Private Kamakura Custom Day Tour by Chartered Vehicle from Tokyo

Asakusa , Japan

Private Kamakura Custom Day Tour by Chartered Vehicle from Tokyo

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If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

By booking this private tour of Kamakura by chartered vehicle, you can explore the city on a day trip from Tokyo with your group of family or friends in a vehicle with a professional guide.

Visit sites like the Great Buddha or Kencho Temple, and enjoy traveling in a private setting, meaning you don't have to hurry for or wait on other passengers. When booking, select either a guided tour or a tour with a driver only, no guide.

Kamakura is a historical and scenic city located approximately 50 kilometers south of Tokyo, Japan. Renowned for its rich history, the city flourished during the Kamakura period (1185–1333), characterized by the thriving samurai culture and the coexistence of Buddhism, giving rise to a unique code of chivalry and literary expression.

Available options

Guided Tour (5-8 people)

A bilingual tour guide and driver will be arranged for up to 8 people.<br/>Pickup included

Guided tour (1-4 people)

A driver and bilingual tour guide will be arranged for up to 4 people.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Local guide (if option selected)

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Driver

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Located in Kamakura, Kōtoku-in Temple is home to the world-famous Great Buddha. This bronze statue of Amida Buddha stands 13.35 meters tall and has remained outdoors for centuries, symbolizing the city’s rich history. Visitors can admire its serene expression and even step inside the statue to see its unique construction. A must-see cultural icon of Japan.

Hase-dera is a historic temple in Kamakura, famous for its impressive 11-faced Kannon statue, one of the largest wooden Buddhist statues in Japan. The temple grounds feature beautiful seasonal gardens, ponds, and a scenic observation deck with sweeping views of Kamakura and the sea. Visitors can also explore caves with Buddhist carvings and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere year-round.

Founded in 1253, Kencho-ji is the oldest Zen training monastery in Kamakura and ranks first among the Five Great Zen Temples of Kamakura. Visitors can admire its majestic Sanmon Gate, Butsuden (main hall), and the peaceful Zen garden designed by renowned monk Muso Soseki. The spacious temple grounds also offer hiking trails leading to scenic viewpoints over Kamakura and the sea.

Stop 4

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine, founded in 1063 by the Minamoto clan. Dedicated to Hachiman, the god of warriors, it is closely linked to the rise of the samurai. Visitors can walk along the grand approach lined with cherry trees, climb the wide stone steps to the main hall, and enjoy seasonal beauty such as peonies and lotus ponds. The shrine is also the center of Kamakura’s major festivals, including the famous yabusame (horseback archery).

Komachi Street is a lively shopping street near Kamakura Station, lined with traditional shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy strolling through its narrow lanes, tasting local specialties such as matcha sweets, rice crackers, and purple sweet potato snacks, or browsing souvenirs and handicrafts. It is a perfect place to experience Kamakura’s charm, combining history with modern culture.

What's not included

Gratuities

Tour guide (if option not selected)

Guide's admission fees, if you select the tour option with a guide

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Asakusa

Asakusa is one of Tokyo's most colorful and traditional districts, famous for its historic temples, vibrant streets, and rich cultural heritage. This area offers a glimpse into old Edo-era Tokyo, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic Japanese experiences.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple complex includes the main hall, a five-story pagoda, and various shops and stalls.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture/Observation Deck 2-3 hours ¥2,100-¥3,100 (depending on the deck)

Sumida River Cruise

A relaxing cruise along the Sumida River offers stunning views of Tokyo's skyline, including the Tokyo Skytree and Rainbow Bridge.

Scenic/Boat Tour 1 hour ¥1,000-¥1,500 (depending on the route)

Edo-Tokyo Museum

This museum showcases the history and culture of Edo-era Tokyo through life-sized replicas, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

Museum 1-2 hours ¥600 (adults), ¥300 (children)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, often served with dipping sauce.

Main Dish Contains gluten (soy sauce in the dipping sauce).

Unagi (Grilled Eel)

Grilled eel glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce, served over rice.

Main Dish Contains fish and soy.

Melon Pan

A sweet bread roll with a crispy cookie-like crust, resembling a melon.

Dessert Contains wheat and dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Sumo wrestling matches in Ryogoku Onsen (hot spring) visits Sumida River Cruise Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies Boat tours on Sumida River Swimming at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring offers cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

Japan Standard Time (JST, GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Asakusa is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing services.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km from Asakusa
Haneda Airport • 20 km from Asakusa

By train

Asakusa Station

By bus

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, Ueno Station

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and covers most of Tokyo. Asakusa Station is a major hub.

Taxis

Available • Apps: DiDi, JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Asakusa Sumida Ueno

Day trips

Nikko

120 km from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning shrines, temples, and natural beauty. The area offers a mix of cultural and outdoor activities.

Kamakura

50 km from Tokyo • Full day

Kamakura is a historic city known for its temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It offers a mix of cultural and outdoor activities.

Hakone

80 km from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a popular onsen (hot spring) town known for its scenic views, hot springs, and cultural attractions. It offers a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Sanja Matsuri • Third weekend of May Asakusa Shinto Festival • Mid-June

Pro tips

Visit Senso-ji Temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Try traditional snacks and sweets at the stalls along Nakamise Shopping Street, such as senbei (rice crackers) and ningyo-yaki (sweet bean paste cakes).
Take a Sumida River Cruise for stunning views of Tokyo's skyline, including the Tokyo Skytree and Rainbow Bridge.
Explore the lesser-known temples and shrines in Asakusa, such as Asakusa Shrine and Tokyo Daijingu, for a more authentic and less crowded experience.
Experience a traditional tea ceremony to learn about the art and history of matcha (green tea) preparation.