Things to Do in Kamakura: Top 12 Temples, Hikes and Day Trip Tips (2026)

Kamakura is one of Japan’s most beloved coastal towns and, without question, the most rewarding day trip from Tokyo that most travelers never take seriously enough. Surrounded on three sides by forested hills and facing Sagami Bay to the south, this former seat of Japan’s first samurai government packs an extraordinary density of temples, shrines, hiking trails, and seaside atmosphere into a walkable area just over an hour from Tokyo by train. There are 65 temples and 19 shrines within the city limits. The Great Buddha alone — an 11.3-meter bronze figure that has sat in the open air since a tsunami destroyed its wooden hall in 1498 — is worth the trip from anywhere in Japan.

In this guide, we cover the 12 best things to do in Kamakura for first-time visitors: from the iconic Great Buddha and the hilltop Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine to bamboo groves, hiking trails, and the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden). We also include practical booking tips for day tours from Tokyo and hotel recommendations for those who want to stay overnight. For the full picture of Tokyo-area day trips, see our Best Day Trips from Tokyo guide. And if you’re combining Kamakura with Yokohama in one day, check our Things to Do in Yokohama guide.

Watch Before You Go

What Is Kamakura?

A Former Capital of Samurai Japan

Kamakura was the capital of Japan from 1192 to 1333, when the Minamoto clan established the first shogunate here. During the Kamakura Period (1185–1333), the city became a major religious and political center, and the temples, shrines, and Buddha statues constructed during this era have largely survived to the present day. Today, Kamakura is a city of about 174,000 people in Kanagawa Prefecture, easily reached from Tokyo’s Shinjuku or Tokyo Station in 50–70 minutes. The city sits about 50 km southwest of Tokyo and is characterized by its compact historic center, the surrounding wooded hills criss-crossed with hiking trails, and the broad Yuigahama and Zaimokuza beaches that front the Pacific.

Why Kamakura Is Special

Unlike Kyoto, Kamakura’s attractions are distributed in a way that rewards both leisurely walkers and more ambitious hikers. The main temple circuit (Kenchoji, Engakuji, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Kotoku-in for the Great Buddha) can be done comfortably on foot in a full day. The Daibutsu Hiking Trail and the Tenno-ji hiking course add a green, forested dimension that surprises visitors expecting only temples. And the Enoshima Electric Railway — a vintage single-car tram that threads through narrow residential streets and runs along the oceanfront to Enoshima Island — is an attraction in itself. Insider tip: arrive before 9 a.m. at the Great Buddha to beat the tourist coaches and get unobstructed photos.

Top 12 Things to Do in Kamakura

1. The Great Buddha (Kotoku-in Daibutsu)

The Great Buddha of Kamakura is the city’s most iconic sight — a 11.3-meter bronze statue of Amida Buddha that has sat serenely in the open air for over 700 years. Cast in 1252, the statue is a National Treasure and one of the most recognizable images in all of Japan. Admission to Kotoku-in Temple is £200; going inside the hollow bronze figure costs an additional £20. The statue’s interior reveals the sophisticated 13th-century casting techniques and the massive copper shoulder joints that allow the figure to withstand earthquakes. Allow 45–60 minutes. For a deep dive on visiting Kotoku-in, see our dedicated Great Buddha Kamakura guide.

2. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

The paramount shrine of Kamakura, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu sits at the head of the tree-lined Wakamiya Oji boulevard and draws 2 million visitors a year. Founded in 1063 and expanded significantly in the late 12th century by Minamoto no Yoritomo, the shrine complex includes multiple subsidiary shrines, a pond garden (with a lotus-covered upper pond), a museum of shrine treasures, and a massive stone staircase leading to the main hall. Entry to the grounds is free; the museum costs £200. The 800-year-old ginkgo tree next to the main staircase famously toppled in a storm in 2010, but cuttings from the original tree have been replanted and are growing steadily. Allow 1–1.5 hours.

