From Tokyo: Kamakura and Enoshima 1-Day Bus Tour

Exploring the historic gems of Kamakura and Enoshima from Tokyo is an enticing prospect for any traveler seeking to enjoy Japan’s captivating heritage. This comprehensive day tour offers visitors a seamless journey through some of the region’s most iconic landmarks, including the revered Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, the serene Hase-dera Temple, and the impressive Kotoku-in Great Buddha. Beyond the cultural highlights, the tour also invites guests to uncover the natural wonders of Enoshima Island, home to shrines dedicated to the goddess Benten. With insightful live commentary available in both English and Chinese, this excursion promises to leave travelers with a deeper appreciation for the area’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

Key Points

• A day-long bus tour from Tokyo that visits the historical city of Kamakura and the picturesque Enoshima Island.
• Highlights include Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, Hase-dera Temple, Kotoku-in Great Buddha, and the shrines and temples of Enoshima Island.
• Tour duration is approximately 10 hours with live commentary in English and Chinese.
• Offers an opportunity to experience the rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage of the Kamakura region.
• Departs from two central locations in Tokyo and allows visitors to explore the key sights at their own pace.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a day trip from Tokyo to the ancient capital of Kamakura, renowned for its historical ties to the Samurai, as well as the picturesque island of Enoshima.

Travelers will visit the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, the revered Hase-dera Temple, and the majestic Kotoku-in Great Buddha statue.

Enoshima Island, with its shrines dedicated to the goddess Benten, completes this immersive cultural experience.

The tour departs from two central locations in Tokyo and lasts around 10 hours, with live commentary provided in English and Chinese.

Whether seeking to explore Kamakura’s rich heritage or marvel at Enoshima’s scenic beauty, this comprehensive day trip promises an unforgettable journey.

Itinerary

In an article titled ‘From Tokyo: Kamakura and Enoshima 1-Day Bus Tour’

This tour departs from 2 starting locations in central Tokyo, providing convenient access for visitors.

Travelers will then embark on a comprehensive itinerary, visiting Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, Hase-dera Temple, Kotoku-in (Great Buddha), and the picturesque Enoshima Island.

The entire tour duration is approximately 10 hours, with live commentary provided in both English and Chinese throughout the journey.

Highlights include the impressive Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, the serene Hasedera Temple housing an 11-headed Kannon statue, the iconic Kotoku-in and its large bronze Buddha, as well as the shrines and natural beauty of Enoshima Island.

This immersive tour allows visitors to experience the rich history and stunning landscapes of Kamakura.

Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine

Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine stands as the most important Shinto shrine in Kamakura, dedicated to the revered Shinto deity Hachiman, the god of war and patron of the samurai.

Visitors will find the shrine’s location atop a hill overlooking the city particularly scenic. The shrine’s main draw is its impressive main hall, which features intricate woodcarvings and a distinctive green-tiled roof.

Four key highlights of the shrine include:

1. The Noh stage, where traditional Noh theater performances are held.
2. The Wakamiya Ōji, a 1-mile approach lined with cherry trees.
3. The Kamakura Daibutsu, a large bronze Buddha statue located nearby.
4. The Shrines’ annual festivals, which draw large crowds of worshippers and visitors.

Hase-dera Temple

Nestled along the scenic coast of Kamakura, Hase-dera Temple stands as a renowned Buddhist temple, renowned for its impressive 11-headed Kannon statue.

This massive wooden sculpture, standing over 9 meters tall, is the focal point of the temple and a revered object of worship. Visitors can marvel at the intricately carved piece as they ascend the temple’s expansive grounds, which offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

The temple’s history dates back to the 8th century, and its lush gardens and serene atmosphere provide a tranquil respite from the bustling city.

Hase-dera’s blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage make it a must-see destination on the Kamakura tour.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Kotoku-in (Great Buddha)

After marveling at the intricate Kannon statue at Hase-dera Temple, visitors can head to the nearby Kotoku-in, home to one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks – the Great Buddha.

