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Things to Do in Kamakura, Japan
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Plan language: EnglishMost popular attractions in Kamakura, Japan
Things to do in Kamakura, Japan encompass centuries of history and peaceful nature. Stroll 1 kilometer along Komachi Street to discover quaint shops, then visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, established in 1063. Admire the 13.35-meter Great Buddha of Kamakura, a remarkable bronze statue standing outdoors since the 13th century.
1. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Experience the lively cultural spirit with dazzling festivals and peaceful garden views. Admire colorful koi fish, historic bridges, and seasonal flowers.
Quick facts: Lively festivals enliven this shrine with thrilling horseback archery known as yabusame a few times each year. A scenic pond filled with ruby-red koi carp adds a splash of color to the peaceful surroundings.
Highlights: At the center, a bold red bridge stretches over a calm pond, creating a perfect photo opportunity as cherry blossoms drift in the spring air. In autumn, bright maple leaves cover the walkways, forming a vivid natural quilt that beautifully contrasts with the shrine's classic architecture.
2. Komachi Street
Discover a bustling street full of unique crafts and delicious snacks. Experience lively scenes with charming shops and authentic local tastes at every corner.
Quick facts: A bustling street featuring over 70 charming shops and eateries offers everything from traditional sweets to contemporary crafts. Both locals and tourists come here to find unique souvenirs and enjoy freshly made treats like warm rice crackers and matcha ice cream.
Highlights: Bright noren curtains flutter above wooden storefronts, creating a picturesque setting that shifts with the seasons. Handmade Kamakura crafts, including fine pottery and bamboo works, are hidden among cozy cafes and lively food stands, highlighting the town's artistic heritage.
3. Engaku-ji Temple
Discover tranquil Zen gardens and ancient forests that soothe your soul. Walk through grand gates and soak in centuries of peaceful tradition.
Quick facts: This temple is among Japan's top five Zen temples, situated in a peaceful forest that instantly calms the mind. The grounds cover a vast area filled with ancient cedar trees, some over 700 years old, creating a timeless ambiance.
Highlights: Enter a tranquil setting where tea ceremonies have taken place under ancient trees, offering a quiet ritual to connect with nature and history. The grand Sanmon gate is one of Japan's largest wooden gates, providing an impressive entrance that displays masterful traditional craftsmanship.
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I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Kamakura, Japan, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
4. Zeniarai Benten Shrine
Experience a spiritual ritual promising fortune like no other. Enter a calm cave and wash your money in cool sacred waters for luck and prosperity.
Quick facts: This shrine has a special ritual where visitors wash their money in a sacred spring believed to increase wealth. Located in a cool cave, the shrine offers a refreshing break from Kamakura's summer heat.
Highlights: The spring water flows into a stone basin inside a moss-covered cave, creating a mysterious atmosphere. Locals cherish the coin washing ritual here, thought to bring financial luck, blending spirituality with superstition.
5. Enoshima Island
Escape to a volcanic island with sacred shrines and wide views. Explore mystical caves, quiet gardens, and a lively cultural vibe.
Quick facts: An island just offshore, it is known for caves and shrines dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten. The island provides breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on clear days, combining natural beauty with rich culture.
Highlights: A group of magical caves carved into volcanic rock offers a cool retreat in the summer. The lively annual firefly festival draws thousands who watch glowing insects flickering among thick greenery at night.
Where to Stay in Kamakura, Japan
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Traditional Sweet Dishes
Kuzumochi
Kuzumochi is a jelly-like dessert made from kuzuko starch, famous in Kamakura for its light texture and refreshing taste, often enjoyed during summer.
Shirasu Manju
Shirasu Manju are steamed buns filled with a sweet whitebait paste, a unique sweet that represents Kamakura's coastal culture.
Anmitsu
Anmitsu is a traditional Japanese dessert consisting of agar jelly with fruits, red beans, and syrup, widely enjoyed in Kamakura tea houses for its balance of flavors.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Shirasu-don
Shirasu-don is a rice bowl topped with fresh whitebait, a local specialty that highlights Kamakura's access to fresh seafood.
Kamakura Soba
Kamakura Soba features buckwheat noodles served with a variety of toppings, renowned for its firm texture and rich broth typical of the region.
Hōtō
Hōtō is a hearty noodle soup with flat udon noodles and seasonal vegetables, popular in Kamakura for its comforting and rustic taste.
Traditional Beverages
Matcha
Matcha, powdered green tea, is a staple in Kamakura's traditional tea ceremonies, known for its vibrant color and rich umami flavor.
Genmaicha
Genmaicha combines green tea with roasted brown rice, creating a nutty flavor that is enjoyed as a soothing drink in Kamakura homes and cafes.
Sakura-cha
Sakura-cha is a fragrant tea made with cherry blossoms, celebrated in Kamakura during cherry blossom season for its delicate floral taste.
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Most popular day trips
Enoshima
A small island with beautiful beaches, a lighthouse, and caves.
Yokohama
A vibrant port city known for its Chinatown and Minato Mirai district.
Hakone
Famous for hot springs, open-air museums, and views of Mount Fuji.
Getting there
Train stations
JR Yokosuka Line, JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line
From Haneda Airport, take the Keikyu Line to Yokohama, then transfer to the JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura.
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Comments (6)
The big Buddha was impressive but honestly too crowded during the day, early morning visits are way more peaceful.
Weather was hit or miss in early spring, prepare for sudden rain showers but the blooming sakura made up for it.
If you're hitting multiple temples, get a day pass for the Enoden train, it saves money and gives unlimited travel along the scenic coast.
Food was a mixed bag, some amazing fresh seafood spots but a couple of tourist traps that were pricey and underwhelming.
Skip the main street ramen shops and try Komachi Dori side alleys for cheaper, authentic noodles and friendlier service.