KAMAKURA
Kamakura is the ancient heart of Japan’s first samurai government, a coastal city of profound spiritual importance, once the de facto capital. It blends a deep history of Zen Buddhism and warrior culture with a serene, seaside atmosphere.
Often called the “Kyoto of Eastern Japan,” it is home to a spectacular concentration of ancient temples, Shinto shrines, and monuments, all framed by forested hills and the Pacific Ocean’s calm coastline.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Temples & Shrines:
Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura): An imposing, 13.35-meter-tall bronze statue of Amida Buddha, a designated National Treasure that has stood in the open air since the 15th century.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: The most important Shinto shrine in Kamakura, founded by Minamoto no Yoritomo, serving as the spiritual and cultural heart of the city.
Hasedera Temple: Famous for its massive, 9.18-meter-tall wooden Kannon statue, beautiful gardens, and stunning hillside views of the coast.
Hokokuji Temple (Bamboo Temple): Known for its magnificent, tranquil bamboo grove where visitors can enjoy a cup of matcha green tea.
Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine: A unique shrine nestled in a cave where visitors wash their money in the sacred spring water to pray for financial prosperity.
Engakuji Temple: The second-ranked of Kamakura’s Five Great Zen Temples, featuring a large, beautiful bell and important National Treasures.
Kenchoji Temple: Kamakura’s most important Zen temple, founded in 1253 and known for its austere Zen architecture and impressive main gate.
Sasuke Inari Shrine: A smaller, atmospheric Shinto shrine famous for the countless red torii gates lining the path to its inner sanctuary.
Meigetsuin (Hydrangea Temple): Popular for its beautiful circular “Window of Enlightenment” and the spectacular display of hydrangeas during the rainy season.
Jochiji Temple: The fourth of the Five Great Zen Temples, notable for its tranquil, wooded setting and a statue of Hotei (the god of happiness).
Historical & Cultural Sites:
Komachi Dori: A lively, bustling pedestrian street leading from Kamakura Station to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, filled with local street food, souvenir shops, and fashionable cafes.
Enoden Train Line: A charming, retro electric railway that hugs the scenic coastline, offering beautiful views and connecting major attractions.
Kamakura Museum of Literature: Housed in a gorgeous Western-style building, it showcases the works of writers who lived in or were inspired by Kamakura.
The Kamakurabori Museum: Dedicated to the traditional Kamakura-bori carved lacquerware, an art form that originated in the city.
Nature & Coastline:
Yuigahama Beach: A popular sandy beach for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, especially lively during the summer season.
Inamuragasaki: A historic cape and park offering panoramic views of Yuigahama Beach, the Great Buddha, and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.
Genjiyama Park: A hilltop park with a statue of Minamoto no Yoritomo and several paths that connect to the scenic Kamakura Hiking Trails.
Hiking Trails: Several popular trails, such as the Daibutsu Hiking Trail, offer walks through the forested hills, connecting many of the city’s hidden temples and shrines.
Enoshima Island: A nearby tourist island (often combined with a Kamakura trip via the Enoden line) featuring a lighthouse, shrines, and caves.
Shichirigahama Beach: Known for its iconic views overlooking Enoshima Island and Mount Fuji across the Sagami Bay.
Activities & Experiences
Gaze upon the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) at Kotoku-in Temple: Visit the monumental, 13.35-meter-tall bronze statue, one of Japan’s most famous icons, and marvel at its scale and history.
Stroll through the Bamboo Grove at Hokokuji Temple: Wander through the serene and picturesque bamboo forest and enjoy a cup of traditional matcha green tea in the adjacent teahouse.
“Wash” your money at Zeniarai Benten Shrine: Participate in the local custom of washing your coins and bills in the shrine’s spring water, which is believed to bring financial good fortune.
Ride the charming Enoden Train: Take the retro Enoshima Electric Railway line, which winds along the coast, offering stunning ocean views and connecting many of Kamakura’s main sights.
Explore Komachi Dori Street: Go on a shopping and culinary spree along this lively street, sampling local street food, finding unique souvenirs, and visiting traditional confectionery shops.
Hike the Daibutsu Hiking Trail: Walk the wooded trail that connects major temples like the Great Buddha, Zeniarai Benten Shrine, and Jochi-ji Temple, offering peaceful nature and great views.
