan!

What's in this blog post?

Why visit Kamakura?

1. historical and cultural significance.

Kamakura, sometimes referred to as the Kyoto of Eastern Japan, served as the base for Japan’s first shogun. It was the political centre of the country during the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The rise of the samurai (warrior class) and the daimyo (lords), and the establishment of feudalism in Japan, with its rigid social hierarchy, took place in the Kamakura period.  In addition, Kamakura is home to numerous temples and shrines, including the famous Great Buddha, which is over 700 years old!

2. Picturesque scenery and nature

Kamakura is a charming coastal town, surrounded by both mountains and the sea. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including cherry blossom trees in the spring, colourful foliage in the fall, beaches in the summer and clear views of Mount Fuji in winter. Basically anytime is good to visit Kamakura.

3. Relaxed atmosphere

Known for its laid-back atmosphere, Kamakura is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. The town is full of narrow streets, small shops, and quaint cafes. Every time I go to Kamakura, I come to the same conclusion – people are happier here than in Tokyo. I love sitting on the beach while watching locals walking their dogs and suntanned surfers preparing to catch the wave.

4. Outdoor activities

Kamakura is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and swimming. There are several easy hiking trails connecting famous temples and offering beautiful views. I’ve walked two most famous routes – Daibutsu & Tenen –  and believe me, if you love nature and have some spare time, you should definitely try exploring the historical sights of Kamakura in this unique way!

5. Very easy access from Tokyo

Kamakura is easily (and cheaply!) accessible from Tokyo by train. In just an hour you’ll be sitting on the beach or under the giant foot of the Big Buddha. It’s so easy to get here that it would be a shame if you didn’t come.

Top 5 attractions in Kamakura

Kamakura has plenty of attractions that offer a glimpse into its history and culture. Here are my top five, which you can see in one day. You will find a detailed one-day itinerary in Kamakura later in the article.

1. The Great Buddha (Kotoku-in)

Completed in 1252, this large 11-metre-tall bronze statue of Buddha is a symbol of Kamakura and one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.  What’s interesting, the statue was originally placed inside a large temple hall. However, the temple was destroyed repeatedly by typhoons and a tsunami. Only the Great Buddha survived, and that is why since the 15th century he has been enjoying the fresh air.

While visiting the Great Buddha, don’t forget to enter inside the statue to check what’s inside his head. Surprisingly, there is not much inside 😉

2. Hasedera Temple

Located on a hill and overlooking the town and the bay, this is probably my favourite Kamakura’s temple. Visiting Hasedera is a bit like exploring an amusement park as its full of surprises and attractions: 

• A beautiful garden with a pond, waterfall and flowers, famous for blooming hydrangeas (ajisai in Japanese) in June.
• Small cave, part of the temple dedicated to the goddess of feminine beauty and wealth (Benten), filled with sculptures, is a true hidden gem not to be missed. 
• Impressive 9-metre-tall eleven-headed statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. 
• Jizo-do Hall with hundreds of small statues of the Jizo Bodhisattva who helps the souls of deceased children to reach paradise.
• Views of the town of Kamakura and the Suginami Bay from a large terrace with picnic tables where Japanese sweets and beverages are available. You can even have a local beer while enjoying sea views on the temple grounds!

There is so much to see in Hasedera temple!

3. Hokokuji Temple

This small Zen Buddhist temple, hidden among the hills, is famous for its beautiful bamboo grove, stone lanters and teahouse. Narrow paths lead through the bamboo to the lovely teahouse, where you can enjoy matcha tea while admiring the views of the bamboo grove. When buying a ticket to the temple, get the one including  the tea, as it’s really worth it! If you’re going to skip Kyoto’s famous and very crowded bamboo forest in Arashiyama, Hokokuji Temple is a great, much more peaceful alternative.

4. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Kamakura’s most important Shinto temple was founded in 1063 to commemorate the family of the first shogun of Japan, Minamoto. A long, wide approach to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine through the city centre with torii gates along the way leads to the vast temple grounds.

5. Kamakura Beach

Kamakura Beach consists of two beaches: Yuigahama and Zaimokuza. Although the colour of the water cannot be compared to the beaches in Okinawa, the water is clean and also very warm from June to the end of September. The darker colour of the sand should not worry you, as it is due to its volcanic origin. The sunsets can be amazing, and in the summer months (July-August) the beach is bustling with life, with food stalls along the beach. From Zaimokuza Beach, when visibility is good, you can see Mount Fuji.

More things to do around Kamakura

If you have more time, below you will find more ideas for your day trip in Kamakura.

6. Five great Zen temples

There are five great Zen temples in Kamakura, as Zen Buddhism became the predominant religion among the samurai class in the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The philosophy of Zen Buddhism based on direct experience and simplicity appealed to the samurai and numerous temples were constructed with the shogunate’s support. Zen Buddhism was closely associated with martial arts, as the focus on discipline, concentration, and clear mind complemented the training of samurai and reflected their warrior ethos.

Four out of five Zen temples are situated just north of the main city, in Kita Kamakura and one sits not far from Hokokuji temple known for its bamboo grove. Founded in 1253 in Kita Kamakura Kenchoji, featuring impressive grounds, beautiful gardens and a large number of temple buildings, is considered the most important out of five.

The most important Zen temple in Kamakura - Kenchoji

7. Enoshima Island

Located just off the coast of Kamakura, Enoshima Island offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, as well as a beautiful lighthouse, caves and temples. You can easily spend a whole day on Enoshima Island. My favourite way to get to the island is by small boat. Enoshima Island is a great place to unwind, while eating lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants or watching the sunset.

Most of Kamakura’s temples are secluded among the hills surrounding the town, and a network of easy trails connects the most famous sights. Two most famous hiking trails – Daibutsu and Tenen run through the Western and Northern Hills, respectively.

The Daibutsu Hiking Trail is my favourite route. It connects the northern Kita-Kamakura with magnificent Zen temples with the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) sitting in the west of the town. The trail runs through the unique Zeniarai Benten Shrine, famous for “money washing”. Completing the trail takes about 90 minutes.

just one hour from Tokyo

Read more about hiking in Kamakura here:  Japan Travel Guide – Hiking in Kamakura

Inamuragasaki Onsen Spa is a small, tattoo-friendly onsen with a beautiful view of the sea and Enoshima Island. In good weather you can even see Mount Fuji while sitting in the bath. It only takes 15 minutes by local train Enoden to reach the onsen from Kamakura Station.

Inamuragasaki Onsen Spa

10. Overnight stay in Kamakura

For more flexible travellers with extra time and lighter luggage, I can also suggest staying in Kamakura for a night. Despite its proximity to Tokyo, I stayed overnight in Kamakura a few times, enjoying its charm in the evening when other tourists had already returned home. I particularly liked this tiny guesthouse located in a 100-year-old traditional building, where time seems to pass slowly. No wonder, Kamejikan means “turtle time” in Japanese 🙂

The turtle time - Take it slow in Kamakura

Booking.com – Kamejikan Guesthouse

One-day itinerary in Kamakura

Here is a perfect one-day Kamakura itinerary for first-timers crafted by a semi-local 😉 

• Take a local bus from Kamakura Station to Hokokuji Temple, famous for its charming bamboo grove. It gets busier later in the day, so visiting in the early morning allows you to enjoy its serene atmosphere. Return to Kamakura Station.
• Transfer to Hase by local Enoden train or bus directly to Kotoku-in to visit the Big Buddha.
• Walk to Hasedera Temple (less than 10 minutes on foot), relax in the beautiful gardens and on the terrace overlooking the sea.
• Lunch at one of the local restaurants in the Hase area. I especially recommend the Matsubara-an restaurant. More details on food options in Kamakura later in the article. But if you are short on time, you can skip lunch and enjoy some interesting street food at Komachi-dori later.
• Return by bus or Enoden to Kamakura Station and walk to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
• Time for shopping, street food and ice cream! Komachi-dori is the main shopping street with shops and restaurants selling local handicrafts, souvenirs and delicacies.
• If you still have the strength and the weather is nice, grab some takeout sushi and head to the beach to enjoy the sunset and hopefully see Mount Fuji.
• Return to Kamakura Station and travel back to Tokyo.

Getting to Kamakura from Tokyo

1. is it possible to visit kamakura as a day trip from tokyo.

Of course! Kamakura is located just 50 kilometres from Japan’s capital and the journey time is only one hour, making Kamakura the perfect day trip from Tokyo, during which you will be able to see all of Kamakura’s must-see attractions, including the famous Great Buddha.

2. How to get to Kamakura from Tokyo and how long does the journey take?

Travelling by train is the fastest way to get from Tokyo to Kamakura. The easiest way is to take the direct JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station to Kamakura. The one-way trip takes about one hour and costs about 1000 JPY. 

3. Can I use the JR Pass to travel to Kamakura?

Yes, you can use the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) to travel to Kamakura on the JR Yokosuka line. JR Pass covers the cost of the basic fare.

4. Do I need to book a seat in advance on the train to Kamakura?

No you do not have to. You can easily travel on the Yokosuka Line without a seat reservation. Simply use your JR Pass or Pasmo/Suica card to enter through the ticket gates and hop on the train.

However, if you want to have a guaranteed place in the so-called Green Car, you must pay an additional fee. Then you can sit anywhere in the Green Car. I always travel Kamakura in a normal car and  manage to get a seat, so I don’t think travelling in a Green Car is necessary. Of course, if you want a more comfortable journey, pay the extra fee and travel with peace of mind. 

It’s best to pay the additional fee at the platform in the Green Car self-service tickets machine. It currently costs 1000 JPY if you go to Kamakura from Tokyo on a weekday, and slightly less at 800 JPY on the weekend.

Getting around Kamakura

1. are local buses in kamakura covered by jr pass.

Similarly to the Tokyo buses/metro system, local buses in Kamakura are not covered by the JR PASS. However, you can use JR Pass on the Enoden train to travel free within Kamakura. To use local buses in Kamakura, you must pay the fare in cash or by transportation IC card such as Suica or Pasmo.

2. Can I walk around Kamakura to see all its main attractions?

Kamakura’s main attractions are scattered across the town and if you want to see them all in one day, it will be very difficult.

3. The fastest way to explore Kamakura

For short distances, taxi rides are quite affordable, especially if you are travelling in a group. If your goal is to explore various places in Kamakura efficiently, taking a taxi may be a good idea. However, remember that taxis are readily available at Kamakura Station, but are more difficult to find in more remote parts of the town. I recently took a taxi to Hokokuji Temple, famous for its bamboo forest, but took a bus on the way back because I couldn’t get a taxi. That said, buses are also a very efficient way to explore Kamakura, so this wasn’t a problem at all.

