Private Tour of North Kamakura Temples with licensed guide
Kamakura, JP
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Visit beautiful temples popular among the locals
- Relax and enjoy the quiet temples with flowers and greenery
- Local guide with in-depth knowledge of Kamakura's history and traditions
- Private tour, no other guests to bother you
- Free afternoon to make your own plans
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Duration 3 hours 30 minutes
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Private Tour for couples or solo
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Professional Local Tour Guide
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Entrance fees not included (700 yen)
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Available in English and Japanese
Experience the hidden gems of Kamakura with this exclusive private tour. Unlike the typical tourist attractions, this tour takes you to the lesser-known temples that are beloved by the locals. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of these temples, surrounded by beautiful flowers, moss, and lush greenery. Your knowledgeable guide, a local resident with 40 years of experience, will share fascinating stories about Kamakura's history and traditions, offering a deeper understanding of the area. Explore the ancient paths and hear tales of princesses enshrined in the Jizo Hall. With this private tour, you can enjoy the serenity of the temples without being bothered by other guests. After the tour, you have the freedom to plan your own afternoon adventures. Don't miss this opportunity to discover the hidden beauty of Kamakura's temples.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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3 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in Japanese, English
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the serene temples of North Kamakura on a private guided tour, away from the crowds, and immerse yourself in local history and traditions.
Included
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OtherProfessional Local Tour Guide -
OtherEntrance fees of temples for the guide
Excluded
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Tea and coffeeCoffee and/or Tea -
OtherBottled water
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OtherComfortable walking shoes for 4 km walk
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OtherGratuities
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OtherInsurance for guests such as accidents, theft
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Entrance feesAll spots to visit in this course
Meeting Point
At the East Exit of the station. If you come from Tokyo, it is one station before Kamakura Station. That Exit is at the end of the platform you just got off. (Unfortunately mark in the below map is incorrect in detail) A guide with a "Viator" paper will be there 5 minutes before the tour starts.
Yamanouchi, Kamakura, Kanagawa 247-0062 , Japan
End Point
This tour ends at Torii gate No. 3 of Kamakura Hachimangu Shrine. This spot is a central location to explore more. Kamakura station is 750 meters away, a ten-minute walk.
2-chōme-1-28 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0005 , Japan
What to expect
Walk 7 minutes. (see remarks) Meigetsu-In, known as "Hydrangea Temple" is famous nationwide with approximately 2,500 hydrangea varieties with beautiful blue colors from the end of May to the end of June. It is a Zen temple built in the late 14th century and there is a dry landscape garden, an inner garden (closed to the public), and a teahouse. Remarks) After the course briefing at the tour start, if you select Chouju-Ji Temple (open only from April to June, and October to early December) instead of Meigetsu In, this tour will not visit Meigetsu-In Temple rather go direct to Jouchi-Ji Temple then Chouju-Ji Temple.
33 minutes
Admission Not Included
Walk three minutes. Jochi-ji Temple is a very serene Zen temple. The temple is famous for its moss-covered approach, a building that houses an old Buddhist image, and Hotei Son (one of the seven gods of good fortune), who is located on a rock ledge carved out of the cliff, Yagura. It is said that if you stroke Hotei Son's belly, you will gain virtue, popularity, and energy.
45 minutes
Walk 9 minutes. Chouju-Ji Temple is a hidden Zen temple as it is almost inaccessible on the Web and has a limited open schedule for general tourists and is a beautiful temple that is a strong favorite among the locals. Visitors can relax on the porch, immerse themselves in flowers, moss, and green (or autumnal foliage), and enjoy the silence. Conversation is not recommended. There is no explanation in English. Only open on Friday to Sunday in April to June, and October to early December. Temporarily close to the public on days of rain.
33 minutes
Admission Not Included
Iwafune Jizodo
After walk over Kamegayasuzaka slop, 800 year old cut-through for 8 minutes, you will see small wooden building, related to tragedy in 12th centry samurai princess.
3 minutes
Kaizoji Temple
Walk 9 minutes. Kaizo-ji Temple is a Zen temple where beautiful flowers can be seen all year round. It is not so famous in terms of tourism, but is very popular among the locals. A tunnel behind the temple grounds leads to a cave with 16 round wells, dag in the early 14th century.
45 minutes
Admission Not Included
Jufukuji Temple
Walk 12 minutes. The tour stops at Jufuku-ji Temple's main gate and walks nearly 80 meters along the beautiful path to the middle gate. This will be an excellent photo opportunity. The temple grounds are not open to the public.
