Planning a day trip to Kamakura from Tokyo raises several questions: How do you get there efficiently? What are the must-visit attractions? Are there passes or tickets that can make the trip easier? Where can you eat? How do you fit all the highlights into a single day?
Kamakura is a coastal city located one hour away from Tokyo. It is possible to visit the major places on a day trip. The most important temples and Komachi-Dori street are located near train stations and easy to reach.
This guide will provide all the answers you need to make your Kamakura day trip smooth and enjoyable.
Kamakura Overview
Kamakura, a coastal city south of Tokyo, is a great spot for a day trip. It’s packed with history and beautiful scenery. It has lots of cool historical sites like the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and the famous Great Buddha (Kotoku-in).
You can also visit peaceful temples like Hokokuji Temple, known for its beautiful bamboo grove. If you love shopping and trying local snacks, Komachi-Dori Street is the place to be. For nature lovers, Enoshima Island nearby offers amazing coastal views, gardens, and interesting spots like the Iwaya Caves.
With its easy access from Tokyo and a mix of things to see and do, Kamakura is perfect for a day trip. If you like history, culture, shopping, or nature, Kamakura is a good place to visit.
Transportation Options from Tokyo to Kamakura
When planning a day trip to Kamakura from Tokyo, you have several transportation options that vary in cost, time, and convenience. Below, you will find the most common options, as well as, the passes that are useful for this area.
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JR Yokosuka Line Direct
- Details: Direct train from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station.
- Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour.
- Cost: Around ¥1000.
- Why it’s good: A direct route that is budget-friendly and efficient.
Odakyu Line with Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass
- Details: Take the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station to Fujisawa Station, then transfer to the Enoden Line to Kamakura Station.
- Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours.
- Cost: Around ¥1,470 (Freepass).
- Why it’s good: This pass includes unlimited travel on the Enoden Line, perfect for those who want to explore the area extensively.
Useful Passes or Tickets
- Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass: This pass offers unlimited travel on the Odakyu Line and Enoden Line, making it a cost-effective option for a day trip.
- Kamakura-Enoshima Pass: Provides unlimited travel on JR lines in the Kamakura and Enoshima areas, ideal for exploring multiple sites.
Must-Visit Places
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is the most important Shinto shrine in Kamakura, known for its grand entrance and extensive grounds. The shrine is also a great place to witness traditional Shinto rituals and enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding area.
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- Address: 2-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 10 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: Daily, 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Some facilities close at 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM)
- Cost: Free.
- Useful Website: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Kotoku-in (Great Buddha)
One of Kamakura’s iconic landmarks is the Great Buddha statue, a monumental bronze figure over 13 meters tall that dates back to the 13th century.
- Address: 4-2-28 Hase, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 7 minutes by Enoden Line to Hase Station, then 10 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Cost: ¥300.
- Useful Website: Kotoku-in
Hasedera Temple
Hasedera Temple is renowned for its stunning garden, impressive collection of Buddhist statues, and panoramic views of Kamakura. The temple’s highlight is the large wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
- Address: 3-11-2 Hase, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 5 minutes by Enoden Line to Hase Station, then 5 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Cost: ¥400.
- Useful Website: Hasedera Temple
Engaku-ji Temple
Engaku-ji Temple is a major Zen Buddhist temple offering a serene atmosphere and rich history. It features impressive ancient structures, including a grand gate and historic buildings.
- Address: 409 Yamanouchi, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 10 minutes by JR Yokosuka Line to Kita-Kamakura Station.
- Opening Days/Times: Daily, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
- Cost: ¥500.
- Useful Website: Engaku-ji
Komachi-Dori Street
Komachi-Dori Street is a shopping street filled with unique shops, local eateries, and souvenir stores. It’s perfect for experiencing local culture, trying various street foods, and picking up traditional crafts and gifts.
- Address: Komachi, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 1 minute walk.
- Opening Days/Times: Most shops open daily, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Cost: Free to stroll; individual costs for shopping and eating.
- Useful Website: Visit Kamakura
Enoshima Island
Enoshima Island is a small offshore island accessible by a bridge from the mainland. It’s known for its shrines, caves, and stunning coastal views.
- Address: Enoshima, Fujisawa
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 25 minutes by Enoden Line to Enoshima Station, then 15 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: Daily, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (for main attractions).
- Cost: Varies by attraction; entry to island is free.
- Useful Website: Enoshima Guide
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Lesser-Known Places to Visit
Exploring beyond the popular sites can provide a more intimate experience of Kamakura. Lesser-known places offer a different perspective of Kamakura, away from the more crowded tourist spots. Here are some lesser-known spots worth visiting:
Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine
Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine is famous for its tradition of washing money in its sacred spring, believed to multiply wealth. The shrine is located in a forested area, and offers a serene atmosphere and unique cultural experience.
