Best Sites in Kamakura: Top Spots for Every Traveller

When planning a visit to Kamakura, you’re in for a treat with a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty.

This charming spot, a short train ride from Tokyo, has ancient temples and stunning coastal views.

You’ll find plenty of exciting spots to explore, making Kamakura a must-visit place on your Japan itinerary.

Visit the best sites in Kamakura with these amazing experiences:

1. Kamakura Historical Walking Tour with the Great Buddha
2. Kamakura Heritage Bike or Walk Tour with ex-Rickshaw guide
3. Kamakura Walking Tour – The City of Shogun

Here are what I think are the best sites in Kamakura.

1) Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

When you visit Kamakura, a trip to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is a must.

It’s one of the city’s most essential and historical sites.

Minamoto Yoriyoshi founded the shrine in 1063, later becoming the centre of Kamakura’s culture.

Minamoto no Yoritomo, founder of the Kamakura Shogunate, expanded and moved it to its current location around 1180-1190.

Walk up the grand stone steps and enjoy the look of the red buildings surrounded by nature.

2) Hase-dera Temple

Hase-dera Temple is a must-visit in Kamakura.

It’s known for the stunning wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

The statue stands tall in the Kannon-do Hall.

The temple sits on a hillside, offering great views of Kamakura.

Exploring the temple grounds, you’ll find beautiful gardens and a calming pond.

3) Kotoku-in Temple

You won’t want to skip the Kotoku-in Temple in Kamakura.

This temple is famous for the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a massive bronze statue of Amida Buddha.

As you wander the temple grounds, you’ll find a peaceful atmosphere and lovely surroundings.

It’s a perfect spot for a bit of reflection.

4) Zeniarai Benten Shrine

Zeniarai Benten Shrine is tucked away in the mountains of Kamakura.

Known for its unique ritual, people believe washing their money in the spring here may lead to financial growth.

The shrine combines Shinto and Buddhist traditions.

Getting there is an adventure.

It’s not directly served by public transport, so a short walk from nearby stations like Kita-Kamakura is part of the experience.

5) Engaku-ji Temple

Engaku-ji Temple is a top spot to visit in Kamakura.

This Zen temple was founded in 1282 by Hojo Tokimune to honour soldiers from the Mongol invasions.

When you visit, make sure to check out the big temple bell and the peaceful surroundings.

6) Kencho-ji Temple

Kencho-ji Temple is the oldest Zen temple in Kamakura and a true city highlight.

It was founded in 1253 and is one of Kamakura’s five great Zen temples.

You’ll find impressive temple buildings and beautiful gardens to explore.

Don’t forget your walking shoes for this one. It’s a bit of a walk, but the scenery and serenity make it worth it.

7) Komachi Street

When you visit Kamakura, Komachi Street is a must-see.

It has some charming shops and cute cafés.

You can find everything from traditional crafts to trendy items here.

The atmosphere is lively, filled with visitors’ buzz.

It’s a fun spot to try local snacks or pick up unique souvenirs to remember your trip.

8) Jomyo-ji Temple

In Kamakura, Jomyo-ji Temple is a peaceful spot known for its Zen Buddhist roots.

You’ll notice the long path lined with trees and gardens when you visit.

Seven buildings stood here at the temple’s peak, but now only the main hall and reception hall remain.

9) Meigetsu-in Temple

You might know Meigetsu-in Temple as the “Hydrangea Temple.”

It’s a relaxing place in Kamakura, Japan, famous for its stunning blue hydrangeas.

The temple, founded in 1335, belongs to the Rinzai Zen Sect.

In addition to the flowers, you can enjoy a peaceful walk around its well-kept gardens.

10) Hokoku-ji Temple

Hokoku-ji Temple is famous for its peaceful bamboo grove.

It is in the hills of eastern Kamakura.

It’s a bit of a walk from the busy streets but worth it.

As you wander through, the bamboo whispers with the breeze.

The temple grounds are dotted with moss-covered stones, creating a true Zen atmosphere.

Try the Matcha green tea at the Tea House if you fancy a treat.

11) Great Buddha of Kamakura

As you wander through Kamakura, stop at the Kotoku-in Temple.

Here, you’ll find the stunning Great Buddha of Kamakura.

This bronze statue of Amida Buddha towers at around 13 metres high.

Cast in 1252, this treasure is known for being one of Japan’s most iconic figures.

12) Kamakura Museum of Literature

When in Kamakura, you can’t miss the Kamakura Museum of Literature.

This small yet charming museum showcases the lives and works of writers who lived or worked in the city.

See exhibits of personal items, manuscripts, and first editions from over a hundred writers.

13) Inamuragasaki Park

Inamuragasaki Park is a lovely spot in Kamakura where you can enjoy stunning views.

It’s famous for its scenic rocky coastlines and walking paths.

You can even spot Mount Fuji on a clear day if you’re lucky.

This park is a great escape from the busier beaches nearby, offering a quieter place to relax and enjoy nature.

14) Shichirigahama Beach

Shichirigahama Beach is a lovely spot in Kamakura City, along the scenic Sagami Bay.

It’s easily accessible, just a short walk from Shichirigahama Station.

The beach offers a wide sandy shoreline perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

You can enjoy sunset views and watch surfers catch waves in their element.

15) Zaimokuza Beach

You’ll love Zaimokuza Beach if you’re seeking fun and relaxation.

Located on the Zushi side of Kamakura, it’s a hidden gem with a calm, shallow sea perfect for kids.

Its sandy bottom makes swimming safe and enjoyable.

You might even spot a few fish there, such as sea bass or flounder.

16) Kamakura Seaside Park

Kamakura Seaside Park is lovely for unwinding and enjoying the coastal scenery.

You can stroll along the pathways or relax on the sandy beach.

It’s a great place to fly kites or have a picnic with friends and family.

17) Kamakura City Kaburaki Kiyokata Memorial Art Museum

In Kamakura, you’ll find the Kaburaki Kiyokata Memorial Art Museum.

It’s tucked away in a peaceful residential area, a nice escape from the busy Komachi-Dori.

The museum celebrates the work of Kaburaki Kiyokata, a well-known modern Japanese painter.

You can see a wide range of his beautiful art pieces.

It also includes a reconstructed version of his studio to glimpse his creative space.

18) Goryo Shrine

Nature surrounds the Goryo Shrine in Kamakura, making it a peaceful spot.

The shrine honours Kamakura Gongoro Kagemasa, a hero from the late Heian period.

People associate the shrine with appeasing vengeful spirits.

They believed these spirits caused natural disasters.

19) Eishoji Temple

Eishoji Temple is a hidden gem in Kamakura.

It has a rich history and was founded in 1636 by Lady Okatsu, a niece of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.