Ofuna Neighborhood
Kamakura, a historic coastal city near Tokyo, offers a serene escape with ancient temples, shrines, and beautiful beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Ofuna Neighborhood
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Kamakura, a historic coastal city near Tokyo, offers a serene escape with ancient temples, shrines, and beautiful beaches.
"Kamakura is a perfect day trip from Tokyo, blending history, culture, and coastal beauty."
🎯 Enoshima-Kamakura Pass
Save money and time with this pass for unlimited Enoden line rides & roundtrip from Shinjuku! :ticket:
💳 Suica Card Convenience
Use your Suica card for most trains, including the scenic Enoden line. :credit_card:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Great Buddha of Kamakura
Kotoku-in Temple
Marvel at the iconic, colossal bronze statue of Buddha, a serene and awe-inspiring sight against the natural backdrop.
Hasedera Temple
Near the coast
Wander through beautiful gardens, admire the eleven-headed Kannon statue, and enjoy panoramic ocean views.
Komachi Street
Near Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Savor local delicacies, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling pedestrian street.
Enoshima Island
Coastal area
Explore sea caves, enjoy stunning views from the Sea Candle, and experience the unique charm of this island paradise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Navigating Kamakura's Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Enoshima-Kamakura Pass
Save money and time with this pass for unlimited Enoden line rides & roundtrip from Shinjuku! :ticket:
💳 Suica Card Convenience
Use your Suica card for most trains, including the scenic Enoden line. :credit_card:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between temples and along the coast. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Iconic Train Spot
Don't miss Kamakurakokomae Station for that classic oceanfront train photo. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Enoshima-Kamakura Pass
Save money and time with this pass for unlimited Enoden line rides & roundtrip from Shinjuku! :ticket:
💳 Suica Card Convenience
Use your Suica card for most trains, including the scenic Enoden line. :credit_card:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between temples and along the coast. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Iconic Train Spot
Don't miss Kamakurakokomae Station for that classic oceanfront train photo. :camerawithflash:
🍜 Taste Local Delights
Try shirasu-don (whitebait bowl) and other local specialties on Komachi Street. :food_bowl:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kamakura for its beautiful blend of historical temples, serene shrines, and picturesque coastal scenery, making it an ideal day trip from Tokyo. The charming Enoden train line and the scenic Enoshima Island are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally loved, some find the crowds can be overwhelming during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kamakura is easily accessible from Tokyo, typically taking about an hour by train. The Yokosuka Line is a popular route. For a more scenic journey and to explore the coastal areas, consider the Enoden line. Many travelers recommend the Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass for convenient travel, which covers roundtrip fares from Shinjuku and unlimited rides on the Enoden line. +2
Yes, your Suica card is widely accepted for train travel in Kamakura, including on the Enoden line. This makes hopping between attractions seamless without needing to buy individual tickets.
The Enoden line is a charming local train that runs along the coast, connecting various popular spots in Kamakura and Enoshima. It offers picturesque views and is a key part of the Kamakura experience.
Absolutely! Kamakura is one of the most recommended day trips from Tokyo, offering a refreshing change of pace with its temples, shrines, and beaches. It's a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle. +3
The journey to Kamakura from Tokyo typically takes around 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes by train, depending on your starting point and the specific train line you take. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While many shrines and temples in Kamakura are free to enter, some, like the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple and Hasedera Temple, have admission fees. Enoshima Island also has attractions with separate entry fees, such as the Sea Candle.
Opening hours for temples in Kamakura can vary, but generally, they are open from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the specific hours for each temple you plan to visit to avoid disappointment.
Yes, the Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass is highly recommended. It covers roundtrip travel from Shinjuku and unlimited rides on the Enoden line, which is a convenient way to access many key attractions.
The admission fee for the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple is typically around 300 yen. It's a small price for an iconic experience.
