How to Plan Your Private Tour of Kamakura’s Excellent Locations and Good Food as a First Timer

If it’s your first time in Kamakura, you might feel overwhelmed by all the attractions and delicious-smelling food stalls. That’s why opting for a private tour with an experienced guide can save you valuable research time and make your trip more enjoyable. In this ultimate guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your private tour of Kamakura’s excellent locations and good food.

Tour Overview

This private tour is the perfect choice for first-time visitors to Kamakura who want to explore the culture and cuisine of the area with a local guide. During your comprehensive tour, you’ll visit top sights including Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and the Great Buddha of Kamakura. A highlight of the tour is visiting Komachi Street, where you can taste local gourmet food.

Tour Highlights

• Private Tour: Enjoy the undivided attention of your guide and customize the itinerary to your preferences.
• Top Kamakura Sights: Explore the famous Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the Great Buddha of Kamakura, and Hase-dera Temple.
• Local Food: Taste Kamakura’s traditional gourmet food on Komachi Street.
• Insights and Tips: Learn about Kamakura’s history and culture from your experienced guide.
• Time and Cost-Saving: Save time by letting your guide handle travel arrangements and avoid hidden fees and expenses.

What’s Included

• Tour Guide: A knowledgeable and bilingual guide who speaks English and Japanese.
• Private Tour: A personalized itinerary that takes your interests and preferences into account.
• Necessary Expenses for the Tour Guide: Expenses such as the guide’s transportation, admission fees, and meals.
• Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off.

What’s Not Included

• Travel Expenses and Entrance Fees for the Guests: Transportation fees, admission fees, and other expenses that guests might incur. The cost of admission fees is typically between 400 yen to 500 yen per person.
• Money for Food, Drinks, Souvenirs, and Extra Activities: Guests can choose to buy food and drinks at Komachi street and other locations, purchase souvenirs or participate in additional activities.

The Itinerary

Stop 1: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Your tour begins at Kamakura Station, where your guide will meet you. From there, you will head to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. The shrine is located on a hill, making it a pleasant walk up. Along the way, you’ll see a lot of small shops and restaurants, so you can grab a quick snack or souvenir to take home. Once you reach the shrine, take some time to admire the architecture, the large torii gate, and the serene surroundings.

Stop 2: Hase-dera Temple

The next stop is Hase-dera Temple, which is one of the most famous temples in Kamakura. The temple is located on a hill and is known for its beautiful gardens, statues, and its stunning view of the sea. Take some time to explore the temple’s various areas, including the Kannon-do Hall, the Benten-do Hall, and the Shoin.

Stop 3: Komachi Street

After visiting the two temples, it’s time to head to Komachi Street! You’ll find an incredible selection of food stalls, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Your guide will lead you to the best local gourmet food spots, and you can taste some of the regional specialties such as the red bean paste sweets or the fish-shaped waffles.

Stop 4: The Great Buddha of Kamakura

The last stop on your tour is the famous Great Buddha of Kamakura. The Buddha is 13.35 meters tall and is located in Kotoku-in Temple. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kamakura and is a must-see landmark. Take some time to appreciate the statue’s beauty and the serene hillside surroundings.

Booking Your Private Tour

Booking your private tour of Kamakura’s excellent locations and good food is easy. Head to this page and select your preferred date and time. You can also customize the itinerary to match your interests and preferences, and you’ll receive an instant confirmation.

Book Your Tour Now

Exploring Kamakura’s top sights and experiencing local gourmet food with a private tour guide is the best way to ensure an unforgettable trip. With this guide, you’ve got all the information you need to plan your private tour of Kamakura’s excellent locations and good food. Book your tour and get ready to make unforgettable memories!

Frequently Asked Questions about Kamakura, Japan

1. What is Kamakura and where is it located?

Kamakura is a small coastal city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is situated about 50 km south of Tokyo and is easily accessible by train. Kamakura is known for its beautiful temples, shrines, and beaches, and is a popular tourist destination.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Kamakura?

There are many fantastic tourist attractions in Kamakura. Some of the top ones include:

• The Great Buddha (Kotokuin Temple): A large bronze statue of the Buddha that stands at 13.35 meters tall.
• Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: This shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war, and is an important place of worship for locals.
• Hasedera Temple: A beautiful temple that is known for its stunning gardens and the large statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
• Enoshima Island: A small island located off the coast of Kamakura that offers stunning views of the ocean and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
• Kamakura Beaches: Kamakura is also known for its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

3. What is the best time to visit Kamakura?

The best time to visit Kamakura is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The cherry blossoms in the spring are particularly beautiful, and the autumn leaves are also worth seeing. However, Kamakura is a great destination year-round, and even in the summer when the temperatures can be hot, the sea breeze keeps things comfortable.

