Discover Kamakura: Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions Beyond Just Slam Dunk Photo Spots!
Asia•Japan
237
Published at 10/09/2024
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Just a short trip from Tokyo, Kamakura is a charming city steeped in history and natural beauty. From exploring ancient temples to soaking in breathtaking coastal views, Kamakura offers an experience like no other. Let Kinnso guide you through the top 10 attractions you absolutely can't miss in Kamakura.
[Explore Kamakura] Discover the Great Buddha, Ride the Enoden, Visit Kamakura High School, and Stroll Through Enoshima | Enoden Ride Included (Departing from Tokyo)
price:Starting at HK$ 444
1. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Perched against the mountains and gazing out over the sea, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is one of Kamakura's most treasured landmarks. The moment you walk through its gates, you'll be struck by the impressive architecture and the serene ambiance that envelops the shrine. This sacred site honors the guardian deity of the samurai and houses the spirit of Emperor Jimmu, a legendary figure in eastern folklore. If you visit in September, you can witness the spectacular yabusame festival, where skilled archers on horseback showcase the valor and remarkable prowess of ancient warriors.
Getting There:
- From Kamakura Station East Exit, it's just a 10-15 minute walk to your destination.
- Hop on the Enoshima Electric Railway to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Station, then it's only a 5-minute walk.
Address: 2-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
2. Hase-dera Temple
Hase-dera Temple, one of Kamakura's famed Five Mountains, is celebrated for its massive wooden statue of Kannon, the largest in Japan. As you walk through the impressive Nio Gate and climb the stone steps, you'll be awestruck by the 9.18-meter-tall statue of Kannon that greets you. From the viewing platform behind the Kannon Hall, you can soak in the beautiful scenery of Kamakura Bay. Legend has it that prayers for children and love are especially potent here, so take a moment to make a heartfelt wish and see if your dreams come true.
Getting There:
- From Kamakura Station East Exit, hop on a bus to Hase-dera Station. It's just a 3-minute walk from there.
- Or, you can take the Enoshima Electric Railway to Hase Station and enjoy a leisurely 5-minute stroll.
Address: 3-11-2 Hase, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
3. Great Buddha of Kamakura
If you're exploring Japan, the Great Buddha of Kamakura is an absolute must-see. Nestled within the Kōtoku-in Temple, this iconic bronze statue is one of the country's three legendary Buddha figures. Standing tall at 11.4 meters, it's been a silent witness to more than 800 years of history since the Kamakura period. The Buddha's gentle and serene expression radiates a sense of peace that can truly soothe your soul. Visitors can get up close and personal with this magnificent statue, and even step inside to marvel at its inner structure. As you stand beneath its watchful eyes, you can't help but feel the immense wisdom and compassion it embodies.
How to Get There:
- Hop on a bus from the East Exit of Kamakura Station to Daibutsu Station, then enjoy a short 5-minute stroll.
- Alternatively, it's just a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from Hase Station.
Location: 4-2-28 Hase, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
4. Kencho-ji Temple
Kencho-ji Temple, founded by the Chinese monk Lanxi Daolong at the invitation of Hojo Tokiyori, offers a serene escape into Zen Buddhism. As you step through the Sanmon gate next to the tranquil Qianlong Pond, you'll notice a significant plaque proclaiming "Japan's First Zen Forest." This statement sets a peaceful tone that's deeply rooted in Zen tradition. Strolling down the path, you're flanked by beautiful snow willows, camellias, and maple trees. When you arrive at the Hōjō, the main hall, take some time to sit quietly inside and soak in the meditative atmosphere. The temple is also a prime spot to witness the stunning autumn foliage, with the vibrant red leaves providing a spectacular display in the fall.
How to Get There:
- Hop on the Enoshima Electric Railway to Kamakura Station West Exit, then catch a bus to Kenchoji Station.
- Alternatively, it's about a 25-minute stroll from Kamakura Station.
Address: 409 Yamanouchi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
5. Kamakura High School Front Station
Are you a die-hard "Slam Dunk" fan? Then you absolutely have to check out Kamakura High School Front Station in Yuigahama! As you stroll along the Enoshima Electric Railway, you'll spot a sign that says "Kamakura High School Front," along with life-sized cutouts of Sakuragi Hanamichi and Rukawa Kaede. This spot is a dead ringer for the anime scenes, making you feel like you're right in front of Shohoku High School. It's a popular place for fans to snap photos and relive those nostalgic moments of Sakuragi biking to school!