4. The best way to get around Kamakura

The small town of Kamakura is great for exploring by bicycle. Its charming streets are not too crowded. I usually use HELLO CYCLING city bikes, which are available in many other locations in Japan. Unfortunately, there are not many stations in Kamakura, and therefore not many HELLO CYCLING bikes, so sometimes finding or parking them can be a bit difficult.

Download the HELLO CYCLING   app from the official website (can  be set it up in English).

As an alternative, there is a Kamakura bicycle rental shop near the station. Renting a bicycle for an entire day is a great option to visit Kamakura. I did it once and can recommend it! 

Culinary guide to Kamakura

Kamakura is known for its shirasu-don, which is a bowl of rice topped with tiny shirasu fish caught in nearby Sagami Bay. Shirasu are usually served raw with soy sauce and other toppings like green onions and grated ginger. Since I’m not a big fan of this dish,  I won’t recommend any particular place serving shirasu , but lots of other places I enjoy 🙂

Kamakura food scene: Sushi on the beach, Buddha Beer, seaside views, authentic pizza, and lots of Japanese flavours that I have no photos of...

1. A very special place with soba noodles & tempura

Matsubara-an restaurant is hidden in a residential area, in an old Japanese house with a large terrace. You can either sit in the traditional Japanese way on a tatami mat or at a normal table. Beautiful decor and presentation, as well as the quality of ingredients make the dishes not cheap, but also… not too expensive. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, this is my recommendation! 

Matsubara-an

2. Kamakura’s cheap & delicious sushi popular among locals

Good quality conveyor sushi that is popular with locals. We usually order takeout sushi and eat on the beach while watching the sunset.

魚屋路 鎌倉由比ヶ浜店

3. Vegetarian / vegan food with sea views in Kamakura

Organic ingredients, sea views and a relaxed atmosphere. You feel more like you’re in Bali or Pokhara than an hour away from Tokyo. A little gem on the culinary map of Kamakura.

4. Typical Japanese dishes, soba, tempura, sashimi, lunch sets near Kamakura Station

A cosy restaurant centrally located on the main shopping street (Komachi-dori) near Kamakura Station, serving all kinds of dishes, including seasonal plates. It can accommodate larger groups. We ate there once with six people (including a small child) and it was very comfortable.

Minemoto Komachi-dori Kamakura

5. Chozumeya – local sausages & craft beers

Kamakura is famous for its ham and sausages. Chozumeya is an interesting place on the main street of Komachi-dori, where you can taste different types of sausages and drink local beer while admiring the paintings of local artists on the walls.

6. Street food on Komachi-dori Street

Komachi-dori Street is full of small eateries offering all kinds of Japanese street food. It’s impossible to try everything. So if you have to choose, go for the curry cheese bun at Giraffa Curry Pan or the traditional pork steamed buns at Kamakura Tenshin. Don’t forget the delicious Japanese soft-serve ice cream to end your meal!

Giraffa Curry Pan      Kamakura Tenshin

7. Authentic Hawaiian burgers close to Kamakura beach

Located near the beach and serving authentic Hawaiian burgers, Kua’Aina Sandwich is probably one of the most unique stories of the restaurant chain. Originally founded in Hawaii in 1975 on the island of Oahu, in the small (and very picturesque) historic town of Haleiwa on the north coast. Although Kua’Aina Sandwich still only has one store in Hawaii, there are 30 in Japan! The burgers are delicious and the restaurant is decorated in Hawaiian style, with surfboards and old photos of Haleiwa on the walls. So if you crave a burger in Japan, don’t go to McDonald’s; try Kua’Aina.

Kua Aina Sandwich Shop

8. Best Neapolitan pizza in Kamakura

Yes, pizza. The truth is, you can’t live on sushi and ramen all your life. Especially if you lived in Italy for several years and you are married to an Italian man. This is an authentic Neapolitan pizza, if you need a break from Japanese food.  

Pizzeria GG Kamakura

KAMAKURA MAP

I hope you enjoyed this blog post about Kamakura and you will include this lovely seaside town in your Japan travel plans. If you have questions or need more information regarding one-day itinerary in Kamakura, don’t hesitate to leave a comment. I’ll be more than happy to help! And if you found this article helpful, please leave a comment – your feedback always brings a smile to my face! 🙂

And if you are seeking some other ideas for easy day trips from Tokyo offering stunning nature and an escape from a concrete city – here are some more ideas:  6 EASY DAY TRIPS FROM TOKYO FOR NATURE LOVERS .

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Kamakura Day Trip: Itinerary + Travel Tips

There are a lot of places that make for great side trips from Tokyo, but few are quite as full of history as Kamakura, the former capital of Medieval Japan. If you’ve got some time in your itinerary, I highly suggest making a day trip to Kamakura from Tokyo.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links. Find more information about affiliate links on  our policy page .

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

Zeniarai benten, other things to do in kamakura, getting to kamakura from tokyo, day trip to kamakura itinerary.

Start off your Kamakura day trip at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, which has a beautiful walkway that leads up to the temple. There is a red torii at the beginning of the walkway that leads to a big red gate before arriving at the temple. It’s slightly atop a hill and set back into the trees which makes for a fantastic view.

Next, head over to Kenchoji. The first thing you’ll see is a large wooden gate. The worn wood of the gate and even the temple itself gives everything an old, historic feel. Unlike some of the other temples in Japan that are a bright orange or red color, the unassuming wood of this shrine gives off the feel that it has been around forever.

Don’t forget to stop and smell the roses! Or in this case, hydrangeas! Meigetsuin is particularly popular in June because of all the Hydrangea flowers. It’s a little more expensive if visit in June as opposed to other times of the year, but I think the view of the rows of Hydrangea flowers are worth it. I’ve seen Hydrangea flowers before, but I had never seen so many in one area, and it definitely filled the whole area with an enjoyable aroma. However, even if you can’t go in June, it’s still a beautiful place to visit.

Over you’ve had your fill of flowers, stop by Engakuji. It hadn’t been on my original Kamakura itinerary, but I was glad we had made the detour. The temple itself was nice, but I particularly liked the area leading up to shrine. There were small ponds with traditional Japanese houses tucked into trees. When I thought of a traditional Japanese style house, this is what I imagine. If you’re looking for “off the beaten path” destinations or just wanting to experience local life away from the big city, this is the place to do it.

Zeniarai Benten was a little bit of a hike to get to. It’s tucked away up in a mountain, but getting there is a really cool experience in itself. You actually have to walk through a small rock tunnel in order to get to the shrine area. The actual shrine is tucked away in the overhang of one of the rocks. On the opposite side of the area is another smaller offering box next to a waterfall.

Lastly, make sure to hit Kotokuin, which is known for its large Buddha statue set in the middle of the area. It’s the second largest Buddha statue in Japan (the first being in Nara at Todaiji Temple).

When my friend suggested going to Kotokuin while we were in Kamakura, I agreed, but at the time I hadn’t realized what it was famous for. I remember rounding the corner to be greeted by the statue and immediately stopped, thinking “Wow, that’s a big Buddha.”

Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Journey

Kamakura has some amazing things to do and see, but as you travel from place to place, don’t forget to stop and look around. In Kamakura, sometimes the journey is just as beautiful as destination.

If you have some extra time in the area, you could also check out some of these awesome activities:

• Do a walking tour of Tokei-ji Temple, Jochi-ji Temple, and Genji-yama Park
• Walk through Omicho Market, visit the historic Kanazawa Castle, and stroll through the serene garden of Kenrokuen
• Take a Bento Cooking Class

The fastest way to get to Kamakura from Shinjuku is to take the Shonan-Shinjuku Line. Thankfully, this is a Japan Rail Line, meaning that if you have a Japan Rail Pass, you won’t have to pay any extra for the ride. However, only some of the Shonan Shinjuku trains go all the way to Kamakura (the ones bound for Zushi). Others will stop at Ofuna. If you happen to get on one that stops at Ofuna, it’s not a problem. Just pick up the Yokosuka Line (also a Japan Rail Line) and continue the small distance to Kamakura. Depending on which Shonan-Shinjuku train you get on, it will take about 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes to arrive at Kamakura.

If you are departing from Tokyo Station, you can take the Yokosuka Line all the way from Tokyo Station to Kamakura station, and arrive in a little over an hour.

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Tourist in Japan

Travel Guide and Blog about Japan

Kamakura 1 day itinerary

Kamakura is a historic city located a 1 hour train ride south of Tokyo . It is a popular side trip from Tokyo due to its relaxed ambiance and beautiful buddhist temples and shinto shrines. Kamakura was the power center of the Kamakura Shogunate from around 1200 to 1300. When walking around the city it’s clear that this was once a place of great importance, and it’s not without reason that the area is sometimes compared to Kyoto. The scale and shear size of the shrines and temples clearly show what important role this area once had.

Hotels in Kamakura   Kamakura Guided Tour Kamakura Guided Hiking Tour

Kamakura is a perfect day trip from Tokyo . This 1-day itinerary is designed to take you past some of the most important historic, scenic and cultural spots in the city. If you need a hotel in Kamakura, then you can find some recommendations at the bottom of the article.

1-day itinerary map

1-day itinerary Kamakura

Itinerary details.

Planning your visit

Accommodation.

Hotel Recommendation for Kamakura: WeBase Hostel Kamakura (budget) Located a near Yuigahama beach and station, WeBase Hostel Kamakura is a good option for the budget minded traveler. The hostel has private and dormitory rooms. There’s even a yoga studio where you can take part in daily yoga classes, meditation and beach yoga sessions.  Kiyaza Kamakura Resort (mid-class) This hotel is suitable for both mid-class and budget travelers. It is located near the sea, in proximity of the beginning of the 1.8km approach to the famous Hachimangu Shrine. Both private and dormitory rooms are available. Kamakura Park Hotel (high-end) Kamakura Park Hotel is one of the nicer hotels in Kamakura. This 4* hotel is located by the beach, and a few hundred meters from Gokurakuji station. It features Italian furnishing, sea views and has a spa available. It is located in walking distance from the Great Buddha of Kamakura. >> More Kamakura Hotels here

Having an internet connection can help you a great deal when navigating the streets of a new city. Booking Pocket Wi-Fi or getting a Japanese SIM-card for your phone can be a great way to help yourself out of a tricky situation.

