Japan may be famous for glittering metropolises like Tokyo or charming spots like Kyoto – but did you know that the country is also home to another historic capital known as Kamakura?
Commanding an amazing location in the Kanagawa Prefecture, just an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura is as charming as it is beautiful. Bordered by the beautiful Sagami Bay to the south and lush rolling hills to the east, west, and north, Kamakura City is deeply rooted in local history.
Indeed, Kamakura served as a base for the Shogunate from 1185 to 1333. Tourism started to peak in the Edo Period, with locals flocking from all over Japan. While it’s often overshadowed by glitzier capitals, Kamakura has a charm that’s all its own. It may be just a quick train ride from Tokyo, but the city does feel like a whole world away from those gleaming high-rises.
Let’s check out everything there is to know about this beautiful coastal capital city!
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How to Get to Kamakura from Tokyo
First things first though: how do you actually get to Kamakura from Tokyo? Well, you’d be glad to know that no matter how you decide to make the trip to Kamakura, the journey is one of the most scenic you’ll take in Japan.
Here are some of the easiest ways of getting there:
By Train
By far the most popular option, traveling by train will help you skip the traffic altogether. Now, you do have a choice of two lines though: the JR Yokosuka Line which takes just 60 minutes from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station, or the Odakyu Line. This one does take longer though since you’ll transit through Enoshima on your way to Kamakura.
That being said, it’s good to know that while the JR Yokosuka Line is faster, it’s usually more expensive. To cut back on costs, you can always hop on the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station to Fujisawa Station.
From there, you’ll transfer to the Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) which’ll take you to Kamakura. This journey takes around 90 minutes, but it’s also an enjoyable ride with glorious views of the coast. Best of all, this vintage-style train stops at popular attractions like Yuigahama Beach and the Hase-dera Temple.
By Car
If you don’t want to travel by train, you can always rent a car to get from Tokyo to Kamakura in around an hour (depending on traffic).
This is a great option for those who’d like to do some sightseeing along the way since the journey takes you through Enoshima, a gorgeous island that’s brimming with various attractions like caves, an observation tower, a park, and a shrine.
Unforgettable Must-Visit Places in Kamakura
There’s no shortage of amazing attractions that beckon in Kamakura, but if you’re not quite sure where to start, we can vouch for the places below:
#1. Yuigahama Beach
It would be unfathomable to go to Kamakura and not spend at least a day lounging on the iconic Yuigahama Beach. Not only is it one of the best spots to relax and soak up the sun in Kamakura, but this beach also holds plenty of history.
In the years 1180, 1333, and 1416, Yuigahama served as a battlefield. Prior to this, it was a place where warriors used to practice horseback archery and martial arts like Kogasagake. The beach is considered sacred for the Minamoto Clan and the Shogun used to purify himself at Yuigahama before entering the shrine.
Nowadays, it’s one of the most famous tourists stops in Kamakura. The beach is particularly lively in the summer, with beach shacks serving all sorts of drinks and local snacks and music playing everywhere.
We recommend that you visit later in the afternoon so you can enjoy a spectacular sunset over Sagami Bay.
#2. Kamakura Museum of Literature
If you’d like to learn more about the local history, head over to the Kamakura Museum of Literature which dates all the way back to 1985.
Located in a quaint residential neighborhood, the museum is considered something of a hidden gem in Kamakura since it lies off the main tourist trail. Before you step in, take a moment to take in the building’s beautiful Western-style architecture. In fact, the museum is found in a villa that used to double as a summer house for a noble family back in the early 20th century.
What makes this museum even more impressive is its extensive collection of vintage Japanese literature. You’ll also find exhibits with first-edition books, rare manuscripts, and personal artifacts that used to belong to some of the greatest Japanese writers.
The museum regularly hosts various types of events, including Literary Strolls around the city, so be sure to check their website before visiting.
We also suggest that you set aside a few minutes to potter about the rose garden that surrounds the villa. This is quite a sight to behold in spring and summer when the roses and lush greenery are in full bloom.
#3. British Antique Museum of Kamakura
Also known as BAM Kamakura, the British Museum is quite a fascinating place to visit. It’s quite a recent addition to the city, having first opened its doors in 2022, but it quickly soared in popularity to become one of the most visited spots in Kamakura.
