Top Attractions and Activities in Kamakura, Japan – Your Perfect Coastal Getaway

Less than a two hour trip from Tokyo is Kamakura, Japan. A small town so striking, it’s been the setting for dozens of Japanese movies, anime series, and even music videos.

It is also a destination in its own right and there are plenty of things to do in Kamakura making it a must visit destination in Japan.

Once the very real battleground of Samurai and Ninja, Tokyoites and savvy tourists flock to the seaside every weekend to escape the fast-paced city life, devour fresh seafood, and visit temples.

Best Things to do in Kamakura

I was fortunate to secure a volunteer position in a 200-year-old traditional Japanese house nestled in the family-friendly neighborhood of Inamuragaski where I began my explorations.

While working at an Airbnb is hardly something remarkable, my time off was enchanting enough to inspire a full-length Ghibli film.

One thing’s for certain—if you visit Kamakura, you should conclude your days by watching the sun dip behind Mt. Fuji and stroll along the beach by moonlight, witnessing the black volcanic sand shimmering as if made of diamond dust.

There’s so much to see in Kamakura that you should probably determine where not to go right away. Here’s my personal “if you miss this, you didn’t go” list.

1. Kamakura Shopping Street

Take the East exit at JR Kamakura station, you’ll immediately see a buzz of interesting shops selling everything from specialty foods to patterned hankies.

Continue left towards the giant red torii gate, where you will find the entrance to Komachi Street—be prepared to pull out your wallet.

It all starts with a Ghibli shop overflowing with memorabilia (giant Totoro plushie anyone?) and builds up to chopsticks, jewelry, colorful cloth, art, and street food.

Various Kimono rental shops are ready and waiting to dress you up for a traditional day out.

Worried about cultural appropriation? I asked several Japanese friends if foreigners wearing traditional Japanese garb was offensive, and every single person expressed joy that tourists engage with their culture, so don’t hold back!

Be aware that the wooden shoes (called geta) will start to hurt your toes after a couple of hours!

If you’re really lucky, you might spot the elusive chihuahua man. Why he has so many tiny dogs remains a mystery.

2. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

This beautiful shrine is about a 20-minute walk from the shopping street, through a couple of massive torii gates.

The stone stairway leading up to the scarlet main shrine is striking enough to justify the walk.

After descending the steps, head left and enjoy quality people watching at the best public Japanese lily pond I’ve ever seen.

In summer and early autumn, you’ll find children and adults enthusiastically feeding giant koi and small grass turtles—named for their lime green spots.

In autumn and winter, while the lilies and turtles disappear, the koi remain as plump and hungry as ever.

3. Hasedera Temple

One day, two monks carved intricate statues of the god of mercy—Kannon—out of a single, towering tree trunk.

They cast one statue into the ocean, sending with it prayers for good fortune wherever it would land. Years later, the entire wooden Kannon washed ashore near Kannonyama mountain.

The Hase-Dera temple was constructed in honor of the good omen, with the Kannon statue enshrined and coated in dazzling gold leaf.

This is genuinely my favorite temple in Japan.

It features a spectacular view of Kamakura, one of the most awe-inspiring statues I’ve ever encountered, a small cave network dedicated to women, thousands of Jizo statues, and over 2500 species of Hydrangea to boot.

It’s perpetually blooming and always gorgeous. If you visit just one temple in Japan, make it this one.

4. Enoshima Island

On the tiny island of Enoshima, shrines greatly outnumber residents. At the lowest level, you’ll discover restaurants and street food stalls offering all kinds of fresh seafood.

Be sure to try the pressed octopus cracker called ‘tako-senbei,’ which goes “squeeeee” when pressed into shape.

Each level of the island is enchanting in its own right, but the top is genuinely magnificent.

Named the Sea Candle, a structure sits at the highest point of the island, serving as a lighthouse for boats, a viewpoint for tourists, and a cell phone tower for all.

5. View of Mount Fuji

From the top, you can enjoy an incredible view of Mt. Fuji and endless vistas of the ocean.

If you’ve got spare time, an incredible onsen and spa on the island features both traditional split onsen baths and mixed outdoor hot pools that require a bathing suit.

The indoor onsen includes a carbonated pool, so if you’ve ever dreamed of soaking in a fizzy drink, this is your opportunity.

Fun Fact: For sailing enthusiasts like me, Enoshima also hosted the sailing Olympics in 2020.

6. Inamuragaski Park and Beach

Although I think Inamuragasaki Park is picturesque at every moment, it truly shines during sunset.

The park is right on the beach and includes a gigantic rocky overhang that gently slopes into dramatic crashing waves. Photographers flock to this rock to capture shots of Mt. Fuji framed by the setting sun.

It’s a famous location in films, where heartfelt reconciliations and love confessions unfold.

Every day I spent in Kamakura, I would head down to this beach with ice cream, Japanese beer, or green tea in hand and watch the sun tragically sink below the waves.

