Kamakura Girls’ Trip: 10 Recommended Tourist Spots

Kamakura is the perfect destination for a girls’ trip – a place where you can walk, take photos, and enjoy delicious food all at once! With its collection of temples and shrines that recharge your energy, nostalgic streets and charming cafés where you can relax, and the opportunity to gaze at the sunset over the Shonan coast, Kamakura offers endless attractions that will captivate women. Set out on a girls’ trip and experience all that Kamakura has to offer!

Why Kamakura is Perfect for a Girls’ Trip

Kamakura, an ancient capital, is ideal for a girls’ getaway. Whether you’re touring temples and shrines to recharge at power spots, enjoying delightful cafés that satisfy both your stomach and your soul, or watching the sunset at the Shonan beach, there’s never a dull moment in Kamakura.

It’s also packed with photogenic spots. Strolling the charming, yet stylish streets of Kamakura in a kimono or yukata can boost your “girl power” even more. Enjoy sightseeing to the fullest, savor street food, or simply relax and be healed by the atmosphere.

1. Hōkokuji (Temple of National Gratitude)

Hōkokuji is famous for its stunning bamboo grove, with around 2,000 bamboo plants, and was founded in 1334. It’s about a 30-minute walk from Kamakura Station, so consider strolling at a leisurely pace or using a bus or taxi.

Between the tall bamboo that stretches skyward, sparkling light filters through, creating a breathtaking view. In the midst of the grove, there’s a tea room called Kyūkō-an, where you can enjoy matcha and traditional dried confections. Sipping tea while gazing at this almost otherworldly bamboo forest will remind you of the beauty of being Japanese.

2. Hasedera Temple

Hasedera is renowned as the “Temple of Flowers” for its display of seasonal blossoms. Especially during the hydrangea and autumn foliage seasons, its beauty draws visitors from afar. Hasedera is also popular among girls for its charming “Nagi Jizō” and “Good Match Jizō.”

These cute, heartwarming statues evoke happiness just by looking at them. In fact, the Good Match Jizō is installed in three locations throughout the temple grounds – finding them is said to bring blessed matchmaking.

Additionally, the temple café “Kaikō-an” is famous for its “Temple Curry,” a unique vegetarian curry that combines rich umami with spices. Enjoy this dish while taking in the scenic views and blossoms of Kamakura.

3. Komachi-dori

Komachi-dori is a quaint, retro shopping street that stretches from Kamakura to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Lined with trendy cafés, restaurants, and charming boutiques, this street is guaranteed to keep you entertained all day.

Popular street food options include takoyaki, gelato, mochi, financiers, soft serve ice cream, and waffles. Many Western-style sweets are creatively reimagined with a Japanese twist, offering unique treats that can only be found here.

Because there are so many popular shops concentrated in one area, it’s a good idea to decide in advance which stores you’d like to visit.

4. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is a classic must-see in Kamakura. Famous for its beautiful hydrangeas, the shrine also boasts stunning cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage that rival its hydrangeas in beauty. Recently, more women have been renting yukata or kimono and visiting the shrine.

Surrounded by mountains on three sides, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is a powerful “power spot” where the energy of the earth flows strongly. It is particularly popular among women who pray for love, inspired by the legend of the “Lovebirds,” Minamoto no Yoritomo and Hojo Masako.

You can also purchase charming amulets—such as those shaped like doves or in pink for matchmaking—so if you’re hoping for a blessed love life, be sure to pay a visit.

5. Meigetsuin Temple

Meigetsuin, also known as the “Hydrangea Temple,” is famous for its display of approximately 2,500 clusters of dwarf hydrangeas. Their soft blue hue, often called “Meigetsuin Blue,” has become popular on Instagram.

There is even a “Heart Hydrangea” that is said to resemble a heart – if you spot it, it’s believed that good luck in love will follow. When you visit Meigetsuin, be sure to check out the fortune amulets available too.

From cute “Happy Bells” adorned with hydrangea motifs to amulets featuring irises and rabbits, the items are sure to win over any girl’s heart and make wonderful souvenirs.

6. Kamakura Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Kamakura)

No trip to Kamakura is complete without seeing the iconic Kamakura Daibutsu. Up close, the sheer size of the Great Buddha is awe-inspiring, and simply gazing upon its serene, enlightened face feels spiritually rewarding.

Although there is an admission fee, you can also enter the Daibutsu’s interior – an experience in itself. In addition, a giant pair of straw sandals used in the past is on display, offering even more to explore.
It is also recommended to wander around the Hase Station area, where Kotoku-in is located.

7. Yuigahama Beach

For those who say, “Temples and shrines are nice, but I’d love to see the Shonan sea too!” Yuigahama Beach is the place to go. As the birthplace of beach culture in Kamakura, this beach is a must-visit.

In summer, beach houses open and water sports are in full swing, but even a leisurely stroll along the shimmering shoreline is enjoyable.
The relaxed atmosphere truly captures the essence of the “Shonan Sea.”

Since the approach to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine begins at Yuigahama, a leisurely walk along the beach on your way to the shrine is highly recommended.

8. bills Shichirigahama

For any girl visiting Kamakura, a trip wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the world-famous restaurant “bills Shichirigahama.” Known for having the world’s best scrambled eggs and fluffy pancakes, it’s a guaranteed delight for both your taste buds and your camera.

With an ocean view that lets you dine while gazing out over Shichirigahama, it’s a truly luxurious experience. On weekends, holidays, and long vacation periods the place can get busy, so it’s advisable to reserve a table or head out first thing in the morning.

9. Sasuke Inari Shrine

Sasuke Inari Shrine is an Inari shrine famous for its series of vermilion torii gates. Along with Katsuharaoka Shrine and Zeniarai Benten, it is one of Kamakura’s three top spots for blessings. Although it is well-known for boosting career prospects, the hidden treasure at its lower shrine – the Eleven-Faced Kannon – is dedicated to the deity of matchmaking.

For women seeking love, a visit here is highly recommended. Moreover, as it is nestled in nature, you can enjoy a refreshing dose of negative ions that boost your well-being.

10. Zaimokuza Terrace

Zaimokuza Terrace is a multi-use facility with a beach concept that houses apparel shops, cafés, and more. Located near the sea, you can enjoy lunch or breakfast in a café with an ocean view.

Some restaurants here offer unique dining experiences, such as French-style dishes grilled over an open hearth reminiscent of a campfire, accompanied by local fish from Kamakura. The sunset viewed from Zaimokuza Terrace is spectacular – if the timing is right, be sure to enjoy this breathtaking view.

◎ Summary

Kamakura is filled with attractions that capture the hearts of women – from stylish cafés and power spot temples and shrines to the Shonan sea and delicious street food.
With its proximity to Tokyo, a day trip to Kamakura is also very feasible for those who want to enjoy sightseeing at a leisurely pace. Experience the spirit of Japan through Kamakura’s timeless charm!

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Kamakura Girls’ Trip: 10 Recommended Tourist Spots