Weekend Guide · Japan
Weekend in Kamakura
Kamakura, a coastal city 50 km south of Tokyo, was Japan’s de facto capital during the Kamakura Period (1185–1333). Today it is one of Japan’s most popular day trips, celebrated for its colossal bronze Buddha, lush hilltop temples, and scenic hiking trails connecting shrines through cedar forests — all within earshot of the Pacific Ocean.
Arrive & Explore Kamakura
Kotoku-in Great Buddha (Daibutsu)
Japan’s second-largest bronze Buddha statue at 11
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine, dedicated to Hachiman the god of war and patron of samurai
Hokoku-ji Bamboo Garden
A Rinzai Zen temple with a stunning bamboo grove — smaller and more intimate than Arashiyama but wonderfully peaceful
Hidden Gems & Local Flavours
Enoshima Island
A small island connected to the mainland by a bridge, home to the Enoshima Shrine, sea caves, the Enoshima Sea Candle observation tower, and beautiful ocean views
Kamakura Hiking Trails
A network of ancient pilgrimage routes links Kamakura’s hilltop temples through cedar and bamboo forests
Local Tips
- 1Japan is more affordable than its reputation suggests.
- 2Japan is consistently ranked among the world's safest countries.