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Kamakura day trip from Tokyo | Visit the Kyoto of the East

Just an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura offers a calm coastal escape filled with temples, shrines, and postcard-worthy sea views. Often called the “Kyoto of the East,” it blends highlights like the Great Buddha of Kamakura, the island paths of Enoshima, and nearby spots like Hasedera and Yokohama into a day that feels effortlessly rewarding.

Explore the best ways to visit; from guided day trips and Enoden railway rides to flexible itineraries and insider tips.

What to expect on your Kamakura day trip

Tourists visiting the Kamakura Great Buddha statue on a day tour from Tokyo.
Surfer walking on Enoshima beach with Enoshima Sea Candle in the background.
Enoshima Railway passing through Kamakura with Hasedera Temple in the background.
Yokohama waterfront skyline with Ferris wheel and modern buildings at night.
Couple in car during Tokyo to Kamakura day tour transfer.
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See Kamakura’s spiritual icons

Kamakura brings centuries of Japanese history together in a compact coastal loop. Kotoku-in’s Great Buddha anchors the city’s Buddhist heritage, while Hasedera Temple offers hillside gardens and ocean viewpoints. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu adds a strong samurai connection with wide avenues, vermillion halls and seasonal cherry blossoms or autumn colours. These form the cultural core of most Kamakura day trips.

Coastal beauty & island culture

Many tours include Enoshima, a small island linked to Benzaiten and dragon folklore. Its shrines, sea cliffs, walking paths and panoramic viewpoints give travellers a refreshing mix of nature and myth. Along the Shonan Coast, you get breezy ocean scenery, beaches and glimpses of daily life — especially memorable on tours that combine coastal stops with shrine visits.

Hop on a Enoden Railway

The Enoden line is one of Japan’s most beloved local trains. Its short route between Enoshima and Kamakura delivers nostalgic coastal views, quiet neighbourhoods and filming locations from Japanese cinema. For anime fans, the Kamakura High School Crossing; the Slam Dunk photo spot, is a highlight, offering a blend of seaside scenery and pop-culture nostalgia.

Yokohama night views

Evening itineraries include Yokohama’s vibrant waterfront district, where travellers can explore the illuminated Minato Mirai skyline at their own pace. Popular attractions include: Yokohama Air Cabin, Cosmo Clock 21, Red Brick Warehouse. These stops make the day’s cultural sightseeing flow naturally into a photogenic night experience.

Guided tours = smooth, effortless travel

Tokyo’s sprawl can overwhelm even seasoned travelers, but guided tours make it effortless. Deluxe coaches with Wi-Fi link one district to another, while expert English-speaking guides bring context to every stop. All tours include easy departures from Tokyo or Shinjuku, comfortable transport, curated pacing and guide support.

Things to know before booking your Kamakura day tours 

  • Type of tour:
    • All full-day tours cover the city’s signature highlights, including the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in, Hasedera Temple, Enoshima Island, the Enoden Railway, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Komachi-dori.
  • Pick-up points & transfers
    • All tours come with round-trip transfers from Tokyo, taking the stress out of transport while saving you time and money. Most tours are for 8–10 hours, so your entire day is sorted.
    • Depending on the group size, transport ranges from comfortable vans like Toyota Alphard and Hiace to mid-sized minibuses or full coaches.
  • Family-friendly
    • Coaches can accommodate foldable strollers.
    • Walking distances are moderate; shrine steps and Enoshima slopes may require pacing.
    • Komachi-dori and Enoshima have plenty of snacks and shops suited to families.
  • Guides & languages
    • Kamakura and night tours operate mainly with Chinese/Japanese-speaking guides.
    • Fuji + Kamakura tours include native English or bilingual English–Spanish guides.
    • Commentary covers cultural etiquette, history, photo spots and area navigation.
  • What your ticket includes
    • Your ticket typically includes round-trip transfers from the meeting point, the Enoden Railway ride, entry to Enoshima Shrine or Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. 
    • Free time is usually provided at Komachi-dori, Enoshima Island or Yokohama Minato Mirai. Meals and entry to attractions are not included in the ticket. 

Your Tokyo to Kamakura day trip options

Visitors ascending steps to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura, surrounded by lush greenery.