Book portable WiFi

Not so fond of self-guided tours? or maybe you just want more in-depth knowledge about the places you visit? Then here are some tours, which might be a good choice for you:

• Kamakura history and nature tour in english
• 1 day private tour around Kamakura
• Ancient Kamakura and the naval history of Yokosuka
• Tea in a Zen garden

Getting there

From Tokyo: take the Yokosuka Line (JO) from Tokyo Station, Shimbashi Station or Shinagawa Station. Get off at Kamakura Station. The ride is just under 1 hour, and is covered by the Japan Rail Pass .

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Travel, Hiking, Food

Tokyo to Kamakura Day Trip Itinerary: What to Do and Eat in Kamakura in a Day

Are you doing a day trip from tokyo to kamakura and wondering what’s there to do and eat this tokyo day trip blog shows you the best things to see in kamakura in one day..

Kamakura is a small and cute seaside town located about an hour south of Tokyo.

Kamakura is one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo due to its rich history, access to the beach, delicious food and beautiful shrines and temples. Most notably, Kamakura is the home of a giant Buddha statue, one of the most visited places in Kamakura.

If you want to spend a day exploring the different shrines in Kamakura, see a bamboo forest, visit the beach, try its local food, chill in a cafe or buy trinkets from its colorful stores then you would enjoy the day trip to Kamakura or even want to stay there for 2 days to fully explore the area.

In this post I will provide you with all the information you need on Kamakura including how to get to Kamakura from Tokyo, how to get around Kamakura, what to see and eat in Kamakura and other things you can do in the area.

This blog contains occasional affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products/hotels that are linked at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

Where is Kamakura in Japan?

Kamakura is a small city located in Kanagawa Prefecture along the coast of Sagami Bay.

It is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Tokyo and it takes about an hour to reach Kamakura by car and about an hour to an hour and a half by train.

From Yokohama it takes about 30 minutes to reach Kamakura by train.

Tokyo to Kamakura: How to Get There?

There are 2 train options you can take from Tokyo to Kamakura, depending on where you are in Tokyo:

• JR Yokosuka Line
• Shonan-Shinjuku Line

Tokyo Station to Kamakura

If you are traveling from Tokyo Station to Kamakura, the fastest and easiest way to get to Kamakura is on the Yokosuka Line, which is a JR Train (so you can use your JR Pass if you have one).

You will take the Yokosuka Line towards Zushi and get off at Kamakura.

The entire route takes about 56 minutes with no transfers and it costs 950 yen one way (945 Yen with an IC card).

Shinjuku to Kamakura

If you are traveling from Shibuya or Shinjuku to Kamakura, the fastest way is to take the Shonan-Shinjuku Line, another JR train.

You will take the Shonan-Shinjuku Line towards Zushi and get off at Kamakura Station.

This route takes 54 minutes and costs 950 Yen one way (945 Yen with an IC Card).

Read Next : 10 Day Japan itinerary for first time visitors

How to Get Around Kamakura?

Kamakura is a small city but most people do not walk to all the temples (unless you really want to walk and hike).

You will most likely utilize the train and buses and some walking to explore Kamakura and see the main highlights during your day trip.

Enoden Line is operated by the Enoshima Electric Railway and it runs from Kamakura Station westwards towards the beach and finally to Fujisawa.

There are plenty of buses you can take to get around Kamakura to temple hop. Google Maps can help you decide which bus to take.

You can pay for the train ticket and bus ticket with your IC card. When you ride the buses in Kamakura you can scan your IC card upon entry through the back of the bus and scan the card again when you get off.

Kamakura Tourist Map

For your convenience I bookmarked all the popular sites and some places to eat on this Kamakura tourist map.

Purple pins : Things I did in one day in Kamakura Black pins : Additional things you can do in Kamakura if you have more time Orange pins : places to eat in Kamakura

Is One Day Enough in Kamakura?

One day is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights of Kamakura.

With one day in Kamakura, you get to visit some of the most important and beautiful temples and you have a chance to explore the lively pedestrian street in the center of Kamakura.

If you have more time however, I would also recommend spending 2 days in Kamakura to fully explore, hike, and even visit Enoshima Island. But one day is a good starting point to explore Kamakura from Tokyo.

Read Next : How Many Days in Tokyo – the Ultimate Tokyo Itinerary for 2 to 7 Days

What to see in Kamakura in one day?

There are a lot of things you can do in Kamakura in one day. In fact there are so many that you need to pick and choose what works for you since one day is pretty short to spend in Kamakura.

Most people that go to Kamakura as a day trip opt to stay near town and visit 4 to 5 temples, grab food and drinks and shop around the main street of Kamakura.

However you also have the option to go to the beach, relax in a hot spring spa, or even venture out to Enoshima, a small island off the coast of Kamakura.

Below is a sample Kamakura itinerary based on what we did when we visited. I will also add things that you can consider doing if you have additional time.

Kamakura Daibutsu

Opening Time : 8am – 5:40pm daily Ticket Cost : 300 yen to visit; additional 50 yen to go inside the Buddha Time needed : 30 minutes How to reach : 7 minute walk from Hase Station (on the Enoden Line)

Kamakura Daibutsu is the giant Buddha and perhaps the most famous attraction in Kamakura. The Buddha is located in Kotoku-In, a Buddhist temple of the Jodo sect.

The Buddha itself is a bronze statue of Amitabha and it is about 44 feet tall including the base and weighs about 100 tons. It was originally completed in 1243 using wood but after it got destroyed during a typhoon, the bronze Buddha was then constructed in 1252.

The inside of the Buddha is hollow so you can pay more to go inside.

The temple itself is mostly known for the Buddha and there isn’t too much else to do there.

Hasedera Temple

Opening Time : 8am – 5pm daily from July to March; 8am – 5:30pm daily from April to June Ticket Cost : 400 yen to visit Time needed : 1 hour How to reach : 5 minute walk from Hase Station (on the Enoden Line)

Hasedera Temple is one of the most visited Buddhist temples in Kamakura.

Legend has it that back in 721 AD, 2 sculptors carved 2 Kannon statues out of one sacred tree. One of the statues was thrown into the ocean and later reappeared in Kamakura. That statue was then enshrined here at Hasedera Temple. The unique feature of this statue is that it has 11 faces on its head.

You cannot take photos of the statue inside the temple!

As you explore the temple, on the left of the main keep are small food stalls, benches, vending machines.

Since the temple is located on top of a hill, you can also get a fantastic panoramic view of Kamakura and Sagami Bay. You actually can have a nice sit-down meal at the restaurant with this ocean view.

At Hasedera, you will also find rows of small Jizo statues. As you walk downstairs and follow the route, you will find the Benten-Kutsu Cave with a Buddhist statue inside.

To the right of Benten-Kutsu Cave is a small rock garden. Hasedera Temple is also known for its beautiful garden that changes through the year.

Komachi Dori

After visiting two temples, you can take the train back to Kamakura station or take the bus to access Komachi Dori.

Komachi Dori is a bustling pedestrian street in the center of Kamakura between the JR Kamakura station and the famous Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine.

You will recognize the street by the iconic large red torii gate as well as signs above the street.

This popular and crowded pedestrian street has everything you would need: souvenir shopping, street food, cafes and restaurants, and boutique shops.

One of the most popular local things to eat there is whitebait (shirasu), a type of young fish, as well as rice crackers and sweet potato treats.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

Opening Time : 6am – 9pm October to March; 5am – 9pm April to September. The Tsurugaoka Museum is closed on Mondays; most buildings are open from 9am instead of 6am. Ticket Cost : 200 yen to visit Time needed : 1 hour How to reach : 10 min walk from the east exit of JR Kamakura Station via Komachi Dori; 10 min walk from Enoden Kamakura Station

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is a famous shinto shrine in Kamakura.

It was founded by Minamoto Yoritomo back in 1063 and dedicated to Hachiman, the god of samurai. It is said that there are 3 deified spirits of ancient emperors and the empress being enshrined at this shrine.

As you walk along Komachi Dori to reach the red torii gate at the base of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, you will need to climb up the stairs to the main hall, which includes a museum.

You will see a small set of red torii gates to the left of the main hall and it leads to the small fox shrine. There are also small bridges that lead to the ponds as you explore the shrine area.

Locals love to visit during the New Year’s period as it is a tradition to hold a lucky arrow that can ward off evil.

This shrine also hosts various annual festivals throughout the year with religious rituals and performances (like the horseback archery ritual in September, lantern festival in August , Spring Harvest Festival in February, Tanabata Festival in July).

Opening Time : 8:30am – 4:30pm daily Ticket Cost : 300 yen Time needed : 1 hour How to reach : 30 minute walk from Kamakura station or take the bus no.2 and get off at Kenchoji

Kenchoji Temple is located about a 15 minute walk from Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. It is one of the most famous zen temples in Kamakura.

Built in 1253 by Hojo Tokiyori, who was the ruling regent at the time, Kencho-ji is one of the 5 great Zen temples in Kamakura and also the oldest zen training monastery in Japan.

There are several buildings at Kenchoji Temple, with the most well known as the Sanmon main gate, the Buddha Hall where the statue of Jizo Bodhisattva is displayed, the garden behind the main hall, and a couple of observation decks as you climb uphill.

Hokokuji Temple

Opening Time : 9am – 4pm daily except Dec 29 to Jan 3rd Ticket Cost : 300 yen to visit bamboo garden; 900 yen includes matcha for the bamboo forest room Time needed : 30 minutes How to reach : Take bus no.5 from JR Kamakura Station for Jomyoji and get off there then walk 2 minutes

Hokokuji Temple is a small Buddhist temple in the eastern part of Kamakura. You will need to take a bus from Kamakura station to Hokokuji Temple.

The temple is the burial site of Ashikaga Clan and is mostly known for its beautiful bamboo grove. If you did not get a chance to visit the bamboo grove near Kyoto you will not want to miss this.

The entrance fee is mainly for the bamboo grove and within the bamboo grove there is a small tea house where you can pay extra to have a cup of Japanese matcha tea while enjoying the tranquility of the bamboo forest.

There is also a small rock garden after you walk past the gate.

Jomyoji Temple

Opening Time : 9am – 4:30pm daily Ticket Cost : 100 yen Time needed : 30 minutes How to reach : 2 minute walk from Hokokuji Temple

A few minutes walk from the Hokokuji Temple is another zen temple, Jomyo-ji Temple.

