Visiting Kamakura for the first time? You won’t want to miss the city’s top attractions. From the serene Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine to the iconic Great Buddha, this guided tour ensures you experience the must-see highlights. Explore the tranquil Hase-dera Temple and indulge in local cuisine on Komachi Street. With a personalized private tour, you’ll gain valuable insights and create unforgettable memories. Discover why Kamakura should be on every traveler’s itinerary.
This experience made our article of Top 20 Kamakura Tours.
Key Points
- Discover the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, a historic site with exquisite architecture and cultural significance.
- Marvel at the colossal Great Buddha of Kamakura, a profound symbol of Buddhist faith.
- Explore the stunning Hase-dera Temple, renowned for its magnificent wooden carvings and breathtaking ocean views.
- Savor the diverse local cuisine along the bustling Komachi Street.
- Opt for a private tour to enjoy personalized insights and a tailored experience.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is one of Kamakura’s most significant landmarks. This Shinto shrine dates back to 1063 and sits atop a hill, offering commanding views of the city.
Visitors can stroll along the long approach lined with centuries-old cherry trees. The main shrine buildings feature exquisite architecture and intricate carvings.
Important rituals and festivals take place here throughout the year, giving visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the tranquility and grandeur of this historic site during your tour of Kamakura’s top attractions.
Looking for more options in Kamakura? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Great Buddha of Kamakura
The Great Buddha of Kamakura, or Daibutsu, is an iconic landmark that draws visitors from around the world.
Standing at an impressive 13.35 meters tall, this colossal bronze Buddha statue dates back to 1252 AD. Visitors can enter the statue’s interior and marvel at its intricate craftsmanship.
The Great Buddha weathered several natural disasters, including the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, showcasing its resilience.
Today, the Daibutsu remains a profound symbol of Buddhist faith and a must-see attraction for those exploring Kamakura’s rich cultural heritage.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this architectural masterpiece during your tour.
Hase-dera Temple
After exploring the impressive Great Buddha, the tour proceeds to Hase-dera Temple, a stunning Buddhist temple known for its magnificent wooden carvings and panoramic views of the coastline.
Visitors can:
- Admire the intricate statues and sculptures that adorn the temple’s interior, including a massive wooden Kannon goddess figure.
- Climb to the top of the temple’s hillside location for breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and Kamakura’s coastline.
- Stroll through the temple’s beautiful gardens, which feature a serene pond and pagoda.
The temple’s tranquil atmosphere and rich history make it a must-see during any Kamakura visit.
Komachi Street for Local Cuisine
Komachi Street, a bustling thoroughfare in Kamakura, offers visitors a chance to indulge in the local culinary delights. This quaint shopping street is lined with a variety of eateries, from traditional Japanese restaurants to charming cafes. Visitors can savor regional specialties like kamaboko (steamed fish cakes), yokan (sweet bean jelly), and the famous Kamakura beer. To help guide your culinary exploration, consider this table showcasing some popular local dishes and their descriptions:
Dish | Description |
---|---|
Kamaboko | Steamed fish cakes, a Kamakura specialty |
Yokan | Sweet bean jelly, a classic Japanese dessert |
Kamakura Beer | Local craft beer brewed in the city |
Miso Ramen | Hearty noodle soup with a rich miso base |
Taiyaki | Fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet azuki bean |
Private Tour Benefits
While group tours can be efficient, opting for a private tour of Kamakura’s must-see sights offers several advantages.
With a private tour, you’ll enjoy:
-
Undivided Attention: The guide will cater the experience to your interests and pace, ensuring you get the most out of your time.
-
Personalized Insights: Your private guide can provide more detailed and tailored explanations about the history and cultural significance of each site.
-
Flexibility: You can adjust the itinerary to fit your preferences, whether that’s spending more time at a particular temple or making a spontaneous stop.
