Discover the Best of Kamakura: A Guide to 11 Must-Visit Spots - Japan Travel Sights

Kamakura, a city steeped in history and culture, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kanagawa Prefecture.

With its well-preserved ancient temples, picturesque streets, and charming atmosphere, Kamakura offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.

Whether you’re here for a short visit or planning an extended stay, this guide will help you explore the best spots Kamakura has to offer.

A Half-Day Tour of Kamakura

Explore Temples and Shrines

Start your journey at Engaku-ji Temple near Kitakamakura Station, a 1-minute walk from the station. After a 21-minute stroll, you’ll arrive at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and take in the historical significance of this iconic site.

Next, indulge in a matcha dessert at Momiji Chaya on Komachi Street, a 3-minute walk from the shrine. Continue your exploration by visiting the Great Buddha of Kamakura at Kotoku-in Temple, a 35-minute walk away, and finally, wrap up your tour at Hasedera Temple, a beautiful spot especially known for its seasonal flowers.

Savor the Local Flavors While Sightseeing

For those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and local delicacies, start at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, a 10-minute walk from Kamakura Station.

After that, head to Tomoya Kamakura Komachi Store for a delicious Daibutsu-sama Yaki snack, a 5-minute walk away. Enhance your luck at Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine, a 23-minute walk from the snack stop, and finish your tour with a sweet treat at Cafe Vivement Dimanche, known for its pudding parfaits, located an 18-minute walk from the shrine.

1. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, a historic site built by Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura Shogunate, offers breathtaking views of Kamakura’s cityscape from its iconic stone staircase. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful Genpei Pond, which is surrounded by seasonal flowers.

• Address: 2-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 10-minute walk from Kamakura Station
• Admission: Free
• Website: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

2. Kotoku-in Temple and the Great Buddha of Kamakura

The Great Buddha of Kamakura, a massive bronze statue standing over 11 meters tall, is one of Japan’s most famous icons. This open-air Buddha is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a stunning spot to visit.

• Address: 4-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 7-minute walk from Hase Station
• Admission: 300 yen for adults, 150 yen for children
• Website: Kotoku-in Temple

3. Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine

This unique shrine is famous for its “money-washing” ritual, where visitors wash their money in the sacred spring to multiply their wealth. The shrine’s entrance, a tunnel carved through a rock, adds to its mystical atmosphere.

• Address: 2-25-16 Sasuke, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 25-minute walk from Kamakura Station
• Admission: Free
• Website: Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine

4. Hasedera Temple

Known as the “Temple of Flowers,” Hasedera is a serene sanctuary that offers stunning views of the coastline and beautiful gardens that bloom throughout the year.

• Address: 3-11-2 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 5-minute walk from Hase Station
• Admission: 400 yen for adults, 200 yen for children
• Website: Hasedera Temple

5. Engaku-ji Temple

Engaku-ji, one of the most important Zen temples in Japan, is known for its majestic entrance gate and tranquil gardens. The temple grounds offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

• Address: 409 Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 1-minute walk from Kitakamakura Station
• Admission: 500 yen for adults, 200 yen for children
• Website: Engaku-ji Temple

6. Hokoku-ji Temple

Hokoku-ji, also known as the “Bamboo Temple,” is famous for its serene bamboo grove. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the grove and savor a cup of matcha at the temple’s teahouse.

• Address: 2-7-4 Jomyoji, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 4-minute walk from Jomyoji bus stop
• Admission: 400 yen for adults, 200 yen for children
• Website: Hokoku-ji Temple

7. Cafe Vivement Dimanche

This cozy cafe, tucked away on a side street, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Known for its freshly brewed coffee and delicious pudding parfaits, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing.

• Address: 2-1-5 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 5-minute walk from Kamakura Station
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays)
• Website: Cafe Vivement Dimanche

8. Momiji Chaya Kamakura Komachi Street

Located close to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, this cafe offers a wide range of matcha sweets, including the popular Uji Matcha Tiramisu, which is both rich and smooth.

• Address: 1-4-26 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 8-minute walk from Kamakura Station
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Website: Momiji Chaya

9. Oimo Cafe Kanaria

Tucked away in a back alley off Komachi Street, Oimo Cafe Kanaria offers delightful sweet potato desserts, including their famous Oimo Kamakura Parfait, a perfect blend of sweet and savory.

• Address: 2-10-10 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 4-minute walk from Kamakura Station
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
• Website: Oimo Cafe Kanaria

10. Tomoya Kamakura Komachi Store

This long-established sweets shop is famous for its Daibutsu-sama Yaki, a soft and fluffy pastry shaped like the Great Buddha. Available in various fillings, it’s a must-try snack.

• Address: 1-6-8 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 7-minute walk from Kamakura Station
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
• Website: [Tomoya Kamakura Komachi Store](https://www.instagram.com/manjuya_kamakura/)

11. KANNON COFFEE Kamakura

Famous for its adorable Daibutsu biscuits, KANNON COFFEE Kamakura serves seasonal crepes that are both delicious and Instagram-worthy. The cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to unwind.

• Address: 3-10-29 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa
• Access: 5-minute walk from Hase Station
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Website: KANNON COFFEE Kamakura

Conclusion

Kamakura is not just a historical treasure but also a place where you can indulge in delightful culinary experiences. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, enjoying the seasonal flowers, or tasting local sweets, Kamakura offers something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your visit and make the most of your time in this enchanting city.