Top Kamakura Cultural Tours

Explore two fascinating Japanese cities in a single day on this private tour from Tokyo. Discover the ancient capital of Kamakura, home to the famed Great Buddha statue, as well as numerous enchanting temples, then continue to Yokohama, Japan's second-largest city to explore some of its highlights, such as Chinatown and the Landmark Tower Sky Garden.

Enjoy the highlights of ancient Kamakura without having to share your guide with a group of other travelers on this private full-day tour. Learn more about the destinations you visit as you’ll have you'll be able to hear your guide. Go at your own pace and customize the day to suit your needs. Spend time at historic and architectural wonders, including Hase-dera Temple, Kotokuin (Daibutsu), and Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine.

This is a guided private tour that includes Kotokuin (Great Buddha Statue) and Hokukuji Temple Bamboo Forest on your itinerary. Hotel pick up in Tokyo 23 wards. Hokoku-ji Temple is very famous for its Bamboo Garden, and is a Michelin Green Guide, a three-star tourist attraction with only two locations in Kamakura. You can also drink matcha while watching the fantastic approximately 2,000 bamboo groves. The Big Buddha, which is synonymous with Kamakura, will be even more fun if you look at it while listening to the detailed historical explanations of the guides with national qualifications. For details of the destination, you can look at the what to expect section of this web page.

I’m Peter, a writer, photographer, and tour guide, born in the UK, presently living in Kamakura, resident ofJapan for almost 30 years. I have published 4 books, 2 on Japan - Matsuri Call of The Gods and Kamakura Mon Amour - all of which are available online. I would be delighted to show you around this ancient city that was Japan's de facto capital from 1185–1333 and which saw the emergence of the shogunate, the flowering of samurai culture, and the rise of Zen Buddhism. I'll explain the history and culture of the Kamakura Period while we visit the temples and shrines on our tour, and also talk about various aspects of Japanese life, both traditional and contemporary. As a bonus, I’ll take souvenir photos of you on the tour. The tour lasts approximately 4 hours. You may select a starting time on the booking form. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, I strongly recommend you visit Kamakura. There’s a lot to discover in this beautiful and historic city!

Kamakura is such a compact city that you can see the whole area within a day. One of the representative sight-seeing spots is Big Image of Buddha in Kotokuin temple. From there, you can travel almost all the famous temples for six hours. Many historical sites are covered in public transportation services. On the way to Hachimangu, we can enjoy shopping on KOMACHI street. While walking through the street, we can feel something different from the western culture. In this area, there are many valuable temples and shrines within a walk. So, we can visit many historical temples and shrines such as so-called hydrangea temple and bamboo grove temple. All these temples are located in calm environment, so you will feel like being in KAMAKURA ZEN Buddhism style. About 1 hour from JR Kita Kamakura station, we will visit the 2nd largest city YOKOHAMA. This time, we will stop over at China town in ISHIKAWA cho in Yokohama. We can enjoy a variety of Chinese cuisines for reasonable prices.

This private and customizable tour for Kamakura is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace.

The old Japanese capital of Kamakura is a must-visit day trip destination. Get the most out of a short visit by joining a walking tour. Start with street food samples, to power you up for the four-plus hours of wandering. Visit ancient temples and shrines set in beautiful manicured gardens and, of course, pay a visit to the Daibutsu, the Great Buddha of Kamakura.

Kamakura used to be a center of politics in the 12th century. There are many historical places from that period. There are lots of shrines and temples. We use public transportation to visit sites. Since we are using public transportation to get around the area, we may be able to visit 3 or 4 spots. I will arrange the itinerary depending on your interests and needs.

Yourself or your couple only Government licensed tour guide Stroll the temples, shrine and Kamakura backstreets while avoiding over-tourism. The old temples, shrine and backstreets offer different perspectives the whole year round as the weather and foliage change Talk with your guide and leave a lasting impression Early-morning start time allows you to plan other sightseeing plans in the afternoon

Experience the energy of Japan’s ancient samurai thanks to this 6-hour history-themed walking tour of Kamakura with a private guide. Explore a range of Buddhist temples, Shinto Shrines, and traditional street vendors in a city that was Japan’s feudal capital from the 12th through 14th centuries.

Dress in a traditional Japanese kimono and stroll through the charming streets of Japan, capturing beautiful photos and creating cherished memories. We offer a wide selection of kimonos, ranging from traditional patterns to modern designs, with experienced staff to assist you with dressing. The package includes the kimono itself, sash belt (obi), Japanese clutch, sandals, and socks. Don't worry, hairstyling is available at an additional cost. If it's not too busy, the dressing process can take less than an hour, and you can set off on your adventure. If you wish to enjoy Japan in a kimono until the evening, next-day return is also possible (additional fee). Now, have a fantastic time exploring Japan!

Shichifukujin or Seven Gods of Fortune are the seven deities of Indian, Chinese and Japanese origin. They are thought to bring wealth and fortune. Visiting Shichifukujin, you get Goshuin. Goshuin is a seal of a pilgrimage shrine/ temple. At an each office of shrine/ temple, stamping a pilgrimage seal is available, including hand writing in calligraphy on the square paper-board. On completion of visiting eight spots, a you may obtain the specific seal of blessing which suggests wishes come true. You are supposed to get good luck and happiness. You also have spiritual experiences in each site. Riding with Enoden, which is the beautiful, old-style train, you can see the fascinating view of the astonishing Sho-nan Ocean and the island of Enoshima from the train windows. Enoden runs on the vehicle road in particular place and is lined with eaves of private houses in the downtown area. As I am a Japanese language teacher I will teach you useful Japanese tips during the tour.

Experience a one-of-a-kind journey as we venture into a part of Engakuji Temple that is usually off-limits to the general public. This exclusive area has been reserved for our private use, providing an exceptional opportunity for an immersive cultural encounter. During our time inside this special temple, we'll have the privilege of witnessing a mesmerizing karate performance, trying our hand at zazen meditation, engaging in shakyo (copying Buddhist sutras), and experiencing the art of tea ceremony. If you wish, you can even participate in the karate demonstration yourself. Moreover, our knowledgeable guide will facilitate meaningful conversations, as they translate the insightful words shared by the temple's venerable monk. Don't miss this extraordinary chance to delve into the essence of Japanese culture and uncover the deeper essence of Japan itself. This unique experience goes beyond the ordinary, offering a truly remarkable exploration of Japan's cultural heritage.

Explore Kamakura's history, culture, and natural beauty with our guided walking tour. Visit iconic sites like Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the Kamakura Great Buddha, and Hasedera Temple, gaining insights into their significance. Experience traditional rituals, discover artistic treasures, and enjoy the city's stunning coastal views. Savor local cuisine, from traditional dishes to hidden gems. Our small-group tour offers a personalized, hassle-free exploration of Kamakura. Join us to uncover this enchanting city's beauty, culture, and warm hospitality.