How to Plan Your Private Tour with Excellent Locations and Good Food for Kamakura First-Timers

Kamakura is an ancient city filled with temples, shrines, and historic monuments. It’s a beautiful place with a rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine. If you’re a first-time visitor to Kamakura, planning a tour can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there’s a private tour that takes you to the best locations in the city and introduces you to the yummy local food! This guided tour is designed to provide you with insights about the city’s history and culture while you enjoy the local dishes. In this article, we’ll provide you with helpful tips on how to plan your private tour with excellent locations and good food in Kamakura.

Tour Overview

The private tour offers an immersive experience of Kamakura’s local cuisine and culture. The guided tour will take you to the famous Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and the Great Buddha of Kamakura among other top sights. You will visit many historic temples and the beautiful Hase-dera Temple. Additionally, the tour stops by Komachi Street, one of the most famous streets in Kamakura, where you can discover local gourmet food. A local guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing you with local insights and tips.

Booking the Tour

Booking the private tour is very easy. You can make a reservation online here: book the tour here. The tour is private, allowing you to enjoy the tour guide’s undivided attention throughout the adventure. However, you will have to cover your travel expenses and entrance fees for various attractions. Also, you need to pay for your own food and drinks, souvenirs, and any extra activities you may choose.

What’s Included

The tour package includes all the expenses necessary for the tour guide throughout the journey. Additionally, you’ll receive hotel pick-up and drop-off. Albeit, transportation, attraction entry ticket fees, and food expenses aren’t included in the package.

Meeting and Pickup Point

The tour guide will meet and pick you up at Kamakura Station, located at 1-chōme-1-15 Onarimachi Kamakura Kanagawa 248-0012. The meeting point is easy to find, and you’ll be given more detailed information closer to the time of your tour.

Highlights of the Private Tour

The following are some of the highlights of the private tour:

Visiting Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine is one of the most famous shrines in Japan. It’s located near Kamakura Station and attracts many visitors throughout the year. The shrine has a long history dating back to the 11th century and was moved to its current location in 1180 by the first shogun of the Kamakura government. Your guide will provide you with more information about the history and significance of this shrine.

The Great Buddha of Kamakura

The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a magnificent bronze statue that sits in the open air. This statue is over 13 meters tall and weighs 121 tons, making it the second-largest bronze Buddha statue in Japan. Your guide will take you to see the statue up close and provide you with more information about its history.

Visiting Komachi Street

Komachi Street is a famous street in Kamakura that offers visitors an opportunity to taste the local gourmet food. You’ll be able to try various local cuisines and indulge in Kamakura’s culinary traditions. The street is also known for its artsy shops, galleries, and souvenir shops. Your guide will give you some tips on where to eat and shop.

Exploring Hase-dera Temple

Hase-dera temple is located on the hillside of Kamakura and is famous for its beautiful gardens and the large wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple also offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area. Your guide will tell you more about the temple’s history and significance.

Tips for the Tour

Here are some tips to make the most out of your private tour:

Dress Comfortably

Make sure you dress comfortably for the tour as you will be walking for long periods. Kamakura has a lot of stairs and hills, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Bring Cash

Most street vendors and shops on Komachi Street only accept cash, so make sure you bring enough yen with you.

Bring a Camera

Kamakura is a beautiful city, and you’ll want to take lots of photos. Bringing a camera or smartphone with you is a great idea.

Listen to Your Guide

The guide is there to provide you with insights and tips. Listen to them carefully and ask them questions if you need clarification.

Book Your Tour Now

Booking a private tour is the best way to explore Kamakura if you’re a first-time visitor. The private tour takes care of all the planning, allowing you to save time and enjoy the city’s top sights and delicious local cuisine. Make sure you dress comfortably, bring enough cash, and listen to your guide’s advice. We hope this guide helps you plan your private tour with excellent locations and good food for Kamakura first-timers. Book the tour now and have an unforgettable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions About Kamakura

What is Kamakura?

Kamakura is a city located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is a famous tourist destination known for its many temples, shrines, and historical landmarks

What is the best time of year to visit Kamakura?

The best time to visit Kamakura is in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November), when temperatures are mild and the scenery is breathtaking. During the spring, Kamakura’s cherry blossom festival is a must-see attraction. In the fall, the autumn leaves provide a picturesque backdrop for exploring the city.

What are the must-visit attractions in Kamakura?

Some of the most famous attractions in Kamakura include:

• The Great Buddha (Daibutsu)
• Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
• Hase-dera Temple
• Kamakura Beach
• Enoshima Island

Is Kamakura expensive to visit?

Kamakura can be a bit pricey, but there are plenty of affordable options available. For example, many of the temples and shrines are free to enter, and there are plenty of affordable restaurants and street vendors selling delicious Japanese cuisine.

What is the best way to get around Kamakura?

The best way to get around Kamakura is on foot or by bike. The city is compact and bike-friendly, with many of the attractions within walking or biking distance of each other. There are also local buses and trains available for longer journeys.

What is the food like in Kamakura?

Kamakura is known for its delicious seafood, including fresh sushi and sashimi. There are also plenty of traditional Japanese dishes available, such as ramen and udon noodles, tempura, and yakitori. For dessert, be sure to try some of the city’s famous mochi (sweet rice cakes).

Is Kamakura safe for travelers?

Yes, Kamakura is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any city, it is important to take the usual precautions to ensure your safety, such as keeping your valuables secure and being mindful of your surroundings.

What is the weather like in Kamakura?

