Kamakura Great Buddha, Temple, Shrine Private Day Tour from Tokyo

Tokyo , Japan

Kamakura Great Buddha, Temple, Shrine Private Day Tour from Tokyo

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About this experience

Kamakura is a small historic town that became the first samurai government center in the late 12th century. Surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing the ocean, its natural geography made it easy to defend against invasions. Kamakura is also famous for its many Zen Buddhist temples and for housing one of Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statues at Kotokuin Temple. Our experienced, licensed English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout this charming town, sharing stories of how the samurai rose to power after the emperor’s reign and how Zen Buddhism spread during that era. It’s the perfect one-day trip when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and enjoy a peaceful, serene atmosphere.

Available options

1-Day Kamakura Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Round trip tickets from and to your hotel to Tokyo Station

Licensed English-speaking guide

Round trip Green Car tickets from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station

Detailed itinerary

Once you’ve been picked up, we’ll take a subway or local train to a major hub such as Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, or Shinagawa. From there, we’ll board the JR Yokosuka Line (or the Shonan-Shinjuku Line) to Kamakura Station, which takes approximately one hour. We’ll travel in the luxurious Green Car for both the outbound and return journeys. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a comfortable and scenic ride to Kamakura!

Stop 2

statue of the Great Buddha in Kamakura is one of the most famous Buddhist statues in Japan. Since the wooden hall that once housed it was destroyed long ago, the statue now sits outdoors, beautifully framed by greenery and sky. It has been designated as a National Treasure.

This renowned local temple is located on a hillside overlooking a stunning ocean view. It has a long history, and its principal image is a tall statue of Kannon Bodhisattva, carved from a single solid tree. During the rainy season, the temple attracts many visitors who come to see the countless hydrangea flowers in full bloom across the temple grounds.

We’ll take a local train (Enoden) to Kamakura Station, then stroll through the famous Komachi Street, a lively shopping lane lined with souvenir shops, street food stands, and restaurants. For lunch, you can choose between an authentic Japanese-style meal or a unique Western-style dish with Japanese influences.

Stop 5

This is one of the most renowned Shinto shrines in Japan, located on the former site of the first samurai government. Here, you’ll learn how the samurai rose to power and ruled the nation for centuries. The shrine is also home to many unique examples of Shinto architecture that are well worth seeing.

From the shrine, we’ll take a bus to Hokokuji Temple, a renowned Zen Buddhist temple known for its stunning bamboo grove and beautiful dry landscape garden of sand and rocks. In this peaceful setting, you can enjoy a cup of matcha tea at a serene teahouse nestled within the bamboo forest.

We’ll take the JR Yokosuka Line back to Tokyo on the comfortable Green Car, arriving at a major station such as Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Shinagawa, or Ikebukuro in about one hour. From there, your guide will escort you back to your hotel using the subway.

What's not included

Gratuity

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A subway or local JR train will be used after picking you up at your hotel, and the same applies for the drop-off service.

If your hotel is situated outside our designated pick-up range and alternative transportation, such as a subway, is not feasible, guests are responsible for covering the fare. This includes the cost for both the guide's transportation to the first destination and from the last destination back to your hotel.

Due to weather condition or other operational reasons, the itinerary may be subject to change or certain visits may be omitted or substituted. Even in such circumstances, the tour may not be canceled, and the tour fare will not be refunded.

The tour involves a good amount of walking including many staircases outdoors. We suggest wearing sneakers or comfortable shoes.

Please prepare rain gear, such as umbrella or a raincoat, in case of bad weather.

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)

Odaiba

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Vegan and vegetarian options available.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Parasailing at Odaiba Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional tea ceremonies Kimono rentals and photo shoots Boat tours on the Sumida River Beach activities at Odaiba

Best Time to Visit

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

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 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

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

By bus

Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko

120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Kamakura

50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day

Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Hakone

90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.

Festivals

Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years) Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years) Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July

Pro tips

Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.