Just south of Tokyo, Kamakura and Enoshima make for an easy and rewarding day trip—often paired together thanks to their close proximity and the scenic Enoden railway that links them. But while they share a train line, the two destinations offer very different experiences. Kamakura is rooted in history, known for its grand temples, samurai heritage, and serene shrines. Enoshima,…
Kamakura lies just an hour south of Tokyo, but the shift in pace and atmosphere feels far greater. Once the political center of medieval Japan, this coastal town blends historical weight with relaxed seaside charm, famous for its numerous temples, breezy beaches, and the iconic Great Buddha watching over it all. For first-time visitors to Tokyo, Kamakura offers one of…
Kamakura, a historic coastal city in Japan’s Kanagawa Prefecture, is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, known for its historical landmarks, mouthwatering food scene, and easy access—just about an hour by train from central Tokyo. It’s often featured in movies, anime, and manga, so you’ll spot plenty of visitors who seem to be fans of those works. One…
Slam Dunk is a classic coming-of-age sports manga from the 1990s that still captures fans’ hearts today. Many fans travel to Kamakura, a coastal town about an hour south of Tokyo, to visit the real-life settings and iconic scenes that appear in the story. One of the most famous spots is the railway crossing seen in the anime’s opening sequence….
Hase Temple (“Hasedera” in Japanese) is a beloved tourist destination in Japan, known year-round as the “Temple of Flowers.” Located in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, the area is surrounded by historic temples, serene shrines, and charming eateries. This makes it an ideal spot for combining sightseeing with relaxation. Refresh your mind and body at the nature-filled Hase Temple Upon arrival…
The Kamakura area, with its old Japanese townscape and scattered temples and shrines, is bustling with tourists on both weekdays and holidays. Around Kamakura Station, there are many restaurants offering takeout services and specialty sweet shops perfect for souvenirs! Here are some must-visit stores when touring Kamakura! Hato Sable: Kamakura’s popular classic souvenir One of Kamakura’s most iconic sweets is…
Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture is a popular tourist destination with many temples and shrines that date back to ancient times. Each temple and shrine has its own attractions, but Hōkokuji Temple (which introduces itself in English as “Houkokuji Temple”) is especially known for its beautiful bamboo grove. Enjoy the seasonal beauty of Houkokuji Temple’s Japanese garden As you pass through…
Kōtoku-in, a temple in Kamakura, is widely renowned for its Great Buddha statue. The official name of Kamakura’s Great Buddha in Japanese is dōzō amida nyorai zazō, otherwise known as the Bronze Seated Amida-butsu (Amitabha Buddha). It is the only Buddha statue in the area designated as a National Treasure of Japan. The Great Buddha of Kamakura – the only…
Situated along the coast just south of Tokyo, the ancient city of 鎌倉 Kamakura was once the political center of Japan during the Kamakura Shogunate, from the late 12th to the early 14th century. Today, this captivating city offers an intriguing blend of history, coastal beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a break…