Kamakura Private Custom Tour: Great Buddha, Temples & Coast

Kamakura , Japan

Kamakura Private Custom Tour: Great Buddha, Temples & Coast

Active

3h - 6h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a private journey through Kamakura with an experienced multilingual guide. Choose from 3-, 4-, or 6-hour tours to suit your schedule. This personalized experience lets you savor Kamakura’s rich mix of history, culture, nature, and food. From the Great Buddha and serene bamboo groves to historic temples and lively Komachi Street, pick the spots that inspire you most. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, even broad requests become a satisfying itinerary. To include Yuigahama Beach or Enoshima, opt for the 4- or 6-hour course. Travel is by public transport and on foot, ensuring an authentic and relaxed experience.

Highlights
・Explore Kamakura’s landmarks at your own pace
・Marvel at the towering Great Buddha
・Feel the tranquility of bamboo forests and Zen temples
・Savor local flavors along bustling Komachi Street
・Take in panoramic views from Hasedera Temple’s hilltop
・Meet your guide at Kamakura Station for a smooth start

Available options

4 hour Kamakura Private Tour

Duration: 4 hours

3 hour Kamakura Private Tour

6 hour Kamakura Private Tour

Duration: 6 hours

What's included

A multilingual guide with expert knowledge of Kamakura

Flexible start times and durations - Pick your preferred duration when you book

Pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the experience to your preferences

Detailed itinerary

Let’s visit the most important shrine in Kamakura. Founded by Minamoto no Yoritomo, the shogun who rose to the pinnacle of the samurai, this shrine invites you to stroll along its majestic approach, climb its iconic stone steps, and admire the main hall and dance pavilion. Here, you can also learn about the history of the samurai and the cultural heritage of this sacred site.

Wander along this lively shopping street filled with cafés, local snack shops, and souvenir stores. Enjoy food tasting such as traditional Japanese sweets, matcha desserts, and regional specialties while browsing for unique crafts and gifts.

Discover the famous temple of the Eleven-Headed Kannon statue and enjoy seasonal flowers throughout the year. From the temple grounds, take in panoramic views of Sagami Bay.

Stop 4

Marvel at the iconic Great Buddha, a national treasure of Japan. Stand before the massive bronze statue and, if you wish, step inside to see its unique interior. Learn about its history and craftsmanship. Admission: ¥300 (adults). Additional ¥50 for entering inside the statue.

Stroll through a serene bamboo grove and enjoy a cup of matcha tea at a traditional tea house. Experience the quiet and contemplative atmosphere of Zen culture. Admission: ¥300 (adults).

Relax on this beautiful beach, perfect for a seaside stroll or watching the sunset. Capture stunning photos and enjoy the calm coastal atmosphere.

Explore this charming island just off the coast. Visit Enoshima Shrine, climb to the observation tower for sweeping ocean views, or venture into the mystical caves. Don’t miss the fresh seafood restaurants that the island is famous for.

What's not included

Public transportation

Temple admission fees can be paid directly on-site.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our meeting spot is in front of the clock tower at Kamakura Station’s West Exit (the old station building). Upon arrival, please look for your guide holding a sign. If you have any questions or need assistance on the day, feel free to contact us.

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.