Update-date: Jul 31 2024
Kamakura, reachable in an hour from Tokyo Station, is the perfect summer escape for a day of both ancient temples and beautiful beaches. This article will introduce the best attractions and activities in Kamakura for seaside fun and sightseeing.
Kamakura: Japan’s Ancient Capital Right Next to Tokyo
Alongside one of Japan’s must-visit tourist destinations, Kamakura is also a popular summer retreat. It boasts rich natural beauty and a profound cultural heritage, and is easily accessed in just an hour on the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station. The mild climate and scenic location surrounded by mountains and sea attracted a following of famous writers in the late 1800s, and it continues to be loved by cultural figures today.
Historically, Kamakura is the birthplace of Japan's samurai government. The Kamakura Shogunate was founded in the 12th century and flourished as the center of Japanese politics, diplomacy, and culture for about 150 years. Numerous temples were established in Kamakura during this time, and many still exist today. While other ancient capitals like Kyoto and Nara had an aristocratic culture, Kamakura’s unique samurai culture gave it a distinctive atmosphere whose influence can be felt today.
Historically, Kamakura is the birthplace of Japan's samurai government. The Kamakura Shogunate was founded in the 12th century and flourished as the center of Japanese politics, diplomacy, and culture for about 150 years. Numerous temples were established in Kamakura during this time, and many still exist today. While other ancient capitals like Kyoto and Nara had an aristocratic culture, Kamakura’s unique samurai culture gave it a distinctive atmosphere whose influence can be felt today.
Each area of Kamakura offers its own one-of-a-kind scenery, from districts dotted with temples and shrines to scenic coastlines and streets full of unique restaurants. This diversity stems from the fusion of samurai traditions with the sophisticated culture of modern intellectuals. These days, Kamakura attracts high-class and fashionable people, and having a home in Kamakura has become a status symbol for many Japanese. Here are some recommended ways to enjoy this remarkable city!
Recommended Sightseeing in Kamakura #1
■Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Komachi-Dori Street
Kamakura has numerous temples and shrines, making it challenging to find where to begin. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the best starting point, whose massive torii gate appears after a 10-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station.
Known for its association with Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura Shogunate (Japan's first military government), this shrine has been protecting Kamakura for 800 years. Many of the buildings are designated as Important Cultural Properties, and there is a museum on the grounds showcasing National Treasures and more.
As a souvenir, purchase one of the shrine’s beautiful amulets, which feature motifs of a pigeon, said to fly around the grounds as messengers of the gods; or a crane, which is referenced in the name of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
Kamakura has numerous temples and shrines, making it challenging to find where to begin. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the best starting point, whose massive torii gate appears after a 10-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station.
Known for its association with Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura Shogunate (Japan's first military government), this shrine has been protecting Kamakura for 800 years. Many of the buildings are designated as Important Cultural Properties, and there is a museum on the grounds showcasing National Treasures and more.
As a souvenir, purchase one of the shrine’s beautiful amulets, which feature motifs of a pigeon, said to fly around the grounds as messengers of the gods; or a crane, which is referenced in the name of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
Running parallel to the road connecting the three torii gates of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the 600-meter-long Komachi-dori Street. This vibrant shopping street extends from the east exit of Kamakura Station to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and it serves as the main tourist thoroughfare in Kamakura. It's lined with a diverse array of establishments, including souvenir shops and cafes, giving it a lively atmosphere.
Foodies will love the shops selling adorable bites like dango (dumplings), crepes, and ice cream, as well as others serving up Kamakura’s unique sausages and bread. Just remember that eating while walking is prohibited in Kamakura, so be sure to enjoy these delicious foods at designated eat-in spaces or public areas.
Foodies will love the shops selling adorable bites like dango (dumplings), crepes, and ice cream, as well as others serving up Kamakura’s unique sausages and bread. Just remember that eating while walking is prohibited in Kamakura, so be sure to enjoy these delicious foods at designated eat-in spaces or public areas.
Recommended Sightseeing in Kamakura #2
■Ride the Enoshima Electric Railway to Kotoku-in Temple (Great Buddha)
One of the best ways to navigate Kamakura is on the Enoshima Electric Railway. Nicknamed the Enoden, this is a local line with small trains of about three carriages. It runs along the coastline, making the ride itself part of the fun!
One of the best ways to navigate Kamakura is on the Enoshima Electric Railway. Nicknamed the Enoden, this is a local line with small trains of about three carriages. It runs along the coastline, making the ride itself part of the fun!
After departing Kamakura Station, ride the Enoden for three stops through residential Kamakura and get off at Hase Station. This is the nearest station to Kotoku-in Temple, home to the famous Great Buddha.
A designated National Treasure, the Great Buddha is a beloved symbol of Kamakura, and is one of Japan’s most iconic sites together with the Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple in Nara. It stands 13.35 meters tall and weighs about 121 tons, making for impressive photos!
There is also a charming retro souvenir shop in front of the temple gate, so be sure to stop by.