Dedicated to British antiques, this cozy museum offers quite a varied collection of treasures for you to mosey through. These include various types of decorative objects, vintage furniture, and even fine china. History enthusiasts will be more than served since the museum is laid out in such a way to make you feel like you’ve stepped in an old-fashioned British Manor.
Of course, it wouldn’t quite be a British-themed site without a quintessential tea shop (the Black Cab Café) where you can sample a classic English tea with scones, jam, and clotted cream.
#4. Hokoku-ji Temple
If your plan is to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, there’s no better destination than Hokoku-ji, also known as The Bamboo Temple.
What makes this place doubly special (other than its rich history) is that it’s surrounded by a towering bamboo grove that only added to the ethereal atmosphere which is enhanced by the surrounding hills.
Dating back to the Muromachi Period (1333 to 1573), Hokokuji was originally set up as a family temple for the Ashikaga Clan. As the years passed, it was eventually adopted by the Uesugi Clan.
While the temple may not be as visually striking as the ones you’d find in, say, Kyoto, it’s still packed full of history. For instance, the main hall was rebuilt back in the 20s after the original one was destroyed in the notorious Great Kanto Earthquake. You’ll also see a few features from the original building, including an antique statue of the Buddha, a bell tower with a unique design, and even the original straw roof.
Peer behind the temple building and you’ll find some shallow caves right in the hillside. These are considered sacred spots because they hold the ashes of former Ashikaga lords.
After touring the temple, you can always enjoy a refreshing stroll through the bamboo grove. Around 2000 towering bamboo stalks surround you from all sides, creating an almost otherworldly feel. You’ll see a pathway leading to a tea house where you can treat yourself to a soothing cup of matcha tea while enjoying unblemished views of the bamboo grove.
#5. Kuzuharaoka Shrine
Don’t be surprised if you see plenty of couples and young ladies visiting the Kuzuharaoka Shrine: after all, this place is said to fulfill romantic dreams and strengthen existing bonds.
Dedicated to a court noble by the name of Hino Yoshimoto, Kuzuharaoka was first established in the Kamakura Period (1887). Located on the high plateaus of Genjiyama, the shrine features a Torri gate guarded by a stone sentry. As you venture deeper into the shrine grounds, you’ll find two stones that are locally known as enmusubi-ishi. These are said to be sources of power for pilgrims looking for love. It’s also said to bring luck to married couples.
Daikoku, the deity of good relationships, is enshrined in the Matchmaking Stone. The wooden statue representing the deity is considered pretty special since it was crafted from camphor wood sourced from the residence of Ninomiya Sontoku, an eminent Japanese philosopher.
The main building houses heart-shaped plaques where you can write both your name and that of your beloved. After writing your names, you’re supposed to hang up the plaque before praying over your relationship. Some people also buy temple charms made from cherry shells since they are believed to attract love.
The grounds are absolutely majestic in the spring, with blooming Sakura trees speckled all over the place. Regardless of when you’re visiting, you’ll see Yatai food stalls offering local delicacies.
#6. The Great Buddha of Kamakura
Nestled within the grounds of the Kotokuin Temple, the Great Buddha statue is easily the most famous landmark in Kamakura. Towering at a height of over 11 meters, this bronze statue is actually the second tallest in Japan, the first located in Nara’s Todaiji Temple.
Originally built in 1252, the statue was originally set in the temple hall. However, the temple buildings were regularly hit by typhoons and even a tsunami. Finally, it was moved to a safer location on the temple grounds outside.
After marveling at the statue, you can always tour the temple which also houses the 15th century Kangetsudo Hall. You’ll also find a pair of 1.8 meter-long sandals woven from straw which is believed to belong to Buddha.
Unique Kamakura Experiences
After touring some of these incredible attractions, you can always consider checking out the kind of experiences that are unique to Kamakura. Some of these unique experiences include:
#1. Take a Traditional Rickshaw Ride
A unique way of exploring Kamakura’s charming alleys is by taking a ride in a traditional rickshaw. You’ll find quite a few companies offering this service across the city, including the reputed Ebisuya Kamakura Rickshaw service which offers guided tours of the city.
What sets Ebisuya apart are their friendly and knowledgeable pullers who will not only take you to key spots in Kamakura but will also share some interesting tidbits about the location.