This small temple used to have a lot more buildings and pagodas before they were destroyed. The current temple has a small rock garden, a large cemetery, and a quiet teahouse where you can pay more to get matcha tea and traditional Japanese sweets similar to what you will find at Hokokuji Temple.

Since most temples close between 4-5 in the afternoon, you will need to get to Kamakura pretty early in the morning to see all of the temples above like what we did.

Another consideration is that it does take time to go from temple to temple, especially if you venture to eastern Kamakura to see Hokokuji Temple and Jomyoji Temple, so plan your day accordingly.

Read Next : Best Tokyo Attraction Pass that will help you save money

What to See in Kamakura If You Have More Than One Day

Most visitors take the day trip to Kamakura from Tokyo and depart for Tokyo around 5pm since temples are closed around that time.

However if you do want to do something different or if you want to stay overnight in Kamakura, then you can consider venturing out to the beach area.

Inamuragasaki Onsen Spa

If you are looking for the ultimate relaxing experience then definitely check out this Onsen Spa.

You will be able to enjoy a day spa (without staying overnight) while staring out to sea. On a clear day you can even see Mt. Fuji and Enoshima.

Women and men are separated for the hot spring spa and it costs 1,500 yen ($10 USD) to enter. Children under 13 are not allowed and it’s only available for 2 adults or more.

You can check out their website for more information.

Inamuragasaki Park

Inamuragasaki Park is a popular seaside park along the beach in Kamakura.

It is popular for its beautiful scenery of the water and on a clear day you can see Mount Fuji and Enoshima Island.

This is not a beach where you can swim since there is no shower or lifeguard, but there are a couple of bars and restaurants across the street. Since this park is not known for swimming, you can expect less people here as well.

The most popular time to visit is during sunset but you probably will see other photographers there waiting to take that perfect sunset photo over Mt. Fuji.

Enoshima Island

Enoshima Island probably deserves its own day trip from Kamakura.

Located in Fujisawa (next door to Kamakura), Enoshima is a popular day trip destination known for its coastal views, shrines, beaches, Iwaya Caves, Sea Candle observation deck and of course its seafood.

I didn’t get to go to Enoshima but if you have 2 days in Kamakura you can certainly venture out to check it out.

What to Eat in Kamakura?

Kamakura has some famous local specialities that you cannot get anywhere else. You can also expect local ingredients from Kamakura when you eat there, whether from street food vendors or in a restaurant.

Raw whitebait bowl

Whitebait is a small fish (sardine family) that is local to Kamakura. The best time to eat whitebait is during spring and fall as you won’t be able to get this in the winter.

The local way of eating whitebait is to eat it raw, which is served with vinegar rice and dipped in soy sauce. Different restaurants do prepare this differently, so you may see different toppings on it.

Kamakama Honten and Wasai Yakura are restaurants on Komachi Dori that serve whitebait bowls. We ate at Wasai Yakura and it was pretty good.

Baked Rice Cracker

Kamakura Ichibanya is a popular shop where visitors go and get freshly baked rice crackers.

They have more than 50 types of rice crackers in the shop so you will be able to try different flavors.

If you are looking for crepes then you have to go to Crepe Shop Coquelicot on Komachi Dori. They have both dessert crepe and savory crepes to choose from.

Best Tour to See Kamakura

If you are intimidated by the thought of traveling to Kamakura and taking the train by yourself, don’t worry, there are some really great tours you can take from Tokyo to visit Kamakura.

To get the best of both worlds, this Kamakura and Enoshima Bus Tour takes you to the most popular temples in Kamakura as well as Enoshima.

Since you have a bus and a guide with you, you won’t have to worry about finding your own transportation between the temples and finding the train to Enoshima. You will also get to learn about the history and cultural significance between each temple.

Book your day trip to Kamakura here .

Is Kamakura Worth Visiting?

With all the history and cultural significance, Kamakura is definitely worth visiting as a day trip from Tokyo.

Even if you do not want to see temples, you will most likely be interested in seeing the giant Buddha of Kamakura, eat some local specialties and fresh seafood, enjoy the beach of Kamakura and explore Enoshima.

There are so many things you can do and eat in Kamakura that makes Kamakura worthy of a visit.

Other Japan Travel Resources

If you are visiting Japan and want to see what else you can do, be sure to check out my other Japan travel guides!

• 10 Days in Japan: First Time Japan Itinerary
• 2 to 7 day Tokyo Itinerary
• Tokyo Bucket List: Street Mario Kart Guide
• How to save money on popular Tokyo attractions
• Complete Tokyo itinerary for first time visitors
• Best Hotel Near Mt. Fuji: Kozantei Ubuya
• 2 Day Kyoto Itinerary: What to See and Eat in Kyoto
• How to do a Day Trip from Osaka to Miyajima and Hiroshima
• Osaka 1 Day Itinerary
• Arashiyama Travel Guide: What to Do and Eat in Arashiyama
• How to Visit the Kyoto Bamboo Grove

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Kamakura Day Trip Itinerary: Shrines, Temples & Street Food!

Today we’re sharing our Kamakura day trip itinerary complete with shrines, temples and plenty of street food! This coastal town in Kanagawa Prefecture is a super easy day trip from Tokyo and well worth a visit. 

We went on a lot of different day trips from Tokyo over the course of our month-long stay in the Japanese capital. There was Mount Takao in search of nature, Yokohama for street food, Odaiba for robots , and then Kamakura.

Nicknamed ‘the Kyoto of the East’, Kamakura is a laidback coastal city known for its many shrines and temples, so that’s exactly what we prioritized during our day trip. We did a whole lot of temple hopping visiting Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū, Kotoku-in, and Hasedera. Plus, we fueled our day with plenty of  Japanese street food !

Here’s a little taste of what we got up to on our day trip to Kamakura.

Kamakura Day Trip Itinerary

Getting to Kamakura from Tokyo

There are a few different ways to get from Tokyo to Kamakura.

JR Yokosuka Line : This line offers a direct connection from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station. The journey takes just under an hour and costs 950 yen. The train also stops at other stations like Shinagawa and Yokohama​​.

JR Shonan Shinjuku Line : This line provides a direct connection between Shinjuku Station and Kamakura Station, with a travel time of about one hour and a cost of 950 yen. This was the option we went with to get to Kamakura. Note that only trains bound for Zushi offer a direct connection to Kamakura approximately every second train, or about two departures per hour. If you’re not on a direct train, you’ll need to transfer at Ofuna Station.

Odakyu Railway : For a more economical option, the Odakyu Railway offers the Enoshima Kamakura Free Pass. This pass includes a round trip between Shinjuku and Enoshima and unlimited use of the Enoden Line trains between Fujisawa, Enoshima, and Kamakura for 1640 yen. However, this route takes almost twice as long as the JR options. 

Visiting temples and shrines in Kamakura

There are plenty of shrines and temples to visit in Kamakura, but since we were only visiting on a day trip , we decided to focus on just 3:

Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū

The first place we visited was Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū, the most important Shinto shrine in Kamakura and thankfully it was just a short walk from the train station.

The original shrine was built in the year 1063 (yes, almost a thousand years ago!), though, of course, it has been expanded and restored since then. This shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war, and the patron god of samurais.

The shrine complex is known for its beautiful approach and surroundings, including a long street lined with cherry trees, leading up to the shrine’s main entrance. It features several buildings and structures of historical and cultural significance and is a popular spot for a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous Yabusame Festival, which is a horseback archery festival that dates back to the 12th century!

This shrine had beautiful grounds, we walked through a red torii gate at the entrance, strolled along the ponds, saw a wall of sake offerings, and then climbed the steps to the main shrine within the grounds.

The temple was busy, especially with school groups who were visiting for the day , but it had little pockets of tranquillity.

From there, we backtracked to the train station and hopped on the Enoden Railway Line and travelled 3 stops over to Hase to visit Kotoku-in.

This temple is home to the second-largest Buddha in all of Japan which stands 11.4 meters tall (the largest is found in Nara ).

The bronze Buddha is believed to date back to 1252 and it was preceded by a wooden Buddha. The Buddha was originally housed inside a temple, but that was destroyed by multiple typhoons and tidal waves, so it’s been in the open air since the late 15th century.

The bronze Buddha is hollow inside and it’s open to visitors, however, since we visited over the summer on a day of sweltering heat, setting foot inside the statue didn’t seem all that appealing!

The last temple we visited in Kamakura was Hasedera, which is a Buddhist temple famous for its large wooden statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. The statue is one of the largest wooden sculptures in Japan and stands at about 9 meters tall.

Hasedera is situated on a hillside and offers stunning views of the town and ocean. The temple is also renowned for its beautiful garden, which features a variety of flowers that bloom in different seasons, making it a picturesque spot throughout the year.

We happened to visit when the hydrangeas were in bloom and there were very long queues to view them. Visitors were assigned numbers and admitted in groups, but since we’re not ones to wait patiently in line for hours on end, we skipped the hydrangeas and explored the temple grounds instead.

The highlight was visiting the Benzaiten Grotto, which is a small cave network dedicated to Benzaiten, the sea goddess and the only female to form part of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology.

The walls had carvings of the goddess as well as small statues lit by candles and placed in niches.

Visiting the cave is pretty easy as there’s a clear path to follow, just be aware that there will be some water dripping down from the walls and ceiling, and that you’ll also need to hunch over to get through the tunnel.

For more ideas of things to do in Kamakura, here’s a list of temples, shrines and historical sites  to visit. There’s enough in Kamakura to keep you busy for a few days if you have the time!

Street Food in Kamakura

Aside from its temples and shrines, Kamakura is also a bit of a foodie destination with lots of street food on offer. In between all the sightseeing, we made time to walk the length of Komachi Street, which is a long pedestrian lane lined with small boutiques, souvenir shops and food vendors.

All you have to do to find this place is take the east exit from the main train station and look for the red torii which marks the start of the shopping street.

Here’s a list of some of the Japanese foods we sampled along the way:

Strawberry and Custard Mochi – ¥300

We ate lots of mochi during our trip to Japan , but this one was quite special! This plump mochi was stuffed with a sweet custard and topped with a perfect strawberry. It was delicious and a nice change from all the red bean mochis I had sampled up until then.

Omelette with Whitebait – ¥250

One food item that Kamakura is known for is whitebait (tiny white fish) that make appearances in both savoury and sweet desserts . Sam tried the omelette with whitebait, which he found pretty tasty. However, for the more adventurous eater, we noticed soft-serve ice cream topped with whitebait! That was a first.

