
Egara Tenjin Shrine Kamakura
A serene Shinto shrine known for its unique kappa art and a magnificent ancient ginkgo tree, offering a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Egara Tenjin Shrine Kamakura
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Shinto shrine known for its unique kappa art and a magnificent ancient ginkgo tree, offering a peaceful escape.
"Discover unique kappa art and a tranquil atmosphere at this secluded Kamakura gem."

🎯 Beat the Crowds Early
Arrive before 8:30 AM to enjoy the peaceful grounds before shops and attractions open.
🚲 Electric Bike Rental
Rent an e-bike to easily explore the neighborhoods and reach the shrine, especially for day trips.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unique Kappa Art
Main Temple Doors
Discover manga artist illustrations of the mythical kappa creature etched into the shrine's unusual doors.

Ancient Ginkgo Tree
Shrine Entrance
Marvel at the impressive, ancient ginkgo tree, a designated historical monument, especially stunning with fall foliage.

Ume Blossom Beauty
Shrine Grounds
Experience the shrine's beauty in February when the plum blossoms (ume) are in full bloom, creating a picturesque scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Navigating Kamakura's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Crowds Early
Arrive before 8:30 AM to enjoy the peaceful grounds before shops and attractions open.
🚲 Electric Bike Rental
Rent an e-bike to easily explore the neighborhoods and reach the shrine, especially for day trips.
🌸 Spring Bloom Spot
Visit in February for the beautiful ume (plum blossoms) and a less crowded experience.
🍁 Autumn Foliage Gem
The ancient ginkgo tree is spectacular in autumn, making it a must-see.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Crowds Early
Arrive before 8:30 AM to enjoy the peaceful grounds before shops and attractions open.
🚲 Electric Bike Rental
Rent an e-bike to easily explore the neighborhoods and reach the shrine, especially for day trips.
🌸 Spring Bloom Spot
Visit in February for the beautiful ume (plum blossoms) and a less crowded experience.
🍁 Autumn Foliage Gem
The ancient ginkgo tree is spectacular in autumn, making it a must-see.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Walk
Enjoy the quiet walk through residential areas, a welcome escape from busy tourist spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Egara Tenjin Shrine is praised for its unique kappa art and peaceful, secluded atmosphere, offering a distinct cultural experience. Visitors appreciate the ancient ginkgo tree and seasonal beauty, though some note that shops may not be open early.
"Slight out-of-ordinary small shrine - unusual design of doors on main temple, and statue which over the years several manga artists have etched original kappa (a Japanese mythical creature) illustrations."
Anna Pinsky
"Small, secluded, peaceful Shinto shrine, dating to about the year 1100. Charms to bring success in education on sale. Enormous ginkyo tree, designated an historical monument by Kamakura city; expecially impressive with fall foliage."
jeffydarko
"Kamakura's most beautiful shrine in February, when the ume are blooming. Also has a big, ancient gingko tree, perched on the hillside by the shrine entrance."
Matthew Helminski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Egara Tenjin Shrine is a pleasant walk from Kamakura Station, taking about 20-30 minutes through charming residential streets. For a quicker and more enjoyable journey, consider renting an electric bicycle, which is a popular option for exploring Kamakura's various attractions.
While not directly on a major train line, the shrine is accessible via a walk from Kamakura Station. Some visitors opt for local buses, but walking or cycling is often recommended for a more immersive experience of the Kamakura area.
Many visitors create a day trip itinerary that includes Egara Tenjin Shrine along with other Kamakura highlights like the Great Buddha or Hase-dera Temple. Using public transport or renting a bike can help you efficiently navigate between these sites.
The shrine is tucked away in a residential area, so following a map app is advisable. The walk itself is part of the charm, offering a glimpse into local life away from the main tourist hubs.
While driving is possible, parking can be limited in the residential areas surrounding the shrine. Many visitors prefer public transport or cycling to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Egara Tenjin Shrine is generally free to enter, allowing visitors to explore its grounds and admire its unique features without a ticket.
The shrine gates are typically open from 8:30 AM, but specific facilities like charm shops may have later opening times. It's best to arrive early for a peaceful visit.
For the beautiful ume (plum blossoms), February is the prime time. The ancient ginkgo tree is particularly stunning during the autumn foliage season.
Yes, Egara Tenjin Shrine is known for selling charms that are believed to bring success in education, reflecting its dedication to the god of learning.
The shrine is accessible year-round, offering different seasonal beauty, from spring blossoms to autumn leaves.
📸 📸 Photography
Don't miss capturing the unique kappa illustrations on the main temple doors and the majestic ancient ginkgo tree, especially during autumn. The serene atmosphere also makes for beautiful, tranquil shots.
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, allowing you to capture its unique art and natural beauty. Be mindful of any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas.
Early morning light offers a soft, beautiful glow for photography and ensures fewer people in your shots. The golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide stunning light, particularly on the ginkgo tree.
Focus on the shrine's distinctive kappa art, the ancient ginkgo tree, and the peaceful, secluded ambiance. Seasonal blooms like ume in February also offer great photographic opportunities.
Both smartphones and dedicated cameras can capture the beauty of Egara Tenjin Shrine. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the ginkgo tree, while a good phone camera is perfect for the detailed kappa art.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the shrine itself is serene, the journey there through Kamakura's neighborhoods can be an adventure. Consider renting an electric bike as a fun way for older children to participate in the exploration, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk. The presence of the ancient ginkgo tree also offers a natural point of interest for younger visitors, especially during autumn.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
The shrine's unique artistic elements, like the kappa illustrations, offer a quiet point of contemplation. The ancient ginkgo tree and seasonal blooms also provide natural beauty to appreciate. It's a perfect spot to reflect and enjoy a moment of calm during your travels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Artistry of Egara Tenjin Shrine
Beyond the kappa art, the shrine is also home to an enormous ginkgo tree, designated a historical monument by Kamakura city. This ancient tree is particularly breathtaking during the autumn months when its leaves turn a vibrant golden yellow. Visitors also flock to the shrine in February to witness the blooming of the ume (plum blossoms), which transform the grounds into a picturesque scene.
The shrine's secluded and peaceful setting, tucked away at the base of a mountain and a walk through residential neighborhoods, offers a tranquil escape from the more bustling tourist areas of Kamakura. This serene environment enhances the experience of appreciating the shrine's unique artistic and natural beauty.
Exploring Kamakura: A Day Trip from Tokyo
Egara Tenjin Shrine fits perfectly into a comprehensive Kamakura itinerary, offering a quieter, more artistic experience away from the main crowds. It's often suggested to visit this shrine either early in the day or as part of a broader exploration that might include other temples and shrines. The journey to Egara Tenjin Shrine itself, through local neighborhoods, adds to the overall experience of discovering Kamakura's diverse facets.
For efficient travel between these sites, renting an electric bicycle is highly recommended. This allows for flexibility and a fun way to navigate the city, especially when visiting multiple locations like Egara Tenjin Shrine and the scenic coastal train lines. Many travelers share their optimized routes on platforms like TikTok, guiding first-timers on the most efficient way to see Kamakura's highlights.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit