Enjoy the Enchanting Ancient City of Kamakura! 8 Recommended Sightseeing Spots

Kamakura, one of the leading tourist destinations in the Kanto region, is a charming city often referred to as "Little Kyoto" of Kanagawa, having flourished as the seat of the Kamakura Shogunate. At the same time, its proximity to the Shonan coast gives it a relaxed and open atmosphere, making it a versatile destination enjoyable for both seniors and young people. With convenient access from Tokyo via JR Yokosuka Line or Shonan-Shinjuku Line, Kamakura is an ancient city with many facets. Here are some recommended sightseeing spots to explore in Kamakura.

1. Experience the Bamboo Grove of "Hōkoku-ji" with Matcha

Hōkoku-ji Temple, founded in 1334 by Ashikaga Ietoki, the grandfather of Ashikaga Takauji, is home to one of Japan's most beautiful bamboo groves. The grove is compact, making it an ideal stop during your Kamakura exploration.
At the back of the grove, you’ll find a tea house called "Kyūkō-an," where you can savor delicious matcha and wasanbon rakugan (a traditional Japanese sugar confection) while admiring the serene bamboo scenery.

The bamboo grove of Hōkoku-ji offers different charms throughout the seasons, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil sightseeing moment. As a temple with ties to the Ashikaga family, the grounds also house the graves of the Ashikaga clan.

2. The Cultural Starting Point of Kamakura: "Tsurugaoka Hachimangū"

Known as the "Guardian Deity of Kamakura," Tsurugaoka Hachimangū is a historic site with over 800 years of history. The shrine grounds include significant structures such as the Main Shrine (Upper Shrine), Wakamiya (Lower Shrine), and Maruyama Inari Shrine. Other highlights include the Genpei Pond, the Botanical Garden of Peonies, and the Kamakura Bunka-kan Tsurugaoka Museum, offering rich cultural experiences.

There are also rest areas such as the Museum Café & Shop and the tea house "Kazeno Mori." While the shrine is frequently visited by tourists, it is especially crowded from January 1st to 3rd as one of the Kanto region's most popular spots for Hatsumōde (New Year shrine visits). For a more relaxed visit, it is recommended to go in the morning during holidays or the peak tourism season.

3. Wakamiya Ōji, Kamakura's Main Street, Perfect for Street Food

When visiting Kamakura, enjoying local gourmet treats is a must. "Wakamiya Ōji," the main approach to Tsurugaoka Hachimangū, is the perfect spot for tasting Kamakura's unique flavors while sightseeing and shopping.

On Wakamiya Ōji, you’ll find delightful stores such as "Waffle 21," renowned for its waffles; "Kamakura Woodberries+," offering frozen yogurt made with house-fermented ingredients; and "arbre noir YAKUMI," famous for its bite-sized Japanese sweets called Kamakura Yaki. These shops provide delicious, easily portable snacks that are ideal for enjoying as you stroll.

Walking along the tree-lined central path of Wakamiya Ōji, savoring Kamakura’s flavors, will elevate your sightseeing experience to the next level.

4. Komachi-dori, A Compact and Exciting Must-Visit Street

Running parallel to Wakamiya Ōji, "Komachi-dori" is another popular and classic sightseeing street in Kamakura. While narrower than Wakamiya Ōji, Komachi-dori boasts a greater number of shops, making it a bustling area packed with fun and excitement. Upon exiting the East Exit of JR Kamakura Station, you’ll see a torii gate to your left—this marks the entrance to Komachi-dori. Beyond the gate lies a vibrant street filled with Kamakura gourmet treats, souvenirs, and more.

One standout recommendation is the specialty pork buns from "Kamakura Tenshin." Their signature item, the Tonpōrō pork bun, is a must-try. Tonpōrō, the Chinese-style braised pork said to be the origin of Japanese kakuni (braised pork belly), is flavorful, tender, and pairs perfectly with the chewy bun dough, creating a hearty and delicious treat.

5. Popular Among Foreign Visitors! Japan’s Oldest Zen Temple: "Kenchō-ji"

One of the most cherished aspects of Buddhist culture, especially among Western countries, is "ZEN." The oldest Zen temple in Japan, Kenchō-ji, was founded in 1253 and continues to embody Zen philosophy. Its main gate and Buddha Hall are designated Important Cultural Properties, showcasing an impressive and dignified presence that is a must-see.

Meditation, now scientifically recognized for its health benefits, has brought increasing attention to zazen (seated meditation). Kenchō-ji regularly holds zazen sessions open to the public, allowing visitors to experience quiet meditation that refreshes both the mind and body.

Additionally, Kenchō-ji is said to be the birthplace of "kenchin-jiru," a traditional Japanese vegetable soup. You can try this dish at nearby restaurants such as "Kamakura Gozan Annex."

6. Kōtoku-in's Great Buddha of Kamakura, A Symbol of the City

The Great Buddha of Kamakura at Kōtoku-in is an iconic symbol of the city and an essential stop for any Kamakura sightseeing trip. It is located about a 7-minute walk from Hase Station on the Enoden Line. Standing approximately 11.3 meters tall, the bronze statue is believed to have been constructed around 1252, though few records remain, leaving many details unknown.

Unlike the Great Buddha of Nara, this statue is exposed to the elements, which might seem unfortunate. However, it was originally housed within a Buddha Hall that was destroyed by natural disasters such as strong winds and earthquakes.

If you look closely at the right cheek of the Great Buddha, you can see traces of the gold leaf that once covered its entire face. Though now weathered and worn, exuding a sense of wabi-sabi (rustic simplicity), imagining its original, ornate appearance adds to the enjoyment of your visit.

7. Hasedera, Enjoy Stunning Flowers and Scenic Views

Located just a 5-minute walk from Hase Station on the Enoden Line, Hase-dera is easily accessible and perfect for sightseeing. Known as the "Temple of Flowers," it is one of Kamakura’s iconic attractions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of blooming flowers throughout the year.

The most popular season is during the hydrangea bloom from early to late June. The path to the main gate is lined with vibrant hydrangeas, making it a must-see for tourists.

The on-site restaurant "Kaikō-an" is also famous as a scenic spot in Kamakura. While enjoying a delicious meal or tea, you can take in views of Kamakura’s cityscape and the distant Yuigahama coastline.

8. Meigetsu-in, Famous as the Hydrangea Temple

Located about a 10-minute walk from JR Kita-Kamakura Station, Meigetsu-in is renowned as the "Hydrangea Temple." The temple grounds feature approximately 2,500 hydrangea plants that bloom spectacularly from mid to late June.

In addition to the hydrangeas, the temple is famous for its autumn foliage. The "Window of Enlightenment" in the main hall is a popular spot for stunning photographs. Visitors can enjoy the seasonal beauty of the temple throughout the year.

◎ Summary

Kamakura, a popular tourist destination with easy access from central Tokyo, offers a charming taste of an ancient city. From serene spots that evoke the wabi-sabi aesthetic reminiscent of the Kamakura Shogunate's history, to bustling streets where you can enjoy local gourmet treats, and modern, stylish shops and cafes with a traditional Japanese flair, Kamakura has something for everyone across all age groups.

This enchanting "Little Kyoto" reveals a variety of captivating facets to its visitors. With countless attractions still to explore, be sure to visit and discover your own favorite spots in Kamakura!

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Enjoy the Enchanting Ancient City of Kamakura! 8 Recommended Sightseeing Spots