Welcome to Kamakura! Located in the Kanto region, Kamakura is known for its serene temples, historic shrines, and lively streets, offering a perfect blend of tradition and modern charm. This half-day route takes you to some of Kamakura’s must-see spots, with walking and travel tips to make your day smooth and enjoyable!
1. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (鶴岡八幡宮)
Start your journey at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine. Built in 1063, this grand shrine is a sacred spot dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and the guardian deity of the samurai. The tree-lined walkway leads up to the main hall, where you can take in the peaceful surroundings and admire the shrine’s traditional architecture.
- How to get there: From Kamakura Station, it’s a quick 10-minute walk to the shrine.
- Time to explore: About 30–40 minutes is ideal to appreciate the architecture and shrine grounds.
2. Komachi Street (小町通り)
After a peaceful start, it’s time to dive into the lively Komachi Street! This bustling shopping street is lined with a variety of shops, cafes, and street food stalls. Here, you’ll find everything from cute souvenirs to local specialties like shirasu (baby sardines) and green tea sweets.
- Distance from Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: A 5-minute walk.
- Time to explore: Spend around 30–40 minutes sampling treats, shopping, and taking in the atmosphere. Don’t miss the delicious taiyaki or matcha ice cream!
3. Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine (銭洗弁財天 宇賀福神社)
Next, let’s visit the unique Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine, a place famous for its “money-washing” ritual. Legend has it that washing your money here in the spring water will bring good fortune. It’s a fun and memorable experience for both locals and visitors alike.
- How to get there: It’s about a 20-minute walk from Komachi Street. The path has a few hills, but it’s a lovely walk through quieter parts of Kamakura.
- Time to explore: Plan for about 20–30 minutes to enjoy the rituals and peaceful shrine atmosphere.
4. Sasuke Inari Shrine (佐助稲荷神社)
From one hidden gem to another, head to Sasuke Inari Shrine. This small, red-torii-lined shrine is dedicated to the god of good fortune, and its location within the lush greenery makes it a truly enchanting sight. Legend has it that this shrine was visited by Minamoto no Yoritomo before he became shogun!
- Distance from Zeniarai Benzaiten: Just a 10-minute walk.
- Time to explore: Spend around 15–20 minutes strolling through the charming torii gates and exploring the small but scenic grounds.
5. The Great Buddha of Kamakura (鎌倉大仏)
No visit to Kamakura is complete without seeing the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple. Standing at 13 meters tall, this bronze Buddha statue is one of Japan’s most iconic sights. The Buddha dates back to the 13th century and has stood through earthquakes and typhoons, making it a powerful symbol of resilience.
- How to get there: From Sasuke Inari Shrine, it’s best to take a short taxi ride (about 5 minutes) or walk for around 25 minutes if you prefer.
- Time to explore: Plan for about 20–30 minutes here to marvel at the Great Buddha and soak in the peaceful temple grounds.
6. Kannon Coffee Kamakura (カンノンコーヒー カマクラ)
Finish your day with a relaxing stop at Kannon Coffee Kamakura. This charming cafe is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious brews, perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing. Try their matcha latte or specialty coffee blends paired with a traditional Japanese sweet.
- Distance from Kotoku-in Temple: A quick 5-minute taxi ride or a 15-minute walk.
- Time to relax: Spend about 30 minutes here enjoying your drink and reflecting on your Kamakura adventure.
Travel Tips for Kamakura
Best Time to Visit
Kamakura is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn bring ideal weather and stunning natural views.
Local Transport
Kamakura is highly walkable, but there are taxis available if needed. Most spots are within a short distance from each other.
Comfortable Footwear
With a mix of temple grounds and hilly paths, comfortable walking shoes are a must!
Enjoy your time discovering the hidden charms of Kamakura, and take in the serene beauty of each stop along the way! This half-day itinerary offers a balance of history, culture, and local flavor for an unforgettable experience.
