Visiting the historical city of Kamakura
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Around 50 kilometers outside of Tokyo lies the historical city Kamakura. Its attractions consist of several temples and a beach. The most famous temple in Kamakura is the Daibatsu or Great Buddha temple. This temple is home to the great Buddha of Kotokuin which has become the face of this city and well known throughout Japan. The statue is large and quite impressive to see. Also, this large statue is actually hollow on the inside and it is possible to go in There is a little staircase which takes you up one level, but unfortunately there is no view.
Another religious sight is the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine which is at the end of the Dankazure street. This street is an amazing sight during cherry blossom season as the center is lined on both sides with trees. The Hachimangu shrine is larger than the other temples in Kamakura. Its grounds include a large temple, a courtyard, but also some gardens with lilies and is a pleasant place to visit. The third main place to visit is the Hasedera which has many little statues placed around the hill it is built on. In town there are several other small temples and traditional buildings.
Besides the temples there is a also a beach which is within walking distance from the train station. The beach is not as classy as several others in Asia, but still attracts many people wanting to enjoy the sun. On the beach there are several bars and restaurants and makes a nice escape when the sun is out.
For those who want to seen some nature, Kamakura also has a hiking trail which starts close to the Daibutsu temple. It is around 5 kilometers long and you can make a big loop back to the train station. After the trail you will pass a few smaller temples. Kamakura would make an ideal day trip from Tokyo as it is only one hour away by train which leave regularly. |
Kamakura travel photo gallery
Torii gate of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu.
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The Japan photo gallery includes
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Grounds of the temple complex.
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Tourists visiting the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu temple.
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Stairs leading to the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu temple.
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Typical red religious structures.
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View towards Dankazure from the main temple.
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Barrels for the rice wine.
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View of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine.
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Traditional Japanese shop at Dankazura.
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Gate of the Hongakuji temple.
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The black sand of the beach.
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Garden of the Hasedera temple.
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Small statues on the hill.
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Bell tower of the Hasedera temple.
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Path through the bamboo garden.
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Japanese garden at the Hasedera temple.
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Zen garden in the Hasedera temple.
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Statue of the Great Buddha.
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Temple of the Great Buddha.
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Hiking trail in Kamakura.
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View from the Daibutsu hiking course.
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Entrance to the Zeniarai Benten Shrine.
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Internet sites with information about Kamakura
Suggested photo galleries on Mad Planet Earth
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