Important Places to know the real history site of Kamakura!

We take a bus at Kamakura Station to Jomyoji Bus Stop, then walk to the Jomyoji Temple.

Jomyoji Temple is one of the city's historically significant Zen Buddhist temples. It's part of the Five Mountains of Kamakura, which are the five most prestigious Zen temples in the city, established under the patronage of the regent Hojo clan during the Kamakura Shogunate (1185–1333). Jomyoji boasts a rich history and serene atmosphere, reflective of its Zen roots.

It is renowned for its beautiful gardens. It features a karesansui (dry landscape) rock garden, which invites meditation and contemplation, adhering to Zen principles. Additionally, there's a lush strolling garden with a pond, offering a contrast to the stark beauty of the rock garden.

Since it also has a tea house, we will experience briefly traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.

We take a 10 minutes walk to Hokokuji Temple.

Hokokuji Temple, often referred to as the "Bamboo Temple," is a Zen Buddhist temple. It is known for its serene and picturesque bamboo grove, which creates a unique and tranquil atmosphere. Hokokuji is part of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism and holds significant historical and cultural value.

Its most distinguishing feature is its stunning bamboo grove, consisting of over 2,000 Moso bamboo trees. We walk through the paths that cut across the grove, enjoying the play of light and shadows and the gentle rustling of the bamboo in the breeze. This grove provides a sense of seclusion and tranquility, making it a popular spot for meditation and contemplation.

Within the bamboo grove, there is a small tea house where visitors can enjoy matcha (green tea) and traditional Japanese sweets while admiring the surrounding bamboo.

Again we walk to Sugimotodera Temple. It takes about 5 minutes.

Sugimotodera Temple holds the distinction of being the oldest temple in Kamakura. Founded by a Buddhist priest named Gyoki in 734, the temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. It belongs to the Tendai sect of Buddhism and offers a profound sense of history and spiritual significance. It is renowned for its wooden statues of Kannon.

Despite being damaged by fires and natural disasters over the centuries, the temple has maintained its ancient architectural style.

"AGUU" is a traditional Japanese restaurant located near Egaratenjinsha Shrine and it is well known for its exquisite Kaiseki dining experience. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to prepare historic dishes, offering a genuine taste of the region's traditional cuisine. The ambiance of "AGUU" is set in a converted house on a quiet street, amidst the temples and shrines of Kamakura, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy fine cuisine after exploring the historic city.

The restaurant offers four different course menus, each with varying numbers of dishes and prices. It has a special Kaiseki menu for weekday, of which price is Yen 4,320.

If you think it is too expensive, we have another choice of an inexpensive local foods restaurant and soba noodle restaurant next to "AGUU." (Warashibechocha and Miyamae)

After the lunch we walk to Kamakuragu Shrine, which takes only 5 minutes.

Kamakuragu Shrine is a historically significant shrine located in Kamakura. Established relatively recently in 1869 by Emperor Meiji, the shrine commemorates the spirit of Prince Morinaga. Prince Morinaga was a notable historical figure who was tragically executed in 1335 on the orders of Ashikaga Tadayoshi after being held captive for nine months in a cave where the shrine now stands. This cave, a poignant reminder of the prince's ordeal, still exists behind the shrine and is accessible to visitors, adding a unique historical depth to the site.

We take a bus at Daitonomiya Bus Stop at 14:50 to Hachimangu Bus Stop (about 5 minutes) and visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine held an extremely important role during the Kamakura period for several reasons, closely tied to its religious significance, its political symbolism, and its connection with the Minamoto clan, particularly Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura Shogunate.

The shrine became not just a religious center but also a symbol of the Kamakura Shogunate's authority and power. It was a venue for important state ceremonies, festivals, and events that reinforced the shogunate's legitimacy and power.

It is still one of the most famous shrines in Japan and so many people visit during the New Year's Days.

We would like to explore why it is so prosperous from its establishment till now.

Komachidoori is a charming and vibrant shopping street in Kamakura, known for its unique blend of traditional and modern elements. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering a variety of experiences and goods.

It is situated in the heart of Kamakura, extending from the east of Kamakura Station towards the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. The street is lined with numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. The architecture and layout reflect a blend of traditional Japanese style and modern convenience, creating a welcoming environment for visitors.

We walk through the shopping street from Hachimangu Shrine to Kamakura Station. On the way, we have lunch at one of these restaurants on the street.