Kamakura & Hasedera Day Trip with Kotoku-in, Enoshima & Enoden Line

  • Best for: First-time visitors who want the complete Kamakura highlights loop with temples, shrines and island views
  • Duration: 8 hr-10 hr | Depart from Shinjuku or Tokyo Station | Pick-up: 8am | Drop-off: 5:30pm
  • Includes:
    • Round-trip transfers & multilingual guides (Chinese/Japanese/English)
    • Entry to Enoshima Shrine
    • Entry to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • Enoden tram ride + Kamakura High School (Slam Dunk) stop
    • Free time on Enoshima + Komachi-dori stroll

​From Tokyo: Kamakura & Hasedera Day Trip with Kotoku In Temple, Enoshima, Enoden Train, & More

Ferris wheel illuminated at night in Yokohama, part of the Kamakura Yokohama Night View Tour.

Kamakura & Yokohama Night Tour with Enoshima & Enoden Train Ride

  • Best for: Travellers who want coastal scenery by day and Yokohama night views in one seamless trip
  • Duration: 10 hr | Depart from Shinjuku | Pick-up: 11am | Drop-off: 9pm
  • Includes:
    • Round-trip transfers & English-speaking guide
    • Enoden tram ride + Kamakura High School (Slam Dunk) stop
    • Free time on Enoshima Island with shrine access
    • Visit to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 2.5 hours free time in Yokohama

​From Tokyo: Kamakura & Yokohama Night Tour with Enoshima, Enoden Train, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, & More

Visitor photographing Mt. Fuji from Oishi Park with Lake Kawaguchi in the foreground.

Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi & Kamakura Big Buddha Full-Day Tour

  • Best for: Travellers who want to see Mt Fuji’s, lake cruises and scenic view points
  • Duration: 11 hr | Depart from Ginza
  • Includes:
    • Bilingual English + Spanish guide & transfers from Ginza
    • Lake Ashi cruise
    • Visits to Lake Kawaguchi & Oishi Park
    • Oshino Hakkai village walk
    • Entry to Kotoku-in Great Buddha

​ Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi & Big Buddha Day Tour with Native English/Spanish Guide

Things to see during your Kamakura day trip

Kamakura Buddha statue surrounded by autumn foliage, Japan.

Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kotoku-in Temple)

This 13th-century bronze Buddha is one of Kamakura’s most recognised landmarks, standing 11.3 metres tall in an open-air temple setting. Visitors can walk the grounds, admire its preserved original form, and optionally enter the interior for a small fee.

Enoden tram at a station in Kamakura during a 1-day guided tour.

Hase Station & Enoden Railway Ride

Hase Station is your boarding point for the Enoden, a classic seaside tram known for its retro charm and coastal views. The ride passes neighbourhoods, temples and ocean stretches, appearing frequently in Japanese films and anime.

Train crossing near the sea on the Enoden line in Japan.

Kamakura High School (Slam Dunk Crossing)

This coastal railway crossing became famous for its appearance in the anime Slam Dunk and remains a popular photo stop. Travellers can watch the tram pass against the backdrop of the ocean and recreate the iconic scene.

Beachgoers and surfers at Shonan Coast, Kamakura with Enoshima Island in the background.

Shonan Coast (Drive-Through)

The Shonan Coast offers open sea views, long beaches and a breezy coastal atmosphere, seen as you drive along the shoreline. It’s one of Kamakura’s signature scenic stretches, often associated with surfing culture and anime locations.

Kamakura temple gate with red lantern and pine trees on Kamakura & Enoshima Bay Bus Tour.

Enoshima Island

Enoshima is a small island filled with seaside paths, shrines and lookout points overlooking the Shonan Coast. This historic Enoshima shrine is a must-visit, dedicated to Benzaiten spans several levels of the island and houses cultural treasures like the eight-armed Benzaiten statue.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kamakura, Japan, with visitors exploring the grounds.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine features spacious grounds, torii gates, ponds and seasonal blossoms tied to samurai history. It’s the spiritual heart of the city and one of Japan’s three major Hachimangu shrines.

Komachidori Street with colorful shop signs and visitors in Kamakura, Japan.

Komachi-dori Street

Komachi-dori is a lively shopping street connecting Kamakura Station to Hachimangu Shrine, lined with food stalls, cafés and craft shops. It’s ideal for trying local snacks and picking up souvenirs during your free time.

Cruise boat on Lake Ashi with Mt. Fuji and torii gate in the background, Japan.

Lake Ashi

A peaceful crater lake known for its mountain scenery and occasional views of Mt. Fuji. The included cruise takes you across calm waters with panoramic photo opportunities.

Traditional buildings and pond at Oshino Hakkai Village, Japan, with Mount Fuji in the background.

Oshino Hakkai

A traditional village with eight natural spring ponds formed from Mt. Fuji’s melted snow. Visitors can explore wooden bridges, thatched houses and local snack stalls.

Visitor photographing Mt. Fuji from Oishi Park with Lake Kawaguchi in the foreground.

