Private Temples and Nature in North Kamakura Walking Tour

Kamakura , Japan

Private Temples and Nature in North Kamakura Walking Tour

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This private Kamakura walking tour takes you through some of the city’s most beautiful and spiritual spots, including Engaku-ji, Meigetsu-in (the “Hydrangea Temple”), and Kencho-ji, the oldest Zen temple in Kamakura.

Enjoy a relaxing stroll surrounded by moss gardens, stone paths, and seasonal flowers, while your English-speaking local guide shares the history and stories behind each sacred site.
Unlike crowded group tours, this experience is fully customizable — perfect for photography lovers or anyone seeking a calm escape.

✔️ Explore Kamakura’s most beautiful Zen temples surrounded by lush nature

✔️ Feel the calm of bamboo groves and moss gardens away from the crowds

✔️ Enjoy a private, customizable experience with an English-speaking local guide

✔️ Existing itinerary can be adjusted according to your preference. Please let us know at the time of booking.

Available options

Private Temples and Nature in North Kamakura Walking Tour

What's included

Local English-speaking guide

Cashless medical treatment in case of injury or illness during the tour.

Detailed itinerary

This tour starts at Kita-Kamakura Station.

Stop 2

Engaku-ji.
A grand Zen temple featuring sweeping views, moss gardens, and a massive bell echoing serenity through the valley.

✨ Especially beautiful in autumn, when red and gold leaves frame the temple grounds.

A peaceful temple hidden among bamboo groves and stone paths — perfect for quiet reflection.

Visitors often describe it as a hidden oasis, where time seems to slow down.

Known as the “Hydrangea Temple,” its round window frames seasonal landscapes like a living painting.

In early summer, hydrangeas bloom in full glory — a magical sight that attracts photographers worldwide.

Kamakura’s largest Zen temple, with grand halls, serene ponds, and a scenic forest trail behind the temple.

Climb the small trail behind the temple to enjoy panoramic views of Kamakura and the distant ocean.

Stop 6

The symbolic shrine of Kamakura — with red bridges, lotus ponds, and a peaceful spiritual atmosphere.

⛩️ A must-visit for anyone exploring Kamakura — where history, culture, and nature beautifully meet.

Optional:
Before ending the tour, you may stop by a local café or souvenir shop near Kamakura Station.

What's not included

Other personal expenses

Admission fees for temples/facilities (paid on-site). Total based on the current itinerary, which can be adjusted; fees may change accordingly.

Public transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour involves long walks and is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Meeting point

Guide will be waiting for you near the West exit of Kita-Kamakura Station.

We will contact you via the chat tool beforehand to connect you with your assigned guide and share the details of the meeting point.
The guide will also share his outfit of the day so you can easily recognize him.

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.