Kamakura

Japan

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.

Shop Book
Small smiling stone buddha monk statue (Nagomi Jizo). The Japanese characters mean "The Jizo for good relationship". Hasedera Temple, Kamakura, Japan; Shutterstock ID 539525365; Your name (First / Last): Laura Crawford; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: BiA: Takayama, south of Tokyo POI images for online

Small smiling stone buddha monk statue (Nagomi Jizo). The Japanese characters mean "The Jizo for good relationship". Hasedera Temple, Kamakura, Japan; Shutterstock ID 539525365; Your name (First / Last): Laura Crawford; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: BiA: Takayama, south of Tokyo POI images for online

Overview

The glory days of Japan's first feudal capital (from 1185 to 1333) coincided with the spread of populist Buddhism in Japan. This legacy is reflected in the area's proliferation of stunning temples. Kamakura (鎌倉) also has a laid-back, earthy vibe complete with organic restaurants, summer beach shacks and surfers – which can be added to sunrise meditation and hillside hikes as reasons to visit. Only an hour from Tokyo, it tends to get packed on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.

Meet your new travel partner

Stay connected in Kamakura

Holafly eSIM provides unlimited mobile data with no hidden fees, giving you peace of mind wherever you travel. Stay connected even after your plan ends with Always On. Use code LONELYPLANET for an exclusive discount.

Get 5% off

Take your Japan trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.

bookable trip

Japan’s Golden Route: Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Fuji in 14 Days

14 days / 13 nights

highlights

  1. 1Savor Uji matcha from the source during a traditional tea ceremony
  2. 2Meander among peaceful bamboo groves and orange-hued torrii shrines in Kyoto
  3. 3Cross the famous Shibuya Crossing on a four-day tour of Tokyo, past and present
from $6,820

per person

book this tripsee trip details

Explore more trips

  • Spring's Season of Sakura: 10 Days of Japanese Cherry Blossoms
    Japan

    10 days / 9 nights

    Spring's Season of Sakura: 10 Days of Japanese Cherry Blossoms

    FROM $4,963

    per person

    See Trip Details
  • Nozawa Slopes, Nagano Temples, and Tokyo Treasures: Japanese Winter in 10 Days
    Japan

    10 days / 9 nights

    Nozawa Slopes, Nagano Temples, and Tokyo Treasures: Japanese Winter in 10 Days

    FROM $5,370

    per person

    See Trip Details

Must-see attractions

Explore all

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

Explore all books

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Kamakura