4. How do I get to Kamakura?

Kamakura is easily accessible by train from Tokyo and other major cities in Japan. Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station to Kamakura Station. The trip takes about an hour and costs around 920 yen. Once you arrive at Kamakura Station, most attractions are within walking distance, or you can take a bus or taxi.

5. What is the food like in Kamakura?

Kamakura has a variety of delicious local dishes that you should definitely try when visiting. Some of the most popular include:

• Kamakura vegetables: Kamakura is known for its fresh vegetables, particularly its sweet potatoes, which are used in a variety of dishes.
• Kamakura soba: A type of buckwheat noodle that is popular in the area.
• Kamakura fish: The seafood in Kamakura is particularly fresh and delicious, thanks to its proximity to the ocean.
• Kamakura snacks: There are also many delicious snacks and sweets that you can try in Kamakura, including the famous Kamakura Daibutsu-shaped cakes.

6. What should I pack for a trip to Kamakura?

When visiting Kamakura, it’s best to pack for the season and activities you plan to do. During the summer, you’ll want to bring lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes for walking on the beach or hiking in the mountains. In the winter, you’ll want to bring a warm coat and layers for the cooler temperatures. It’s also a good idea to bring an umbrella in case of rain, and sunscreen for the sunny days.

7. Is it expensive to visit Kamakura?

Kamakura is not an expensive destination, but it’s also not cheap. Costs will vary depending on the activities you do and the level of luxury you’re looking for. You can find budget-friendly accommodations and restaurants, but there are also plenty of higher-end options available. Most tourist attractions have modest entrance fees, ranging from a few hundred yen to several thousand yen.

8. Is Kamakura safe for tourists?

Kamakura is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any place you travel, it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. It’s also important to learn about any cultural differences or customs in the area to avoid any misunderstandings.

9. What else should I know before visiting Kamakura?

Before visiting Kamakura, it’s a good idea to learn a bit about the local customs and etiquette. For example, it’s important to remove your shoes and bow before entering a temple or shrine. It’s also important to be respectful of the local culture and traditions, and to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Additionally, it’s a good idea to learn a few basic Japanese phrases to help you get around and to communicate with locals.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kamakura

Kamakura is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan, located just an hour away from Tokyo. The city has a rich history and is known for its breathtaking temples, shrines, and beaches. If you’re planning to visit Kamakura, you must be wondering where to start and what to see. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best things to do in Kamakura.

1. Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura

One of the most iconic landmarks in Kamakura is the Great Buddha, which is a bronze statue that stands about 43 feet tall. The statue is located at the Kotokuin temple and is the second-largest Buddha in Japan. It’s a must-see attraction for visitors and is representative of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

2. Explore the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is one of the most famous shrines in Kamakura and is dedicated to the Shinto god of war. It was founded in 1063 and has been the site of many important historical events in Japan. The shrine is located in the middle of the city and is easily accessible by public transport. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and take part in the traditional Japanese rituals.

3. Take a stroll through Komachi-dori Street

Komachi-dori Street is a popular shopping street that stretches for about 360 meters in the heart of Kamakura. It’s lined with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, and is the perfect place to buy souvenirs or try some local cuisine. The street has a lively atmosphere and is always bustling with tourists and locals alike.

4. Admire the Meigetsu-in Temple’s hydrangeas

The Meigetsu-in Temple, also known as the Ajisai Temple, is famous for its stunning hydrangeas that bloom in June and July. The temple is located in the Kita-Kamakura area and is surrounded by a beautiful garden. Visitors can also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take part in the traditional tea ceremony.

5. Relax at Kamakura Beach

One of the best things about Kamakura is its beautiful beaches, and Kamakura Beach is no exception. The beach is popular with locals and tourists alike and is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Visitors can also take part in various water sports, such as surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

6. Hike to the top of Mount Takao

For those looking for a bit of adventure, Mount Takao is the perfect destination. The mountain is a popular hiking spot and offers some of the best views of Kamakura. Visitors can take one of the various hiking trails to the top, where they can enjoy the panoramic views and visit the Yakuoin Temple.

7. Visit the Engaku-ji Temple

The Engaku-ji Temple is one of the most important Zen temples in Japan and is located just a short distance from the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. The temple was founded in 1282 and is known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can take part in traditional Zen meditation practices and explore the various buildings and artifacts.

Book Your Tour Now

Kamakura is an incredibly diverse city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, there’s plenty to see and do. From the iconic Great Buddha to the stunning hydrangeas at the Meigetsu-in Temple, Kamakura is a place that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. So, if you’re planning a trip to Japan, be sure to add Kamakura to your itinerary.