Kamakura-bori Museum
Discover the intricate beauty of Kamakura-bori lacquerware, from historical masterpieces to modern creations, and dine amidst art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness live craft workshops
Kamakura-bori Museum
Best Time
Witness live craft workshops
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the intricate beauty of Kamakura-bori lacquerware, from historical masterpieces to modern creations, and dine amidst art.
"The cafe is an elegant spot to enjoy tea, coffee and Shojin-Ryori served in kamakura-bori lacquerware."
🎯 Witness Craftsmanship
Attend the Kamakura-bori workshop on the 1st & 3rd Sundays for a unique insight into the art form.
☕ Dine in Art
The cafe serves delicious food and drinks in beautiful Kamakura-bori lacquerware.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kamakura-bori Lacquerware Collection
Marvel at detailed sculptures and intricate designs spanning centuries of Japanese lacquer art.
Lacquerware Production Video
Witness the fascinating process of creating these detailed lacquerware pieces.
Cafe Dining Experience
Ground floor
Enjoy tea or a meal served in stunning, traditional Kamakura-bori lacquerware.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Experience Kamakura-bori Art
Savor the Lacquerware Cafe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Witness Craftsmanship
Attend the Kamakura-bori workshop on the 1st & 3rd Sundays for a unique insight into the art form.
☕ Dine in Art
The cafe serves delicious food and drinks in beautiful Kamakura-bori lacquerware.
🎬 Watch Production Video
Don't miss the video showcasing the intricate Kamakura-bori production process.
💰 Consider the Cost
While a bit pricey, dining in the cafe is a worthwhile experience for the unique setting.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Witness Craftsmanship
Attend the Kamakura-bori workshop on the 1st & 3rd Sundays for a unique insight into the art form.
☕ Dine in Art
The cafe serves delicious food and drinks in beautiful Kamakura-bori lacquerware.
🎬 Watch Production Video
Don't miss the video showcasing the intricate Kamakura-bori production process.
💰 Consider the Cost
While a bit pricey, dining in the cafe is a worthwhile experience for the unique setting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Kamakura-bori Museum for its exquisite collection of traditional lacquerware and the unique dining experience in its cafe, where food is served in beautiful Kamakura-bori pieces. The production video is also a highlight, offering insight into the intricate craft. While some find the cafe a bit pricey, most agree it's a worthwhile experience.
"We had lunch at the cafe and it was perfect, just the right portions and very delicious. The serving ware, traditional Kamakurabori lacquerware, was especially amazing given the skill and quality of the craftsmen who made it. I was all the more impressed when I discovered that my beer mug was valued at $400 equivalent in US dollars. Definitely an experience to remember."
Geoffrey Dorsey
"The museum is located on the 3rd floor. The workshop for kamakurabori is held om 1st and 4rd Sunday for each month."
Supavit Kiatteerarat
"This museum has a small, but perfectly presented collection of kamakura-bori lacquerware.
Don't miss the wonderful video showing the kamakura-bori production process!
The cafe on the ground floor is an elegant spot to enjoy tea, coffee and Shojin-Ryori served in kamakura-bori lacquerware."
Matthew Helminski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Kamakura, a city easily accessible from Tokyo. Many visitors arrive via train. From Kamakura Station, you can take a bus or enjoy a scenic walk to reach the museum. Consider the Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass for convenient travel on the Enoden line and buses within the area.
Absolutely! Kamakura is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, offering a blend of historical sites, temples, shrines, and coastal beauty. It's just about an hour away, making it perfect for a full day of exploration.
The Enoden Line is a charming and efficient way to travel between many of Kamakura's attractions, including coastal areas and temples. Buses are also available for reaching specific sites. Walking is also a great option for exploring the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours and any potential closures.
Admission fees are generally reasonable, and the museum is located on the 3rd floor. Specific pricing details can be found on their official website or at the entrance.
Yes, Kamakura-bori workshops are held on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month, offering a hands-on experience with this traditional craft.
While advance ticket purchase might not be strictly necessary for the museum itself, it's always wise to check their official channels for any booking recommendations, especially if you plan to attend a workshop.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Kamakura-bori is a traditional Japanese lacquerware art form characterized by carved designs that are then lacquered. The museum showcases pieces from the Muromachi period to modern times, highlighting the evolution and skill involved.
The museum features a curated collection of Kamakura-bori lacquerware, including sculptures and decorative items. You can also watch a video detailing the production process and enjoy the unique cafe experience.
While the museum focuses on traditional art, the visual appeal of the lacquerware and the production video might engage older children. The cafe offers a pleasant break for families.
A visit to the museum itself can take about an hour to appreciate the collection and watch the video. If you plan to have a meal or tea at the cafe, allow additional time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an elegant cafe on the ground floor that serves tea, coffee, and light meals. The highlight is that all food and drinks are served in beautiful Kamakura-bori lacquerware.
The cafe offers healthy, filling options, often described as vegetarian cuisine or Shojin-Ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). You can enjoy dishes and drinks served in traditional lacquerware.
Some visitors find the cafe to be a bit expensive, but many agree that the unique experience of dining with high-quality Kamakura-bori lacquerware makes it worth trying at least once.
Kamakura city offers a wide variety of dining options, from local eateries to cafes and restaurants, especially around the main station and shopping streets.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, photography of the exhibits might be restricted to protect the delicate lacquerware. However, you can usually take photos in the cafe area and of the exterior. Always check for signage or ask staff.
Kamakura offers many picturesque locations. Consider Hokokuji Temple's bamboo garden for a serene shot,
the coastal views from Shichirigahama Beach, or the iconic Kamakurakokomae Station.The most unique photo opportunity at the museum is likely the cafe, where you can capture the beautiful Kamakura-bori lacquerware used for dining.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid crowds, making the experience more relaxed for everyone. If your children have an interest in art or crafts, this museum can offer a gentle introduction to Japanese traditional arts. Pair your visit with other family-friendly Kamakura attractions like beaches or temples for a well-rounded day trip.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Attending a workshop on the 1st or 3rd Sunday is highly recommended for a hands-on experience with this traditional craft. The cafe's dining experience, where food is served in authentic Kamakura-bori pieces, is also a highlight, allowing you to admire the artistry up close.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Tokyo
Utilize the Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass for seamless travel on the Enoden line and buses, making it easy to navigate between attractions. The museum's cafe provides a pleasant interlude for lunch or tea, allowing you to recharge before continuing your exploration of Kamakura's many wonders.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Kamakura-bori
Visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry by watching the video detailing the production process. This visual guide highlights the meticulous steps involved, from the initial carving to the final polishing, emphasizing the skill and dedication required. It's a fascinating look behind the scenes of this traditional art form.
For those interested in experiencing Kamakura-bori firsthand, the museum offers workshops on the first and third Sundays of each month. This is a rare opportunity to try your hand at carving and lacquering under the guidance of skilled artisans, providing an unforgettable, hands-on connection to this cultural heritage.
A Culinary Experience in Lacquerware
The menu often features healthy and filling options, sometimes described as vegetarian cuisine or Shojin-Ryori. This focus on wholesome ingredients complements the refined aesthetic of the lacquerware. While some find the prices to be on the higher side, the consensus is that the experience of dining with such beautiful, valuable pieces is well worth the cost for a memorable occasion.
Enjoying a beer in a lacquered mug or savoring soup from a traditional bowl adds a special touch to the meal. It's a chance to interact with the art in a tangible way, making the visit to the museum a multi-sensory journey that engages both the eyes and the palate.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit