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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Kamakura.
Kamakura is a hidden gem waiting to be explored – a coastal paradise that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern thrills.
This picturesque city boasts of towering temples, shrines, and towering bamboo forests.
Whether you’re seeking sand dunes or rarefied tea ceremony experiences, Kamakura has it all.
It’s a city that holds ancient secrets in its gardens and enchants visitors from the very first step they take.
So, come wander the ancient streets and immerse yourself in Kamakura’s rich history, beauty, and charm.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kamakura:
1. Great Buddha of Kamakura
The Great Buddha of Kamakura, also known as Kamakura Daibutsu, is a monumental bronze statue of Amida Buddha located in the Kotoku-in Temple in Kamakura, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive statue, which stands over 40 feet tall and weighs nearly 100 tons. You can walk around the statue and take in its serene presence and peaceful surroundings.
Don’t miss: The unique architecture of the temple grounds, including a traditional Japanese garden. Make sure to also stop by the gift shop to find souvenirs and local crafts.
Insider travel tips: – The area can get busy with tourists, so it’s best to plan your visit during a weekday if possible.
2. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kamakura, Japan. It is dedicated to the god of war and patron of the samurai, Hachiman.
What to see or do: Explore the beautiful grounds of the shrine, including a long path lined with cherry trees, a large pond with koi fish, and a number of smaller shrines and buildings.
Attend a traditional Shinto ceremony or festival, which are held throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The iconic red torii gate at the entrance to the shrine, which stands at over 18 meters tall and is one of the largest in Japan.
Also, check out the museum on the shrine grounds, which houses a collection of historical artifacts and artwork related to the shrine and its history.
Insider travel tips: Visit the shrine early in the morning to avoid crowds, or in the evening when the lanterns are lit and the atmosphere is especially peaceful and serene.
Be respectful of the shrine’s customs and traditions, including bowing and clapping during a Shinto ceremony.
3. Hasedera Temple
Hasedera Temple is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in Kamakura, Japan.
What to see or do: -Walk through the tranquil Japanese garden with a pond and various statues.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the enchanting hydrangea garden which blooms from late May to early June.
Insider travel tips: -Go early in the morning to avoid large crowds.
4. Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine
Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine is a unique and serene Shinto shrine located in Kamakura, Japan.
What to see or do: The main attraction of the shrine is a small cave where visitors can participate in a special ritual called “Money Washing.
” Visitors wash their money in the cave’s natural spring water, which is said to double the value of the money.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning waterfall that feeds into the cave. The tranquil surroundings and natural beauty make this a must-see attraction in Kamakura.
Insider travel tips: – Bring coins to participate in the “Money Washing” ritual.
5. Kamakura Hiking Trails
Kamakura Hiking Trails are a network of scenic trails located in the ancient city of Kamakura, Japan. These trails take hikers through peaceful forests, lush mountains, and beautiful temples and shrines.
What to see or do: Hiking these trails provides hikers with breathtaking views of the city of Kamakura, including the iconic Great Buddha statue and beautiful coastline.
Along the way, hikers can also visit historic temples and shrines, such as the Hokokuji Temple, which is home to a stunning bamboo garden.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Daibutsu Hiking Course, which takes hikers to the Great Buddha statue and also offers stunning views of the city and coastline.
Another must-see is the Tenen Hiking Course, which leads hikers through dense forests and past beautiful shrines.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as some trails can be steep and rocky.
6. Enoshima Island
Enoshima Island is a small island located in Kamakura, just south of Tokyo, accessible by a bridge from the mainland.
What to see or do: – Visit the Enoshima Shrine, dedicated to the goddess of music and entertainment. You can also see the 47-foot-tall bronze statue of the goddess, Benten.
Don’t miss: – The Iwaya cave, a natural cave on the island that tourists can explore.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, try to visit Enoshima Island on a weekday or during off-peak seasons.
7. Kotokuin Temple
Kotokuin Temple is a scenic Buddhist temple located in Kamakura, Japan. It is renowned for the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a massive bronze statue of Buddha situated outdoors.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful temple grounds and take in the peaceful surroundings. The highlight is the iconic Great Buddha, which stands at over 43 feet tall and weighs over 120 tons.
Visitors can climb inside the statue for an additional fee to see the construction up close.
Don’t miss: The Great Buddha of Kamakura is the main attraction, so make sure to take plenty of photos of its impressive and serene aura.
Also, don’t forget to take a leisurely stroll around the peaceful temple grounds and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Insider travel tips: – The temple can get extremely crowded during peak tourist season, so plan to arrive early or late in the day to avoid the crowds.
8. Kamakura Museum of Literature
Kamakura Museum of Literature is a must-visit destination for book lovers and literary enthusiasts. The museum houses an extensive collection of literary works of renowned Japanese authors.
What to see or do: Explore the diverse range of exhibitions that showcase the literary history of Kamakura and Japan.