Apple and Cinnamon Taiyaki – ¥350

Taiyaki is a fish-shaped pancake that is generally stuffed with red bean paste, sweet potato or custard. While the batter generally resembles that of a fluffy pancake or a waffle, what drew us to this one is that it was quite buttery and flaky, a bit like millefeuille. This one was stuffed with apples and cinnamon and tasted a bit like an apple pie.

Warabimochi – ¥250

We didn’t really know what we were having when we approached this particular food stand. “It’s like baby skin!” the shop owner told us as he jiggled a honey-coloured jelly, rolled it in roasted soybean flour and then placed it on a skewer. It turns out this was a dessert made from bracken starch – slightly different from mochi which is made from glutinous rice, but surprisingly tasty.

Black Sesame and Soy Milk Ice Cream – ¥380

As we were walking down Komachi-dori, we came across a shop specializing in all things sesame. Since they were handing out free samples, we decided to walk in and have a look around the store and also sample their ice cream. We got a black sesame soy milk ice cream that was covered in roasted sesame. Sam thought it tasted a bit salty and nutty, but worth trying!

Cheese Korokke – ¥180

For a savoury street food snack, we decided to try the cheese korokke, which is basically the Japanese version of a croquette. It was a potato and cheese mash, coated in breadcrumbs and then deep-fried. The cheese was a nice addition.

Matcha and Purple Sweet Potato Ice Cream – ¥350

And because we visited Kamakura in the middle of summer and were melting, we stopped for a second ice cream cone! This time, we went for the matcha and purple sweet potato. Out of all the soft-serve ice creams we had in Japan , the purple sweet potato had the mildest flavour, but it was very refreshing so no complaints there.

And that pretty much sums up our day trip to Kamakura.

Is Kamakura worth visiting?

Kamakura is a really fun and easy day trip from Tokyo and it’s worth doing to experience a different side of Japan. 

I would have liked to spend even longer in Kamakura to visit a few more temples and even make it down to the beach, but as I mentioned, we were visiting in the middle of summer and it was so hot and humid that by mid-afternoon, we called it quits and returned to our air-conditioned apartment.

I bet if we’d visited in spring or autumn, we would have been able to cram a bit more into our day trip, but nevertheless, it was a nice visit.

I’ll now leave you guys with a video of our day trip to Kamakura:

Have you been to Kamakura on a day trip in Japan ? Which attractions did you visit?

Read more about Japan:

• 5 Fun Osaka Bike Tours
• Fun Things to do in Hakodate, Hokkaido
• Crossing Japan’s Famous Alpine Route

Kamakura seems a really interesting place to visit. Food looks really special.

Interesting stuffs. Loved it!

Thank you for sharing your information, Kamakura is a really nice place to visit and the food looks really unique.

Never really knew about this amazing place. Loved it!

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Kamakura: A Day Trip from Tokyo

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For a day trip from Tokyo, few destinations can compete with Kamakura thanks to its rich history, magnificent temples, delicious food, and convenient transportation. Spending a day at Kamakura is a perfect way to unwind from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

A Brief History of Kamakura

While the site of Kamakura town has been inhabited for over 10,000 years, it reached its pinnacle in terms of political power during the Kamakura period (1185–1333). During this time in Japan, the Kamakura Bakufu, also known as the Kamakura shogunate, emerged as a major political and military power that rivaled the imperial court in Kyoto. In more recent times, particularly during the Showa period (1926-1989), the city became a popular destination for many famous writers, making it an exciting place to explore for a fan of Japanese literature.

Getting to Kamakura

Kamakura is easily accessible from Tokyo. You can take the JR Shonan Shinjuku or Yokosuka line trains depending on where you depart from. For instance, it takes about an hour to reach Kamakura by the JR Shonan Shinjuku line train from Shinjuku station. Another great way to go to Kamakura is to take an Odakyu line train to Fujisawa station and then continue your journey using one of the Enoden trains. Enoden, with its retro feel and scenic route along the sea, is a fantastic mode of transportation that will make your trip to Kamakura feel like a real adventure. It is also a great way to get around the area. For this route, you may purchase an Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass, which is a great way to explore the area economically. For more information on the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass, please visit the Odakyu website. Because there are so many different ways to get to Kamakura depending on where you depart from and where you want to go, careful planning of your adventure is highly recommended.

What to See in Kamakura

There are many amazing places to visit in Kamakura. For your convenience, we have compiled a list of some of the most well-known ones. For more information on available activities, admission fees, and other details, please visit the website of the temple, shrine, or museum you intend to visit.

Komachi Street in Kamakura

Website (Komachi Shop Association):  http://kamakura-komachi.com/eng/index.html  

If you are starting your journey from Kamakura station, Komachi street is probably the best place to start exploring the city. It is located right next to Kamakura station's east exit. Look for a red "torii" to enter the street as you exit the station. “Torii” is a gate you may come across whenever visiting a Shinto shrine in Japan. With many stalls selling snacks and drinks, as well as shops with various products and souvenirs, the street is a shopping and gourmet paradise. 

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

Website:  https://www.hachimangu.or.jp/en/   Website (for wedding):  https://ougintei.jp  (in Japanese) Address: Kanagawa, Kamakura, Yukinoshita, 2-1-31

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is a shrine with a history of over 800 years. It is easily accessible from Komachi street and is an excellent place to learn about Kamakura's history and culture. There, you can visit several shrine buildings, a museum, and participate in activities such as martial arts trainings, lectures, and festivals. It is even possible to have your traditional Shinto wedding ceremony performed there.  If you plan to get married or attend a wedding ceremony in Japan, you can learn about marriage registration from "A Guide to Getting Married in Japan," as well as about wedding customs from the article about "Japanese Wedding Etiquette: 7 Steps from RSVP to Afterparty."

Website: https://www.kotoku-in.jp/en/   Address: Kanagawa, Kamakura, Hase, 4-2-28 

If you have time only to visit one location, “Kamakura Daibutsu,” also known as The Great Buddha of Kamakura, should probably be the one. It is one of the most well-known Buddha statues in Japan with its history going all the way back to Kamakura period. It is located on the grounds of a Buddhist temple known as Kotoku-In. The height of the statue is approximately 11 meters, with a total height of about 13 meters when measured with the pedestal.

Website:  https://houkokuji.or.jp/?page_id=212  (in English, French, Spanish, Chinese, and Korean)  Website:  https://houkokuji.or.jp  (in Japanese) Address: Kanagawa, Kamakura, Jomyoji 2-7-4 

Houkokuji is a well-known Zen-Buddhist temple with a long history that dates back to 1334. The temple's magnificent bamboo garden is particularly famous. If you would like to view the bamboo garden while sipping a cup of Japanese green powder tea (matcha) with traditional dry sweets, expect to pay an extra 600 yen on top of the 400 yen admission fee. The temple also offers zazen meditation sessions every Sunday, which are rather rigorous. It is also important to note that Houkokuji's meditation sessions are conducted entirely in Japanese, with no English translation available.

Kamakura Museum of Literature  (Closed for renovation till March 31, 2027)

Address: Kanagawa, Kamakura, Hase 1-5-3 

This museum is a wonderful place to learn more about Japanese authors who have ties to Kamakura. Akutagawa Ryunosuke, Natsume Soseki, Yukio Mishima, and many other authors are represented in the museum. 

Yuigahama Beach

Website:  https://yuigahama.sos.gr.jp/en/

Going to the local beach during your visit to Kamakura in the summer is a great way to escape the heat and humidity of the Japanese climate. Yuigahama is Kamakura's longest beach with many beach houses and cafes. During the summer, it becomes crowded both with locals and visitors from other cities. After swimming in the sea, you take a shower in one of the beach houses for an additional fee. There are also public open-air showers that are available free of charge.  

Where to Eat in Kamakura

Website:  http://www.akimoto-kamakura.com (in Japanese) Address: Kanagawa, Kamakura, Komachi 1-6-15, i-ZA Kamakura Building 3F 

While Akimoto serves delicious tempura made with locally grown vegetables, as well as a variety of other delectable dishes, the "Nama shirasu don," or a raw whitebait bowl, is particularly recommended. “Shirashu” (whitebait) is a Kamakura specialty, and it is hard to think of a better place to taste it than Akimoto. The restaurant serves locally caught fresh whitebait from April to December. 

Shirasuya Koshigoe Gyoko-mae Ten

Website:  https://tabelog.com/en/kanagawa/A1404/A140403/14002304/   Address: Kanagawa, Kamakura, Koshigoe 2-10-13

Although there are a number of restaurants in Kamakura that serve "shirasu," few can match the deliciousness and variety of "Shirasuya." Although the restaurant is known for its whitebait, a variety of other dishes are also served there. It is important to mention that raw whitebait is not available from January 1 st  to March 10 th . 

Kamakura Matsubara-an

Website:  https://matsubara-an.com/shops/kamakura.php  (in Japanese) Address: Kanagawa, Kamakura, Yuigahama 4-10-3 

Kamakura Matsubara-an is a wonderful place to enjoy delicious soba in a traditional Japanese setting. A duck hot pot, which is offered as a seasonal menu in the winter, can be particularly recommended.

Wa Minamoto Restaurant at Kamakura Park Hotel

Website:  http://www.kamakuraparkhotel.co.jp/en Address: Kanagawa, Kamakura, Sakanoshita 33-6  

It is a nice restaurant that serves traditional Japanese cuisine with many local ingredients. Wa Minamoto Restaurant has a lovely view of the local sea and is a wonderful place to relax after a day of adventure while enjoying delicious food.

Sabou Kirara

Website:  https://tabelog.com/en/kanagawa/A1404/A140402/14000248/   Address: Kanagawa, Kamakura, Onarimachi 16-7  

If you are craving Japanese sweets, Sabo Kirara is the place to go. It is very popular for the sweets that contain "shiratama" (traditional Japanese rice flour dumplings). Because the café is very popular, you may have to wait in a long line to get inside.  If you are feeling adventurous and would like to learn more about the local food scene, using one of the restaurant guides is a great way to do so. For more information, be sure to check the article about restaurant guides in Japan.

