Kamakura Private Tour: Temples, Nature, and the Great Buddha
Kamakura, JP
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Jochiji Temple - Serene Zen temple surrounded by lush nature
- Daibutsu Hiking Course - Beautiful nature and mountain views
- Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine - Mysterious shrine with a spring for washing money
- Sasuke Inari Shrine - Tunnel of red torii gates and ancient hidden village
- Kotoku-in Great Buddha - Impressive 13.35m tall Buddha statue
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Duration 5 hours
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Professional guide included
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Private and small group options
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Admission to Kotoku-in included
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Explore historical temples
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Kamakura on this exhilarating half-day walking tour. Experience the allure of this international sightseeing city, just one hour away from Tokyo, as you explore its historical temples, shrines, and other historic sites. With breathtaking views from its many hiking trails, you'll be captivated by the beauty of Kamakura's natural surroundings. Stroll through the serene Jochiji temple, surrounded by lush forests and bamboo groves, and be sure to rub the belly of the statue of Hotei for good fortune. Walk along the Daibutsu Hiking Course, passing through a mysterious hole in the hillside, leading you to the Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine where you can wash your money in the spring for prosperity. Visit the remarkable Sasuke Inari Shrine with its 100 red torii gates and ancient "hidden village", and marvel at the colossal Great Buddha of Kamakura at the Kotokuin temple. Conclude your journey at Hase-dera Temple and enjoy the breathtaking views from this scenic mountaintop temple. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Kamakura.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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5 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover Kamakura's rich history and stunning nature on a half-day walking tour featuring the Great Buddha and serene temples.
Included
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Entrance fees -
Photos of Tour Participants
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English Speaking Guide
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All fees and taxes
Excluded
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Hotel pickup and drop-off (available for an extra fee) -
Food and drink
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Private transportation
Meeting Point
Your guide will waiting for you at the west exit of Kita-Kamakura station.
Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 247-0062 , Japan
End Point
The tour end at Hase station. Usually, the guide accompanies by Kamakura station.
2-chōme-14 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016 , Japan
What to expect
Jochiji Temple
A quiet and serene Zen temple surrounded by forest, the Jochiji temple was built in 1281 by Hojo Tokoyori, a leader of the Kamakura Shogunate, in order to honour his son who had died young. It is nice to stroll through the grounds of this temple, enjoying the lush flowerbeds and bamboo groves. Remember to rub the belly of the statue of Hotei, as this is said to bring you good fortune.
25 minutes
Admission Included
Kamakura Hiking Trails
Enjoy the beautiful nature around the pass.
40 minutes
Zeniarai Benten Ugafuku Shrine
Next you will walk along the Daibutsu Hiking Course through the mountains until you reach a mysterious hole in the hillside, framed by a torii gate. Go through that hole and you'll find the Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine. Built in 1185, the shrine strongly emits the scent of incense and is filled with a rare blend of both Shinto and Buddhist monuments. Explore until you find a small cave with a natural spring bubbling inside. Here, people wash their money in the spring's water as it is said that money washed in spring will double in the summer.
25 minutes
Sasuke Inari Shrine
According to legend, the first Shogun of Kamakura Minamoto Yoritomo was visited in his dream by a white fox (known as Inari) who advised him how to win a battle against his enemies. Emerging from the battle victorious, Minamoto built the Sasuke Inari Shrine in gratitude. Set in the mountains surrounded by dense green forest, there you can find a tunnel comprised of over 100 red torii gates, just like Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. The shrine also contains hundreds of mini white inari foxes and the site of an ancient "hidden village".
20 minutes
The great Kamakura Buddha stands at 13.35m tall and weights about 121 tonnes. The construction of the bronze statue of Buddha as it appears today dates from 1252. It is one of the biggest Buddha statues in Japan and is definitely worth seeing. You can even enter inside the great statue.
20 minutes
Admission Included
Hasedera Temple is located about halfway up Mount Kamakura. The temple, therefore, has excellent views south over the ocean and the picturesque Yuigahama Beach. During June and July you can see the grounds full of blooming hydrangeas. Hasedera is home to a 9.18m tall Kannon statue with 11 heads - one of the largest wooden Buddhist statues in Japan. There is also a small but spooky and atmospheric cave to explore in the gardens.
30 minutes
Admission Included
Yuigahama Beach
The beach faces south so you are always going to see the sun over the ocean from this point. Relax and chill here and catch the lovely views! During summer there is an open air market called the Umi-no-ie which is good to check out.
15 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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A minimum of 2 people per booking is required -
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Please add 8000 yen per person to the tour price for hotel pick up
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Tour duration can be extended at a rate of 1,000 yen per person, per half hour, payable in cash.
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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You will walk at least 5 km including a mountain pass. So please wear shoes that are easy to walk in.
What our experts say
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Visit during hydrangea season for blooms. -
Try local sweets at Hase-dera Temple.
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Wear comfortable shoes for hiking trails.
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Enjoy views at Yuigahama Beach post-tour.
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Check out nearby cafes after the tour.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Welcome to the Kamakura Half Day Walking Tour with Kotokuin Great Buddha! Immerse yourself in the historical temples, shrines, and rich culture of Kamakura, the city that marked the beginning of the samurai era in Japan. Nestled amidst the stunning blend of sea and mountains, Kamakura offers a serene escape just an hour away from Tokyo.What to expect?
Join this tour to walk from Kita-Kamakura to Hase-dera Temple, and prepare to be mesmerized by the harmonious combination of nature and history. Uncover the secrets of the ancient Jochiji temple, surrounded by lush flowerbeds and serene bamboo groves. Experience the tranquility of the Daibutsu Hiking Course as you soak in the beauty of the surrounding nature. Discover the Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine and wash your money in the spring's water for luck. Explore the Sasuke Inari Shrine, adorned with over 100 red torii gates and mystical white inari foxes. Finally, marvel at the majestic 13.35-meter-tall Kotokuin Great Buddha and get the unique opportunity to venture inside this incredible bronze statue.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for all history and nature enthusiasts, whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or exploring with friends and family. If you're seeking a break from the bustling city life and want to be enchanted by the rich cultural heritage of Japan, then this tour is tailored just for you.Why book this?
Embrace the chance to immerse yourself in the profound history and culture of Kamakura. With an experienced guide by your side, you'll gain valuable insights into the enchanting stories behind each historic site. From the serene temples and shrines to the breathtaking natural landscapes, this tour presents a kaleidoscope of experiences that will leave you in awe. It's not just a tour, but a journey back in time to the fascinating era of the samurais.Good to know
As you embark on this half-day walking tour, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and carry a bottle of water. Don't forget your camera to capture the picturesque views and the stunning hydrangeas that dominate the temples' gardens during June and July. The tour usually starts from the west exit of Kita-Kamakura station and ends at Hase station, with the guide usually accompanying you to Kamakura station.Reviews
Previous participants have praised this tour for its informative and engaging guides who provide a comprehensive understanding of Kamakura's history and culture. Visitors are particularly enchanted by the serene atmosphere of the temples, the majestic presence of the Kotokuin Great Buddha, and the panoramic views from Hasedera Temple. Many reviewers also appreciated the opportunity to explore the off-the-beaten-path locations and hidden gems. Overall, the Kamakura Half Day Walking Tour is hailed as a truly unforgettable experience that brings the vibrant history and natural beauty of Kamakura to life.
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