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Kita-Kamakura Wonders -Zen Temples
This walking tour focuses on visiting Zen temples in the Kita-Kamakura area which is wrapped in the natural and traditional atmosphere. Visitors will feel peace and quiet in the sacred precincts of; the internationally known Engaku-ji; Jyochi-ji with beautiful green mosses; Meigetsu-in,famous for blue hydrangea; and Kencho-ji, the first Zen practice hall. Also my telling about historical characters and ledgends will attract your interests. This tour can be personalized by your request.
Meeting Point
West Exit of JR Kita-kamakura station
JR Kita-Kamakura Station - the best meeting spot
This is the meeting spot. After passing through the automatic gate of Kita ( North)-Kamakura Station, Engaku-ji Temple is right in front of us. Just a minute's walk from the station. This is the best place to start the tour.
Engaku-ji Temple, ranked second among Kamakura's 5 Great Zen Temples
Going up the stone steps to the entrance gate, tall ceder trees welcome the visitors. The main hall is dedicated to the seated Buddha with the crown on his head. A dragon is painted on its ceiling.The Grand Bell and the Relic Hall are our national treasures. You may enjoy the terrific view of the garden from the abbot's hall.
Meigetsu-in Temple, also known as Ajisa-dera or Hydrangea temple
The temple is famous for blue hydrangeas in early summer, the 'Round Window' in the sanctuary, autumn leaves, and the dry landscape garden. On the peak season, hundreds of people come to appreciate the yellow and blue scenery respectively.
Jyochi-ji Temple
The approach is covered with beautiful green mosses. Take pictures at the impressive entrance. The tall Japanese umbrella-pine tree stands in the precinct. You feel like you are walking in a highland while a fresh breeze is blowing. Three main statues are enshrined in the temple hall.
Lunch
In Kita-Kamakura, there is a vegetarian restaurant, eateries of soba noodles, and western food. Or we can make do with the convenience store food. I am flexible about lunch.
Kencho-ji Temple, ranked first among Kamakura's 5 Great Zen Temples
Kencho-ji has many attractive spots in its precincts.The big bell, a national treasure, the framed calligraphies, 700 years-old juniper trees, a dragon painted on the ceiling and the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha in ascetic practices. The beautifully decorated Kara-mon gate and statues of "long-nosed goblins" are good for taking pictures.
JR Kita-Kamakura station
My tour ends at JR Kita-Kamakura Station.
Ending Point
JR Kita-kamakura station
Want to personalize this tour?
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Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Your own transportation fee to and from Kita-Kamakura Station.
Taxi fares are on your account, although we basically walk and use the public transportation.
Admissions to temples and the rear garden of Megetsu-in: Yen300-500/person ( for both you and guide)
Lunch ( for you and guide)
Pick-up service to the hotel in Tokyo is available at extra cost plus my transportation to and from your hotel. I don't offer return service to your hotel.
Personal expenses.
Tour Important Information
Restaurants are closed on their regular days off.
Basically we walk. Please wear shoes suitable for walking.
The order of the itinerary is subject to change depending on the operational circumstances, traffic conditions and weather.
No insurance coverage
Important message from the guide
I changed to at least three days notice.
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
Kamakura Tour Reviews
“Amazing Day!”
What an incredible day with Taka visiting so many shrines and temples. His knowledge is absolutely amazing. He is such a kind person and it made the day all the better. He is so welcoming that I felt I was touring Japan with an old friend. Thank you Taka for a wonderful day. Please book with Taka when you come to Kamakura!
Takayasu H.
(14 reviews)Thank you very much for your words that surely encourages me to introduce my hometown to visitors from all of the world. I am very happy that you enjoyed the tour in Kamakura. Thank you again for appreciating my tour guide. Taka
“Day tour of kamakara”
Takayasu was an excellent guide! His explanations were clear we, enjoyed the historical information he presented. He adjusted the day at our request, because of rain and our need to be at the airport for our return home. He made sure our bags were taken care of appropriately, walking us in to the counter . I would recommend him wholeheartedly !
Takayasu H.
(14 reviews)Hi Lorraine, Thank you very much for your great words appreciating my guiding. It is a geat honor for me to have such warm review on my Kamakura tour. It was raining hard in the morning but it became sprinkling by the time we arrived at a shrine and temples. Therefore,we could visit more spots than I ecpected. I am glad to know you liked my explanation. Both of you were so eager to listen to my historical presentation. There are lots more spots in this ancient city. So please come again and I am happy to guide you.
“All good Tax was very knowledgeable”
Great tour
Takayasu H.
(14 reviews)Dennis, Thank you very much for your wonderful comments on my tour. I am very glad to know that you and Sandra enjoyed the traditional spots,shopping and food. You visited two of three ancient cities in Japan. I would like to show you around my home town. Kamakura which you have saved for the next visit. Please keep in touch. Takayasu