If you’re worried about the language barrier, rest assured that several of their guides are fluent in English.
#2. Learn about Kamakura’s Artistic Heritage at the Yukari Textile Museum
It won’t take you long to realize that Kamakura has quite a vast artistic heritage, with locally made ceramics, wood carvings, religious paintings, and more. One of the best places for learning about the city’s artistic heritage, the Yukari Museum is centered around Japanese textiles.
Over there, you’ll be able to observe the centuries-old, yet disappearing technique of fabric dyeing. The museum also has over 1,200 valuable weaving-related artifacts so you can admire the artistic changes over time.
Dedicated to preserving ancient techniques like silk thread production and silkworm cultivation, Yukari Textile even offers classes where you can learn more about hand weaving as well as color coordinated fabric dyeing.
#3. Making your own Classic Ring
Speaking of artistic, jewelry making is another popular (and unique!) activity that you can experience in the city. Perfect for travelers who’d like to enjoy a hands-on experience, the ring making workshops will no doubt leave you with some great skills and memories!
There are two workshops that we can recommend: Ruka and Glänta, both located just a quick stroll from Kamakura Station. Both places specialize in rings sourced from high-quality materials. In fact, Ruka’s diamonds are known for being pure and freshly cut from Antwerp, Belgium. They’re also conflict free and reasonably priced.
During the workshops, you’ll learn the intricacies of ring making, including old-school techniques and modern technology alike. Tea and refreshments are usually served. Best of all, you’ll get to keep your ring to bring back home as a souvenir.
The Best Times to Experience Kamakura
We’d say that the best times to visit Kamakura is in the spring. Not only is the weather mild and pleasant, but you’ll be able to see those amazing cherry trees in full bloom. A close second would be fall, when Kamakura is blanketed in that delightful autumn foliage.
That being said, there’s always something special to see in Kamakura, regardless of the season. Here’s a quick breakdown of the seasonal highlights you can expect throughout the year:
- Spring (March to May): Be sure to check out the cherry blossoms at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Jomyoji Temples. In April, you can even catch the Kamakura Matsuri Festival which features traditional performances like Samurai Parades.
- Summer (June to August): Summer can be scorching hot and humid, but it’s also the best time to view the Hydrangeas at Hasedera Temple. Yuigahama Beach is particularly animated then, with plenty of nautical activities as well as scrumptious street food, drinks, parties, and other gatherings.
- Autumn (September to November): If you’re visiting in Autumn, we recommend a visit to the Engaku-ji Temple which is surrounded by golden and scarlet fall foliage. The cool weather and gorgeous autumn scenery also lend themselves well outdoor activities like hiking. The first day of Autumn is actually celebrated from August 8 to Augst 9 and it usually involves a lantern ceremony at the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine.
- Winter (December to February): This is a great time to visit Kamakura if you’d like to avoid those large tourist crowds. In addition to emptier streets, the crisp hillside air significantly enhances visibility, so you’ll have unblemished views of the surroundings. On a clear day, you can even spot Mount Fuji in the distance from select spots in the city. Bundle up well though because winter can be quite cold in Kamakura.
Kamakura Travel Tips
You’re probably super stoked about heading to Kamakura, but before you zip up your suitcase, we’ve got just a few more travel tips for you…
- Consider purchasing the Kamakura-Enoshima Free Pass, available from Odakyu Railways.
- Try not to rush through the attractions and experiences. The city is bathed in plenty of old-school charm and it’s really the kind of place where you can slow down and soak up the sights at your leisure.
- Make sure you have some cash on you because many smaller food stalls and shops don’t accept digital payments.
- Wear your most comfortable walking shoes. The city is best explored on foot and there are a lot of cobblestone streets to cover.
- Please be respectful of the spiritual locations. We suggest keeping your voice low, dressing appropriately, and removing your shoes before entering a temple or shrine. Some places do not allow photography either, so be sure to watch out for any signs.
- Hop over to Enoshima Island. It’s just a quick train ride away but it’s packed full of interesting sites.
- It’s a good idea to get an early start to your day, especially during the weekends since the city is super busy then. Don’t forget that it’s within easy reach of Tokyo, making it a favorite weekend getaway for the locals.