- Address: 2-25-16 Sasuke, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 20 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: Daily, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
- Cost: Free.
- Useful Website: Visit Kamakura
Sasuke Inari Shrine
Sasuke Inari Shrine is a lesser-known shrine dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of agriculture and fertility. It’s famous for its red torii gates and serene atmosphere, offering a more peaceful experience compared to the more crowded shrines. But the shrine also provides picturesque views and a tranquil setting.
- Address: 1-5-1 Sasuke, Kamakura, Kanagawa 247-0063, Japan
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: Approximately 15 minutes by bus or 20 minutes by foot.
- Opening Days/Times: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- Cost: Free
- Useful Website: Sasuke Inari Shrine
Jomyoji Temple
Jomyoji Temple offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, as well as, beautiful gardens and a traditional tea house. It’s less crowded compared to other temples, and provides a more intimate and reflective experience.
- Address: 3-8-31 Jomyoji, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: About 15 minutes by bus or taxi.
- Opening Days/Times: Daily, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
- Cost: ¥100 (temple entry); tea house experience extra.
- Useful Website: Visit Kamakura
Meigetsu-in (Hydrangea Temple)
Meigetsu-in, also known as the Hydrangea Temple, is famous for its stunning hydrangea blooms in June. The temple’s circular window offers a picturesque view of the inner garden, symbolizing enlightenment.
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- Address: 189 Yamanouchi, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 10 minutes by JR Yokosuka Line to Kita-Kamakura Station.
- Opening Days/Times: Daily, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
- Cost: ¥500.
- Useful Website: Visit Kamakura
Restaurant Recommendations
Budget Restaurants
Caraway
- Type: Japanese curry restaurant
- Address: 2-12-20 Komachi, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 7 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: 11:30 AM – 7:30 PM (closed on Mondays)
- Average Cost: ¥800 – ¥1,500 (lunch).
- Useful Website: Tabelog
Seiuan (静雨庵)
- Type: Ramen restaurant
- Address: 10-17 Onarimachi, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 5 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (closed on Sundays)
- Average Cost: ¥1,000 – ¥1,500 (lunch).
- Useful Website: Tabelog
Mid-Range Restaurants
Rooftops
- Type: Hamburguer restaurant
- Address: 1 Chome−6−17, Komachi, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 2 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: From 11:00 AM (closed on Wednesdays)
- Average Cost: ¥1,600 – ¥2,500 (lunch).
- Useful Website: Rooftops
Matsubara-an
- Type: Soba (Buckwheat) noodles and Japanese cuisine
- Address: 4-10-3 Yuigahama, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Yuigahama Station: 5 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: Daily, 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM.
- Average Cost: ¥1,500 – ¥2,500 (lunch).
- Useful Website: Matsubara-an (Japanese only) Tabelog
High-End Restaurants
Kinon
- Type: Wood-fired cuisine
- Address: 13-22 Onarimachi, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 5 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: 12:00 AM – 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (closed on Mondays and Sundays)
- Average Cost: ¥10,000 – ¥15,000 (lunch).
- Useful Website: Kinon (Japanese only) Tabelog
Kamakura Fukumi 鎌倉ふくみ
- Address: 1 Chome−1−29, Ogigayatsu, Kamakura
- Travel Time from Kamakura Station: 5 minutes walk.
- Opening Days/Times: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (closed on Mondays and public holidays)
- Average Cost: ¥6,000 – ¥8,000 (lunch).
- Useful Website: Kamakura Fukumi (Japanese only) Tabelog
Sample Itineraries for your Kamakura Day Trip
Here’s a list of suggested itineraries to make the most of your day trip to Kamakura. Feel free to use one of them or mix them together to create your perfect day trip.
Kamakura Must-Visit Places Day Trip
This itinerary ensures you see the best of Kamakura while fitting in some local culture, history, and great food, making it a memorable day trip from Tokyo.
- 8:00 AM – Depart from Tokyo
- Transportation: Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station.
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour.
- 9:00 AM – Arrive at Kamakura Station
- 9:15 AM – Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
- Transportation: Walk to the shrine.
- Estimated Visit Time: 1 hour.
- 10:30 AM – Hasedera Temple
- Transportation: Take the Enoden Line to Hase Station, then walk.
- Estimated Travel Time: 15 minutes.
- Estimated Visit Time: 1 hour.
- 11:45 AM – Kotoku-in (Great Buddha)
- Transportation: Walk from Hasedera Temple.
- Estimated Travel Time: 10 minutes.
- Estimated Visit Time: 45 minutes.
- 1:00PM – Lunch around Hase Station
- Transportation: Walk to Hase Station area (there are several restaurants along the road).
- Estimated Travel Time: 10 minutes.
- Estimated Lunch Time: 1 hour.
- 2:30 PM – Engaku-ji Temple
- Transportation: Take the Enoden Line to Kamakura Station, then change to the JR Yokosuka Line to Kita-Kamakura Station.
