Kamakura

Kamakura is such a charming place, rich in history and surrounded by beautiful nature. You’re in for a treat! Here’s a delightful 2-day itinerary that balances temple visits with some delicious food experiences. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Temples and Traditional Flavors

Morning:

• Start at Hase-dera Temple: Begin your day at this stunning temple, known for its beautiful gardens and the impressive Kannon statue. The views of the coastline from the temple grounds are breathtaking! Don’t forget to explore the small caves and the lovely hydrangea garden if you’re visiting in June.

• Breakfast nearby: After soaking in the serene atmosphere, head to a nearby café for a traditional Japanese breakfast. Try a place like Hase-dera Café, where you can enjoy a simple meal of grilled fish, rice, and miso soup.

Midday:

• Visit the Great Buddha (Daibutsu): After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll to the Great Buddha at Kōtoku-in. This iconic bronze statue is a must-see! You can even go inside the statue for a unique perspective.

• Lunch at a local eatery: For lunch, try Kamakura Matsubaraan, famous for its soba noodles. The handmade soba is delicious, and you can enjoy it in a lovely traditional setting.

Afternoon:

• Explore Hōkoku-ji Temple: After lunch, make your way to Hōkoku-ji, known for its beautiful bamboo grove. It’s a peaceful spot where you can enjoy a cup of matcha tea while surrounded by the serene bamboo.

Evening:

• Dinner in Komachi Street: Head to Komachi Street for dinner. This bustling street is lined with shops and eateries. Try some yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) at Kamakura Yakitori, or indulge in some fresh seafood at a local izakaya.

• Stroll and shop: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along Komachi Street. You can pick up some souvenirs or try some street food snacks like sweet potato chips or matcha ice cream!

Day 2: Nature and More Temples

Morning:

• Start at Engaku-ji Temple: Begin your day at this beautiful Zen temple, which is one of the most important in Kamakura. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning architecture will set a lovely tone for the day.

• Breakfast at a local café: After exploring, grab breakfast at Café Kamakura, where you can enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast or a hearty sandwich.

Midday:

• Visit Kencho-ji Temple: Next, head to Kencho-ji, the oldest Zen temple in Kamakura. The grounds are expansive, and you can spend some time wandering through the gardens and enjoying the tranquility.

• Lunch at a nearby soba shop: For lunch, try Kamakura Soba, where you can enjoy a variety of soba dishes. The tempura soba is a local favorite!

Afternoon:

• Hiking to the Jochiji Temple: After lunch, if you’re up for a little adventure, take a hike to Jochiji Temple. The hike is beautiful and will lead you through some lovely wooded areas. The temple itself is peaceful and less crowded.

Evening:

• Dinner at a seaside restaurant: For your final dinner, head to the coast and enjoy a meal at Kamakura Beach House. They offer fresh seafood and a lovely view of the sunset over the ocean.

• Wrap up with a night stroll: After dinner, take a stroll along the beach. The sound of the waves and the night sky will be a perfect way to end your Kamakura adventure!

And there you have it! A delightful 2-day itinerary filled with temples and tasty food. Enjoy your trip to Kamakura! If you have any other questions or need more tips, feel free to ask!