3. Kencho-ji Temple

The oldest Zen temple in eastern Japan, Kencho-ji was established in 1253 and is the first-ranked of Kamakura’s Five Mountains temple system. The main approach passes through three successive gates into an atmospheric precinct of juniper trees, stone lanterns, and darkly timbered buildings. The juniper trees near the sanmon (main gate) are 750 years old. Admission: £500. From the rear of the main hall, a hiking trail climbs into the forested hills above the temple, connecting to the Tenno-ji hiking route and eventually reaching Zuisen-ji Temple or looping back toward central Kamakura. Allow 1–1.5 hours for the temple itself.

4. Engaku-ji Temple

The second of Kamakura’s Five Mountains, Engaku-ji sits directly across from Kita-Kamakura Station and is the first major temple visitors encounter if arriving by train to that stop. Founded in 1282 to honor Japanese and Mongol soldiers killed in the Mongol invasion attempts, the temple grounds include a large bell cast in 1301 (one of Japan’s most significant historic bells), a shariden (reliquary) classified as a National Treasure, and a tranquil upper garden area reached by a short uphill walk. Admission: £500. Allow 45–60 minutes.

5. Daibutsu Hiking Trail

The Daibutsu Hiking Trail (Daibutsu Hiking Course) is a 3.2-km forested ridge trail linking the Kencho-ji area with the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in. The hike takes about 1.5–2 hours in one direction and passes through dense bamboo groves, cedar forest, and two smaller temples (Zeniarai Benten and Genjiyama Park). Elevation gain is moderate — the highest point is about 160 meters above sea level. Bring sturdy shoes (trail sections can be slippery after rain) and water. This trail is the best way to combine Kencho-ji and the Great Buddha in a single morning while avoiding the road. Browse Kamakura hiking tours: Kamakura hiking experiences on Klook →

6. Hase-dera Temple

Hase-dera is one of Kamakura’s most atmospheric temples, set on a hillside about 5 minutes’ walk from the Great Buddha. The temple complex includes a large gilded wooden statue of Kannon (goddess of mercy) standing 9.18 meters tall — one of the largest wooden statues in Japan — and a spectacular cave system (Benten Cave) that visitors can walk through while passing small stone shrines. The upper garden terrace offers panoramic views of Sagami Bay and the Kamakura rooftops. Admission: £400. Allow 45–60 minutes. Hase-dera is best visited in the same morning as Kotoku-in — they are within 5 minutes’ walk of each other.

7. Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden)

The Enoden is a vintage tram line that connects Kamakura Station with Enoshima Island across 10 km and 15 stops. More than just transport, the Enoden is an experience: the single-car trams thread through streets so narrow that car mirrors have to be folded as the train passes, then emerge onto a spectacular oceanfront stretch along Yuigahama Beach. The full ride from Kamakura to Enoshima takes about 25 minutes and costs £260. Day passes (£800) allow unlimited rides for exploring at your own pace. The beach section between Shichirigahama and Kamakurakoen stations offers some of the most photogenic stretches of Pacific coastline accessible from Tokyo.

8. Zeniarai Benten Shrine

A hidden treasure reached through a 1.5-meter tunnel cut through a cliff, Zeniarai Benten Shrine is dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten and is famous for a spring where visitors wash their coins in the belief that money washed here will multiply. The cave interior holds the sacred spring, hanging offerings, and hundreds of small stone figures. The shrine is genuinely atmospheric — candlelit, smoky with incense, and built into a natural rocky hollow. Entry is free. Located about 25 minutes’ walk west of Kamakura Station.

9. Hokoku-ji Temple (Bamboo Grove)

Hokoku-ji is often called the “Bamboo Temple” for its immaculately maintained grove of approximately 2,000 moso bamboo stalks. A garden path winds through the grove to a small tea house where matcha is served (£600 including tea). Admission: £300. Located in the eastern hills of Kamakura, about 20 minutes’ walk or 5 minutes’ taxi from Kamakura Station. Best visited in morning light when the bamboo is at its most vivid green. Significantly less crowded than Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and arguably more intimate.

