Kamakura, a historic city just outside of Tokyo, offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s past. A private full-day tour of this coastal town promises an immersive experience, guiding travelers through its renowned landmarks and natural beauty. From the iconic Great Buddha statue to the serene Bamboo Forest, this comprehensive tour provides an opportunity to discover Kamakura’s rich heritage and tranquil landscapes. With an English-speaking driver, comfortable transportation, and ample time to explore, visitors can expect a seamless and enlightening journey. What secrets and surprises might this Kamakura tour unveil? The adventure awaits those eager to delve deeper into this captivating destination.
Key Points
- A 10-hour private tour of Kamakura with pickup and drop-off from any hotel or train station within Tokyo’s 23 wards.
- Explore the iconic Great Buddha statue, the serene Bamboo Forest, and the historic Hase-dera temple with its 11-headed Kannon statue.
- Enjoy the picturesque coastal scenery and take leisurely walks along the Yuigahama Beach promenade.
- Comprehensive transportation services in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi and bottled water, with parking fees and fuel surcharges included.
- Optional English-speaking guide service available for an additional fee.
Tour Duration and Pickup Details
The private Kamakura tour lasts 10 hours and includes pickup and drop-off from any hotel or train station within Tokyo’s 23 wards. Guests should wait in the hotel lobby 5 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, as the driver will contact them shortly before arriving.
Additional charges may apply for pickups outside the 23 wards or from Yokohama port. The air-conditioned vehicle comes with WiFi and bottled water, and all parking fees and fuel surcharges are included.
Whether you’re starting your journey from central Tokyo or the Yokohama port, this tour ensures a seamless and comfortable experience as you explore the highlights of Kamakura.
Inclusions and Additional Fees
Along With the comprehensive pickup and transportation services, the Kamakura private tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi and bottled water, as well as all necessary parking fees and fuel surcharges.
However, there are additional charges for pickups from Haneda Airport (8,000 yen per vehicle and group), Narita Airport (10,000 yen), and locations outside Tokyo’s 23 wards (7,000 yen).
On top of that, an optional guide service is available for an additional 10,000 yen.
These additional fees ensure that the tour is tailored to the individual needs of the participants, providing flexibility and convenience throughout the experience.
Exploring the Great Buddha
One of the highlights of the Kamakura private tour is the chance to explore the impressive Great Buddha, or Daibutsu, housed within the Kotoku-in temple complex. Towering over 13 meters in height and cast in bronze, this iconic statue of Amida Buddha gazes serenely over the surrounding grounds, inviting visitors to marvel at its sheer scale and craftsmanship. Visitors can admire the Great Buddha from various vantage points, including stepping inside the statue’s hollow interior to observe its intricate design and engineering. The tour also provides an opportunity to learn about the history and significance of this revered Buddhist landmark within the cultural heritage of Kamakura.
| Statue Height | Bronze Weight | Established | Visitors per Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13.35 meters | 121 tons | 1252 AD | Over 3 million |
Wandering the Bamboo Forest
After marveling at the grandeur of the Great Buddha, the Kamakura private tour leads visitors to the serene Hokoku-ji Temple.
Towering stalks of bamboo sway gently in the breeze, creating a tranquil atmosphere that invites guests to slow down and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The bamboo forest is a stunning sight, with the slender, verdant stems rising high above, filtering the sunlight and casting a serene, green glow over the peaceful paths.
Guests can stroll through the winding trails, pausing to take in the sight and sounds of this unique and captivating natural wonder.
Visiting Hase-dera and Shrine
Next, the tour leads visitors to the iconic Hase-dera, a stunning temple renowned for its impressive wooden statue of the Goddess of Mercy.
At Hase-dera, guests can:
- Marvel at the towering 11-headed Kannon statue
- Explore the serene temple grounds and tranquil gardens
- Climb the steps to the Kannondo Hall for panoramic views
- Visit the temple’s museum to learn about its rich history
- Make a wish and obtain a fortune or amulet from the shrine
Travelers then proceed to the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, a significant Shinto shrine that sits atop a hilltop, offering picturesque vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Enjoying Coastal Scenery and Walks
Leaving the tranquility of the shrines behind, the tour then takes visitors on a scenic journey along the Yuigahama Beach, where they can enjoy the coastal vistas and indulge in refreshing walks along the shoreline.
This picturesque stretch of beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains, creating a serene and captivating atmosphere.
As visitors stroll along the promenade, they’ll have the opportunity to soak in the salty sea air and feel the gentle breeze caress their skin. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a more brisk walk, the coastal scenery and walks along Yuigahama Beach promise to be a highlight of the Kamakura tour.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
Conveniently, the tour offers pickup and drop-off services from any hotel or train station within Tokyo’s 23 wards, ensuring seamless transportation to and from the Kamakura area. Guests are advised to wait in the hotel lobby five minutes before the scheduled pickup time, as the driver will contact them prior to arrival.
For those residing outside the 23 wards or wishing to be picked up from Yokohama port, additional charges may apply.
The pickup and drop-off locations include:
- Any hotel or train station within Tokyo’s 23 wards
- Haneda Airport (additional fee of 8,000 yen)
- Narita Airport (additional fee of 10,000 yen)
- Outside the 23 wards (additional fee of 7,000 yen)
- Yokohama port (additional fee may apply)
Frequently Asked Questions
Prospective travelers often have several questions about the Kamakura Private Tour, which the tour operator aims to address thoroughly.
The tour departs at 9 AM and runs for 10 hours, with pickups from any hotel or train station within Tokyo’s 23 wards.
Yes, the pickup location can be outside of Tokyo, but additional charges may apply.
The driver will contact you before pickup.
Bottled water is included, and the air-conditioned vehicle has WiFi.
A guide is optional and available for an additional fee of 10,000 yen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Route Be Customized?
The tour route can be customized to meet the customer’s preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on the customer’s interests and time constraints.
Are There Any Stops for Lunch or Restroom Breaks?
The tour includes stops for lunch and restroom breaks at the driver’s discretion. Passengers can discuss their preferences with the driver to customize the schedule as needed during the day’s excursion.
Can Children Participate in the Tour Activities?
Children can participate in the tour activities. The driver and tour itinerary are designed to accommodate families, with stops for restrooms and lunch breaks. Parents should ensure children follow safety guidelines during any activities.
Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites?
Photography is generally allowed at the sites on the tour. Visitors should check for any restrictions or fees before taking photos. Most major attractions welcome photography as long as it does not disrupt the experience.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The cancellation and refund policy typically allows for full refunds if canceled at least 3 days in advance. Within 3 days, partial refunds or rescheduling may be offered, subject to availability and provider discretion.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
Recap
This full-day private tour of Kamakura offers an in-depth exploration of the region’s historical and natural wonders.
Visitors can marvel at the iconic Great Buddha, wander through serene Bamboo Forest, and discover the tranquil gardens of Hase-dera.
With coastal scenery and walks along Yuigahama Beach, the tour provides a comprehensive experience in an air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water and Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and informative day.
