Kamakura , Japan

Kamakura Private Custom Tour

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(4 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Kamakura used to be a center of politics in the 12th century.

There are many historical places from that period. There are lots of shrines and temples.

We use public transportation to visit sites.

Since we are using public transportation to get around the area, we may be able to visit 3 or 4 spots.

I will arrange the itinerary depending on your interests and needs.

Available options

Kamakura Private Custom Tour

What's included

Guide’s admission fee if any

Guide’s transportation fee

English speaking professional guide

Guide’s lunch fee

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This Buddhist temple is famous for Open-Air Buddha.

You can climb inside of the Great Buddha just like the Statue of Liberty in the U.S.　*see below

Admission fee: \200/adults, \150/elementary school kids,
*if you want to go inside the Great Buddha, extra 20yen per person is needed.

Stop 2

Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine is one of the popular shrines in Japan.

This Shinto Shrine was originally built in the middle of 12th century.

After several generations, Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first Shogun in Kamakura Shogunate moved.

This Buddhist temple is famous for its eleven-faced statue of Kannon.

Kannon is the Goddess of Mercy. She saves people from sufferings.

This temple also has a beautiful flower garden. In June, hydrangea flowers are in full bloom.
*admission fee: \300/adults, \100/elementary school children

This temple was built in 1188, one of the fifth great zen temple.

We can have Japanese powdered green tea called macha with sweets here.

Admission fee: \100/adults (over 14 year olds), \50/children(less than 15year old)

This street is the main streed of Kamakura. There are lots of shops, stall, and restaurants.

Since Kamakura is very close to the sea, there are lots of good seafood restaurants.

It is said that the vegetables harvested in Kamakura are very fresh an good.

What's not included

Your transportation fee(in Kamakura, we are going to use a train and a bus)

Hase-dera Temple

Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Kamakura

Kamakura is a historic city known as the ancient capital of Japan, rich in Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and traditional architecture. Its coastal location and scenic beauty make it a popular destination for both cultural and nature lovers.

Top Attractions

Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine

A significant Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Hachiman, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura)

Home to a massive bronze statue of Amida Buddha, one of Kamakura's most iconic landmarks.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Komachi-dori

A bustling street filled with traditional shops, restaurants, and souvenir stalls.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Hasedera Temple

A beautiful temple complex with stunning ocean views and a history dating back to the 8th century.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Zeniarai Benten Shrine

A unique shrine where visitors can wash money for good fortune, located in a serene forested area.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free (donations appreciated)

Kamakura Beach

A popular beach for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, offering beautiful ocean views.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (rentals available)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shirasu Don

A bowl of rice topped with fresh whitebait, a local delicacy.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish

Kamaboko

Fish cakes with various shapes and flavors, often served as a snack or part of a larger meal.

Snack Contains fish

Houtou

A hearty vegetable and noodle soup, often made with local produce.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Matcha Sweets

Traditional sweets made with matcha (green tea), a specialty of the region.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding hills Beach activities Onsen (hot spring) visits Scenic walks Temple and shrine visits Traditional crafts workshops Swimming Surfing

Best Time to Visit

April (cherry blossom season), November (autumn foliage)

These periods offer the most pleasant weather and stunning natural scenery, attracting large crowds of tourists.

15-25°C (April), 10-20°C (November) 59-77°F (April), 50-68°F (November)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kamakura is a very safe destination with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
• Be cautious of your surroundings at night, especially in less touristy areas.

Getting there

By air

Haneda Airport • 50 km from Kamakura
Narita Airport • 100 km from Kamakura

By train

Kamakura Station

By bus

Kamakura Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The JR Yokosuka Line connects Kamakura to Tokyo and Yokohama, while the Enoden Line offers a scenic route along the coast.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Komachi-dori Hase Yuigahama Zaimokuza

Day trips

Enoshima Island

10 km from Kamakura • Half day

A small island known for its scenic views, shrines, and caves, offering a mix of nature and culture.

Yokohama

30 km from Kamakura • Full day

A major city with a rich history, known for its Chinatown, museums, and waterfront attractions.

Hakone

50 km from Kamakura • Full day or overnight

A scenic onsen (hot spring) town known for its views of Mount Fuji, traditional ryokan (inns), and hot springs.

Festivals

Kamakura Festival • April (specific dates vary) Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Reitaisai • September 14-15 Great Buddha Festival • December (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Great Buddha early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Explore the Enoden Line for a scenic and historic tram ride along the coast.
Try local specialties like shirasu (whitebait) and kamaboko (fish cakes).
Combine a visit to Kamakura with a day trip to nearby Enoshima or Hakone.
Carry cash for small purchases and local markets, as not all places accept cards.