Transportation: Hop on the Enoshima Electric Railway and ride it until you reach Kamakura High School Station.
Address: Yuigahama, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
6. Nagasaka Station
If you're a "Slam Dunk" enthusiast, Nagasaka Station is your dream come true—think of it as your very own "Shohoku Station." The station is brimming with nods to the beloved anime. On the platform, you'll find stickers of footprints from characters like Sakuragi Hanamichi and Rukawa Kaede, making you feel like you've stepped right into the anime world. Just outside the station, there's a street basketball court decked out in "Slam Dunk" style, complete with a backboard featuring portraits of the characters. It's the perfect spot to shoot some hoops and channel the fiery spirit of Sakuragi Hanamichi.
Transportation: Hop on the Enoshima Electric Railway and ride it until you reach Hase Station.
Address: 1-12-7 Hase, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
7. Hegajima Shrine
Perched on a tiny island off the coast of Kamakura, Hegajima Shrine offers a perfect blend of stunning sea and sky vistas. Legend has it that the two rocks on the island symbolize a divine couple, making this spot a revered destination for lovers looking to strengthen their romantic connections. As you cross the quaint bridge from the mainland to the shrine, the invigorating sea breeze lifts your spirits. Many couples visit to pledge their eternal love, hoping to journey through life together hand in hand. Even solo visitors can soak up the shrine's enchanting romantic ambiance.
Transportation: Hop on the Enoden train from Kamakura Station's East Exit, heading towards Enoshima. Get off at Hase Enoshima Station, and you're there!
Address: 4-3-3 Yuigahama, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
8. Enoshima Island
Enoshima Island, just a stone's throw from Kamakura's coast, is famed for its breathtaking sea vistas and historic shrines. Local lore suggests that the Enoshima Shrine is the birthplace of Tsubaki, the goddess of love. Each year, from June to July, the island comes alive with the vibrant "Enoshima Festival." As you wander the island's pathways, you'll often see couples holding hands, savoring their romantic moments. If you make your way to the island's highest point, the Observation Lighthouse, you'll be rewarded with a stunning 360-degree panorama that includes views of Mount Fuji and the Kamakura coastline.
Transportation: Hop on the Enoshima Electric Railway at Kamakura Station and ride it to Katase-Enoshima Station. Once you get off, it’s just a scenic 10-minute stroll across the bridge to reach Enoshima.
Address: Enoshima, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture
9. Jile Temple
Jile Temple, an ancient gem nestled on a hillside, is famed for its lush hydrangea blooms and distinctive dry landscape garden. Every year, from June to July, it becomes a haven for flower lovers. As you start your climb from the mountain gate, you're greeted by a vibrant sea of hydrangeas, making you feel like you've wandered into a fairy tale. The journey is adorned with a breathtaking display of hydrangeas, water lilies, and bellflowers, all vying for your attention. When you finally reach the top, take a moment to stand before the dry landscape garden and absorb the serene Zen atmosphere created by its bare branches and gravel stones.
How to Get There:
- Hop on the Enoshima Electric Railway and ride to Gokurakuji Station. From there, it's a pleasant 15-20 minute walk along the approach.
- Alternatively, you can catch a bus from Kamakura Station heading towards Hase. Get off at Gokurakuji Station, and you'll be just a quick 3-minute walk away.
Address: 1141 Ten'en, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
10. Kamakura Literature Museum
Calling all book lovers! The Kamakura Literature Museum is a must-visit spot for anyone with a passion for the written word. It's a treasure trove of literary works and artifacts connected to Kamakura, featuring manuscripts from famous authors like Yasunari Kawabata and Yukio Mishima. Step inside, and you'll discover a beautifully restored study and tea room from the Meiji era, giving you the sensation of stepping back in time to connect with these literary legends. The museum frequently hosts exhibitions and lectures about literature, offering a deeper dive into Kamakura's rich literary heritage. And don't miss the cherry blossom trees lining the path to the museum – in spring, their falling petals create a breathtaking, snow-like scene that adds a dash of romance to this historic city.
Transportation: Just a quick 15-minute stroll from JR Kamakura Station will get you there.
Address: 1-5-3 Hase, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture