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What is Kamakura like?

2024/08/22

• kanagawa
• kamakura
• daytrip

In the southern part of Kanagawa Prefecture, there is a city called Kamakura, which is surrounded by sea and mountains and is rich in natural beauty.

During the Kamakura period, it was a political center, and today it is filled with historical buildings like Zen temples and shrines. Due to its seaside location, it is also a popular destination for tourists.

What makes Kamakura so popular?

Connect with nature

Kamakura is a nature-filled area that is surrounded by mountains on three sides and the sea on another. For elderly people looking to enjoy seasonal flowers and move from the city center to the suburbs, it has become a popular destination.

The Pacific Ocean coastline is beautiful and the fresh greenery is dazzling during summer.If you want to escape from everyday life and feel rejuvenated by nature, this is the perfect tourist destination to enjoy cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall.

Discover the history and culture of Japan

During the Kamakura period, Japanese samurai culture thrived in Kamakura, and many historical attractions still exist today. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura Daibutsu, and Kenchoji Temple are all well-known tourist destinations.

This place is a popular destination for tourists to experience Japan's history and culture every year. Those who are interested in Japanese history and want to learn about Japanese history and culture should consider this option.

Enoshima Electric Railway Kamakura High School Station

The seventh station from Kamakura Station on the Enoden, Kamakura High School, is surrounded by a road right in front of the platform, which leads to the stunning blue sea.

It is also a world-famous location spot, so couples often take wedding photos here. Enoden has a ``Noriori-kun'' service that allows you to ride as many times as you want to one day, Using it at nearby facilities is also great.

Kamakura's top attractions

Great Buddha [鎌倉大仏, Kamakura Daibutsu]

On the grounds of Kotokuin Temple, there is a bronze statue of Amida Buddha that is known as the Great Buddha of Kamakura. It is the second tallest bronze Buddha statue in Japan, with a height of 11.4 meters, and it is the only one that is higher than Nara's Todaiji Temple and some recent creations.
Originally placed inside a large temple hall, the statue was cast in 1252. In the 14th and 15th centuries, typhoons and a tsunami caused the temple buildings to be destroyed multiple times. In the late 15th century, the Buddha has been occupying the open air.

Hokokuji Temple[報国寺]

Hokokuji is a small temple of the Rinzai Sect of Zen Buddhism located in the hills of eastern Kamakura and hidden away. Hokokuji was established in the early years of the Muromachi Period (1333-1573) as a family temple of the ruling Ashikaga Clan, but it was later taken over as the family temple of the Uesugi Clan.
Also, Hokokuji Temple is famous for the beautiful small bamboo grove located behind the main hall of the temple, which is thick with over 2000 dark green bamboo stalks. You can take a rest and enjoy a cup of matcha tea while enjoying views into the bamboo grove.

Kenchoji Temple[建長寺]

Kenchoji is the number one of Kamakura's five great Zen temples. During the Kencho Era during the Kencho Era, Hojo Tokiyori, the ruling regent, founded Kenchoji, the oldest Zen temple in Kamakura.

The garden behind the Hojo, designed by Zen master Muso Kokushi, is a must-see for visitors.

If you follow the path and stairs for another 15-20 minutes into the hills behind Kenchoji's main grounds, you will eventually arrive at the Hansobo shrine, which is dedicated to protecting Kenchoji.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu[鶴岡八幡宮]

It is a symbol of Kamakura's ancient capital and attracts a lot of tourists. The biggest patron saint of Kanto area in Japan, and the one who protects the country as well. Make sure to gain respect from the locals.

To reach the temple, you must climb 61 stairs. Before you begin climbing, you will encounter a large square with a Maidono festival happening. Two rows of wine are visible on either side of the square. There's a wall hanging with a lot of ema beside the temple. You can buy one, write down your wish, and put it on the wall.

Enjoy your trip to Kamakura!

Kamakura is a city filled with many charms, such as historical buildings, food to eat, and views of the ocean from the local train, so it's sure to be enjoyed by men and women of all ages.

Enjoy your trip to Kamakura!