This colossal bronze statue, standing over 13 meters tall, is a designated National Treasure that has drawn pilgrims and travelers alike for centuries.

The Great Buddha’s impressive presence is accentuated by its serene, meditative expression and the surrounding gardens. Visitors can marvel at the immense scale of the statue, and learn about its fascinating history and cultural significance.

Key features of the Great Buddha include:

1. Cast in 1252, making it one of the oldest bronze statues in Japan
2. Hollow interior that allows visitors to enter and view the statue from within
3. Intricate details, such as the Buddha’s serene facial features and graceful posture
4. Designated as a National Treasure, underscoring its immense cultural and historical value

Enoshima Island

Visitors can explore the scenic Enoshima Island, a popular seaside destination that features shrines and temples dedicated to the goddess Benten. The island’s highlights include the Enoshima Shrine, Benten-kutsu Cave, and Enoshima Aquarium. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views from the island’s observation decks and hike along coastal trails.

Enoshima Island Highlights
Enoshima Shrine	Benten-kutsu Cave	Enoshima Aquarium
Scenic Observation Decks	Coastal Hiking Trails	Vibrant Marine Life

Enoshima Island offers a perfect escape from the bustling city of Tokyo, allowing visitors to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Inclusions

The tour package includes roundtrip bus fare and entrance fees to Hase-dera Temple and Kotoku-in, the iconic Great Buddha statue. This ensures visitors can easily access the key sights without having to worry about transportation or admission costs.

The tour also provides:

1. Live commentary in both English and Chinese, catering to a diverse audience.
2. A comprehensive itinerary that covers Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, Hase-dera Temple, Kotoku-in, and Enoshima Island, allowing guests to experience the rich cultural heritage of Kamakura.
3. A full-day excursion, spanning 10 hours, to ensure ample time to explore the area.
4. Flexibility, as the tour operates rain or shine, allowing visitors to plan their trip with confidence.

Important Information

This tour operates rain or shine, ensuring a worry-free experience regardless of weather conditions.

The schedule, however, may be subject to change due to factors like inclement weather or unexpected traffic. Late arrivals may not receive a refund, so punctuality is essential.

Plus, the live commentary may be shared between English and Chinese, catering to a diverse audience.

Lastly, drop-off is limited to Shinjuku Station, so guests should plan their onward travel accordingly.

It’s important to note that while the tour itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive Kamakura and Enoshima experience, unforeseen circumstances may necessitate adjustments to the schedule.

Guests are encouraged to arrive on time to avoid any issues and plan their post-tour logistics in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Lunch Break or Time for Lunch on the Tour?

The tour itinerary does not explicitly mention a lunch break. Participants would likely need to find time during the tour to have lunch on their own at one of the stops or while exploring the sites.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes scheduled restroom breaks at the various sites visited, allowing participants to use the facilities during the excursion. Adequate time is provided for this purpose, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience throughout the day.

Can We Take Photos at the Shrines and Temples?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos at shrines and temples during tours, though they should be respectful and avoid distracting others or using flash photography. Some sites may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the tour guide.

Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?

The tour is generally accessible for people with disabilities, though certain sites like Enoshima Island may have limited accessibility. Guests should inquire about specific accessibility needs when booking to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the tour.

Can We Extend Our Stay on Enoshima Island After the Tour Ends?

The tour does not include an extended stay on Enoshima Island after the scheduled activities. However, travelers can choose to remain on the island and explore it further on their own time after the tour concludes.

Recap

This day trip from Tokyo offers a comprehensive experience of Kamakura and Enoshima’s cultural and natural wonders.

Visitors can explore iconic shrines, temples, and the impressive Great Buddha, as well as the picturesque Enoshima Island.

With live commentary in English and Chinese, the tour provides an immersive journey into Japan’s captivating heritage, allowing travelers to discover the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: