Temples & Shrines
Zen temples, bamboo groves, and the iconic Great Buddha.
Great Buddha (Kotoku-in)
Iconic 11.4-meter bronze Buddha sitting outdoors since 1495 after a tsunami destroyed its temple hall. You can enter the hollow statue for a small fee. One of Japan's most recognizable landmarks.
Hasedera Temple
Known as the temple of flowers. Eleven-headed Kannon statue, beautiful gardens, a cave with carved deities, and panoramic views of the coast. Famous for hydrangeas in June.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
Kamakura's most important shrine, founded in 1063. Grand vermilion buildings at the top of a hill. Walk the tree-lined Dankazura approach from the station. Cherry blossoms in spring.
Hokokuji Temple
The Bamboo Temple. A tranquil grove of 2,000 bamboo stalks with dappled sunlight. Enjoy matcha tea in the traditional teahouse overlooking the bamboo garden. Deeply peaceful.
Meigetsu-in
The Hydrangea Temple. Famous for its circular window framing a perfect garden view. In June, hundreds of blue hydrangeas line the approach. One of Kamakura's most photographed spots.
Engakuji Temple
Major Zen temple complex right beside Kita-Kamakura station. Beautiful in autumn with brilliant red maples. Has a large Shariden hall (National Treasure) and a massive cast-iron bell.
Kencho-ji
Japan's oldest Zen training monastery, founded in 1253. The juniper trees by the gate were planted by the founder. Walk to the hilltop behind the temple for sweeping views including Mount Fuji.
Zeniarai Benten Shrine
Enter through a tunnel into a cave shrine where people wash money in the sacred spring, believing it will multiply. Atmospheric and unique. Hidden in the hills above Kamakura.
Sasuke Inari Shrine
Rows of red torii gates winding up a forested hillside, covered in moss and fox statues. Similar to Kyoto's Fushimi Inari but much quieter. Atmospheric and uncrowded.
Jufuku-ji
One of Kamakura's oldest Zen temples. Most of the grounds are closed to the public, but the moss-covered approach through ancient cedars is incredibly atmospheric. A quiet escape.
Sugimoto-dera
Kamakura's oldest temple, founded in 734. Moss-covered stone stairs, thatched roof hall, and powerful guardian statues. Small but deeply atmospheric. Off the beaten path.
Enoden Coastal Train Kamakura
Vintage tram running along the Shonan coast, the famous crossing where the tram passes in front of the ocean (Kamakurakoko-mae) is one...
Kamakura Great Buddha
13.35m bronze Buddha sitting outdoors since a tsunami destroyed its temple in 1498, you can go INSIDE the hollow statue for ¥50 extra....
Hokoku-ji Bamboo Temple
Serene bamboo grove. Matcha tea available. Less crowded than Arashiyama.
