Kamakura: Visit Great Buddha and shopping experience

Kamakura , Japan

Kamakura: Visit Great Buddha and shopping experience

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About this experience

Kotokuin Temple is famous for having the three largest Buddha statues in Japan. You will be amazed at its size. It is also the only temple in the deeply historical city of Kamakura where you can even enter the inside of the Great Buddha. It is also a popular spot for tourists of all nationalities. After visiting Kotokuin, enjoy shopping for Kamakura souvenirs! You can see everything from famous ninja weapons such as shuriken and swords to more familiar items such as magnets and playing cards.

Available options

Kamakura: Visit Great Buddha and shopping experience

What's included

Entrance fee to the womb of the Great Buddha

tour guide

Entrance fee for Kotokuin Temple (visit to the Great Buddha)

Detailed itinerary

The store sells a variety of bean products and is famous in Japan.
Why not buy a variety of souvenirs?

A representative temple of Kamakura. It is home to the Great Buddha of Kamakura and is crowded with many people from Japan and abroad. It is a place worth visiting at least once if you visit Kamakura.
It is one of the three great Buddha statues in Japan (Kamakura, Nara, and Gifu).
It is the only temple in the deeply historical city of Kamakura where you can even enter the Great Buddha.

This souvenir shop is located in front of the Daibutsu-sama gate.
Once inside the store, you will be surprised to see a display of imitation swords and other weapons.
This store has a very good selection of shuriken and swords.
If you find something you like, you can buy it.

Visitors can shop for souvenirs of Kamakura and other Japanese cultural items at the stores.
We hope you will find your favorite souvenirs to remember your trip to Japan.

What's not included

Shopping cost at each stores (it depends on the guest and store)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Let's meet in front of Tully's Coffee.

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.