Yes, many of Kamakura's beautiful shrines and temples, as well as its beaches and Komachi Street, can be enjoyed without an entrance fee. Exploring these offers a great way to experience the city's charm on a budget.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple, Hasedera Temple with its stunning views, the vibrant Komachi Street for shopping and food, and the scenic Enoshima Island. Don't miss the iconic Kamakurakokomae Station for photos. +3
Enoshima offers a variety of activities, including exploring sea caves, visiting the Enoshima Shrine, enjoying panoramic views from the Sea Candle, and experiencing local seafood. It's a perfect complement to a Kamakura visit. +1
Kamakura is known for its fresh seafood, particularly shirasu-don (whitebait bowl). You can also find delicious street food, local snacks, and charming cafes along Komachi Street and near the coast.
Kamakura can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Visiting on weekdays and arriving early in the morning can help you avoid the largest crowds.
The Enoden line is a scenic and convenient way to travel between many of Kamakura's attractions. Walking is also a great option for exploring specific areas like Komachi Street and the temple districts.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic photo opportunities include the Great Buddha, the coastal views from Hasedera Temple, the charming Enoden train line at Kamakurakokomae Station, and the scenic beaches. Enoshima Island also offers beautiful vistas. +2
Photography rules can vary by temple. While general photography is often allowed in outdoor areas and main halls, it's best to be respectful and check for any specific restrictions on using flash or tripods inside sacred spaces.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing the coastal scenery and temple architecture. Early mornings can also be great for fewer crowds and softer light.
The Enoden train line, especially at Kamakurakokomae Station with the ocean in the background, is a highly sought-after photo spot. The bamboo forest at Hokokuji Temple also provides a unique photographic subject. +1
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide landscapes and temple details. A wide-angle lens is useful for the Great Buddha and coastal shots. Don't forget a portable charger for your phone if you're relying on it for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing the Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass for easy transportation, as it simplifies navigating with little ones. Enoshima Island, with its sea caves and the Sea Candle, can also be an exciting adventure. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for a good amount of walking, but the mix of culture and seaside fun makes it a memorable family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for the Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass is a cost-effective way to handle transportation from Tokyo and around the area. Packing your own snacks or enjoying affordable street food on Komachi Street can also help keep costs down. Prioritizing free attractions and utilizing public transport passes will make Kamakura an accessible destination for budget-conscious travelers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Enoden line, particularly at Kamakurakokomae Station, is a must-capture shot, with the train seemingly gliding alongside the sea. Enoshima Island presents opportunities for dramatic coastal shots, especially during sunrise or sunset. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for the most atmospheric light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Enoden Line
Travelers often recommend purchasing the Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass, which includes unlimited rides on the Enoden line and roundtrip travel from Shinjuku. This pass not only saves money but also simplifies navigation, allowing you to hop on and off at various stops to explore temples, beaches, and local eateries. Using your Suica card is also a convenient option for fares on this line.
Don't miss the chance to capture stunning photos from the train windows or at stations like Kamakurakokomae, where the tracks run right alongside the sea. The Enoden line truly enhances the coastal charm of the Kamakura region, making it an unforgettable part of your visit.
Kamakura's Spiritual Heart: Temples and Shrines
Another must-visit is Hasedera Temple, renowned for its beautiful gardens, a towering eleven-headed Kannon statue, and panoramic views of the coastline. For a unique experience, consider visiting Hokokuji Temple, famous for its serene bamboo grove, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling streets.
When exploring these sacred sites, remember to dress respectfully and be mindful of local customs. While many areas are open for photography, always check for specific restrictions. The spiritual ambiance and historical significance of Kamakura's temples and shrines make them a cornerstone of any visit.
Coastal Escapes: Beaches and Enoshima
Just a short ride away on the Enoden line lies Enoshima Island, a captivating island destination that blends natural beauty with cultural attractions. Visitors can explore sea caves, visit the island's shrines, and ascend the Sea Candle observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views, which can even include Mount Fuji on clear days.
In the evenings, Enoshima often hosts special events, such as lantern festivals, which create a magical atmosphere. The combination of Kamakura's historical depth and its coastal allure provides a well-rounded travel experience, appealing to a wide range of interests.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit