Visit Kamakura’s Must-See Spots by Private Car
Visit Kamakura’s most iconic sites, including Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the Great Buddha, Hasedera Temple, and the bamboo grove at Hokokuji.
As these spots are spread across the city, getting around by car allows us to save time and see more in a smooth, efficient way.
Enjoy a well-balanced experience of history, culture, and scenery while learning about samurai traditions and local stories.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Kamakura station (East Exit)
- We will meet in front of the ticket gates at the East Exit of JR Kamakura Station. After exiting the gates, please look for your guide holding a sign. JR Kamakura Station is easily accessible from Tokyo and Yokohama. If you have any trouble finding the meeting point, please feel free to contact me.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
From Kamakura Station, we will take a pleasant walk along Komachi Street, a lively shopping street filled with local food, sweets, and unique souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience the local atmosphere and enjoy seasonal treats along the way.
At the end of the street, we arrive at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the most important shrine in Kamakura. Founded in the 11th century, it is deeply connected to the history of the samurai and the Kamakura shogunate. Surrounded by nature, the shrine offers a peaceful and impressive setting, with beautiful pathways, ponds, and traditional architecture.
This short walk allows you to enjoy both the vibrant culture of Kamakura and its rich historical heritage.
LUNCH
For lunch, I would like to decide in advance together with you based on your preferences.
We have a wide range of options, including Japanese dishes such as soba, tempura, and sushi, as well as international choices like Italian, Thai, and even casual options like burgers.
I can recommend places ranging from casual to more upscale restaurants. To avoid crowds and long wait times, I will make a reservation in advance. If the restaurant is already fully booked, we can discuss and choose another option together.
The bamboo grove at Hokokuji
After visiting Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, we will travel by car to Hokokuji Temple, also known as the Bamboo Temple.
Founded in the 14th century, this Zen temple is renowned for its serene bamboo grove, where hundreds of tall bamboo stalks create a calm and elegant atmosphere. It offers a peaceful contrast to the lively areas of Kamakura.
Within the grove, guests can also enjoy a cup of traditional matcha tea while taking in the quiet beauty of the surroundings.
The Great Buddha
We will visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a timeless symbol quietly watching over the city for more than 750 years.
Originally housed inside a grand temple hall, the statue was exposed to the open sky after the building was destroyed by powerful storms and earthquakes. Since then, it has remained standing, enduring the forces of nature with calm strength and silent dignity.
As you stand before the Great Buddha, you can feel a sense of history, resilience, and tranquility that continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
Hasedera Temple
We will visit Hasedera Temple, a serene hillside temple known for its gentle atmosphere and beautiful views.
The temple is home to an impressive wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, who is said to watch over people with compassion. As you walk through the grounds, you’ll find seasonal flowers, small statues, and quiet corners that invite reflection.
From the terrace, you can enjoy a scenic view of Kamakura and the ocean, making this stop a peaceful and memorable part of the journey.
Ending Point
JR Kamakura station at 16:30
Want to personalize this tour?
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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
• Private transportation by HONDA FREED
• Parking fees (approximately 35USD)
• Fuel costs
• Entrance fees
• Lunch
• Personal expenses (such as souvenirs)
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* This tour is not recommended for those with severe back/knee problems.
* Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
Important message from the supplier
The best time is from early morning to late afternoon, but I’m happy to be flexible and adjust according to your needs.
As some of my tours are weather-dependent, they may need to be canceled in case of unfavorable weather conditions.
In such cases, I will be happy to offer you the option to reschedule or provide a full refund.
I truly appreciate your understanding and flexibility.
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 Yuka M.
Born and raised in the Kamakura area, my passions include music, surfing, art appreciation, and farming.
From Kamakura’s rich culture and historic architecture to wonderful local restaurants, art galleries, and the vibrant surf culture of Shonan, I’ll take you beyond the typical tourist spots and introduce you to hidden gems known only to locals.
Having lived in California and Hawaiʻi, I’m completely comfortable in English and happy to guide you with ease.
I truly hope you’ll enjoy your special time in Kamakura to the fullest.
$364/ per group
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