Kamakura: A Spiritual & Traditional Day Trip
TOUR OVERVIEW:
Leave the skyscrapers behind and step into Japan’s samurai past with this guided day trip to Kamakura—the birthplace of the country’s first shogunate. Just 1.5 hours from Tokyo, Kamakura is often called the “Kyoto of Eastern Japan” for its atmospheric streets, traditional wooden buildings, and wealth of shrines and temples.
Itinerary
Temples vs Shrines - for the first stop on our tour, you get to choose one of the following:
Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine: A bold red Shinto shrine, historically tied to samurai rule.
Hokokuji Temple: Tucked into quiet streets, this bamboo grove temple includes a teahouse for sipping matcha in serenity.
Zeniarai Benten Shrine: A quirky and sacred spot where you can literally wash your money for good fortune.
Lunch, either a Buddhist meal (vegan/vegetarian) or a nearby cozy café, depending on the day’s opening schedule.
Ride Enoden train—a local rail line over 100 years old (Alternatively, if you’re feeling like stretching your legs, we can walk a lovely 30-minute path instead.)
Visit the Great Buddha (Kōtoku-in temple) and admire the massive bronze statue
Visit Hase Temple, a peaceful complex with serene gardens, statues, a sacred cave, and views of the sea.
On the way back you may go for vintage kimono shopping or a stroll on Komachi-dori historic shopping street, filled with handmade wooden crafts, traditional sweets, and more beautiful locally made souvenirs.
Perfect For:
Travelers looking for a traditional side of Japan without going all the way to Kyoto
Culture lovers interested in Buddhism, temples, or Japanese history
Vegan, vegetarian, or mindful eaters looking to explore the local cuisine
Solo travelers, couples, and small groups wanting a peaceful yet enriching escape from Tokyo
What's included:
Entrance fee for temples (excl. tea at teahouse)
Guiding fee
About cancellations: you may cancel free of charge for up to 5 days before the tour. For cancellations requested in less than 5 days, a cancellation fee of ¥15,000 applies.
About the guide / tour creator
Alina has been living in Japan since 2015 and working in the tourism industry since the post-COVID reopening. She’s spent years curating experiences where the guests can enjoy the richness of traditional Japan. She has delivered over 150 tours as of spring 2025.
Send a request to book this tour
Tour Duration: aprox. 4.5h
Start/End Location: Kamakura Station
Suggested start time: 10:30am
Tour Price: ¥28,000
Size: 1-4 guests (private tour)
