Kamakura Hidden Gems and Sacred Sites Private Tour

Kamakura , Japan

Kamakura Hidden Gems and Sacred Sites Private Tour

Active

(1 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the serene beauty and spiritual energy of Kamakura on a 4.5-hour tour. Visit sacred shrines, tranquil gardens, and historical temples, from the unique "Yaku-wari" at Kamakura Shrine to the peaceful bamboo groves of Hokoku-ji. End the journey with a visit to the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu and a delicious local lunch.

Available options

Kamakura Hidden Gems and Sacred Sites Private Tour

What's included

Visit to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, the most famous shrine in Kamakura

Experience visiting hidden gems of Kamakura that many tourists don't know about.

Professional Guide

A visit to a Zen garden of power and serenity

Detailed itinerary

Kamakura Shrine is known for its historical significance, having been established to enshrine the guardian deities of the Kamakura shogunate. It offers a peaceful space for visitors, where you can participate in the unique "Yaku-wari" ritual, which involves breaking a sacred object to symbolically remove bad luck and misfortune. The shrine’s tranquil atmosphere and surrounding nature make it an ideal starting point for this spiritual tour.

Zuisen-ji Temple is home to a stunning Japanese garden carved out of natural rock. This dynamic garden, featuring a unique design that incorporates the natural rock formations, provides visitors with a breathtaking view of the stonework, water features, and lush greenery. The dramatic contrast between the rocky landscape and the delicate elements of the garden creates a powerful and serene atmosphere, perfect for those seeking both beauty and awe-inspiring peace.

Sugimoto-dera Temple is one of Kamakura’s oldest temples, offering a tranquil environment. The temple is known for its moss-covered stairs and thatched-roof main hall, providing visitors with a serene atmosphere to reflect and connect with history.

Hokoku-ji Temple is a Zen temple known for its stunning bamboo forest. The bamboo grove creates a peaceful space for meditation, while the surrounding gardens offer a traditional Japanese aesthetic, perfect for quiet reflection.

Komachi Street is Kamakura’s vibrant shopping street. Here, you can enjoy local delicacies, try famous snacks, and shop for unique souvenirs. It’s an excellent place to relax and enjoy the lively local atmosphere.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is Kamakura’s most iconic shrine, dedicated to the god of war. The expansive grounds, with ponds, cherry blossoms, and grand torii gates, offer a historical and spiritual experience, making it a perfect conclusion to the tour.

What's not included

Transportation, food and beverage expenses within the tour

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 2.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In front of the east ticket gate of Kamakura Station. The guide will be holding the yellow sign.

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.