The museum features a dedicated poetry room, a publishers’ room, and a reading room that houses a collection of literary magazines and books.
Visitors can also attend various workshops and events that take place at the museum throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the original manuscripts of literary works by famous Japanese authors such as Yukio Mishima, Kenzaburō Ōe, and Yasunari Kawabata.
The museum also has a children’s reading room that offers a fun and interactive learning experience for kids.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays and during the New Year’s holidays.
9. Kamakura Seaside Park
Kamakura Seaside Park is a beautiful seaside park located in the city of Kamakura, Japan.
What to see or do: The park offers breathtaking views of the ocean and Mount Fuji in the distance.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll on the walking paths, relax on the beach, have a picnic, or enjoy a barbecue with friends and family.
Don’t miss: The park is also home to a large variety of flowers and plants, including cherry blossoms which bloom in the spring and provide a stunning backdrop for a romantic walk or picnic.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in water activities, you can surf or paddleboard in the ocean.
There are also several restaurants and cafes in the park where you can grab a bite to eat while enjoying the view.
Make sure you bring sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the park on foot.
10. Yuigahama Beach
Yuigahama Beach is a popular seaside destination located in the charming coastal town of Kamakura in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy sunbathing and swimming in the clear waters of the beach. There are also various water sports activities available for adventure enthusiasts, such as surfing and paddleboarding.
During the summer season, the beach is bustling with beachgoers and lined with food stalls.
Don’t miss: Take a stroll along the promenade where you can find a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants.
The nearby Hasedera Temple and Kotokuin Temple, which is home to the famous Great Buddha statue, are worth a visit after a day at the beach.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Yuigahama Beach is from June to August when the weather is warm, and the water is comfortable for swimming.
11. Meigetsu-in Temple
Meigetsu-in Temple is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kamakura, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple’s beautiful gardens, which are especially breathtaking during the autumn months.
Inside the main hall, there is a statue of the bodhisattva Kannon that is said to be over 700 years old.
Don’t miss: The “tsukimi-dai” or “moon viewing platform” in the garden is a must-see. It offers stunning views of the surrounds and is particularly beautiful during the full moon in September.
Insider travel tips: If you have the time, explore the nearby temples of Kuzuharaoka Shrine and Jochiji Temple. To beat the crowds, arrive early in the morning or during the week.
12. Kamakura-gu Shrine
Kamakura-gu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kamakura, Japan.
What to see or do: The shrine is known for its beautiful traditional architecture and serene atmosphere.
Visitors can walk around the shrine grounds, take in the stunning views of the surrounding nature, and observe the ceremonial practices of Shinto rituals.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the shrine is the beautiful torii gate, one of the largest in Japan. Visitors can also see an array of sacred objects on display, including a pair of stone guardians.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is in the morning when it is less crowded.
13. Zuisen-ji Temple
A serene Buddhist temple located in Kamakura, Japan, renowned for its beautiful Zen gardens and historical importance.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the tranquil temple grounds and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Marvel at the stunning Zen gardens that are meticulously maintained by the practitioners.
Admire the beautiful architecture of the historical temple buildings made of wood, bamboo, and other natural materials.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the Gotenyama Garden, located just a short walk from the temple, which offers some of the best views of Mt.
Fuji in the region.
Insider travel tips: The temple can get crowded during peak tourist season, so it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the off-season (January – February), when the temple offers special winter illumination events that are truly magical.
Don’t forget to try the vegetarian meal served by the temple monks, which is said to be simple, yet delicious, and prepared with mindfulness and gratitude.
14. Hokoku-ji Temple
Hokoku-ji Temple is a Zen temple located in Kamakura, Japan. It is known for its beautiful bamboo grove and traditional tea ceremony.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the serene bamboo grove and admire the towering stalks swaying in the breeze. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony and enjoy matcha green tea while taking in the tranquil surroundings.
Don’t miss: The temple’s bamboo grove is a must-see attraction, especially during the spring and autumn seasons. The temple’s teahouse also provides an authentic tea drinking experience that is not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: – Come early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the bamboo grove in peace.
15. Kamakura Festival (held annually in April)
Kamakura Festival is an annual event held in Kamakura, Japan, to celebrate the arrival of spring and the blooming of cherry blossoms.
What to see or do: During the festival, various events and activities take place, such as traditional Japanese music and dance performances, cherry blossom viewing, and food stalls selling local cuisine.
One of the highlights of the festival is the Yabusame performance, where archers on horseback shoot at a target while galloping down a track.
Don’t miss: The Yabusame performance is definitely a must-see at the Kamakura Festival. It’s a breathtaking display of traditional archery skills and horsemanship.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit Kamakura earlier in the morning before the festival gets too busy. Also, make sure to try the local street food, particularly the Kamakura-style “shirasu-don” (rice bowl topped with tiny fish).