A designated National Treasure, the Great Buddha is a beloved symbol of Kamakura, and is one of Japan’s most iconic sites together with the Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple in Nara. It stands 13.35 meters tall and weighs about 121 tons, making for impressive photos!
There is also a charming retro souvenir shop in front of the temple gate, so be sure to stop by.
Enjoy Summer at Kamakura Beaches!
Kamakura also boasts a bunch of fantastic beaches, where you can swim and watch the sunset. Here are some of the most popular Kamakura beaches!
■Zaimokuza
Zaimokuza is situated in a laid-back neighborhood removed from the bustle of central Kamakura. It has a down-to-earth vibe, filled with locals walking their dogs on the beach and surfers coming and going.
Zaimokuza is situated in a laid-back neighborhood removed from the bustle of central Kamakura. It has a down-to-earth vibe, filled with locals walking their dogs on the beach and surfers coming and going.
■Yuigahama
Yuigahama was the first beach in Asia to be awarded the Blue Flag international environmental certification, which it has retained ever since. It's a beautiful, well-managed beach that's safe and enjoyable for all. There are also many beach houses where you can eat and drink.
Yuigahama was the first beach in Asia to be awarded the Blue Flag international environmental certification, which it has retained ever since. It's a beautiful, well-managed beach that's safe and enjoyable for all. There are also many beach houses where you can eat and drink.
When visiting Kamakura beaches, be sure to observe beach etiquette such as not swimming in designated no-swimming zones, refraining from running in crowded spaces, being mindful of the volume of audio equipment, and taking your trash home with you.
Recommended Restaurants in Kamakura
Kamakura is rich in local ingredients, and many residents are food enthusiasts. Here are some recommended Kamakura restaurants loved by locals!
Restaurant Pleins d' Lerbes Kitakamakura (Kita-Kamakura / French)
[Restaurant Pleins d' Lerbes Kitakamakura] is tucked away in a quiet residential area adjacent to Kita-Kamakura Station, one stop away from Kamakura Station. Removed from the hustle and bustle, you can enjoy a luxurious meal of authentic French cuisine prepared by a chef who previously worked in a hotel.
The classic French courses use carefully selected ingredients from Japan and France, bringing out their natural flavors. They pair perfectly with a wide selection of about 270 wines.
The classic French courses use carefully selected ingredients from Japan and France, bringing out their natural flavors. They pair perfectly with a wide selection of about 270 wines.
The restaurant has wide open windows overlooking a Japanese garden. During the day, it's filled with sunlight and has a spacious, airy feel, while at night it transforms into a more intimate, atmospheric setting.
Restaurant Pleins d' Lerbes Kitakamakura
Open: [Monday, Wednesday - Sunday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Lunch 12:00 pm - 3:30 pm / Dinner 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Closed: Tuesday, Dinner on first Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 12,000 JPY / [Lunch] 6,000 JPY
Access: Pick up service from Kitakamakura Station on JR Yokosuka Line is available
Address: A house restaurant nestled in a quiet residential area, have a relaxing moment with the finest French cuisine. Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: Tuesday, Dinner on first Monday
Average price: [Dinner] 12,000 JPY / [Lunch] 6,000 JPY
Access: Pick up service from Kitakamakura Station on JR Yokosuka Line is available
Address: A house restaurant nestled in a quiet residential area, have a relaxing moment with the finest French cuisine. Map
More Details Reservation
Kamakura Fujiya (Kamakura / Yakiniku)
[Kamakura Fujiya] is a sophisticated establishment with a bar counter worlds apart from the typical yakiniku (Japanese grilled meat) restaurant. Highlights include yakiniku like the [Kainomi (SPECIAL Ribs)] (2,079 JPY), boasting a superb balance of lean meat and marbling; along with homemade roast beef, roast pork, chicken, and gizzard confit.
[Kamakura Fujiya] also serves a curated selection of alcoholic drinks, including exclusive Kamakura plum wine, rare Japan-brewed makgeolli, local pure rice wine, and Japanese whiskey. Pair one with your meal, then relish more at the bar afterwards.
[Kamakura Fujiya] also serves a curated selection of alcoholic drinks, including exclusive Kamakura plum wine, rare Japan-brewed makgeolli, local pure rice wine, and Japanese whiskey. Pair one with your meal, then relish more at the bar afterwards.
Along with the stylish bar counter, the fantastic view from the windows is also a big draw!
Kamakura Fujiya
Open: [Weekdays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm) / [Saturday, Sunday, National Holidays] 12:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm)
Closed: Irregular
Average price: -
Access: 1-minute walk from Kamakura Station
Address: 2F, 1-4-4, Komachi, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: Irregular
Average price: -
Access: 1-minute walk from Kamakura Station
Address: 2F, 1-4-4, Komachi, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa Map
More Details Reservation
From historical sites to beautiful beaches, Kamakura is the ultimate destination for a summer day trip! Take a short journey from Tokyo to create some wonderful summer memories!
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.
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