There are so many sights to see in Kamakura that it would be difficult, if not impossible, to list them all. It is one of those places where a single visit is insufficient to fully appreciate everything it has to offer. Going to this vibrant city and discovering new aspects of it each time is a fun way to spend a day away from Tokyo.  Apart from Kamakura, there are also a number of other fascinating places to visit from Japan's capital. For an overview of the best day trip destinations, check out the article about "Fuji, Nikko, Kamakura, and More." There are also a variety of resort destinations easily accessible from Tokyo, which you can learn about in this article: "A Serene Getaway: Tokyo's Charming Resort Destinations".

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Kamakura - A Half-Day Trip Itinerary

If you don't have enough time, don't worry, we provide a half-day trip itinerary to explore Kamakura while still getting its essence! Visit the must-see shrines and temples as well as other areas unique to Kamakura in just one afternoon.

Zoria April

There are many reasons why someone can only spend little time at an amazing place such as  Kamakura . Whatever the reason may be, you can have an eventful half-day in Kamakura while still experiencing its essence. 

Most temples and shops in Kamakura close their doors around 5 pm and, some even as early as 4 pm ! That is why we recommend arriving at Kamakura station by noon to be able to enjoy everything mentioned in this article.

1. How to get to Kamakura

Kamakura is a popular day-trip destination for people visiting Tokyo because of it's close proximity to the metropolis. You can use the JR Yokosuka line from Tokyo station or Shinagawa station while the  JR Shonan Shinjuku line connects Shinjuku and Kamakura. 

Kamakura is also reachable by the Odakyu line and the route is covered by the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass and the  Hakone Kamakura pass . Any of these lines will take you to Kamakura in about one hour and it will cost less than 1,000 yen.

The Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass can now be purchased online at any time using a smartphone, through EMot Online Tickets (Odakyu’s Digital Ticket).

If you want to know more details about how to get to Kamakura, read our guide on How to reach Kamakura from Tokyo .

Despite being just an hour away by train from Shinjuku station, Kamakura has the charm of an old town and it feels like a completely different part of Japan.

Access Kamakura station Kanagawa, Kamakura, Onarimachi, 1−15

2. Explore Komachi Street and Other Shopping Streets

When you arrive at Kamakura station, instead of heading straight to the main sightseeing spots, how about having a little walk around the popular shopping streets of Kamakura? 

The main shopping street is also the closest to the station, it is called the Komachi street. The Komachi street is easily visible from the JR East exit . The entrance of the street is marked by a red Torii gate and the street itself is full of souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

You can enjoy many different snacks and desserts on the way and will arrive at the Tsuruoka Hachimangu shrine  after only a short stroll. Make sure you don't spend too much time checking out the food and souvenirs since you still have a lot of places to explore.

Access Komachi street Kanagawa, Kamakura, Komachi, 2−8

3. The Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine

Tsuruoka Hachimangu  is a famous and important shrine in Kamakura. It is quite vast with its red torii gates stretching all the way into the city center. 

The main hall is located on top of a stairway. It also houses a garden and a small museum that require an entrance fee. Despite its small size, don't be tempted to explore all of it. You still have to visit other temples and shrines around Kamakura and as mentioned before, they generally close between 4 pm and 5 pm.

This shrine is open until 9 pm, which is much later than most other places in Kamakura, so maybe you can come back later if you want to explore it further.

Access Tsuruoka Hachimangu Kanagawa, Kamakura, Yukinoshita, 2−1−31

4. The Bamboo Forest of the Hokokuji Temple

Located a 25-minute walk away from the Tsuruoka Hachimangu shrine is the Hokokuji Zen Buddhist temple . There is also a bus that takes you to the temple if you don't want to walk. Hokokuji reminds a lot of people of Arashiyama in Kyoto , partly because of its bamboo grove . It is not as big as Arashiyama, but it is just as stunning. 

After exploring the beautiful garden follow the narrow paths through the bamboo grove to reach the teahouse . The teahouse of Hokokuji offers a calming experience and is a perfect place to enjoy the scenery. Sipping freshly prepared matcha green tea while nibbling on Japanese sweets, you might be tempted to sit here for a long time.

The entrance fee is 200 yen. If you want to drink matcha green tea in the teahouse, you have to buy a 500 yen matcha ticket along with your entrance ticket, so the total cost for the whole experience will be 700 yen.

Access Hokokuji Kanagawa, Kamakura,  Jomyoji, 2−7−4

5. The Great Buddha at the Kotokuin Temple

The signature landmark of Kamakura is the Great Buddha statue at the Kotokuin temple. It is the second tallest bronze Buddha statue in Japan and it is said that you haven't really been to Kamakura if you haven't visited the Great Buddha. 

Reaching this temple on foot from Hokokuji would take a lot of time, so we recommend taking the bus from Hokokuji to Kamakura station. From Kamakura station, you can easily walk to Kotokuin.

This temple requires a small entrance fee of 200 yen and it is open until 5:30 pm (until 5 pm from October to March). For an additional 20 yen you can enter inside the Buddha, but keep in mind that you can enter only until 4:30 pm. Discover yourself how a Great Buddha statue looks from the inside.

Access Kotoku-in Kanagawa, Kamakura, Hase, 4−2−28

6. The Hasedera Temple

The last stop in our itinerary is the Hasedera temple,  located a 10-minute walk from Kotokuin. This temple requires a 300 yen entrance fee . Once inside, you should explore its gardens and its cave shrine before you go up the stairs. 

On the upper level, you can find the Kannon Museum (requires an additional 300 yen entrance fee), a prayer rotation room and a restaurant with a great  view of the coast below.  If you are not hungry, you don't have to enter the restaurant for a great view. There is an observation deck as well.

The temple is also famous for its hydrangea flowers. If you visit in June and July you can enjoy the great view surrounded by purple flowers.

Access Hasedera Kanagawa, Kamakura, Hase 3−11−2

7. Take a Walk on the Beach

By the time you get there, most shops will be closed and most visitors might have left, but that doesn't mean you have to leave as well. Bars and restaurants will still be open. After exploring and walking around all day, sitting down for dinner or a couple of drinks will make you feel much better than immediately catching the train back to Tokyo.

Access Yuigahama Beach Kanagawa, Kamakura, Yuigahama, 4−4

Make The Most Out Of Your Time In Kamakura

This half-day itinerary leads through several temples, gardens, shopping streets and a beach. In just half a day you can explore famous Kamakura landmarks such as the Great Buddha and the Hokokuji Temple. 

Simply walking between the recommended spots through picturesque Kamakura streets is an experience in itself.  This tour will show you Kamakura's essence even if you don't have a full day or two to spend there. Why don't you try it out?

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A poet, a reader, a photo-enthusiast - I tend to record beauty in many different ways. Currently, a university researcher of Japanese language and culture. I always enjoy dressing up in unique fashion and hunting for cute cafes around the city.

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An Amazing Day Trip to Kamakura from Tokyo, Japan

What we love about Tokyo, Japan is that there are so many good places to visit that are only one hour away. If you have some extra time in your Tokyo itinerary (or if coming from Yokohama ), we recommend that you add a day trip to Kamakura.

Located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, Kamakura is referred to as “Kyoto of Eastern Japan.” With its rich history as a former political capital along with Nara and Kyoto and also the originator of the first military government ( Kamakura Bakufu ), it’s a lovely city to explore. We think Kamakura is worthy of a visit for the small-town feel with temples, shrines, and slower-pace ambiance. You can also enjoy the beaches when the weather is nicer. 

In this post, we’re sharing our tips on how to spend the day in Kamakura including how to get there, the best things to do there, where to eat, and where to stay. Most people pair this trip with a visit to Enoshima which is the neighboring area, however, we didn’t have time. So, we’re focusing on one day in Kamakura with a snapshot on the top highlights.

*Disclaimer: If you’re heading to Japan, please note that this post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

How to Get to Kamakura from Tokyo

We recommend that you take the train to travel to Kamakura. Depending on where you’re staying in Tokyo, the easiest starting point is to leave from the Shinjuku Station (新宿駅) to get to Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅). Allocate at least 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes for the ride. The direct route is to take the Shonan-Shinjuku Line via the JR line and it’ll take 1 hour. Otherwise, you’ll need to transfer at different stops. The one-way cost is 940 yen ($8.40 USD).

Since navigating between the stations can be confusing, we suggest that you use Google Maps on your phone to determine your schedule. Google Maps has up to date information on the train schedule and where to transfer. The train stations have free public Wifi that you can use.

If you plan to travel through Japan and have the Japan Rail (JR) pass , you can use the JR pass for this Kamakura day trip. We used the JR pass during our Japan travels and found it convenient to not have to purchase individual tickets.

Save money and buy your JR pass ahead of time here.

Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass

You can also consider getting the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass . It’s a one day pass where you receive round trip fare from Shinjuku to Fujisawa Station via the Odakyu line and unlimited rides along the Enoden and Odakyu lines. You’ll receive discounts for shrines, temples, museums, and some shops in the area. 

The pass can be purchased at the Odakyu Sightseeing Service in the Shinjuku Station west side area.

The cost is 1520 yen ($13.70 USD) for adults and 770 yen ($7) for children if departing from Shinjuku Station. More information about the pass is here .

How to Get to Kamakura from Yokohama

Kamakura is the perfect day trip from Yokohama as the train passes through Yokohama. From the Yokohama Station (横浜駅) to Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅), you can take either the Yokosuka Line or the Shonan-Shinjuku Line. It’ll only take 25 minutes between the two stations. The one-way cost is 350 yen ($3.10 USD).

How to Travel Around Kamakura

The area is perfect for walking around. Although the sites are a bit spread out, it was doable and a nice walk to travel between the sites. Wear a good pair of walking shoes if you do decide to explore the city on foot. 

Another option – Kamakura Free Kankyo Tegata

As we mentioned earlier, you can use the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass to wander around Kamakura and Enoshima (if you decide to go there). 

Or, you can buy the one day Kamakura Free Kankyo Tegata . It has similar features as the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass with discounts to local attractions and shops and unlimited rides through the Enoden line. The difference is that with this pass, you can also take five bus and train lines that go through Kamakura and it does not cover round trip fare from Shinjuku Station.

This pass can be purchased at the Kamakura Station Tourist Information Center, Enoden Kamakura Station and Information Center, Shonan Keikyu Bus Information, Kitakamakura Station, and Enoden Hase Station.

The cost is 550 yen ($5 USD) for adults and 280 yen ($2.50) for children. Read more information about the pass here . 

Best Things to Do in Kamakura On Your Day Trip

Below are some recommendations on what to do in Kamakura. Please note that many of the temples require an admission fee. If you’re on a budget, you’ll need to decide which places to visit as the temple fees add up.