For Photographers: This is the prime spot for the elusive ‘Diamond Fuji’ where the setting sun touches the peak, making the volcano look like a diamond ring.

Other Cool Things to do in Kamakura

If you don’t get to these it won’t be a major loss, but I highly recommend checking them out if you are staying for more than one day.

7. Secret Retro Base

Pop open a sugary Ramune drink and play old games on classic consoles while trying your hand at Japanese board games.

The Japanese man who owns this store cherishes his shop and lives a uniquely interesting yet simple life—it’s worth chatting with him over a game of Super Mario to learn his life story.

The store is a hidden gem, but ask the owner for directions to find it easily.

8. Kotoku-in Temple – Kamakura Buddha

Home to one of the largest sitting Buddhas in Japan, The Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple is a must-visit in Kamakura.

The temple’s walls and roof were blown away during a powerful storm, leaving the bronze Buddha to brave the elements since.

9. Hokokuji Temple

Pop in to explore the small bamboo forest and center your mind with a delightful green tea ceremony.

There are plenty of things to experience in Kamakura’s natural scenery, and besides the beautiful bamboo forest, be sure to visit during cherry blossom season when the trees are in full bloom.

10. Zeniarai Benten Shrine

Where you wash your money in a natural spring and hope for it to multiply into wealth.

11. Surfing on Inamuragaski Beach

If you’re a proficient surfer, head toward the beach and rent a board. Local surfers are always eager to share a wave.

Why Visit Kamakura

Japanese train enthusiasts flock to Kamakura just to snap a photo with the historic Endoen Train.

The first station opened in 1902, more than a century ago, and its old-school charm remains strong.

Packed to capacity on weekends, mornings, and evenings, it’s likely you won’t get a seat unless you are first in line at the Kamakura station.

The train boasts a deep green hue coupled with plush seats draped in faded red velvet.

12. Endless Beaches

The Endoen hugs the coastline, weaving through neighborhoods and running in parallel to the main road.

Main stops include Hase, Inamuragasaki, and Enoshima.

The train presents a beautiful sight as it rumbles through pedestrian crossings, leading many tourists to hop off at smaller stations to capture a memorable crossing picture—it’s such an iconic view.

An anime has even featured one crossing in its opening theme.

Tip: Ticket prices can accumulate quickly and are somewhat pricey. I recommend purchasing a day pass if you plan on making more than three stops (including your return trip).

Getting Around Kamakura

Having Google Maps installed and connected is essential if you intend to navigate train routes and uncover the more secluded shrines without getting lost.

I highly recommend acquiring a tourist sim card or as a backup, depending on the free (but often patchy) WiFi available at convenience stores like FamilyMart.

Kamakura is an effortless and convenient train ride from Tokyo, taking up to two hours. You will arrive at Hase Station, which is near many of the prominent Kamakura tourist attractions.

Instead of aimlessly scrolling through your social media, look out the window as the city seamlessly fades into the countryside and see if you can spot traditional houses, zen temples, and rice paddies in the distance.

13. Bicycle Rental

I’ll confess, my first bicycle ride in Kamakura did not go effortlessly.

I wobbled like a novice due to the thin road tires, and my French friend chuckled at my overall inexperience.

However, after a brief refresher and a minor tumble, I was pleased I persisted in this somewhat strenuous mode of transport.

Kamakura offers plenty of challenging hills, stunning panoramas, and quaint roadside shops, but the best ride is along the coastline opposite the railway line.

14. Beautiful Scenery

Right next to the deep blue ocean, you’ll catch views of Mt. Fuji on clear days, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the seaside.

Waves crashing over rocks, seagulls and hawks soaring in the sky, and the persistent mid-pitched “ding ding ding” of train crossings will provide you with all the motivation you require to reach your destination.

Most accommodations in Kamakura offer rental bicycles to their guests, or you can easily pick one up at the bicycle shop near Kamakura Station.

When to Visit Kamakura

Summer

Kamakura truly shines in summer when festival season is alive and the sound of cicadas fills the air.

It’s an excellent period for swimming and surfing; don’t miss out on trying shaved ice or fruits topped with syrup (known as Kakigori in Japanese).

Bear in mind, this is a popular tourist destination, so it will be crowded.

I visited in September (early autumn) and found the weather just perfect for leisurely beach days.

Autumn

Autumn is ideal for temple visits, as the foliage turns to brilliant shades of red and orange.

Winter

Winter may occasionally bring snow and is perfect for savoring warming ramen dishes and enjoying onsen trips.

While Mt. Fuji is visible on a few days during late summer and autumn, it becomes clearer in winter and spring months when humidity is at its lowest.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Kamakura

My month exploring Kamakura passed in a whimsical haze of joy.

It serves as the perfect antidote to a stressed mind. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out, and I’ll respond as soon as possible.