Lake Kawaguchi

This lakeside viewpoint is famous for its flower terraces framing Mt. Fuji in the background. It’s one of the Fuji area’s best spots for clear, seasonal photos.

Kamakura day trip itinerary

Group of tourists in front of the Great Buddha of Kamakura, Japan.

Start point: 📍Tokyo Station/Shinjuku
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Kotoku-in (Great Buddha) – Open-air bronze Buddha; step inside to see its structure.
⬇️
Hasedera Temple – Peaceful gardens; 2,500 hydrangeas bloom in June.
⬇️
⛩Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine – Scenic ponds, bridges, and city views.
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Komachi Street – Matcha treats, local snacks, and craft shops.
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Enoshima Island – Coastal shrines, Enoden ride, Slam Dunk photo stop.
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End point: 📍Tokyo Station/Shinjuku

Enoshima Electric Railway train crossing near the coast in Kamakura, Japan.

Start point: 📍Shinjuku
⬇️
Kotoku-in (Great Buddha) – Open-air bronze Buddha; step inside to view its interior.
⬇️
Hasedera Temple – Peaceful gardens and ocean views; hydrangeas bloom in June.
⬇️
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine – Scenic ponds, red bridges, and hilltop views.
⬇️
Komachi Street – Try matcha sweets, mochi, and shop local souvenirs.
⬇️
Enoshima Island
Sub-stops: Enoden ride, Kamakurakōkō-Mae Station, Shonan Beach, Kamakura High School.
– Coastal shrines, seaside walk, and Slam Dunk photo spot.
⬇️
End point: 📍Shinjuku

Fuji Mountain with pink sakura branches by Kawaguchiko Lake in spring, Japan.

Start point: 📍 Ginza Inz 2, Tokyo
⬇️
Kotoku-in (Great Buddha) — 13m bronze Buddha that’s withstood centuries; step inside to view its intricate structure.
⬇️
Lake Ashi — Peaceful lake surrounded by mountains; enjoy the iconic Lake Ashi Cruise with Mt. Fuji views.
⬇️
Oshino Hakkai Village — Scenic spring-fed ponds and thatched-roof homes. Sample fresh wasabi and handmade soba noodles.
⬇️
Lake Kawaguchi (Oishi Park) — Capture postcard views of Mt. Fuji reflected in crystal-clear waters framed by seasonal blooms.
⬇️
End point: 📍 Ginza Inz 2, Tokyo

Visual guide to your Kamakura day trip

Great Buddha of Kamakura with tourists exploring the surrounding temple grounds.

See the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in

This massive bronze Buddha has been sitting peacefully under the sky since the 13th century. At 11.3 meters tall, it’s one of the largest bronze statues in the country — and you can even step inside to see how it was built.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine entrance with red torii gate and visitors in Kamakura, Japan.
Entrance of Hasedera Temple in Kamakura, part of the Kamakura & Hasedera Temple Tour from Tokyo.
Aerial view of Enoshima Island, Japan, showcasing coastal landscape and surrounding waters.
People walking along Komachi Street in Kamakura, Japan, with traditional shops and vibrant atmosphere.

Plan your Tokyo to Kamakura day trip

Enoshima Island view with Kamakura Buddha and Enoden train in Tokyo, Japan.
  • Kamakura tours: Depart at 7:20 AM, 7:50 AM, and 8:20 AM. (Duration: 7.5-8 hours approx.)
  • Kamakura-Yokohama Night View Tour: Starts at 11:00 AM (Duration: 10 hours approx.)
View of Shonan Enoshima and Mt Fuji from Hiroyama Park in Zushi, Kanagawa Prefecture.

Kamakura is a year-round destination, offering something unique in every season. Weekdays are the best option to avoid the weekend crowds, especially at popular spots like Kotoku-in and Komachi Street.

  • Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms bloom around Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and along Kamakura’s peaceful pathways, creating a pastel-colored backdrop.
  • Summer (June–August): Hydrangeas cover Hasedera Temple in shades of blue and purple, while coastal areas like Shonan Beach buzz with energy.
  • Autumn (September–November): Vibrant red and gold foliage transforms temple grounds, making places like Engaku-ji feel magical.
  • Winter (December–February): Crisp air and clear skies provide the best views of Mount Fuji from Enoshima Island, and the quieter season makes for a peaceful visit.
Hakone Tozan train at Hakone station, Japan, surrounded by lush greenery.

Getting to Kamakura from Tokyo is straightforward, with multiple public transport options to suit different travel preferences. Here’s a detailed guide:

  • By JR Yokosuka line:

-Take a direct train from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station. The journey takes about 57 minutes.

-The JR Pass (nationwide) and the JR Tokyo Wide Pass both cover this route, making them excellent options for saving on travel costs.

  • By Odakyu line (from Shinjuku):

-Board the Odakyu Line train to Fujisawa Station and transfer to the Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) for a scenic coastal ride to Kamakura.

-This option is slightly longer, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but offers charming views along the way.

  • By Shonan-Shinjuku line:

-This line connects Shinjuku directly to Kamakura. Trains on this route are less frequent than the Yokosuka Line but offer a convenient alternative.

  • By bus:

-Some direct buses run between Tokyo and Kamakura, though less commonly used. They can take up to 2 hours depending on traffic.

Family enjoying private car transfer

Choosing a tour with transfers makes your Tokyo to Kamakura day trip seamless, stress-free, and more enjoyable. Here’s why:

  • Save energy for the fun stuff: Instead of juggling train schedules or switching between multiple transport lines, enjoy a smooth ride straight to Kamakura. Let someone else handle the logistics while you relax.
  • Hassle-free hotel pick-up: Many tours offer hotel pick-up and drop-off options, which means no early-morning dashes to catch a train or hauling luggage through stations.
  • Comfort matters: Air-conditioned coaches offer a comfortable journey, especially during hot summers or chilly winters. Plus, you’re guaranteed a seat—no standing in crowded trains.
  • Connect the dots: Tours are curated to cover all major stops in the most efficient order, meaning no wasted time figuring out where to go next.
  • Guides make the difference: Many tours come with knowledgeable guides who bring Kamakura’s history to life, making each stop more meaningful.
Bowl of Soba noodles

Kamakura offers a mix of street food, fresh seafood, and traditional meals that reflect its coastal charm and cultural roots. From Komachi Street snacks to hidden cafes and temple fare, there’s something to suit every palate.

  • Kamakura Matsubaraan: Famous for its handmade soba noodles in a calm, traditional setting near Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. 
  • Shirasuya Honten: Known for its fresh and flavorful shirasu-don (whitebait rice bowl), this spot is a go-to for Kamakura’s coastal cuisine. Simple, satisfying, and quintessentially local.
  • Café Minka: Tucked away near Hokokuji Bamboo Forest, this charming cafe serves matcha lattes and homemade desserts.
  • Gelateria Il Brigante: A hidden gem on Komachi Street, offering authentic Italian gelato made with seasonal Japanese ingredients.
Komachidori street in Kamakura with shops and visitors exploring the vibrant marketplace.

Kamakura is a great place to pick up thoughtful souvenirs and local crafts. From the bustling Komachi Street to boutique stores near temples, you’ll find items that reflect the town’s character and charm.

  • Komachi Street: Packed with over 200 shops selling everything from traditional Kamakura-bori lacquerware to matcha-flavored treats.
  • Kamakura Farmers Market: A cozy market near the station where you can grab fresh produce, seasonal fruits, and local preserves.
  • Shops near Hasedera Temple: Look out for boutiques offering handmade scarves, trinkets, and small accessories—perfect for gifts.
  • Matcha stores: Stock up on matcha snacks, roasted nuts, or premium tea powders to bring a taste of Kamakura home.

Pro tip: Many Komachi Street shops rotate seasonal goods, so you’ll often find limited-edition snacks or items tied to festivals or holidays.

Hotel room with neatly made bed, bedside lamps, and a window view.

Budget:

Mid-Range:

  • Kamakura Park Hotel: A cozy hotel near the coast with spacious rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and easy access to temples and the beach.
  • Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kamakura-Ofuna: Located in nearby Ofuna, this modern hotel is convenient for train travelers. Clean, functional rooms with all the essentials for a comfortable stay.

Luxury:

​Shonan Crystal Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel in Fujisawa offering sleek decor and a calm retreat close to Kamakura’s main attractions.

Enoden train passing by coastal scenery in Kanagawa, Japan.
  • Wash your fortune at Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine: Bring coins to wash in the sacred spring—it’s said to double your luck. Here’s the trick: spend those freshly washed coins quickly to keep the good vibes flowing!
  • Sniff out matcha nuts on Komachi Street: You’ll smell them roasting before you see them. These freshly coated nuts are the ultimate snack or souvenir—don’t leave without a bag (or two).
  • Spot the seasonal ema boards: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu often has limited-edition wishing plaques during festivals. Think cherry blossoms in spring or special designs for New Year’s. They’re not just meaningful but make for a cool keepsake.
  • Find the hidden grotto at Hasedera Temple: There’s a tucked-away cave filled with Benzaiten carvings that most people miss. It’s peaceful, a little mysterious, and perfect for a quiet moment.
  • Get the best seat on the Enoden: Heading toward Enoshima? Grab a seat on the left side of the train. The coastal views will have you glued to the window (and your camera ready).
  • Chase the seasonal snacks: Near Hasedera and Komachi Street, shops roll out treats inspired by hydrangeas, cherry blossoms, or even fall leaves. Seasonal sweets make for a fun treasure hunt!
  • Collect temple stamps: Grab a goshuincho (stamp book) at your first stop and watch it fill with intricate stamps and calligraphy from each temple. It’s the ultimate Kamakura souvenir—personal and beautiful.

