Kamakura

What to know

Kamakura (鎌倉) is a coastal town in Kanagawa Prefecture, less than an hour south of Tokyo. The town became Japan's political center when Minamoto Yoritomo chose it as the seat for his new military government in the late 12th century. The Kamakura government continued to rule Japan for over a century, first under the Minamoto shogun and then under the Hojo regents.

After the decline of the Kamakura government in the 14th century and the establishment of its successor, the Muromachi government in Kyoto, Kamakura remained the political center of eastern Japan for some time before losing its position to other cities.

Today, Kamakura is a small city and a very popular tourist destination. Sometimes called the Kyoto of eastern Japan, Kamakura offers numerous temples, shrines and other historical monuments. In addition, Kamakura's sand beaches attract large crowds during the summer.

Activities and attractions

Great Buddha of KamakuraLarge bronze Buddha StatueHase Temple (Hasedera)Attractive temple with views over KamakuraHokokuji TempleTemple known for its small bamboo groveEnoshimaPleasantly touristy island near KamakuraKamakura Hiking TrailsHiking trails in Kamakura’s wooded hillsTsurugaoka HachimanguKamakura’s most important Shinto shrineEngakuji TempleSecond most important Zen templeKenchoji TempleKamakura’s most important Zen templeZeniarai Benten ShrineShrine where visitors wash their moneyMeigetsuin TempleAlso known as the Hydrangea TempleJomyoji TempleNumber five of the top five Zen templesAnkokuronji TempleTemple founded by Nichiren himselfZuisenji TempleZen temple famous for its gardensJochiji TempleFourth most important Zen templeMyohonji TempleTemple of the Nichiren SectTokeiji TempleFormer refuge for abused wivesJufukuji TempleThird Most Important Zen TempleBeaches of KamakuraAbout the sand beaches of Kamakura