Kamakura; First Samurai Capital Walking Tour

Kamakura, Japan’s first samurai capital, holds a rich history that still captivates visitors today. The Kamakura First Samurai Capital walking tour offers an immersive experience, guiding participants through stunning Zen temples, shrines, and scenic vistas. From exploring the renowned lacquerware heritage to enjoying cherry blossoms, this intimate three-hour tour unveils the cultural and artistic treasures that make Kamakura a truly remarkable destination. With limited spots available, those seeking an authentic exploration of this historic city won’t want to miss this exclusive opportunity.

This experience made our article of Top 20 Kamakura Tours.

Contents show

Key Points

This 3-hour walking tour explores Kamakura, the first Samurai capital of Japan, focusing on its historical and cultural highlights.
Visitors will discover the profound Zen Buddhist architecture and traditions at Enkaku-ji and Kencho-ji temples.
The tour includes a visit to the Kamakura Lacquerware Museum, showcasing an 800-year-old traditional Japanese craft.
Scenic views and cherry blossoms along the walkway enhance the natural beauty of the experience.
The tour is limited to 4 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate exploration of Kamakura’s rich history and cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Kamakura First Samurai Capital walking tour offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the historic city and its renowned temples.

Priced from $45.90 per person, the 3-hour small-group tour (limited to 4 participants) is led by an English-speaking guide.

The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

The tour highlights include visits to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Enkaku-ji, Kencho-ji, and the Kamakura Lacquerware Museum, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions.

Into exploring Kamakura on foot? Check out these other walking experiences we've looked at

Highlights and Experiences

Though the tour focuses on Kamakura’s historical and cultural highlights, it also provides an immersive experience for participants.

Visitors will explore Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, the symbolic heart of the first samurai capital, admiring its scenic views and cherry blossoms.

They’ll explore the Rinzai-Zen traditions at Enkaku-ji and Kencho-ji, marveling at the grand scale of the temples’ architecture.

The tour also offers a unique opportunity to discover Kamakura Lacquerware, an 800-year-old craft, showcasing the region’s artistic heritage.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins at Kita-Kamakura Station, where participants meet their guide before embarking on the 2-minute walk to the first destination, Enkaku-ji. At Enkaku-ji, they’ll explore the Sanmon Gate, Butsuden (Buddha Hall), Hatto (Dharma Hall), and Bonsho (temple bell). Next, they’ll visit the grand scale of Kencho-ji’s Sanmon Gates, Butsuden, Hatto, and Bonsho. The tour culminates at the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, where participants can admire the scenic views, historical significance, and cherry blossoms along the walkway.

Key Sites	Description
Enkaku-ji	Sanmon Gate, Butsuden, Hatto, Bonsho
Kencho-ji	Grand scale of Sanmon Gates, Butsuden, Hatto, Bonsho
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu	Scenic views, historical significance, cherry blossoms

Meeting Point and Tour Start

Participants meet their guide at the Kita-Kamakura Station, east exit, to begin the Kamakura walking tour.

From there, they’ll walk the short distance to the first stop, Enkaku-ji. This Zen temple, founded in 1282, serves as the starting point for exploring the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

As they make their way through the temple grounds, you will admire the Sanmon Gate, Butsuden, Hatto, and the iconic Bonsho bell.

The guide will share insights about the temple’s significance and its role in Kamakura’s legacy as the first capital of the Samurai era.

More Great Tours Nearby

Key Sites

After exploring the Enkaku-ji temple, the tour moves on to Kamakura’s two most important Rinzai-Zen temples – Enkaku-ji and Kencho-ji.

At Enkaku-ji, visitors marvel at the grand Sanmon Gate, the awe-inspiring Butsuden (Buddha Hall), the Hatto (Dharma Hall), and the historic Bonsho (temple bell).

The tour then proceeds to Kencho-ji, where the scale of the Sanmon Gates, Butsuden, Hatto, and Bonsho leave a lasting impression.

The final stop is the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, known for its scenic views, historical significance, and the captivating cherry blossoms lining the walkway.

Profound Zen Buddhist architecture
Centuries-old cultural heritage
Immersive historical exploration
Breathtaking natural scenery

There's plenty more to explore in Kamakura

Enkaku-ji

One of the tour’s first stops is Enkaku-ji, a renowned Rinzai-Zen temple that captivates visitors with its profound architectural grandeur.

Guests explore the temple’s Sanmon Gate, a towering wooden structure adorned with intricate carvings. They then visit the Butsuden, or Buddha Hall, where an impressive statue of Buddha stands.

The Hatto, or Dharma Hall, and the Bonsho, or temple bell, also leave a lasting impression.

Throughout the visit, the guide shares insights into the temple’s history and its role in Kamakura’s cultural heritage, enriching the participants’ understanding of this sacred site.

Kencho-ji

The tour proceeds from the tranquil Enkaku-ji to Kamakura’s other prominent Rinzai-Zen temple, Kencho-ji.

With its grand scale and historical significance, Kencho-ji captivates visitors. The massive Sanmon Gates, the Butsuden (Buddha Hall), the Hatto (Dharma Hall), and the Bonsho (temple bell) all exemplify the temple’s architectural and spiritual grandeur.

Kencho-ji’s rich history spans over 700 years, making it the oldest Zen temple in the Kanto region. The guide provides insightful commentary, allowing guests to fully appreciate the temple’s cultural and religious legacy.

Exploring Kencho-ji is a highlight of the Kamakura walking tour.

[UNORDERED BULLET LIST IN MARKDOWN FORMAT]:

Grand scale of the temple’s architecture
Over 700 years of rich historical significance
Oldest Zen temple in the Kanto region
Deeply rooted in Kamakura’s cultural and religious heritage

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

As the tour progresses, visitors arrive at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, the symbolic heart of Kamakura’s first samurai capital.

This Shinto shrine commands scenic views and holds historical significance. The long, cherry blossom-lined walkway leading to the shrine offers a picturesque stroll.

Inside, the grand shrines and structures showcase Kamakura’s architectural splendor from the samurai era. The guide provides insights into the shrine’s role in the development of Kamakura as the epicenter of samurai culture and power.

Visitors can enjoy the shrine’s serene atmosphere and appreciate its enduring cultural legacy.

Things To Know

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Participants should dress casually and be prepared for some outdoor sightseeing during the 3-hour walking tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour is not suitable for individuals over 95 years old, but there are no other age restrictions. Children are welcome, but the 3-hour length may be challenging for younger participants.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks during the tour. However, the tour does not include any provided meals or beverages, so guests should plan accordingly to ensure they have sustenance throughout the 3-hour experience.

Is There Storage Available for Luggage During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide storage for luggage, so you will need to carry their belongings with them during the 3-hour walking tour. However, small personal items can be easily accommodated.

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to the traveler’s preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to modify the itinerary or pace to suit individual interests, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience.

Sum Up

The Kamakura First Samurai Capital walking tour offers an immersive and intimate experience exploring Japan’s historical and cultural highlights. Visitors will discover Kamakura’s rich artistic heritage, scenic views, and iconic sites like Enkaku-ji, Kencho-ji, and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. With limited group size, this three-hour tour provides an in-depth look into the former samurai capital, making it a must-do for those seeking an authentic Japanese adventure.