You can also consider taking guided tours of the city such as: 

• 4.5 hours walking tour of Kamakura
• Kamakura and Enoshima Island Tour

1. Stop by the Information Center.

Whenever we go to a new destination, we stop by the Information Center (鎌倉市観光総合案内所) at the metro station. It’s the best way to get acquainted with the city and to also get a visitor’s map. At the Kamakura Station, the information center representative gave us some tips on where to go, how to maximize our Kamakura itinerary, and which bus lines to take (although we ended up walking instead.) 

Address: 1 Chome-1-1 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0012, Japan (〒248-0012 神奈川県鎌倉市小町１丁目１−1)

Opening Hours: 9:00am to 7:00pm

2. Shop and eat along Komachi-dori Street.

As you exit the Kamakura Station, the first place that you’ll encounter is Komachi-dori Street (鎌倉 小町通り). It’s only a few minutes walk from the station. You’ll pass through a red torii gate which is the starting point of Komachi-dori Street. It’s the perfect way to start your Kamakura day trip since you can shop and also eat! Depending on how you want to schedule your day, you can save this place towards the end of your trip. There are plenty of shops selling souvenirs, green tea soft serve, rice crackers ( senbei ), and more treats. 

Address: Japan, 〒248-0006 Kanagawa, Kamakura, Komachi, 1 Chome−5−6 1 248 0006 (〒248-0006 神奈川県鎌倉市小町１丁目５−6 1 248 0006)

How to Get There: From the Kamakura Station, take the East Exit and turn left. You’ll pass the Tourist Information Center and will see the main walking street in a few minutes.

During your Kamakura itinerary, stroll along Komachi-dori Shopping Street to find some adorable souvenirs.

3. Visit the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.

One of the main attractions in Kamakura is the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (鶴岡八幡宮). The shrine was founded in 1032 by Minamoto Yoriyoshi, the founder and shogun of the Kamakura government. It’s dedicated to Hachiman kami, a deity from the Minamoto family. 

The shrine area is quite lovely as there are different levels to explore such as the museum, main shrine area, and ponds in the area. It’s so peaceful as you walk through the various areas. You can also buy good luck fortunes while you’re here or do some praying. It has free admission too. 

Address: 2 Chome-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-8588, Japan (〒248-8588 神奈川県鎌倉市雪ノ下２丁目１−31)

Opening Hours: 8:00am to 8:30pm

How to Get There: It’s about a 10-12 minute walk from the Komachi-dori Street.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is a spiritual place to visit during your one day in Kamakura.

4. Check out the Kotokuin Temple to see the Great Buddha.

Kamakura is well-known for the giant Great Buddha ( Daibutsu ) at the Kotokuin Temple (鎌倉大仏殿高徳院). It’s 11.31 meters (37 feet high / 44.8 feet high with the base) and weighs 121 tons (242,000 pounds). 

This bronze statue of Buddha was created in 1252. Buddha has encountered several repairs with its foundation after a tidal wave hit it in 1498 and an earthquake in 1923. The last repair was from 1960-1961 to strengthen the Buddha’s neck. 

While seeing the Buddha is impressive and picturesque with the mountainside in the background, it’s a very small temple with a garden. All you need is about 20 minutes here. You could go inside the Buddha’s head for a different view for a small admission fee. 

Address: 4 Chome-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016, Japan (〒248-0016 神奈川県鎌倉市長谷４丁目２−28)

Opening Hours: 8:00am to 5:30pm (April to September), 8:00am to 5:00pm (October to March)

Admission Cost: 300 yen ($2.70 USD) for adults, 150 yen ($1.35) for children (ages 6-12), and an additional 20 yen ($.20) to go into Buddha’s head

How to Get There: The Hase Station (長谷駅) is the closest station to the temple and walk 5 minutes or walk 20 minutes from the Kamakura Station.

The Great Buddha at Kotokuin Temple is lovely to see while you’re in Kamakura.

5. Stop by the Hasedera Temple. 

Close to the Kotokuin Temple is the Hasedera Temple (長谷寺). It’s a Buddhist temple known for the largest wooden statues of Kannon, an 11 headed goddess of Mercy. The two Kannon statues were made out of a sacred tree in Hatsuse (now in the Nara Prefecture) and one is housed at the Hasedera Temple in Nara, while the other one is in Kamakura. 

It has gorgeous views of the ocean and the mountainside from the observatory deck. Plus it has immaculate gardens, adorable Ryo-en Jizo (three little Jizo statues with smiling faces and holding their hands together), a Kannon museum, and other walking paths. 

Address: 3 Chome-11-2 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016, Japan (〒248-0016 神奈川県鎌倉市長谷３丁目１１−2)

Opening Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm

Admission Cost: 400 yen ($3.60 USD) for adults and 200 yen ($1.80) for children 

How to Get There: The Hase Station (長谷駅) is the closest station to the temple and walk 5 minutes or walk 25 minutes from the Kamakura Station.

Hasedera Temple is a fabulous place to visit on your Kamakura day trip.

6. Wander around the city to find other shrines and temples. 

Kamakura has many other incredible shrines and temples that deserve a visit. It’s best to walk around at a leisurely pace and see what comes up on your journey. Popular temples include Kenchoji Temple as the first zen temple in Japan (Admission is 500 yen/$4.50 USD) and Hokokuji Temple where you’re surrounded by a tranquil bamboo forest (Admission is 200 yen/$1.80).

We came across the Amanawa Shinmei Shrine (甘縄神明神社) which was in a residential area. This shrine is the oldest Shinto shrine in the city and dedicated to Amaterasu, the sun goddess. It’s a small and unassuming shrine yet so inviting with the colorful lanterns along the walkway up the staircase. Since the shrine is in the mountainside, it’s very peaceful in the forest area. At the top, there is a slight view of the ocean but it’s mostly covered by the foliage. 

Address: 1 Chome-12-1 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016, Japan (〒248-0016 神奈川県鎌倉市長谷１丁目１２−1)

How to Get There : It’s a five-minute walk from Yuigahama Station (由比ヶ浜駅).

Amanawa Shinmei Shrine is a hidden gem during our exploration of the city.

7. Go on a hike.

As you know, we love our hiking adventures and Kamakura has many hiking trails to choose from! Before you start your journey, check in with the Information Center to see if the trails are open. During our December visit, all the hiking trails were closed as they were damaged from the October 2019 typhoon.

One of the hiking trails that we were interested in going on was Kuzuharaoka/Daibutsu Hiking Trail . The starting point is close to the Great Buddha and you go through the woods area and pass by smaller shrines and temples. Even though the trails were closed, we passed by the hiking entrance. We loved locals created signage to show the hiking trail location.

Other hiking trails include:

• Gionyama Trail starts at the Yagumo Jinja Shrine
• Tenan Trail which you can start nearby the Kakuonji Temple, Zuisenji Temple or the Kenchoji Temple. It’s best to refer to the visitor’s guide to see the exact locations.

8. Hang out at the beaches.

Kamakura is also known as a weekend getaway area during the summertime. From July 1 to August 31, visitors enjoy the beaches. The top three beaches are Zaimokuza Beach (材木座海岸), Yuigahama Beach (由比ガ浜海水浴場), and Koshigoe Beach (腰越海水浴場). Since we visited in December, we couldn’t access the beaches. However, we would love to return during the summertime to see these beaches for ourselves. Updated beach information can be found here.

Opening Hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm

How to Get There:

Zaimokuza Beach is a 20-minute walk from the Kamakura Station. From Kamakura Station, you can take the Keikyu Bus towards Izu Station via Kotsubo (it’ll take about 8 minutes), get off at Zaimokuza bus station, and walk a couple of minutes. 

Yuigahama Beach is a 15 to 20-minute walk from the Kamakura Station. Otherwise, it’s a five-minute walk from the Wadazuka Station (和田塚駅), Yuigahama Station (由比ヶ浜駅), or Hase Station (長谷駅) via the Enoden line.

Koshigoe Beach is the beach furthest from the Kamakura Station. It’s a few minutes of walking from Koshigoe Station (腰越駅) via the Enoden line. 

What to Eat in Kamakura

As you walk through Komachi-dori Street, you’ll see plenty of places that offer traditonal Japanese lunch sets, sushi, grilled eel, and more. There are so many good eats to try !

We only had one meal in Kamakura which was lunch and decided to try Rojiura Curry Samurai . With locations in Tokyo and Hokkaido area, this popular curry chain restaurant serves delicious curry and has vegetarian options (yay!) It was one of the most memorable meals that we’ve had in Japan. 

You first choose your curry, choice of soup base (regular, mild, coconut, or mild coconut), spicy level (1-10), and rice size. 

The curry style is different from other curry shops that you may have eaten. For example, the curry sauce is on the thinner side so it’s more soup-like. The curry with toppings and rice are also on separate bowls versus placing everything into one bowl. 

If you’re hungry, order the Samurai Special curry which has a large chicken drumstick, fried chicken, minced pork, braised pork, and 20 types of seasonal vegetables. Vegetarians will love the 20 kinds of vegetable curry . We had winter vegetables in the curry such as kabocha, tubular roots, and potatoes. The broccoli tempura was one of the best tempura that we’ve had with the airy batter. Both of the dishes had a good amount of food so you won’t leave the restaurant starving. We can’t wait to have this curry again when we’re back in Tokyo.  

Address: 2 Chome-6-26 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0006, Japan (〒248-0006 神奈川県鎌倉市小町２丁目６−26)

Opening Hours: 10:30am to 3:00pm, 5:00pm to 7:30pm

Cost: The dishes are between 1100-1800 yen ($10-$16.25 USD). Credit card is accepted.

  How to Get There: From the Kamakura Station, head towards Komachi-dori Shopping Street and walk for 6 minutes.

If you need a place to eat in Kamakura, try Rojiura Curry Samurai.

Where to Stay in Kamakura

Kamakura would be a good option to stay overnight if you plan to visit the beaches and also visit Enoshima the next day. There are various accommodations to choose from. We provided some recommendations based on various budgets.

Click here to check out all the Kamakura accommodations and read reviews .

Budget Option – Kamakura Guest House

Located in a traditional Japanese house, this guest house offers tatami mats sleeping arrangements in male and female dorms or bunk beds. There is a shared kitchen area and bathroom. It’s the perfect place to meet new people and hang out with the host. The cost is $30 per person per night. Reserve a room at the Kamakura Guest House here .