Visit the main Shinto Shrine, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu: Explore Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine, a cultural heart of the city, known for its vibrant vermillion color and seasonal gardens.
Contemplate the Ocean View from Hasedera Temple: Visit the temple complex famous for its massive wooden Kannon statue, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of Sagami Bay.
Try Shojin Ryori (Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine): Experience a traditional, meticulously prepared multi-course vegetarian meal, often available at restaurants near the major Zen temples like Kenchoji or Engakuji.
Discover the “Window of Enlightenment” at Meigetsuin Temple: Visit this temple, also known as the “Hydrangea Temple” (especially beautiful in June), and view the inner garden through its iconic circular window.
Relax and surf at Yuigahama or Shichirigahama Beach: Enjoy the city’s seaside atmosphere. In summer, the beaches are popular for swimming, and they offer stunning views of Mt. Fuji on clear winter days.
Experience traditional Zen Meditation (Zazen): Participate in a guided Zen meditation session offered at one of the great Zen temples, such as Engaku-ji or Kencho-ji, for a moment of quiet reflection.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Primary: Many of the most popular attractions in central Kamakura, including Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Komachi Dori, are within easy walking distance of Kamakura Station.
The Enoden Line: This is your essential local sightseeing transport (a small, tram-like train). It connects Kamakura Station with Hase Station (for the Great Buddha and Hasedera Temple) and continues along the scenic coastline to Enoshima Island.
JR Line for Main Access: Kamakura is primarily accessed by the JR Yokosuka Line or JR Shonan Shinjuku Line from Tokyo. The Kita-Kamakura Station is ideal for visiting the great Zen temples like Engaku-ji and Kencho-ji, which are right near the station exits.
Bus Network: An extensive local bus network services sites that are further afield or less accessible by the Enoden line. Taxis are also readily available at the main stations.
Pass Options: Consider purchasing the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass (by Odakyu Railway) for unlimited travel on the Enoden line and round-trip from Shinjuku, or an equivalent pass that suits your itinerary.
IC Cards: For ease of travel, make sure to use an IC card like Suica or Pasmo, which are widely accepted on all trains and buses in the area.
Temple and Shrine Etiquette: When visiting, always observe proper etiquette: ring the bell before praying at a shrine, cleanse your hands and mouth at the purification fountain (temizuya), and be mindful of your volume inside sacred spaces.
Avoid Weekend Crowds: Kamakura is one of Tokyo’s most popular day trips. If possible, visit on a weekday to avoid the heavy foot traffic, particularly at the Great Buddha and along Komachi Dori.
Dining Times: Unlike some Western destinations, restaurants in Japan typically have earlier dining hours. Lunch is often from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM, and many smaller, local restaurants may close for dinner around 8:00 PM.
Local Delicacy: Shirasu: A must-try specialty is shirasu (tiny whitebait/sardine larvae), which is served raw, boiled, or in various forms like a topping on a rice bowl (donburi) or in a local omelet.
Cash is King (Still): While IC cards are great for transport, many smaller local shops, street food vendors, and even some temple/shrine entrance fees may only accept cash (Japanese Yen). Be sure to carry enough small bills and coins.
Hidden Gems:
- Sasuke Inari Shrine: A peaceful shrine dedicated to Inari (the Fox God), famous for its winding path lined with hundreds of small red torii gates.
- Mandala-do Yagura: A lesser-known collection of ancient samurai tomb caves cut into the hillside, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s feudal history.
- Tokei-ji Temple: Once known as a “divorce temple” or refuge for women seeking to escape their husbands during the feudal era; a beautiful, serene spot with lovely gardens.
Top Restaurants
Hachinoki Kitakamakura Shinkan [$35-$65] – A long-established, serene restaurant specializing in shojin ryori (traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), often enjoyed as a multi-course meal.
Qianyuwu (Ben) [$20-$40] – A famous, century-old restaurant known for its exquisite and highly sought-after traditional eel dishes (unagi).
Kamakura Hase Sushi Yamamoto [$35-$65] – A chic and intimate sushi restaurant in the Hase area, offering high-quality, authentic Edomae-style sushi.
