Kamakura: Highlights of the Japanese Riviera (4 or 8 Hours)

Kamakura, the Japanese Riviera, beckons with its enchanting blend of cultural and historical treasures. Whether you opt for a 4 or 8-hour tour, you’ll discover iconic sites like the serene Engaku-ji Temple and the majestic Great Buddha. Your expert guide will lead you through these captivating destinations, sharing insights that bring the past to life. With a delicious local lunch and personalized attention, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Kamakura‘s timeless allure. What secrets might these hallowed grounds unveil?

Key Points

• This guided tour offers a choice of 4 or 8 hours to explore the cultural and natural highlights of Kamakura, the historic city known as the "Japanese Riviera".
• The tour includes visits to Engaku-ji Temple, Tokei-ji (a former nunnery), Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, and the iconic Great Buddha statue at Kōtoku-in, with a local lunch provided.
• The tour starts at Kita-Kamakura Station, providing easy access to the first stop at Engaku-ji Temple, a 13th-century Zen temple with a serene Japanese garden.
• Tokei-ji, a former nunnery established in 1285, offers a 15-minute guided tour, providing insight into Kamakura’s history as a haven for women seeking refuge.
• The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 participants and is led by an English-speaking guide, ensuring a personalized and informative experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Kamakura: Highlights of the Japanese Riviera tour offers two duration options – 4 or 8 hours – with prices starting from Kč 1,191 per person.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour has a small group size limited to 8 participants.

An English-speaking guide leads the tour, which includes highlights like Engaku-ji Temple, Tokei-ji, a local lunch, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, and Kōtoku-in.

The 8-hour option also features a guided tour of Enoshima.

Transportation is via bus and train, and the tour ends at either Kita-Kamakura or Kamakura Station.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at Kita-Kamakura Station, the tour begins with a guided visit to Engaku-ji Temple, an important Zen temple that takes approximately 1 hour to explore. Next, the group heads to Tokei-ji, a former nunnery and pilgrimage site for women, for a 15-minute tour. Lunch at a local restaurant serving shojin-ryori, a Buddhist monk cuisine, follows. Visitors then explore Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, a large shrine in downtown Kamakura, before concluding the tour at Kōtoku-in, home to the Great Buddha, one of Japan’s largest statues. The 8-hour tour also includes a guided visit to the scenic island of Enoshima.

Itinerary Highlights	Duration
Engaku-ji Temple	1 hour
Tokei-ji	15 minutes
Lunch	45 minutes
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu	30 minutes
Kōtoku-in	30 minutes

Starting Location

Kita-Kamakura Station serves as the starting point for this insightful tour of Kamakura’s highlights. Conveniently located, the station provides easy access to the tour’s first stop, Engaku-ji Temple.

From here, the group will embark on a guided exploration of this important Zen temple, learning about its rich history and significance in the region.

With the starting location established, the tour can seamlessly transition into the itinerary, allowing participants to enjoy the cultural and natural wonders that make Kamakura a renowned destination in Japan’s Kanagawa Prefecture.

Engaku-ji Temple

Engaku-ji Temple stands as an important Zen Buddhist institution, founded in 1282 by the Hojo regent Tokimune. The temple grounds are home to several captivating structures, including the Great Buddha Hall, Shariden Relic Hall, and the distinctive Sanmon Gate. Visitors can explore these historic buildings during the guided tour, learning about their significance and architectural features.

Feature	Description
Great Buddha Hall	Impressive wooden structure housing a large bronze Buddha statue
Shariden Relic Hall	Enshrines relics of the Buddha, a sacred and revered site
Sanmon Gate	Striking two-story gate, a prominent landmark of the temple complex
Garden	Serene Japanese garden, offering a peaceful respite within the temple grounds

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Tokei-ji

Tokei-ji, a former nunnery and popular pilgrimage site for women, offers a glimpse into Kamakura’s rich religious history. Established in 1285, the temple was a haven for women seeking refuge from abusive relationships.

Visitors can explore the serene grounds and learn about its fascinating past during the guided tour. The tour lasts approximately 15 minutes, providing a concise yet informative introduction to this important site.

While not as grand as some of Kamakura’s other temples, Tokei-ji‘s significance as a women’s sanctuary makes it a unique and worthwhile stop on the Kamakura tour.

Lunch

After exploring the serene Tokei-ji temple, the tour takes a break for a delightful lunch at a local restaurant.

The group enjoys a traditional Shojin-ryori, or Buddhist monk cuisine, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and healthy, plant-based dishes.

The meal provides a chance to savor the flavors of Kamakura and experience the region’s culinary heritage.

The lunch lasts approximately 45 minutes, allowing ample time for the group to refuel before continuing the tour’s exploration of the historic city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine and the renowned Great Buddha statue at Kōtoku-in.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

Following the tour’s visit to the former nunnery of Tokei-ji, the group heads to the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, a large Shinto shrine located in the heart of downtown Kamakura. The guide provides a 30-minute tour, highlighting the shrine’s history and significance. Visitors can admire the grand torii gate, the main hall, and the beautiful gardens. The shrine is an important site for festivals and traditions, and the guide explains the cultural significance of these practices. Guests have the opportunity to participate in a short purification ritual before continuing the tour.

Key Facts
Dedicated to	Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of the Minamoto clan	Year Founded	1063	Location	Downtown Kamakura
Notable Features	Grand torii gate, main hall, gardens	Tour Duration	30 minutes	Cultural Significance	Festivals, traditions, purification rituals

Kōtoku-in

The tour next takes visitors to Kōtoku-in, home to the iconic Great Buddha statue, one of Japan’s largest bronze statues.

Towering at over 13 meters (43 feet) tall, the Great Buddha is an impressive sight. Guests will have the opportunity to admire the serene face and massive frame of this revered figure up close during a guided tour lasting around 30 minutes.

The guide will share the history and significance of this impressive Buddhist monument, which dates back to the 13th century.

After marveling at the Great Buddha, the tour will continue onward to explore more of Kamakura’s treasures.

Things To Know

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

When going on this tour, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a small amount of cash for entry fees and lunch. Staying hydrated and dressing in layers are also good ideas.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The itinerary is flexible, and the guide is happy to adjust the route and activities to suit your interests and needs. Just let them know your preferences when booking.

Is the Tour Appropriate for Children?

The tour is suitable for children. The 4-hour itinerary can accommodate families, with a focus on key sights and activities appropriate for all ages. The 8-hour option may be more suited for older children and teenagers.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Groups or Seniors?

There are no discounts mentioned for groups or seniors on this tour. However, it’s always worth checking with the tour provider if they offer any special pricing for larger groups or older participants when booking.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Plans?

There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve your spot now and pay later if your plans change.

Sum Up

This guided tour of Kamakura’s highlights offers an immersive experience into the area’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Visitors can choose between a 4 or 8-hour excursion, exploring iconic sites like Engaku-ji Temple, Tokei-ji, and the Great Buddha, along with indulging in a local lunch. Led by an English-speaking guide, the small group setting ensures personalized attention, making it an ideal way to discover the beauty of the Japanese Riviera.

You can check availability for your dates here: