Feel the Samurai Spirit — A journey to the birthplace of the first Samurai government.
Kamakura is a small but very attractive town. It is the place where the first Samurai government was started in the 12th century.
We will visit the Great Buddha, Hase-dera Temple, and Tsurugaoka-Hachimangu Shrine. You can also experience the spirit of "Zen" at beautiful Buddhist temples.
For lunch, you can enjoy shopping and local food on Komachi-dori Street!
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Kamakura Station
- Meeting Point: We will meet in front of the Tourist Information Center at the East Exit of JR Kamakura Station. Transportation & Activity: On this tour, we will use public transportation, including local trains and buses, combined with a fair amount of walking. This is the best way to experience the authentic daily life and atmosphere of the area.
The Great Buddha
The Great Buddha is the iconic symbol of Kamakura, located in the western part of the city. It was established in the 13th century.
It is a seated statue of Amida Nyorai statue made of Bronze and 11 meters tall.
Hase-dera Temple
Hase-dera Temple was established in the 8th century and is one of the oldest temples in Kamakura.
This temple is famous for beautiful flowers all year round. In the rainy season, over 2,000 hydrangeas of 40 different kinds are in full bloom. They are incredibly beautiful!
Tsurugaoka-Hachimangu Shrine
At the center of town lies Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. It was established about 1,000 years ago. The first Shogun moved the shrine to this spot. Since then, it has been the "spiritual heart" of the samurai.
Komachi-dori Street
Komachi-dori street is running parallel to Wakamiya-oji Street from the east exit of JR Kamakura Station to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. It offers a wide variety of shops, from traditional souvenir stores to fashion boutiques and restaurants, where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and coffee.
Engaku-ji Temple
Zen Buddhism was introduced to Japan and spread among the samurai in Kamakura as their spiritual foundation. The samurai government supported Zen, leading to the establishment of many Zen temples throughout the town. Zazen, or Zen meditation, is one of its core practices.
Ending Point
JR Kita-Kamakura Station
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/103365/46901e9b-f4ef-49ac-8734-94bc33753e03.png)
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide Fee
Public Transportation Fee (about JPY1000/adult)
Taxi Fare (if any)
Lunch
Personal Expenses
Entrance tickets (About JPY 1250/adult for The Great Buddha, Hase-dera Temple, Engak-ji Temple)
Hotel Pick Up
Tour Important Information
This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Pick-up Service: For your convenience, I am happy to pick you up at your hotel in Yokohama or Tokyo for an additional fee.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Masa O.
I spent many years in the automotive industry and international consulting, including extensive time living and working in the United States. While I am very comfortable hosting business executives, I truly love sharing the "heart of Japan" with families and senior travelers.
I enjoy making my tours feel like a walk with a knowledgeable friend—whether we are discussing the latest design trends or the deep history of a hidden temple. My goal is to bridge the gap between cultures with a smile, ensuring that every guest, from busy professionals to curious grandkids, feels welcome and inspired.
$201/ per group
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Kamakura
Explore the connection between the Samurai Government and Buddhism!
The Kamakura Shogunate, established by Minamoto no Yoritomo in 1192, marked the beginning of feudal military government. This period was characterized by the rise of the samurai class and the establishment of a feudal system. It was also marked by both the patronage of Buddhism by the ruling class and the rise of new Buddhist movements that catered to the spiritual needs of the samurai and common people alike. We will explore these facts by visiting some temples and shrines.
Explore the connection between the Samurai Government and Buddhism!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/9602/46918.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18530/02ab9728-45d9-46b4-9791-3c22f6efeaf7.jpg)
Kamakura Legends: Temples, Shrines & Samurai
Step back in time to the birthplace of Japan’s samurai legacy. This historical walking tour explores the rise of the first shogun, the emergence of the samurai class, and the powerful forces that shaped medieval Japan—from the arrival of Buddhism and Shintoism to encounters with Christianity and foreign invasions. Along the way, immerse yourself in timeless temples, sacred shrines, and the natural beauty that inspired warriors and monks alike.
Kamakura Legends: Temples, Shrines & Samurai
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/63590/8307d339-4e30-4610-8cef-c816ba50d4c9.png)
Kamakura and Enoshima One-Day Tour
Kamakura and Enoshima offer a well-balanced experience that combines Japanese history, culture, and coastal beauty. Kamakura was once the political center of Japan and is known for its Zen temples, traditional shrines, and the Great Buddha. Enoshima provides a refreshing contrast with its coastal views, shrines, walking paths, and beautiful viewpoints Together, Kamakura and Enoshima provide a balanced tour experience, showcasing both the historical depth and natural charm of Japan.
Kamakura and Enoshima One-Day Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/63768/ceaec83b-e4d9-4ac9-8235-7ca087fb11cf.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22958/08cc9168-b783-477a-83f7-103902c1f58d.jpg)
Kamakura Photo Tour: Portraits at Ancient Temples & Hidden Streets
Bring home professional photos from your Kamakura adventure. As a local resident and photographer, I'll guide you through temples and hidden streets — capturing your best moments with my Sony α7CII. This half-day tour takes you through lively streets and historic temples. From Komachi Street to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, you will explore famous sites and quieter areas. Special Offer: Book at a special introductory price! Limited to the first 10 bookings to celebrate the launch of my tour.
Kamakura Photo Tour: Portraits at Ancient Temples & Hidden Streets
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/101428/d0f4fae2-d36c-4135-89d3-02526ae08b22.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/23173/8a260cc9-4b65-4463-bd9d-53f09bbda86d.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/23173/7cb45054-f30e-45fa-a78b-cc460df4a767.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/23173/d266cace-e58d-40ee-8db7-95c5bc806f24.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/23173/64e77cd4-c061-4ceb-b906-90e43c8eab33.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/23173/d7791ea8-6d35-4446-bcb3-0f5f884371d2.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/23173/92ab8377-f424-4382-ba39-10fd569de15c.jpg)