A Day in Kamakura: Best Things to Do in Japan’s Historic Coastal City

With a California beach vibe, Kamakura has one of the most important and beautiful Shinto shrines, the Great Buddha, which is surrounded by nature and plenty of cute boutiques for people to spend time browsing and shopping.

The city has an unmatched energy that has people coming back almost every weekend. Here are some fun things everyone should check out.

The Great Buddha, A Sight to Behold

Otherwise known as the Great Buddha of Kamakura, the Kamakura Daibutsu is found within Kōtoku-in Temple and is the prized possession to locals. It reflects the artistic and spiritual influence of Pure Land Buddhism, which was especially prominent in the Kamakura period. This centuries-old statue has withstood tsunamis and typhoons.

The Great Buddha is about a 15-minute walk from Hase Station on the Enoden Line. Hidden within the beautiful garden-styled setting, the Buddha’s head sticks up from the top of the trees. 

There is a section where travelers can receive a goshuin (stamp) commemorating their visit, purchase lucky charms and rest. For a small fee, people can also walk inside of the Buddha’s hollow interior.

Japanese Beaches, with a Touch of California Spirit

For surfers or people who want to experience Japan’s waves, Kamakura:

• Shichirigahama Beach: This one is great for intermediate surfers and is known for its powerful and big waves. Beachgoers enjoy watching from the side while casual surfers dive right in with their board, especially during a typhoon swell. It isn’t very crowded and has beautiful views of Enoshima and Mt. Fuji on clear days.
• Yuigahama Beach: Many say this one is much more relaxed compared to some of the other popular spots, making it perfect for beginner surfers and longboarders. Its mellowness is ideal for impromptu surf days and is family-friendly with a great atmosphere.
• Inamuragasaki Beach: For the bold and experienced surfers who are not afraid of crashing waves, this is the beach to catch some real waves. The beach has a great reef and point break, offering some of the best quality waves in the area depending on the weather.

Kamakura’s Shrines: Peaceful, Spiritual and Surrounded by Nature

Being a city rich in history, culture and spirituality, Kamakura contains some of the best shrines in Japan:

• Tsurugaoka Hachimangū: As Kamakura’s most significant Shinto shrine, Tsurugaoka Hachimangū—dedicated to Hachiman, the patron deity of warriors—is deeply tied to Japan’s samurai culture. It is located at the heart of the city, with its grand staircase, lotus ponds and a popular venue for seasonal festivals. With its vivid color and lively atmosphere, this shrine is a perfect place for photos. They also hold festivals every so often.
• Hasedera Temple: Completely submerged in a gorgeous natural setting, Hasedera Temple has a very peaceful and calming energy. Since it is built on a hillside, you can catch great views of Yuigahama Beach. This Buddhist temple is famous for its nine-meter-tall 11-headed statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Hasedera Temple is most beautiful during hydrangea season in June, when all of the temple’s gardens are in bloom. 
• Engaku-ji and Kencho-ji: These two Zen temples are Kamakura locals’ go-to spots as they had a major cultural impact during the samurai era. Engaku-ji features peaceful gardens, ancient wooden halls and a notable shariden said to house a tooth of the Buddha. Kencho-ji includes a massive sanmon gate, beautiful pond garden and wooded trails leading up to panoramic views of Kamakura.

Scenic Trails and Nature

Filled with beautiful forests offering peaceful and serene escapes from Tokyo’s bustling city, Kamakura was made for nature lovers. Many hiking trails connect the many temples, shrines and panoramic viewpoints.

One popular route is the Daibutsu Hiking Trail, linked to Kōtoku-in with Hasedera Temple and Jōchi-ji Temple in Kita-Kamakura. The serene woods and quiet backroads revealed coastal views and during clear skies, Mt. Fuji.

Quick Bites

Another Day Coffee & Food is the perfect space for a quick and delicious breakfast, lunch or snack. They also have small workspaces that people can rent to seclude themselves from the bustle in the main lounge space.

This café has a modern feel, free Wi-Fi, is family-friendly and is situated next to Kamakura Station and the beach. They have sandwiches and salad bowls with fresh vegetables and variations such as spicy chicken with lemon‑mustard dressing, boiled shrimp with sesame dressing or completely vegetarian options. They also have an extensive coffee selection.

Another popular coffee brunch with a cozy atmosphere and warm energy is Slow Rush Coffee, a two minute walk from Kamakura Station along Onarimachi. 

They offer a variety of drinks including the classic hand-dripped coffee, Fukuoka’s Coffee County. They also offer quality pairings such as plant‑based, sugar- and butter‑free desserts. Specialty collaborations such as vegan curry, coffee cannelé and anniversary blends are also featured during special events.