Mid-Range Option – CASA Kamakura Espresso PUB&BED

This place is close to the main Kamakura attractions such as the Great Buddha. Guests can choose to have a room with bunk beds or single beds. Free breakfast is included in the price. The cost is $90-$100. Check out reviews and make a reservation at CASA Kamakura Espresso .

Splurge Option – WeBase Kamakura

It’s a popular choice as you’re only a minute away from Yuigahama Beach. The hotel has daily yoga classes and an on-site restaurant. Free breakfast is included in the price. The cost is between $130-$450 per room per night. Click here to make a reservation for WeBase .

Otherwise, you can head back to Tokyo or Yokohama for your home base. 

• Find your perfect Tokyo accommodation here . 
• Find your amazing Yokohama accommodation here .

Hope you consider visiting Kamakura as a side trip from Tokyo. It’s a great way to see beautiful temples, shrines, and also the chance to visit the beaches (weather permitting.) We would love to go back to stay for a long weekend to explore more.

To help with your Japan travel planning, check out our other Japan posts:

• Day trips from Tokyo: Kawagoe , Mount Takao , Sanrio Puroland
• Layover in Narita
• Kyushu Island itinerary

What would you like to see during your day in Kamakura? Let us know in the comments below.

Like this post? Save it to your Japan Pinterest board.

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

A Wonderful Day Trip to Kawagoe from Tokyo, Japan

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15 Best Things to Do in Kamakura

On a Kamakura day trip? Here are 15 of the top things to do in Kamakura, Japan.

• Ride the charming seaside Enoden train
• Gaze upon the Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Wash your money at Zeniarai Benten Shrine and get rich!
• Enter the sacred world through the torii gates of Sasuke Inari Shrine
• Eat Kamakura street food along Komachi Dori
• Stroll through the bamboo forest of Hokokuji Temple  
• Fill up on seafood, like the local specialty shirasu
• Join a Japanese cooking class in Kamakura
• Marvel at the gardens of Meigetsuin (a.k.a. Hydrangea Temple)
• Visit the power spot, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
• Soak up some sun at Yuigahama Beach
• Try the Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, shojin ryori
• Explore Benten Cave and enjoy seasonal flowers at Hasedera Temple
• Take home a piece of Kamakura's carved lacquerware
• Pick up Hato Sabure (pigeon-shaped sable cookies) as a souvenir snack

1. Ride the charming seaside Enoden train

A beloved Japanese train, experience the retro appeal of the Enoden on your journey into the heart of Enoshima. The Enoshima Electric Railway a.k.a. Enoden began operation in 1902, running between Fujisawa and Katase. The sixth oldest railway in Japan, it was the first to use electrical equipment from Germany. Today, the Enoden continues to delight travelers with its nostalgic charm, easy access to sightseeing spots, and scenic views of Sagami Bay.

2. Gaze upon the Great Buddha of Kamakura 

The second largest Buddha statue in the country, the Kamakura Daibutsu (Great Buddha) is a designated National Treasure of Japan. A striking figure at 13.35 meters or 43.8 feet tall (including the pedestal), this meditating Buddha is an awe-inspiring sight at Kotoku-in Temple. 

Since the year 1252, when the construction of the bronze colossus began, the Kamakura Daibutsu has withstood typhoons, tsunamis, and earthquakes. Daibutsu-den, the wooden building which once housed the Great Buddha, may have been destroyed by consecutive natural disasters, but the Daibutsu endures. Today, the Kamakura Daibutsu sits out in the open air to weather even more storms, inspiring us all with the Buddha’s composure and perseverance. 

3. Wash your money at Zeniarai Benten Shrine and get rich!

A curious roadside tunnel opens out into an otherworldly oasis: a sunbathed clearing that’s surrounded by natural rock walls, one section of which has been excavated to reveal a trickling spring. It’s not the fountain of youth, but the natural spring at Zeniarai Benten Shrine is the next best thing. It’s said that if you wash your money here and spend it, it will return to you, multiplied. Using a ladle and bamboo sieve (lent by the shrine), pour water over coins, paper bills, and even credit cards to take advantage of the benefits of this sacred spring.

Pro Tip: Bring a hand towel to help dry off your paper bills, or a resealable bag to keep your damp, purified cash separate until you get home. 

4. Enter the sacred world through the torii gates of Sasuke Inari Shrine

Tucked away in an enchanting moss-carpeted forest, stroll up the path towards Sasuke Inari Shrine and through the tunnel of vermillion torii gates, their red flags flapping in the breeze—each step leading you deeper into the sacred realm.

Statues of foxes oversee the shrine grounds, messengers of the kami (Japanese diety) Inari, known as the god of rice. Associated with bountiful harvests, fertility, and prosperity, the most famous (and main) Inari shrine is Fushimi Inari-taisha in Kyoto, with over a thousand gates; but the smaller Sasuke Inari branch shrine’s tranquil atmosphere inspires reverence—and it’s not as overrun by photo-op seeking tourists. Located between the Kamakura Daibutsu and Zeniarai Benten (a 13-minute walk from the latter), we recommended checking out all three Kamakura attractions in one swoop.

5. Eat Kamakura street food along Komachi Dori

Craving street food in Kamakura ? Head to Komachi Dori (Komachi Street), spanning from the east exit of Kamakura Station to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Satisfy your need for seafood with skewers of plump shrimp shumai and cups of sushi. Or, grab a sweet cake shaped like the Buddha’s head (a nod—pun intended—to the Great Buddha statue). But while the bronze-cast Kamakura Daibutsu is hollow inside, these cakes are certainly not! Filling options include sweet bean paste, custard, and even ham and cheese.

Check out our rundown of the tastiest bites along Komachi Street for more info!

6. Stroll through the bamboo forest of Hokokuji Temple

Kyoto is not the only city with a famous bamboo forest. Stop by Hokokuji Temple and meander through the bamboo garden, basking in the dappled sunlight streaming through the leaves. Afterward, rest your legs at Hokokuji’s traditional tea house, experiencing the serenity of a bowl of frothy matcha, paired with dried sweets.

7. Fill up on seafood, like the local specialty shirasu

Located by Sagami Bay, Kamakura is blessed with fresh seafood, so you can’t go wrong with sushi or sashimi. But if you’re looking for something unique to the area, how about trying shirasu ? These immature whitebait fish can be eaten either cooked or raw, and make an appearance in everything from senbei (rice crackers) to seafood bowls to potato croquettes.

8. Join a Japanese cooking class in Kamakura

Meet cooking instructor Yoko-sensei in her Kamakura home for a rolled sushi bento-making class . Emphasizing “local production for local consumption” you’ll use Kamakura veggies to make a colorful meal including sushi and 3-4 side dishes. Come get a peek into Japanese home life in between all the sightseeing in Kamakura. 

9. Marvel at the gardens of Meigetsuin (a.k.a. Hydrangea Temple)

During the rainy season, 2500 hydrangea bushes burst into bloom at Meigetsuin, earning it the nickname Ajisai-dera or “Hydrangea Temple.” Alongside Hasedera Temple and Jojuin Shrine, Meigetsu Temple is one of the three best places to see hydrangea in Kamakura. But the temple’s beauty isn’t limited to just one season; throughout the year, visitors can enjoy the changing florals and foliage, from sakura cherry blossoms to fiery autumn leaves.

10. Visit the power spot, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is considered the most important shrine in Kamakura, with sprawling grounds that include museums, cafes, a treasure hall, and a tea house. Dedicated to Hachiman, the guardian deity of warriors and specifically the Minamoto clan, this 800-year-old shrine houses national treasures and artifacts like swords, woven uchiki garments, masks, and documents pertaining to the shrine’s history. Festivals are held here each month, including the annual Reitaisai Festival in September which features performances of yabusame (horseback archery).

11. Soak up some sun at Yuigahama Beach

Yuigahama is a popular beach in Kamakura, thanks to its easy access from Hase Station and convenient location (Hasedera Temple and the Kamakura Daibutsu are both just a short walk away). A sandy beach with relatively gentle waves, Yuigahama Beach is a safe option for beginner swimmers and surfers alike. During summer, beach huts, rental shops, and cafes are open for business, offering respite from the sun.

12. Try the Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, shojin ryori

With the abundance of temples in the area, Kamakura is a good place to try the Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, shojin ryori. Eat as the monks do, with meals including soup, rice, local vegetable dishes, and the nutty-tasting goma dofu (sesame tofu). 

13. Explore Benten Cave and enjoy seasonal flowers at Hasedera Temple

Established in the year 736, Hasedera houses one of the largest wooden Buddhist statues in Japan, depicting the goddess of mercy Kannon standing tall at 9.18 meters in height. Charming little jizo statuettes—guardians of unborn children—are also stationed around the temple grounds, smiling serenely at passers-by. Within the temple grounds, visitors can explore the Benten Cave, dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten. An attraction for nature lovers, the temple features different flowers for every season. Walk along a scenic path lined with hydrangea bushes that bloom around late May, leading to an observation platform with views of the sea and surrounding town.

14. Take home a piece of Kamakura's carved lacquerware

As a souvenir to remember your Kamakura trip, how about a piece of intricately carved lacquerware for your home? Ranging from plates and coasters to hand mirrors and jewelry boxes, every item is carved from wood such as ginkgo and magnolia, before being painted with layers of red or black lacquer and polished for a smooth finish. 

During the Kamakura period (1185-1333), the craft of carved lacquerware was introduced to Japan from China. What was first used as a technique to make decorative temple furnishings later extended to tea ceremony utensils like tea canisters and trays, and today it is designated as a Traditional Craft of Japan.

15. Pick up Hato Sabure (pigeon-shaped sable cookies) as a souvenir snack

Before your Kamakura travels are over, stop by Toshimaya for a box of Hato Sabure. These crisp, buttery sable cookies are an iconic local omiyage (souvenir) from Kamakura. 

As the story goes, around the year 1897, the founder of Toshimaya was given a western cookie by a foreigner who visited his shop. He had never tasted anything like it and was inspired to create his own version of the treat. He made it in the shape of a dove as a homage to the nearby Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, where local children were entertained by the flocks of birds that frequented the grounds. And thus the Hato Sabure was born; hato meaning “dove” or “pigeon” and sabure being a loan word derived from the French sablė cookie.

We hope you use this overview as a starting point for planning your trip to Kamakura. The laid-back tourist town offers so many restorative things to do, like visiting power spots, soaking up rays on the beach, indulging in local seafood, and immersing yourself in nature—all just a short day trip from Tokyo.