- Kamakura:Largest Wooden Buddha, Temples, Cultural Experience
- Kamakura: Sushi Roll Bento Cooking Class
- Kamakura: Visit Daibutsu and Shopping Experience
- Kamakura: Half Day Walking Tour & Japanese Sweets
- Kamakura; First Samurai Capital Walking Tour
- Kamakura: Explore the Most Famous Street & Get Your Favorite
Tour Logistics and Details
The tour starts at 9:00 am at the East ticket gate of JR Kamakura Station, where you will meet their private guide.
The tour covers top sights like Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Great Buddha, Hase-dera Temple, and Komachi Street. It lasts until returning to the meeting point.
The all-inclusive cost is 5,300 JPY per person, covering transportation, admission fees, a meal, and optional experiences. Cash is recommended as most spots don’t accept cards.
Despite stairs, the comprehensive tour is suitable for first-time visitors seeking an immersive Kamakura experience with undivided attention from the knowledgeable guide.
Cost Breakdown
The all-inclusive cost for the Kamakura Must-Sees Tour is 5,300 JPY per person.
This covers:
- Transportation at 900 JPY
- Admission fees of 2,650 JPY
- Meal costs of 1,000 JPY
- Optional experience fees of 660 JPY
The price is guaranteed to be the lowest and can be even lower depending on the group size.
Plus, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
Just bring cash, as most spots don’t accept credit cards, and wear comfortable shoes for the extensive walking.
Tour Reviews and Ratings
How does the Kamakura Must-Sees Tour fare in the eyes of past participants? With 11 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour enjoys an impressive 4.8-star average rating.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, who provide insightful experiences at the temples and shrines. The comprehensive itinerary, covering top sights like Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and the Great Buddha, also earns high marks from first-time visitors to Kamakura.
The private nature of the tour ensures undivided attention, enhancing the overall experience. While the tour involves extensive walking and doesn’t accept credit cards, the overwhelmingly positive reviews suggest it’s an excellent choice for experiencing Kamakura’s must-see attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?
The tour guide recommends wearing comfortable clothing due to the extensive walking involved. Visitors should dress in layers as the weather may affect transportation and destinations, and bring cash as most spots don’t accept credit cards.
Can I Bring My Own Lunch or Snacks?
Participants can bring their own lunch or snacks, as there are no restrictions on bringing food. However, the tour includes a stop for local gourmet food, so guests may prefer to try the local cuisine.
Is the Tour Guide Proficient in English?
The tour guide is proficient in English and will provide comprehensive explanations throughout the tour. They’re able to answer questions and ensure all participants have an engaging and informative experience exploring Kamakura’s top sights.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for visitors of all ages, though the extensive walking may be challenging for young children or those with mobility issues.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour’s itinerary is preset, but you can customize it based on your interests. The guide can adjust the schedule or prioritize certain sites, providing a personalized experience within the tour’s overall structure.
The Sum Up
Kamakura’s must-see attractions offer a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. From the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine to the majestic Great Buddha and serene Hase-dera Temple, a guided private tour ensures an enriching and personalized experience. Complemented by the delightful local cuisine along Komachi Street, this tour provides an exceptional introduction to the wonders of Kamakura.
More Private Tours in Kamakura
More Cycling Tours in Kamakura
More Tour Reviews in Kamakura
Still browsing? Here are more Kamakura experiences we've covered recently
- Private Old Temples Guided Tour in Kamakura
- Kamakura Scenic Bike Tour
- ZASHIKIMAI Performance by National Theatre in Kenchoji, Kamakura
- Japanese Sweets Making in Kamakura
- Learning History of Kamakura in Depth With a Certified Guide
- Kamakura Calligraphy Experience
- Kamakura, Craft Your Music Box & Discover Japans Biggest Buddha
- Kamakura: Visit Great Buddha and Shopping Experience
- Kamakura: Greedy Gourmet and Temple Tour
- Kamakura: Largest Wooden Buddha, Temples, Cultural Experience
- Kamakura Magokoro Ramen Cooking Class
- Craft Your Own HANKO Name Seal Activity in Kamakura Japan