10. Yuigahama and Zaimokuza Beaches

Kamakura’s beaches are among the most accessible Pacific Ocean beaches in the Kanto region. Yuigahama Beach (about 15 minutes’ walk south of Kamakura Station) is the main strip — crowded in summer (July–August) with sunbathers, surfers, and beachside restaurants. Zaimokuza Beach to the east is less crowded and preferred by locals. Out of summer season, both beaches are uncrowded and beautiful for a walk along the Pacific shore. The view back toward the wooded hills of Kamakura from the shore is one of the city’s finest.

11. Meigetsuin Temple (Hydrangea Temple)

Meigetsuin is known throughout Japan for its hydrangea — in mid-June, the entire hillside approach to the main hall blazes with thousands of blue blooms, creating one of the most photogenic garden scenes in Japan. Admission: £500 (higher during peak hydrangea season). The temple also has a famous circular window in the main hall that frames a miniature garden behind it — known as the “Kairoudeki” or Window of Enlightenment. Located near Kita-Kamakura Station, within walking distance of Engaku-ji.

12. Enoshima Island

Technically a separate destination, Enoshima Island — reached by bridge from the mainland or the Enoden tram — makes a natural extension of a Kamakura day trip. The island has a long shrine approach lined with souvenir shops, an observation lighthouse (£500), sea caves (Iwaya Caves, £500), and a small aquarium. The Shiraito Waterfall and Samuel Cocking Garden add color in summer. Allow 2–3 hours to explore the island. In summer, the beach park below the island fills with sunbathers. Browse Enoshima experiences: Enoshima and Kamakura tours on Klook →

How to Book Day Trips and Tours

Day Tours from Tokyo

Kamakura is best explored with a full day. Guided day tours from Tokyo typically cover the Great Buddha, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, one or two additional temples, and sometimes include a lunch stop or Enoshima extension. Half-day tours are also available for tighter schedules. Browse day tours and activity packages: Kamakura day trip tours from Tokyo on Klook →

Getting There from Tokyo

From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yokosuka Line directly to Kamakura Station (57 minutes, £950) or to Kita-Kamakura Station one stop before (52 minutes, £950). From Shinjuku, take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Kamakura (about 60 minutes, £950). JR Pass holders can use their pass on this route. For the most scenic approach, get off at Kita-Kamakura first and walk south through Engaku-ji and Kencho-ji on your way to central Kamakura (about 30 minutes of walking between temples).

Where to Stay

Kamakura’s accommodation options range from traditional ryokan to modern business hotels. Staying overnight lets you experience the temples in the early morning before crowds arrive. Check availability: Find hotels in Kamakura on Booking.com →. For detailed neighborhood recommendations, see our where to stay in Kamakura guide.

Tips and What to Expect

Best Time to Visit

Kamakura is beautiful year-round. Cherry blossom season (late March–early April) is peak for Tsurugaoka Hachimangu and temple gardens. June brings the hydrangea at Meigetsuin. Autumn (October–November) brings excellent foliage at Engaku-ji and Kencho-ji. Summer (July–August) combines temple touring with beach relaxation but is also the hottest and most crowded period. Winter is quiet, crisp, and excellent for crowds-free photography at all the major sites. Avoid weekends during spring and autumn if possible — Kamakura is genuinely packed during peak season.

What to Wear and Bring

Wear comfortable walking shoes — the temple circuit involves significant walking on stone paths and optional hiking trails. Many sites require removing shoes to enter inner halls; slip-on shoes help. Bring cash (£10,000–15,000 for a full day including meals, admission, and transport), a water bottle (especially in summer), and sun protection. A portable rain poncho is wise during the June rainy season. IC cards (Suica or PASMO) work on all local trains and the Enoden tram.

