旅Around Tokyo

Coast

Kamakura 鎌倉

The Great Buddha and the samurai capital

Prefecture
Kanagawa
From Tokyo
About 1 hour
Best time
June (hydrangeas), November (autumn leaves)

Japan's political capital in the 12th–14th centuries, Kamakura is a seaside town packed with Zen temples, shrines and hiking trails — one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Tokyo.

Highlights

Great Buddha (Kotoku-in)

A 13 m bronze Amida Buddha sitting in the open air since the 15th century.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

Kamakura's main shrine, at the end of the long Dankazura approach.

Hasedera

A hillside temple with ocean views and famous hydrangeas.

Engaku-ji & Kencho-ji

Two of Kamakura's great Zen temples in the wooded north.

Komachi-dori

A busy shopping street of snacks and souvenirs near the station.

Daibutsu Hiking Course

A forest trail linking north Kamakura to the Great Buddha.

Getting there

  • JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo or Shinagawa to Kamakura (about 1 hour).
  • JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku or Shibuya.
  • Ride the Enoden tram from Kamakura to Hase (Great Buddha) and on to Enoshima.

Tips

  • Combine with Enoshima in one day using the Enoden.
  • Arrive early in hydrangea season — queues at Hasedera and Meigetsu-in get long.
  • Eating while walking is discouraged on Komachi-dori.

What to eat