Why Kamakura?
Just an hour south of Tokyo, Kamakura is a coastal gem blending ancient temples, bamboo forests, and samurai history. Perfect for a day trip, this itinerary maximizes time without rushing. Start early (7:00 AM) to beat crowds!
🚆 Getting There
- Tokyo → Kamakura: Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo/Shinagawa Station (direct train, ~1 hour). Use your JR Pass or Suica card.
- Key Tip: Arrive at Kamakura Station by 8:30 AM. Buy the Enoden 1-Day Pass (¥800) for unlimited rides on the scenic coastal tram.
⛩️ Stop 1: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (9:00 AM)
- Why: Kamakura’s most iconic Shinto shrine.
- Highlights:
- Walk the cherry tree-lined Dankazura path from the station (10 mins).
- See archery displays at the Maiden Stage.
- Admire the crimson-lacquered Main Hall.
- Time: 45 mins. Beat tour groups by arriving early!
🚃 Enoden Ride to Hase (10:00 AM)
- Board the Enoden Line at Kamakura Station. Sit on the right side for ocean views!
- Ride 15 mins to Hase Station.
🗿 Stop 2: Great Buddha at Kotoku-in (10:30 AM)
- Why: Japan’s 2nd-largest bronze Buddha (13m tall!).
- Highlights:
- Enter the Buddha’s interior (¥20 extra).
- Photograph the serene lotus garden.
- Food Break: Grab matcha soft cream at the stalls outside.
- Time: 30 mins.
🌊 Stop 3: Hase-dera Temple (11:15 AM)
- Why: Cliffside temple with panoramic ocean views.
- Highlights:
- Wander through the hydrangea garden (stunning June-July).
- Visit the cave shrine with glowing lanterns.
- Ring the bell for good luck.
- Time: 45 mins.
🍜 Lunch on Komachi Street (12:15 PM)
- Take the Enoden back to Kamakura Station.
- Komachi-dori Street (2-min walk) is a food haven:
- Try kamakura-style sweet potato croquettes.
- Savor shirasu-don (fresh whitebait rice bowl) at Ichibanya.
- Vegan? Vegan Cafe Matsuri offers sesame tofu bowls.
🎋 Stop 4: Hokokuji Temple (2:00 PM)
- Take bus #23/24 from Kamakura Station (10 mins).
- Why: A hidden bamboo forest minus Kyoto’s crowds!
- Highlights:
- Stroll through 2,000 towering bamboo stalks.
- Sip matcha at the teahouse overlooking the grove (¥700).
- Time: 1 hour.
🌅 Optional: Yuigahama Beach (3:30 PM)
- Walk 15 mins from Hokokuji or take bus #12.
- Why: Surfers, sunsets, and Mount Fuji views (on clear days).
- Relax: Grab a coffee at Under the Palmo Cafe.
🚉 Return to Tokyo (5:00 PM)
- Walk/bus to Kamakura Station.
- Direct trains to Tokyo run every 10 mins.
✅ Pro Tips for Foreigners
- Cash is king: Temples/small vendors don’t take cards.
- Comfort first: Wear slip-on shoes (temples require removal).
- Crowd hack: Visit temples weekdays; beaches on weekends.
- Seasonal magic:
- June-July: Hydrangeas at Hase-dera.
- Late Nov-Dec: Autumn foliage at Kencho-ji Temple.
🌸 Why This Route Works
- Efficiency: Uses Enoden/bus strategically—no backtracking.
- Balance: History (temples), nature (bamboo/beach), and food.
- Escape Tokyo’s rush: Return by 7:00 PM feeling refreshed!
Kamakura is Japan in a nutshell—compact, spiritual, and unforgettable. Grab your camera and go! ✨