Tomiyama [$20-$40] – A hidden local gem near the station, praised for its authentic Japanese cuisine, fresh ingredients, and excellent donburi (rice bowls) and izakaya plates.
Tamagoyaki Ozawa [$10-$20] – A casual, local classic specializing in perfectly crafted tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet), known for its exquisite sweetness and texture.
FENG BEN DIAN [$20-$40] – Esteemed for its 80 years of tradition, this restaurant’s signature buckwheat noodles (soba) are acclaimed for their quality and handmade preparation.
Tsukui [$15-$30] – A charming, non-touristy okonomiyaki (savory pancake) and teppanyaki spot near Kamakura Station’s west exit, where you cook your own dish at the table.
NUNOKAMI [$20-$40] – A chic, simple bistro specializing in Japanese chicken dishes, known for its focus on quality poultry and serene atmosphere.
Kamakura Kamameshi Kamakama [$20-$35] – Highly popular for its kamameshi, a traditional rice dish cooked in an iron pot with various seasonal ingredients like seafood and vegetables.
Kaedena [$25-$45] – A well-regarded Japanese restaurant known for its exquisite clay pot rice dishes, a comforting and flavorful local experience.
Gashin [$15-$50] – A hidden gem of a Japanese creative bistro located slightly outside the main tourist hub in Ofuna, offering a mix of seafood and traditional cuisine.
Yoridokoro [$15-$30] – A highly saved and popular local spot known for its dried fish set meals and its unique location right next to the Enoden train line.
Udon Kamakura Miyoshi [$15-$25] – A local spot offering traditional udon noodles, with a focus on simple, satisfying, and comforting Japanese fare.
OXYMORON Komachi [$15-$30] – A popular, stylish curry shop with various curry options (Japanese-style, Sri Lankan, etc.) and beautiful presentation, located in the Komachi-dori area.
BIRD HOTEL GARDEN HOUSE [$30-$70] – The restaurant of a stylish auberge that emphasizes locally sourced “Kamakura vegetables” and coastal ingredients in its creative, nature-inspired course menus.
Ichirin Hanare [$120-$180] – A distinguished, modern restaurant in a traditional Japanese house, specializing in innovative and creative Sichuan (Chinese) cuisine with a focus on seasonal Japanese ingredients.
Kamakura Bowls [$20-$35] – Known for its innovative rice bowl dishes (donburi), featuring a variety of creative toppings including the local specialty shirasu (whitebait).
RISTORANTE IL NODO [$160-$200] – A hidden Italian gem utilizing Kanagawa Prefecture’s fresh ingredients and organic vegetables, located in a quieter area away from Kamakura Station.
Bistro Omme Kamakura [$20-$40] – A modern bistro near Kamakura Station, famous for what it calls its “Evolved Omelette,” a unique dish served with a one-of-a-kind sauce.
anchoa [$30-$50] – An authentic Spanish restaurant on Onarimachi Street offering modern interpretations of traditional Spanish flavors using fresh, local Kanagawa ingredients.
Kamakura Kitajima [$250-$350] – A high-end kaiseki (traditional multi-course dinner) restaurant, highly rated by locals, that focuses on the absolute finest seasonal and local Kamakura/Kanagawa ingredients.
Nature et Sens [$80-$200] – A hidden, creative French cuisine restaurant in Kamakura’s Yukinoshita area, inspired by nature and showcasing sophisticated seasonal dishes.
kinon [$100-$180] – A renowned restaurant specializing in innovative cuisine, particularly exquisite dishes that are prepared using a wood-fired grill for a unique smoky flavor.
Le Marcassin Dor [$60-$100] – A treasure restaurant showcasing the essence of classic French cuisine with a refined, modern approach.
Kisetsu Ryori Ara Tama [$60-$100] – A well-known kaiseki restaurant prized for its beautifully designed courtyard and authentic, multi-course Japanese dining experience.
Restaurant Pleins d’ Lerbes Kitakamakura [$50-$120] – A French restaurant housed in a quiet residential mansion, known for its simple yet classic dishes that perfectly highlight the flavors of high-quality ingredients.
Magokoro [$15-$30] – A charming cafe with a rustic-chic atmosphere, offering a variety of organic salads, soups, and popular vegan dishes.
