ITINERARIES Culture on the Coast in Kamakura Visit the coast and discover Japanese Buddhism in culture-rich Kamakura
The base of Japan's very first feudal government, Kamakura combines rich history with a laid-back seaside vibe.
Highlights
- Discover age-old temples and see the famous Kamakura Daibutsu, the Big Buddha statue
- Try traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine called shojin-ryori
- Take a walk along the beach at sunset at Yui-ga-hama Beach
How to Get There
Explore Engakuji Temple 
, a Zen temple and national historic site. Check out the Sanmon Gate, which has been featured in Japanese literature and is said to enlighten those who walk under it.
Nearby is Kencho-ji Temple, the first Zen dojo (school). Visit the garden to experience wabi (refinement) and sabi (simplicity).
When you're hungry, grab a bite at one of the famous shojin-ryori restaurants in the area, such as Hachinoki. Shojin-ryori is a traditional Buddhist cuisine that is vegetarian.
From Kita Kamakura Station, Kamakura is just one train stop away. The small town was created around Wakamiya-oji Street, stretching 1,800 meters. If visiting in spring you can see the Dankazura, the raised pathway, lined with blooming cherry trees and azaleas.
A short distance from Wakamiya-oji Street is Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine . You can enjoy beautiful views of the city from the top of this beautiful vermillion shrine.
If you need a break or want to buy some souvenirs, stop by Komachi-dori Street. This shopping street is filled with cafes and souvenir shops where you can find everything from Kamakura-bori Carving items to bamboo ware.
One of the most popular destinations in Kamakura is Kotoku-in Temple and the Daibutsu , or the great Buddha statue. Remember to bring your camera to take photos of this 13 meter-tall statue.
After that, make your wishes come true at Hasedera Temple . The Juichimen Kanzeon Bosatsu (the 11-headed Goddess, Kannon) found here listens to all of your wishes.
Finish your day on the sands of Yuigahama Beach. The sunsets are beautiful, with Mt. Fuji visible on a clear day. A great place to visit all-year-round, however if you are in the area in summer, a festival takes place on Yuigahama Beach on the second Sunday in August and includes a fireworks display over the water.
If you still have some time, head to Enoshima . This small island is a few stations away and is home to Okutsumiya Shrine and the Iwaya Caves. Note that the bridge and town area are wheelchair accessible, but the observation tower and caves are not.
