1HOUR JOURNEY FROM TOKYO. KAMAKURA, THE BIRTHPLACE OF ‘SAMURAI’
December 2023 Seasonal up date : 1
Kamakura, accessible within just 1 hour from Tokyo, is a popular tourist destination. It is an area that consistently ranks high in the list of desirable places to live in Japan due to its fusion of Japanese history, beautiful natural surroundings, and its historical significance as a retreat for the imperial family and wealthy individuals.
Firstly, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine stands as the symbol of Kamakura, boasting beautiful torii gates and historic structures. The Great Buddha, the largest bronze statue in Japan, exudes a commanding presence.
Moreover, the main streets, including Komachi-dori, offer the opportunity to savor traditional Japanese cuisine and to purchase souvenirs.
Kamakura is a place worth visiting if you’re in Tokyo, making for an ideal destination for a relaxing day trip.
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Kamakura Station’s east exit, home to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Komachi-dori, bustles with tourists year-round.
KOMACHI-DORI-STREET
Starting from Kamakura Station’s east exit, walk along Komachi Street toward Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. One of the first things to keep in mind when planning the schedule is that it’s quite challenging not to get sidetracked while walking the short distance of less than 15 minutes on foot. This is because Komachi Street is lined with charming souvenir shops, traditional Japanese confectionery stores, sophisticated cafes, places serving sweets, sausages, crepes, matcha ice cream, and more. The enticing aroma of delicious treats beckons you to stand in line at the crepe shop. There are shops that will engrave your name on chopsticks when you buy them, stores selling traditional Japanese items like bamboo baskets, and even a shop offering rich matcha ice cream!
You will enter Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine by following the flow of people headed thereto. Once inside the spacious grounds, you’ll be enveloped by a sense of calm and the beauty of Japanese tradition. Immerse yourself in history and culture, and experience the aesthetic sensibility inherited from the Kamakura period, during which Japan’s samurai society thrived.
WAKAMIYA ŌJI-STREET
The route from Wakamiya Oji in Kamakura to Kamakura Station is packed with delightful attractions. The central elevated promenade on Wakamiya Oji, known as “Dankazura,” becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in the spring. According to legend, it was built by Minamoto no Yoritomo, who established the Kamakura Shogunate, to pray for his wife’s safe childbirth.
Moreover, you’ll find numerous restaurants and souvenir shops in the area, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine and do some shopping. Kamakura is a region blessed with an abundance of seafood, offering fresh seafood and Kamakura vegetables for you to savor.
In summary, this route offers a wealth of fun and charm, combining historical significance, natural beauty, and culinary delights.
KAMAKURA-THE GREAT BUDDHA OF HASE AND HASEDERA TEMPLEHasedera Temple
Hasedera (Hase-dera) and the Great Buddha of Kamakura are especially popular attractions in Kamakura, both located in the Hase area. Hase Station can be reached by taking the local Enoshima Electric Railway, just three stops away from Kamakura Station.
Hasedera is one of Japan’s premier temples, known for its beautiful garden and a collection of Buddhist treasures. It sits on Hase hill, offering picturesque views throughout the seasons, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage being particularly captivating in autumn. Inside the temple, you can find the impressive statue of Senju Kannon, adding to the temple’s allure.
The Great Buddha of Kamakura, a symbol of the city, is Japan’s largest bronze statue. Standing approximately 13 meters in height, this statue was erected during the Kamakura period, and its imposing presence and historical significance are truly moving.
The town of Hase itself exudes a traditional Japanese atmosphere, with well-preserved historic streets. It’s dotted with small souvenir shops and eateries where you can enjoy local cuisine and find unique souvenirs.
ZENIARAI-BENTEN AND ONARI-DORI
Zeniarai Benten, located a 30-minute walk from the west exit of Kamakura, is a shrine that particularly draws people seeking financial fortune and prosperity. Every year, it attracts numerous visitors. The shrine is famous for its belief that money washed in a small cave on its premises will double in value. Zeniarai Benten is surrounded by smaller shrines nestled in nature, making it a refreshing power spot.
Onari-dori is a cobbled street that extends south from the west exit of Kamakura, lined with many shops and restaurants. This street has become a must-visit for dessert enthusiasts as it has seen the recent opening of excellent patisseries and chocolatiers. Well-established Western confectionery shops, crepe stalls, and clothing boutiques also showcase their unique offerings with a sense of style that’s definitely worth a visit.
KITAKAMAKURA(NORTH KAMAKURA)
North Kamakura, just one station away from Kamakura, is known for its quiet environment and beautiful scenery. The area around North Kamakura Station is dotted with antique shops, cafes, and restaurants, allowing you to enjoy the laid back atmosphere that Kamakura is known for.
During the autumn season, Choujyu-ji Temple is famous for its vibrant foliage. In the hydrangea season, Meigetsu-in Temple is a must visit. Additionally, North Kamakura is an essential stop for temple and shrine exploration, with the prominent temples of Kencho-ji and Enkaku-ji.
North Kamakura also offers a wealth of natural beauty. There are hiking and nature exploration trails throughout the area, offering numerous spots to enjoy, with some even providing panoramic views of Mount Fuji.
Kamakura is a popular tourist destination that is easily accessible from Tokyo, and it boasts a variety of charming boutique hotels. When staying in Kamakura, you can also enjoy the nearby beach towns of Zushi, Hayama, and Miura Coast. For more detailed information, be sure to check out guides like “The Great Buddha of Kamakura, Cafe and Sweets in Hase”
