7 Places to Visit in Kamakura + Things To Do

Kamakura is often described as the Kyoto of East Japan. It’s easy to visit from Tokyo as the train ride only takes one hour. This seaside town is famous for its many beautiful temples, shrines, and the iconic giant sitting Buddha statue. If you can’t make it to Kyoto during your trip, here’s a list of scenic places you can visit in Kamakura.

1. Kotoku-in Bronze Buddha

Location: 4 Chome-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa, Japan. Save on Google Maps.

The Kōtoku-in or Taiizan Kotokuin Shojosenji is a Buddhist temple where you can find the “Great Buddha”, Kamakura’s most iconic symbol. This 47-foot bronze statue of Amida Buddha, sitting in the lotus position, surrounded by the pavilion and small garden. It is the 2nd largest Buddha statue in Japan.

To make your trip planning easy, I added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. I’ve also shared photos from my Instagram feed. Feel free to use Instagram’s save feature for quick access later.

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2. Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine

Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine in Kamakura, Japan

Location: 2 Chome-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura. Save on Google Maps.

Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu is Kamakura’s most important Shinto Shrine. This huge temple complex has a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful gardens. Follow the steep stairs up the hill and visit the main hall, which was built in 1828 in the traditional Edo architectural style.

3. Komachi Dori Shopping Area

Komachi Dori Shopping Area in Kamakura, Japan

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The Komachi Dori is a pedestrian-only street lined with around 250 shops, restaurants, and cafes. The Komachi Dori Shopping Street starts at the Kamakura Station and ends at the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine. So, it’s perfect for walking around on your way to or from the shrines/temples.

4. Yuigahama Beach

Yuigahama Beach in Kamakura, Japan

Location: Yuigahama, Kamakura. Save on Google Maps.

With tranquil views facing the Pacific Ocean, Yuigahama Beach is a small sandy beach where you can enjoy a break from Tokyo’s urban jungle and temple run in Kamakura.

5. Myohon-ji Temple

Myohon-ji Temple in Kamakura, Japan

Location: 1 Chome-15-1 Ōmachi, Kamakura. Save on Google Maps.

Found myself in Myohon-ji Temple on my way back to Kamakura Station from the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine. Set in a scenic valley surrounded by wooded hills, the Myohon-ji has a calm atmosphere and not a lot of people wandering the temple grounds.

6. Hongakuji Temple

Hongakuji Temple in Kamakura, Japan

Location: 1 Chome-12-12 Komachi, Kamakura. Save on Google Maps.

7. Daikoji Temple (Daigyoji Temple)

Daikoji Temple in Kamakura, Japan

Location: 1 Chome-9-28 Komachi, Kamakura. Save on Google Maps.

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Kamakura that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Kamakura

Kamakura tourist spots, things to do in Kamakura, where to go in Kamakura & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Kamakura Essentials & Top Discounts

JR East Nagano-Niigata Area Pass (5 Days Flexible)

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Hakone Kamakura 3-Day Ticket Pass

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