- Estimated Travel Time: 20 minutes.
- Estimated Visit Time: 1 hour.
- 3:45 PM – Explore Komachi Street
- Transportation: Return to Kamakura Station area and walk to Komachi Street.
- Estimated Travel Time: 15 minutes.
- Activity: Shop and explore the local shops on Komachi Street.
- Estimated Visit Time: 2 hours.
- 6:30 PM – Dinner around Kamakura Station
- Transportation: Walk back to Kamakura Station
- Estimated Diner Time: 1 hour.
- 7:45 – Return to Tokyo
- Transportation: Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Kamakura Station to Tokyo Station or the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Shinjuku Station.
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour.
With a private tour from Tokyo, you can visit all the best spots in Kamakura with a professional guide. This private tour from Viator allows you to be accompanied from your hotel in Tokyo all the way to Kamakura.
Kamakura and Enoshima Island Day Trip
This itinerary offers less visites to temples and shrines, but adds a full afternoon on the awesome Enoshima Island. If you already saw lots of temples and shrines in other cities, this is a better choice for you.
- 8:00 AM – Depart from Tokyo
- Transportation: Take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku Station to Kamakura Station.
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour.
- 9:00 AM – Arrive at Kamakura Station
- 9:15 AM – Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
- Transportation: Walk to the shrine.
- Estimated Visit Time: 1 hour.
- 10:30 AM – Komachi-Dori Street
- Transportation: Walk to Komachi-Dori Street.
- Activity: Explore the street for original snacks and shopping.
- Estimated Visit Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
- 12:15 PM – Lunch around Komachi-Dori Street
- Transportation: Walk to the restaurant.
- Estimated Travel Time: 10 minutes.
- Estimated Lunch Time: 1 hour.
- 1:30 PM – Travel to Enoshima Island
- Transportation: Take the Enoden Line to Enoshima Station, then walk.
- Estimated Travel Time: 30 minutes.
- 2:15 PM – Explore Enoshima Island
- Activity: Visit Shrine, Iwaya Caves, etc…
- Estimated Visit Time: 2 hours.
- 4:30 PM – Enjoy a coastal walk and ocean views
- Estimated Visit Time: 1 hour.
- 5:45 PM – Return to Kamakura Station
- Transportation: Walk to Enoshima Station, then take the Enoden Line to Kamakura Station.
- Estimated Travel Time: 30 minutes.
- 6:30 PM – Diner around Kamakura Station
- Estimated Travel Time: 10 minutes
- Estimated Diner Time: 1 hour.
- 8:00 PM – Depart for Tokyo
- Transportation: Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Kamakura Station to Tokyo Station or the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Shinjuku Station.
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour.
If you prefer a guided tour, Viator has a private tour to see Kamakura and Enoshima in one day. A guide meets you at Kamakura station and accompanies you to each place, so you don’t get lost. And if you change your mind, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Kamakura Day Trip at a Relaxed Pace
With this itinerary, you can visit the best temples and shrines in Kamakura, but you will also have more time to rest and travel between places. Since there’s no diner expected in Kamakura, you return to Tokyo sooner for a well-deserved rest.
- 8:00 AM – Depart from Tokyo
- Transportation: Take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku Station to Kamakura Station.
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour.
- 9:00 AM – Arrive at Kamakura Station
- 9:30 AM – Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
- Transportation: Walk to the shrine.
- Activity: Explore the shrine grounds and learn about its history.
- Estimated Visit Time: 1 hour.
- 10:45 AM – Komachi-Dori Street
- Transportation: Walk to Komachi-Dori Street.
- Estimated Travel Time: 10 minutes.
- Activity: Explore the street for original snacks and shopping.
- Estimated Visit Time: 2 hours.
- 12:45 – Lunch near Komachi-Dori Street
- Estimated Lunch Time: 1 hour.
- 2:00 PM – Hokokuji Temple (Bamboo Forest).
- Transportation: Take the Keikyo bus from Kamakura Station to Jomyoji
- Estimated Travel Time: 10 minutes.
- Estimated Visit Time: 1 hour.
- 3:30 PM – Hasedera Temple
- Transportation: Take the Keikyo bus from Jomyoji to Kamakura Station, then Take de Enoden Line to Hase Station.
- Estimated Travel Time: 20 minutes.
- Estimated Visit Time: 1 hour.
- 4:45PM – Great Buddha (Kotoku-in Temple)
- Transportation: Walk to Kotoku-in Temple.
- Estimated Travel Time: 10 minutes.
- Estimated Visit Time: 45 minutes.
- 6:00 PM – Return to Tokyo
- Transportation: Walk to Hase Station, then take the Enoden Line to Kamakura Station. Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Kamakura Station to Tokyo Station or the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Shinjuku Station.
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes.
