Itinerary
Begin your journey at one of the leading Zen temples in Eastern Japan, founded in 1282 to honor the fallen of the Mongol invasions. The complex is nestled into a valley, creating a serene atmosphere where architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding cedar forest. The massive Sanmon Gate stands as a powerful symbol of crossing into sacred ground, while the Shariden hall houses a tooth of the Buddha. [Highlights] Admire the intricate wooden carpentry of the Butsuden (Buddha Hall) and the ceiling painting of the dragon. The temple grounds are particularly stunning during the autumn foliage season or when the spring cherry blossoms frame the rustic gates. [Tips] Stop by the Butsunichian tea house within the grounds to enjoy matcha and dry sweets while gazing at a traditional dry landscape garden. It offers a quiet moment of reflection before heading to the busier city center.
This bustling shopping street runs parallel to the Wakamiya Oji avenue and serves as the vibrant commercial artery of the city. Lined with over 250 stores, the narrow lane is packed with boutiques selling traditional lacquerware, modern accessories, and an endless array of street food. The energy here contrasts sharply with the quiet temples, offering a lively taste of modern Japanese tourist culture mixed with historical charm. [Highlights] Look for specialized shops selling Donguri Republic (Studio Ghibli merchandise) and local Kamakura-bori wood carvings. The aroma of freshly grilled senbei (rice crackers) and sweet treats fills the air as you stroll toward Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. [Tips] Must-try snacks include the famous 'Giraffa' curry bread with its crispy exterior and cheesy filling, or the rich matcha soft-serve ice cream from Kamakura Chacha. Many shops close by 18:00, so visit before dinner.
Home to the iconic Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kamakura Daibutsu), this temple is essential for any first-time visitor. Standing at 11.3 meters tall, this bronze statue of Amida Nyorai was cast in 1252 and has survived typhoons and tsunamis that destroyed the hall originally housing it. Seeing the Buddha sitting serenely in the open air against a backdrop of blue sky and green hills is a defining image of the region. [Highlights] The statue's hollow interior is a unique engineering marvel. You can enter the body of the Buddha for a small fee (usually 50 yen) to see the ancient casting techniques and reinforcements from the inside. [Tips] Arrive right at opening time to avoid the crowds and get a clean photo of the statue without dozens of tourists in the frame. The oversized waraji (straw sandals) hanging on the wall nearby were made by children hoping the Buddha could walk.
Often called the 'Temple of Flowers,' Hasedera is built into a hillside and offers a multi-layered experience of gardens, caves, and sacred halls. The main attraction is the eleven-headed statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, standing over 9 meters tall and carved from a single camphor tree. The temple grounds are meticulously maintained, featuring ponds with koi fish and seasonal blooms ranging from plum blossoms to hydrangeas. [Highlights] The Benten-kutsu cave located on the lower grounds is an atmospheric tunnel filled with small statues dedicated to Benzaiten. The Observation Platform on the upper level provides one of the best panoramic views of Kamakura city and the Sagami Bay. [Tips] For lunch with a view, try the temple's own Kaiko-an restaurant, which serves vegan-friendly Buddhist curry and pasta. If visiting in June, the Hydrangea Path requires a timed entry ticket due to extreme popularity.
This small seaside station has gained global fame as a pilgrimage site for fans of the anime and manga 'Slam Dunk.' The railroad crossing just outside the station, with the sparkling ocean stretching out in the background, appears in the show's opening sequence. Even for those unfamiliar with the anime, the juxtaposition of the retro green Enoden train passing against the blue horizon makes for a cinematic visual. [Highlights] Watch the Enoden train pass by the crossing; the yellow and green colors pop beautifully against the sea. On clear days, you can see the outline of Izu Oshima island in the distance. [Tips] This is a public road with heavy traffic. Do not stand in the middle of the street for photos. The best angle is from the sidewalk on the slope leading down to the crossing. Sunset offers a dramatic silhouette if you return later.
A mystical island connected to the mainland by a bridge, Enoshima is dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music and entertainment. The island involves a fair amount of hiking (or using the 'ENO-PASS' escalators) to reach the summit, passing through traditional shopping streets and shrines. The atmosphere is a mix of sacred worship and resort-town relaxation, offering expansive ocean views at every turn. [Highlights] Visit the Enoshima Sea Candle, a lighthouse with an observation deck offering 360-degree views. The Iwaya Caves at the back of the island are eroded by tides and hold ancient statues in atmospheric, candle-lit tunnels. [Tips] Try 'Tako-senbei' (octopus crackers) pressed flat right before your eyes at the entrance street. For a romantic end to the day, catch the sunset from the Chigogafuchi Abyss, a rocky plateau near the caves where Mt. Fuji is often visible on the horizon.
Located in the eastern hills of Kamakura, Hokokuji is famously known as the 'Bamboo Temple.' Originally the family temple of the Ashikaga clan, it is now celebrated for its dense, moso bamboo grove located behind the main hall. The towering green stalks filter the sunlight, creating a surreal and tranquil environment that feels worlds away from the city. The moss-covered stone lanterns and ancient caves carved into the cliffside add to the historical mystique. [Highlights] The bamboo grove itself is the main draw, with over 2,000 stalks creating a natural cathedral. Also, observe the caves where ashes of the Ashikaga lords were historically interred. [Tips] Purchase the ticket that includes matcha tea service. You can sit in the open-air tea house facing the bamboo grove, sipping frothy green tea and eating 'Higashi' (dry sweets) while listening to the rustling leaves—a quintessential Japanese experience.
This is the most important shrine in Kamakura, founded by Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first shogun of the Kamakura government. It sits at the geographic and spiritual heart of the city, approached by a long, grand avenue featuring three massive torii gates. The complex is vast, featuring vermilion-lacquered halls, lotus ponds crossed by arched bridges, and a wide staircase that offers a commanding view of the city layout leading to the sea. [Highlights] Visit the Maiden (Lower Worship Hall), an open-air stage used for Shinto weddings and dance performances. The Peony Garden near the ponds is spectacular in winter and spring. [Tips] Draw an 'Omikuji' (fortune slip) here; they have a cute pigeon-shaped charm version, as pigeons are the messengers of Hachiman. Before leaving, grab lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in kaiseki or tempura to conclude your trip.