5 minutes
Walk 9 minutes. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is dedicated to the Hachiman God, the god of war who protects the Genji clan that founded the Kamakura Shogunate. This huge shrine was built under the patronage of the Kamakura Shogunate and remains a must-visit place for tourists in Kamakura. Today, the shrine is popular among Japanese people, with 2.5 million people paying homage to the shrine on New Year's Day. It has interesting facilities such as Torii gates, Maiden (dance hall), and Honden (main hall). Shirahata Shrine, a shrine of the Minamoto clan, is also located on the same site. It is an interesting place to learn about customs of Shintoism that is still widely believed in by the Japanese people today.
45 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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Not recommended for pregnant travelers -
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Wear comfortable walking shoes. -
Visit nearby Meigetsuin in June.
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End at Hachimangu Shrine for more sights.
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Bring cash for temple entrance fees.
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Try local sweets at shops nearby.
More About this Experience
Introduction:
Escape the tourist crowds and immerse yourself in the serenity of North Kamakura's hidden gems with this private tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide who has lived in the area for 40 years, this tour takes you to beautiful temples that are favored by the locals, offering a peaceful and authentic experience. Unlike the popular tourist attractions, these temples allow you to relax and appreciate their beauty in tranquility, surrounded by flowers, lush greenery, and the vibrant colors of autumn leaves if you visit in late fall. Delve into the history and traditions of Kamakura through the fascinating explanations provided by your guide, who will share intriguing stories such as the 900-year-old cut-through and the tragic tale of the princess enshrined in the Jizo Hall.What to Expect:
During this 180-minute tour, you can expect to visit iconic temples such as Meigetsuin (Hydrangea Temple), Jochiji Temple, Choujyuji Temple, Kaizo-ji Temple, Jufukuji Temple, and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. At Meigetsuin, admire the breathtaking beauty of approximately 2,500 varieties of hydrangeas during their blooming season. Explore Jochiji Temple's serene environment and stroke the belly of Hotei Son for good fortune and happiness. Experience the hidden oasis that is Choujyuji Temple, where you can immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance surrounded by flowers and greenery. Marvel at the beautiful flowers at Kaizo-ji Temple and discover the intriguing tunnel that leads to a cave with 16 round wells. Capture memorable photos at Jufukuji Temple's picturesque path and immerse yourself in the cultural significance of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, away from the tourist crowds. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this tour caters to a diverse range of individuals. Couples looking for a romantic getaway, solo travelers in search of self-reflection, or families wanting to explore the cultural heritage of Kamakura will all find this tour highly engaging and informative. The personalized experience of a private tour ensures that you can explore at your own pace and delve deeper into the rich history and traditions of Kamakura.Why Book This?
Experience Kamakura like a true local with this private tour, led by a guide who has deep roots in the community. Unlike regular tourist guides sent from Tokyo, your guide's local perspective provides you with authentic insights into the history, customs, and traditions of Kamakura. As you journey through the temples, you will discover hidden stories and gain a deeper appreciation for the people who lived here centuries ago. Being a private tour, you can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the temples without being interrupted by other groups. The tour ends at noon, allowing you the freedom to explore Kamakura on your own in the afternoon and discover even more hidden gems.Good to Know:
It is important to note that the tour duration is 180 minutes and the meeting point is at the west exit of Kita-kamakura (North-Kamakura) Station, one station before Kamakura Station. You will easily recognize your guide, who will be holding a "Viator" paper. The tour includes visits to Meigetsuin (Hydrangea Temple), Jochiji Temple, Choujyuji Temple, Kaizo-ji Temple, Jufukuji Temple, and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Some temples have limited accessibility or specific visiting schedules, so it's recommended to check in advance. Keep in mind that there are no explanations in English at Choujyuji Temple, and the temple is only open on specific days. Wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved, and consider bringing a camera to capture the natural beauty and historical sites.Reviews:
Travelers who have experienced this private tour rave about the unique and peaceful atmosphere of the visited temples. They praise the guide's extensive knowledge and storytelling ability, which adds a layer of depth and understanding to the tour. Visitors express their appreciation for the chance to explore Kamakura's hidden gems and escape the tourist crowds. Many reviewers highlight the guide's passion for the tour course and their ability to create a personalized experience. Overall, customers are highly satisfied with the tour, describing it as informative, relaxing, and an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in Kamakura's history and culture.
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