OXYMORON (Onarimachi) [$15-$30] – A second location of the popular curry shop, featuring a diverse range of curry options and a relaxed atmosphere.
Tsubame Cafe [$10-$25] – A charming spot located in a cozy, old Japanese-style house near Kamakura station, perfect for light fare and coffee with a nostalgic ambiance.
Jazz Cafe MILK HALL [$15-$30] – A cafe near Komachi-dori with the nostalgic ambiance of the Taisho era (1912-1926), known for its antique collections, music, and satisfying meals like Beef Stew Rice.
Roastbeef Kamakurayama [$40-$70] – A quiet, high-end restaurant known for its exquisite, mouthwatering Wagyu Roast Beef, served as part of a course menu in a serene setting.
Hannari Inari [$5-$15] – A popular street food spot known for its unique take on inari sushi, featuring creative fillings and a rod-shaped “Hannari Stick” version.
Imoyoshi Yakata [$5-$15] – A charming sweet potato shop that offers a delightful selection of Japanese desserts and confections made from sweet potato, a local favorite.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
BAR THE TIPPLE: Tucked away in an alley off the lively Komachi-dori street near Kamakura Station, this dimly lit, authentic bar is perfect for those who want a quality drink in a refined, counter-seating environment.
TRES: Run by a husband and wife who are both certified sommeliers, this intimate wine bar is located just a short walk from Kamakura Station. It’s an excellent place to enjoy carefully selected wines and small dishes in a sophisticated setting.
Jazz Club Daphne: A cozy, classic live jazz club located in the Komachi area near Kamakura Station, offering a relaxed atmosphere, a great selection of drinks, and often featuring local and visiting musicians.
GARDEN HOUSE KAMAKURA: Found near the West Exit of Kamakura Station, this restaurant and wine bar is housed in a lush garden setting. It features seasonal Kamakura vegetables, local craft beer, and a wide selection of glass wines.
VINERIA SALONE: A cozy Italian restaurant and wine bar located seven minutes from Kamakura Station, known for pairing delicious Italian cuisine with house-made wines from a Yamagata winery.
Daisy’s Cafe Kamakura Ten: Located near Hase Station, this spot functions as a cafe, Asian cuisine restaurant, and bar, offering a relaxed place to unwind after a day of sightseeing near the Great Buddha.
Kappou Soba Nami to Kaze: A five-minute walk from Hase Station, this unique venue offers seasonal kappo (traditional multi-course) cuisine and handmade 100% buckwheat soba, paired with sophisticated cocktails in a calm setting.
Hekireki: A tranquil wine salon near Kamakura Station, surrounded by greenery. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy a variety of wines and carefully crafted, high-quality dishes.
Bar Star Dust: Located near the beach in the Yuigahama area, this spot is known for its romantic, retro atmosphere and is a beloved local classic for enjoying cocktails with a nostalgic seaside vibe.
Beau Temps: A unique restaurant and wine bar housed in a beautifully renovated old barn in the Hase area. It offers a selection of bio wines and traditional French-inspired food in a serene atmosphere.
Kamakura Beach Bars (Seasonal): During the summer months (July-August), the beaches of Yuigahama and Zaimokuza transform with dozens of temporary beach shacks and bars. Spots like the former Carnival Beach area or Blue Windy Terrace often feature music, food stands, and a casual, party-like atmosphere right on the sand. Note: These are only open seasonally.
Blue Wind Terrace: A seasonal beach bar on Yuigahama Beach, known for its sleek design and often playing house and techno music, attracting a younger crowd for barefoot dancing and late-night revelry on the sand.
Bar Asia: A spacious and airy seasonal beach bar on Zaimokuza beach. It is known for a more relaxed ambiance compared to its Yuigahama neighbors, sometimes hosting reggae concerts or other events.
Bar&Darts ZERO: A casual bar near Kamakura Station that offers a lively atmosphere centered around darts, providing a more interactive and social late-night option.
Tsukigusa Coffee & Bar: A small, local spot, often praised for its cozy atmosphere and excellent coffee during the day, which transitions into a relaxed bar in the evening, located conveniently near Kamakura Station.