Kamakura has a mild, temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from around 10°C (50°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer. It can be quite humid in the summer months, so be sure to bring light, breathable clothing.

What are some tips for visiting Kamakura?

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit to Kamakura:

• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city’s many temples and shrines
• Be respectful when visiting religious sites, and follow any posted rules or dress codes
• Bring cash, as some smaller shops and vendors may not accept credit cards
• Consider purchasing a Kamakura Enoshima Pass for unlimited travel on local buses and trains
• Try to visit popular attractions early in the day to avoid crowds and long lines
• Explore the local street food scene for a tasty and affordable meal

What is the history of Kamakura?

Kamakura was once the political center of Japan, serving as the seat of the shogunate in the 12th-14th centuries. The city is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with many temples and shrines dating back centuries. As a result, it has become a popular destination for those interested in Japanese history and culture.

Are there any hotels in Kamakura?

Yes, Kamakura has a variety of accommodation options, including traditional Japanese ryokans, budget-friendly hostels, and modern hotels. Some popular options include the Kamakura Prince Hotel, the WeBase Hostel, and the Good Morning Zaimokuza hotel.

What are some popular day trips from Kamakura?

Kamakura is conveniently located near many other popular destinations in the Kanagawa Prefecture, making it a great starting point for day trips. Some popular options include:

• Enoshima Island
• The hot springs town of Hakone
• The seaside town of Yokohama
• The city of Fujisawa

Can I see Mount Fuji from Kamakura?

Although Kamakura is relatively close to Mount Fuji, it is not possible to see the mountain from the city itself. However, it is possible to take a day trip to the nearby town of Hakone, where you can get panoramic views of the mountain from the cable car and other scenic viewpoints.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kamakura

Kamakura is a beautiful seaside town located just an hour’s train ride from Tokyo. It’s an ancient capital of Japan, filled with temples, shrines, and a giant Buddha statue. Kamakura is a great place to visit for those interested in soaking up Japan’s rich cultural heritage. In this guide, we’ll discuss the best things to do in Kamakura, and how to plan your day to make the most of your time there.

1. Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura

The Great Buddha statue is one of Kamakura’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a bronze statue that stands over 43 feet tall and weighs over 93 tons. The statue is located at the Kotokuin Temple and was first built in 1252. It has survived numerous natural disasters and is considered a symbol of Kamakura’s resilience. Visitors can go inside the statue and see the intricate architecture of the statue up close. The interior looks a lot like a wooden building, with posts, beams, and rafters holding up the statue. It’s a great opportunity to take unique photos and learn more about Japanese architecture.

2. Explore the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is one of the most important shrines in Kamakura. It was established in 1063 by the Minamoto Clan and has been an important center of Shintoism ever since. The shrine is located on a hill overlooking Kamakura, and the view from the top is breathtaking. At the shrine, visitors can watch traditional Shinto ceremonies, take a look at the beautiful gardens, and explore the many buildings and structures on the shrine’s grounds. One of the highlight experiences at the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is walking through the beautiful Torii Gate-lined pathway leading to the main shrine building.

3. Take a Stroll through Komachi Street

Komachi Street is Kamakura’s main shopping street. It’s a bustling road filled with cafes, souvenir shops, and restaurants. The street is named after the legendary beauty Komachi Ono, who was a poet from the Heian period. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll down the street while exploring the many shops and trying out some of the local delicacies. Komachi Street is an excellent place to try traditional Japanese sweets and snacks like mochi, green tea ice cream, and rice crackers.

4. Visit the Engakuji Temple

The Engakuji Temple is one of Kamakura’s most important Zen temples. It was founded in 1282 by a Chinese Zen monk named Yoryu. The temple’s architecture is stunning, and its peaceful gardens are the perfect place to relax and meditate. Visitors should take a look at the temple’s many buildings, including the meditation hall, the bell tower, and the living quarters for the monks. Engakuji Temple also holds regular events and workshops, such as zen meditation classes and calligraphy lessons, for those who want to dive deeper into Japanese culture.

5. Try the Local Cuisine

Kamakura is known for its local cuisine, including seafood and traditional Japanese dishes. One of the must-try dishes is shirasu, which are small white fish found in Sagami Bay. Shirasu is usually served raw with soy sauce and green onions. Another popular dish in Kamakura is Kamakura vegetable curry, a mild Japanese curry made with local vegetables. Visitors should also try Kamakura beer, which is brewed locally and is popular among both tourists and locals.

6. Relax on the Beach

Kamakura is a seaside town, and it’s a great place to relax on the beach. There are several beaches around Kamakura, but the most popular is Yuigahama Beach. The beach is known for its soft sand, shallow waters, and beautiful sunsets. Visitors can rent beach umbrellas and chairs or bring their own if they want to spend a whole day at the beach. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants near the beach where visitors can grab a refreshing drink or a bite to eat.

7. Visit the Hase-dera Temple

The Hase-dera Temple is located on a hill overlooking Kamakura and offers stunning views of the town and the ocean. The temple is famous for its many statues of the goddess Kannon and is considered one of the most important temples in Kamakura. Visitors can take a look at the many buildings and statues on the temple grounds or walk up the hill to see the massive statue of Kannon. The statue is almost 30 feet tall and is covered in gold leaf.

Book Your Tour Now

Kamakura is an unforgettable destination for those interested in exploring Japan’s rich cultural heritage. There are plenty of things to see and do, making it a must-visit destination in Japan. From ancient temples to stunning beaches, Kamakura has something for everyone. Whether you spend a day or a week there, you’re sure to leave with memories that will last a lifetime.