Welcome to Kamakura, a coastal city in Japan that blends history and culture. Known for its temples, shrines, and scenic views, Kamakura offers a variety of experiences for visitors. In this post, we’ll explore key sites, including the Great Buddha, important shrines, and popular shopping streets, along with some recommended places to eat.
Kamakura is one of my favorite places to visit. It’s the ideal spot for a solo adventure or a fun day out with friends. Let’s dive into what makes this city so special!
Getting There
About a one-hour train ride from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station.
Kamakura Station runs on the JR Yokosuka-Sobu Line and the Shonan-Shinjuku Line, and the Enoden Line.
Daibutsu: The Great Buddha of Kamakura
Nestled within Kotoku-in Temple, the Great Buddha of Kamakura is a magnificent bronze statue constructed in the 13th century. Standing at an impressive 11 meters, it is the second-largest seated Buddha in Japan.
Admission Fee: ￥300 (adults), ￥150 (children), plus ￥50 for interior access
Hours: 08:00-17:30 (April-September), 08:00-17:00 (October-March)
Zeniarai Benten Shrine
A unique blend of Buddhism and Shinto, Zeniarai Benten Shrine was established before the Meiji government's separation of the two faiths. It is renowned for zeniarai, or money washing, where visitors wash their money in hopes of doubling it. Named after Benten, the Buddhist goddess associated with snakes, this shrine was founded in the Year of the Snake.
Admission Fee: Free
Hours: 08:00-16:30
Wakamiya-oji
This picturesque path begins at the south end near Kamakura Station, marked by a striking red torii gate known as nii-no-torii (2nd torii). It leads directly to the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
Food and Drink Along the Way:
自家焙煎珈琲 Shadore (cafe)
VERVE COFFEE ROASTERS (cafe)
Ginza Kagari Kamakura Branch (creative ramen shop, accessible from Komachi-dori)
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Founded by the Minamoto clan in the 11th century, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the guardian deity of samurai.
Admission Fee: Free
Hours: 05:00-21:00 (until 18:00 from October-March)
Hokoku-ji
Famous for its serene bamboo grove of 2,000 stalks, Hokoku-ji is a Buddhist temple that boasts beautifully manicured gardens. Built for the Ashikaga clan, the yagura caves at the back are dedicated to founder Ashikaga Ietoki.
Admission Fee: 400￥ (adults), 200￥ (children)
Hours: 09:00-16:00
Komachi-dori
This bustling shopping street is a treasure trove of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
What to Eat, Drink, and Do:
Savor street food from various vendors
Craft custom rings and jewelry at Glanta, KAMAKURA PTJ, and Gram
Visit the various animal cafes
Yuigahama Beach
Conclude your day at Yuigahama Beach, where charming restaurants offer stunning views of the ocean, Enoshima, and Mt. Fuji. Whether enjoying a beach picnic or engaging in water activities like surfing, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
Other Recommended Places to Eat (that I tried!)
Mi Casa
Experience a delightful fusion of Spanish and Japanese cuisine in an omakase setting.
〒248-0017 Kanagawa, Kamakura, Sasuke, 1 Chome, 12番9号
Arashida
Indulge in exquisite Spanish cuisine, offered in an omakase style.
1 Chome-7-12 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016
Ichikanjin
A ramen lover's paradise, known for its delicious offerings, including the popular habanero tsukemen.
1 Chome-10-3 Yuigahama, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0014
Guru Guru Bagel
Their generously filled bagel sandwiches are sure to impress.
丸七商店内, 1 Chome-3-4 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0006
Tsubame Cafe
Step into this charming antique-filled cafe, ideal for afternoon tea and delightful desserts.
3 Chome-2-27 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0006
eredge★Cafe
Enjoy a spacious cafe with an eye-catching exterior, serving a variety of tasty food and drinks. I also found this place to be a good spot to study or to read a book.
959-8 Tokiwa, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0022
タイ料理889
One of my favorite Thai restaurants. A laid-back place with generous portions. And did I mention that it has a fabulous ocean-view?
〒248-0016 Kanagawa, Kamakura, Hase, 2 Chome−8−11 サーフサイドビル 3F
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