Frequently asked questions about Tokyo to Kamakura day trips

Is Kamakura worth visiting?

Absolutely. Just an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura is rich in history and culture, offering landmarks like the Great Buddha, serene temples, and vibrant streets like Komachi. Its proximity and charm make it a rewarding day trip for anyone looking to escape the city’s bustle.

Are guided tours worth it for a Tokyo to Kamakura day trip?

Yes, guided tours take care of all logistics, including transfers and curated itineraries, saving you time and effort. With optional hotel pick-ups, knowledgeable guides, and efficiently planned stops, tours offer a stress-free way to dive into Kamakura’s history and highlights.

What are my Tokyo to Kamakura day trip options?

You can join a guided tour with round-trip transfers and stops at major landmarks like the Great Buddha and Komachi Street. For flexibility, the Hakone & Kamakura Pass lets you travel independently and explore at your pace. Night tours combining Kamakura and Yokohama are perfect for those who want to end their day with city lights.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance for shrines or temples on a Tokyo to Kamakura day trip?

Most shrines and temples in Kamakura don’t require advance booking, but some popular spots like Kotoku-in (Great Buddha) may have short entry queues during peak times. Having cash on hand for entrance fees is recommended.

How long does a Tokyo to Kamakura day trip take?

A typical day trip lasts 7–8 hours. If you include nearby spots like Enoshima or Yokohama, tours have a 10-hour itinerary to comfortably cover everything.

Is it possible to combine Kamakura and Enoshima on a Tokyo to Kamakura day trip?

Yes! Enoshima is only about 20 minutes from Kamakura by the scenic Enoden Railway. Our guided tours always include Enoshima in the itinerary, so you can enjoy Kamakura’s highlights like the Great Buddha and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, followed by Enoshima’s coastal trails, shrines, and scenic views—all seamlessly planned for a well-rounded day.

What are the must-see places on a Tokyo to Kamakura day trip?

Don’t miss Kotoku-in (Great Buddha), Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and Hasedera Temple for their history and beauty. Komachi Street is perfect for snacking and shopping, and nearby Enoshima Island adds a scenic coastal vibe to your itinerary.

What’s the best time for a Tokyo to Kamakura day trip?

Kamakura is a year-round destination, but weekdays are ideal for avoiding crowds. Seasonal highlights include cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas in summer, and autumn foliage at temple grounds like Engaku-ji.

Where can I see hydrangeas or cherry blossoms in Kamakura?

For hydrangeas, Hasedera Temple is the star of the show, with over 2,500 plants blooming in vibrant shades of blue and purple every June. If cherry blossoms are your goal, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and the pathways around Kamakura Station are lined with sakura trees, creating a picture-perfect canopy in spring.

Are meals included in the guided day trip?

Not always. Some tours offer lunch stops (with recommended restaurants), but food is usually at your own expense. Pro tip: try Kamakura’s famous shirasu (baby sardine) bowls!

Is Kamakura wheelchair-accessible?

Most of the main attractions are moderately accessible, though some historic sites may have stairs or uneven paths. If accessibility is crucial, opt for a private tour or check ahead with your guide.

What kind of transportation is used in the guided tours?

Comfortable air-conditioned buses (hello legroom!) with expert guides, hotel pickups, and round-trip convenience. No need to decode Japanese train lines!

Are there restroom breaks along the way?

Definitely. Tours factor in rest stops, and Kamakura’s public facilities are clean and tourist-friendly.

How much free time do I get during the guided tour?

You’ll usually get an hour or so at major stops like Hasedera or the Great Buddha. Enough time for exploring, photos, or a cheeky matcha soft-serve.

Is the trip suitable for children and elderly travelers?

Absolutely. The guided tours are coach-based with minimal walking, and Kamakura’s peaceful vibes make it a chill destination for all ages.

When is the best time to visit Kamakura?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) are magic—think cherry blossoms or fiery foliage. If you're a beach bum, summer brings coastal vibes too. Mornings are best to beat the crowds (and the heat).