Kamakura. The Great Buddha, Ancient Zen, and the Pacific Coast.

Kamakura was Japan’s political capital from 1185 to 1333. The temples, shrines, and historic sites it left behind are extraordinary. One hour south of Tokyo, it is one of the best day trips available from the city.

What You Visit

Kotoku-in: The Great Buddha

13.35-meter bronze statue of Amida Buddha, cast 1252-1263 AD. The 93-ton figure originally stood inside a wooden hall destroyed by typhoons in the 14th century. It has sat open to the sky for nearly 700 years. Visitors enter the hollow interior.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine since 1063 AD. The 1.8km approach from the coast is lined with cherry trees. The shrine houses a national treasure museum.

Engakuji Temple

Rinzai Zen temple founded 1282 to honor Mongol invasion casualties. One of Kamakura’s Five Great Zen Temples. Contains Japan’s oldest surviving Zen meditation building.

Kencho-ji Temple

Japan’s first formal Zen training monastery, established 1253. Ancient juniper trees in the main courtyard are over 750 years old. Monks still train here daily.

Enoshima Island

A small tidal island on 600-meter bridge. Home to Enoshima Shrine, sea caves, a lighthouse observation tower, and Pacific Ocean views.

Included / Not Included

• Included: Private tour, English/Hindi/Urdu guide, hotel pickup, private vehicle, fuel and tolls
• Not included: Temple entry fees (most 300-500 yen per site), food and drinks