Getting Around Inside Kamakura

Central Kamakura is compact and walkable. The Great Buddha (Kotoku-in) and Hase-dera are 15–20 minutes’ walk from Kamakura Station; Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is 10 minutes’ walk straight up the main avenue. Kita-Kamakura’s temples (Engaku-ji, Kencho-ji) are walkable from Kita-Kamakura Station. For the Great Buddha and Hase area, the Enoden tram runs from Kamakura Station to Hase Station (3rd stop, about 7 minutes, £200). Taxis are available at the station but traffic can be slow during peak hours. Rental bicycles (£1,000–1,500 per day) from shops near the station are excellent for self-guided exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kamakura worth a day trip from Tokyo?

Absolutely. Kamakura is the most historically rich and scenically diverse day trip from Tokyo. With 65 temples, 19 shrines, a Great Buddha, hiking trails, and Pacific beaches all within easy walking distance, it rewards a full day and leaves most visitors wishing they had stayed overnight.

How much time do you need in Kamakura?

A half-day (4–5 hours) covers the Great Buddha and 2–3 additional temples. A full day (8–10 hours) allows a complete temple circuit, the hiking trail, and Enoshima Island extension. Two days is ideal if you want to add beach time and early-morning photography without rushing.

What is Kamakura best known for?

The Great Buddha (Kotoku-in Daibutsu), Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and the overall density of historic temples are Kamakura’s main draws. The Enoshima Electric Railway and Hokoku-ji bamboo grove are secondary highlights that frequently surprise first-time visitors.

Is Kamakura expensive?

Kamakura is moderately priced. Individual temple admissions run £200–500. Lunch options range from £800 ramen to £2,500 shojin ryori (Buddhist temple cuisine). A full day budget of £10,000 per person (excluding transport) is comfortable. The Enoden day pass (£800) is good value if you’re using the tram multiple times.

Can you see the Great Buddha without entering the temple?

No — the Great Buddha is within the Kotoku-in Temple grounds and requires an admission fee (£200) to access. However, a partial view of the statue’s head is visible from outside the temple fence, which is not the same as the full frontal experience from inside the grounds.

Can you combine Kamakura and Yokohama in one day?

Yes, and it’s highly recommended. Visit Yokohama’s Chinatown in the morning, then take the Yokosuka Line from Yokohama Station to Kita-Kamakura (about 25 minutes) for the afternoon temple circuit. Finish at the Great Buddha and take the Enoden back to Kamakura Station for the train home. For a full itinerary, see our Best Day Trips from Tokyo guide.

How do I get from Kamakura to Yokohama?

Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Kamakura Station toward Yokohama (about 25 minutes, £360). The line runs frequently and is easy to navigate. You can also take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Kamakura directly back to Shinjuku or Shibuya without changing at Yokohama.

Related Articles

You might also like:

• Great Buddha Kamakura Guide: Kotoku-in Temple, Tickets and Tips (2026)
• Best Day Trips from Tokyo: Yokohama, Kamakura, Nikko and More (2026)
• Things to Do in Yokohama: Top 15 Attractions for First-Time Visitors (2026)
• Where to Stay in Kamakura: Best Hotels, Ryokan and Areas (2026)

Conclusion

Kamakura delivers something rare: genuine historical depth combined with scenic coastal beauty and enough variety to keep even the most temple-fatigued traveler engaged. The Great Buddha is worth the trip on its own, but everything around it — the Daibutsu Hiking Trail through cedar forest, the bamboo grove at Hokoku-ji, the vintage tram threading through narrow streets to the sea — elevates a good visit into a great one.

Key takeaways: (1) Start at Kita-Kamakura and work south through Engaku-ji and Kencho-ji before reaching central Kamakura. (2) Arrive before 9 a.m. at the Great Buddha for the best photos. (3) The Enoden tram ride is an attraction in itself — take it at least once each way.

Browse Kamakura tours on Klook and find your accommodation on Booking.com. Kamakura is waiting.