Kamakura Kanagawa, Japan Travel Guide
Kamakura’its natural surroundings offers chances for active exploration, including hiking plus watersports.
Moderate difficulty, 1-2 hours. Connects Jochiji Temple in Kita-Kamakura to the Great Buddha. Passes through forests with nice views.
Moderate difficulty, 1.5-2 hours. Starts near Kenchoji Temple, leads through hills to Zuisenji Temple. Offers panoramic views of Kamakura city and cove.
Both trails provide a refreshing break from city exploration. Wear suitable footwear and carry water.
Always check local weather forecasts before engaging in outdoor activities. Coastal areas can experience sudden changes.
Engage with Kamakura’s rich cultural heritage through hands-on experiences and traditional performances.
Seasonal festivals (matsuri) often feature traditional performances. "Yabusame" (horseback archery) takes place at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine during spring (Kamakura Matsuri) and autumn (Reitai-sai) festivals.
A major spring festival featuring heritage performances, including "Yabusame" at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. A dynamic view of Japanese traditions.
Bonbori Matsuri is a lantern festival at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, with thousands of illuminated paper lanterns. Reitai-sai is the shrine's annual main festival, also featuring "Yabusame" and other rituals. Hydrangea Season (June) at Hasedera and Meigetsuin creates a special seasonal event.
Engage without intermediaries to local crafts and classic arts through various workshops available in the city.
Time your visit for major festivals for a chance to watch traditional ceremonies and performances.
Kimono rentals and festival settings provide excellent backdrops for memorable photographs.
Find opportunities for peace and rejuvenation in Kamakura, blending historical tranquility with natural beauty.
Kamakura itself is not known as an onsen (hot spring) town. For a traditional onsen experience, a day trip to Hakone is highly recommended, offering numerous hot spring resorts and public baths.
Yuigahama and Zaimokuza beaches offer opportunities for relaxation, sunbathing, and swimming during the summer season. Some beach houses operate, providing changing rooms, showers, and food/drink services.
Enjoy simply relaxing beside the sea, taking in the coastal views, or nightfall walk along the shore.
Many temples offer quiet spaces for personal reflection or organized meditation sessions for inner peace.
Explore the tranquil gardens of temples like Hasedera or Jomyo-ji for a calm experience in a natural setting.
Take a leisurely stroll along the beaches or explore the quieter hiking trails for a revitalizing outdoor escape.
Kamakura has a relatively subdued nightlife compared to larger cities like Tokyo. Its focus is more concerning historical charm and natural beauty, offering a relaxed evening vibe.
Several casual izakaya (Japanese pubs) and saloons are located around Kamakura Station. These offer food and drinks into the late evening.
Along Komachi-dori, smaller establishments offer a relaxed setting for enjoying native drinks and small dishes after sunset.
Experience a authentic Japanese pub, a place you can sample various dishes alongside sake or beer, enjoying a local atmosphere.
Many bars focus on a relaxed, conversational atmosphere rather than loud music or dancing.
Compared to major cities, many establishments close relatively early, by 10 or 23:00.
Enjoying the brightly lit temples or quieter streets for an evening stroll is a popular pastime.
The legal drinking age in Japan is 20. Public intoxication is not tolerated. Dispose of bottles and cans in designated bins.
Discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and traditional goods in Kamakura's charming shops and lively streets.
Dove-shaped shortbread cookies. A renowned local confection from Toshimaya, sold in distinctive red boxes. A light, buttery cookie.
Local matcha powder, green tea-flavored sweets, and a cuppa ceremony utensils are well-liked selections for gifts.
Incense, small statues, and charms are available at temple shops, offering spiritual mementos.
Kamakura's shopping offers a charming mix of classic crafts and local specialties, making it an ideal place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
