Day trip to coastal Kamakura
Day trip to coastal Kamakura
Day trip to coastal Kamakura
Day trip to coastal Kamakura
Day trip to coastal Kamakura
Day trip to coastal Kamakura
Day trip to coastal Kamakura
Day trip to coastal Kamakura
Day trip to coastal Kamakura
Day trip to coastal Kamakura

What you'll do

Our hosts are experts at navigating the intricate and priceless architecture of the area, ranging from flame-colored torii gates that mark the entrances to shrines to magnificent Buddhist temples swarming with locals and tourists alike. Kamakura’s crown jewel is the Amida Buddha at Kotoku-in, forged from bronze and exposed to the elements of this curious city.

Surf culture thrives here, and you might want to grab a brew and throw a shaka at one of the local shacks before delving into the fascinating history of Japan’s first feudal capital. Forest hikes allow you to reconnect with the earth, and morning meditation sessions are the best remedy for a busy mind. After all, this is where Buddhism took root in Japan.

Where you’ll go

You’ll cruise to the laid-back beach town of Kamakura, a mere hour south of Tokyo by train, and an essential stop in the search for tranquility in Japan. With its easy-going atmosphere and unique blend of spirituality and relaxation, a day trip to this quirky town will give you a breather from the million mph pace of Tokyo.

You’ll get to thoroughly explore the town itself, which was the ancient feudal capital of Japan, and learn about its vital role in spreading Buddhism across the country. Your host will ensure you don’t miss out on the most notable attractions, like the spectacular Great Buddha or the Hokokuji Bamboo Forest. Still, they’ll also reveal curiosities and local spots that only a local would know.

  • Private & 100% personalized tour

  • 8 hours

  • Matched to your ideal host

  • Walking tour (may use public transport)

  • Hosted in English (On request: Arabic, Bulgarian, Cantonese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Spanish)

  • Meet at your accommodation or a central location

Experience outline

  • Take a train from Tokyo with a host to the historic coastal town of Kamakura
  • See the area’s most iconic attractions like the Great Buddha
  • Visit renowned Shinto shrines and temples along the leafy green forest trails - pure tranquility
  • Absorb the natural beauty of the forests and oceans that surround this beach town, and maybe stop in at a surf shack for a beer (or two, you’re on holiday!)
  • Explore an alternative part of Japan, away from the Tokyo bustle, with a host
  • Get to know a bit more about Japan’s heritage and feudal history through chatting with your host and exploring the town on foot

Things to know

What’s included

  • Private and personalized itinerary
  • 8 hours with a host
  • Walking experience (other transport can be arranged at an additional cost)

What’s not included

  • Food and drinks
  • Tickets to any attractions
  • Transportation costs - if you are not a JR pass holder please get in touch so we can adjust your quote
  • Gratuities (optional)

Cancellation

  • Cancel 14 days before the experience for a full refund
  • Worry-free cancellation terms: book with peace of mind knowing that you can cancel for free up to a day before the experience and receive a full refund.

Photos taken by our hosts and guests

City Unscripted guests photos

Reviews

    A great day at the Japanese seaside with Patrick. Temples, shrines, local food and Black Kites behaving like Seaguls. Amazing.

    November 2021

    Anthony J

    Great place to visit. Awesome temple and shrine and our host Arezki is so knowledgeable and competent he can keep you entertained and on track all day, and even tailor the trip to your requirements. Recommended.

    February 2020

    Stephen M

    Extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and kind. The trip was as smooth as possible and he shared a wealth of knowledge about our trip and Japan as a whole. Highly recommended.

    December 2019

    Garett P

    A great trip and we really enjoyed getting out of the city for the day. Our guide - Kento - was brilliant and as well as being a great guide he also gave us a great insight into Japanese life. There is loads to see in Kamakura and easy to see why they call it the Kyoto of the east. We were able to get around the city quickly and efficiently on e-bikes which we hired next to the rail station.

    November 2019

    Mark H

See more reviews

Meet our local hosts in Tokyo. One of them will tailor this experience to your wishes!

We’ll expertly match you to your best suited host based on your interests, personality and the experience vibe you’re after.

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