Walking Tours in Kamakura

Welcome to Kamakura, a historic city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. Known for its beautiful coastal scenery and numerous Buddhist temples, Kamakura is an ideal destination for tourists who love history and culture. Here’s some information about self-guided walking tours you can enjoy during your visit:

1. Great Buddha (Daibutsu) and Hase-dera Temple Walking Tour

Start your tour at Kamakura Station and take the Enoden Line to Hase Station. From there, it’s a short walk to Hase-dera Temple, home to the famous Great Buddha statue, which stands over 13 meters tall. After visiting the temple, continue walking along the scenic pathway to the Otowa Waterfall and enjoy its refreshing mist.

2. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Surrounding Area Walking Tour

Begin your tour at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine. Take a leisurely stroll through the temple grounds, admiring its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. Afterward, explore the nearby Komachi-dori Street, lined with traditional shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.

3. Engakuji Temple and Jufukuji Temple Walking Tour

Take a bus or taxi to the Engakuji Temple, one of Kamakura’s largest Zen temples. After visiting the temple, walk down the beautiful bamboo forest pathway to Jufukuji Temple. Along the way, you’ll pass by several other temples and scenic spots, such as the Yugafuku no yama (Dragon’s Head) rock formation.

Tips for Your Walking Tour:

1. Wear comfortable shoes - Kamakura’s streets can be hilly and uneven, so wear comfortable walking shoes to make your tour more enjoyable.
2. Carry water and snacks - It’s essential to stay hydrated during your walk, especially in the summer months. Bringing some snacks with you will also help keep your energy levels up.
3. Check the opening hours of temples and shrines - Some temples and shrines have specific opening hours, so make sure to check ahead to avoid disappointment.
4. Use a map or GPS - Although Kamakura is relatively small, it’s easy to get lost in its narrow streets. Using a map or GPS can help you stay on track and ensure you don’t miss any sights.
5. Respect the temples and shrines - When visiting temples and shrines, be mindful of cultural customs such as removing your shoes before entering and not taking photographs inside sacred areas.