Kamakura Full Day Tour: Kotoku-in & Enoshima & Hachimangu Shrine

The Kamakura Full Day Tour offers a captivating exploration of Japan’s historic Kamakura region. From the magnificent Great Buddha at Kotoku-in temple to the scenic Enoshima island and the revered Hachimangu Shrine, this tour immerses visitors in a blend of cultural, historical, and natural wonders. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and optional add-ons, the tour promises an enriching experience for those seeking to uncover the unique charms of this enchanting destination. What lies in store for those who embark on this journey?

Key Points

• The Kamakura Full Day Tour explores the historic city of Kamakura, visiting key attractions like Kotoku-in temple, Enoshima, and Hachimangu Shinto Shrine.
• The tour price starts at $69.15 per person and includes vehicle service fees, driver service, and a certified guide.
• Participants can choose a meeting point for pick-up and drop-off, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible but allows strollers.
• Additional costs apply for entry to Kotoku-In temple and access to the Great Buddha, which are not included in the tour price.
• The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, and infants must sit on laps.

Tour Overview

The Kamakura Full Day Tour provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the historic city of Kamakura, located just south of Tokyo.

The tour covers three main attractions: the Kotoku-in temple, home to the iconic Great Buddha; the coastal town of Enoshima; and the Hachimangu Shinto Shrine.

Priced from $69.15 per person, the tour includes vehicle service fees, driver service, and a certified guide.

Group size is limited to a maximum of 45 travelers.

While food, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included, the tour offers a comprehensive way to experience the highlights of Kamakura in a single day.

Inclusions

The Kamakura Full Day Tour includes several key services to facilitate a seamless experience for travelers.

The tour price covers all vehicle-related fees, including service, fuel, tolls, and highway tolls. Travelers also benefit from the expertise of a certified guide.

However, the tour price excludes food, drinks, accommodation, meals, and personal expenses. Visitors can expect a convenient pick-up and drop-off at a selected meeting point.

While the tour is stroller-accessible, it isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Additional costs apply for entry to the Kotoku-In and access to the Great Buddha.

Meeting and Pickup

Travelers can select a meeting point for the Kamakura Full Day Tour. The tour begins and ends at this designated location.

Whether it’s a hotel, train station, or other convenient spot, the tour operator will accommodate the chosen meeting place. Once gathered, the group will depart for the day’s activities.

At the conclusion of the tour, participants return to the original meeting point. This straightforward pickup and drop-off system ensures a seamless start and finish to the Kamakura excursion.

Travelers simply need to choose a suitable meeting location that aligns with their needs and schedule.

Participation Requirements

To participate in the Kamakura Full Day Tour, there are several requirements travelers should be aware of.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps. Pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to join. Plus, participants shouldn’t have any heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Most travelers, however, can participate in the tour. Travelers will receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The tour ends back at the meeting point selected at the start of the experience.

Additional Costs

Visitors to the Kamakura Full Day Tour can expect to pay two additional costs. First, entry to the Kotoku-In temple, home of the iconic Great Buddha statue, costs 300 yen. Second, if travelers wish to go inside the Great Buddha itself, there’s an extra 50 yen fee. These expenses are not included in the tour price, so visitors should budget accordingly. The additional costs are summarized in the table below:

Item	Price (JPY)
Kotoku-In Entrance	300
Entry Inside Great Buddha	50

Beyond these minor fees, the tour’s inclusions cover transportation, guide services, and other logistics, making it a convenient and value-packed sightseeing experience.

Cancellation Policy

The Kamakura Full Day Tour offers flexible booking with a generous cancellation policy.

Travelers can cancel their tour for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This allows for last-minute changes in plans without penalty.

The tour also has a "Reserve now, pay later" option, providing further flexibility.

Cancellation is easy and can be done directly with the tour provider, Scenic Bend.

Travelers can make changes to their booking with confidence, knowing they won’t lose their money if their plans shift.

This policy ensures a hassle-free booking experience for all participants.

Exploring Kotoku-In and the Great Buddha

As part of the Kamakura Full Day Tour, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the iconic Kotoku-In and marvel at the impressive Great Buddha.

The Great Buddha, or Daibutsu, is a colossal bronze statue standing over 13 meters tall. Visitors can admire the statue from the outside or pay a small fee to enter the statue’s interior for a unique perspective.

Nearby, the Kotoku-In temple grounds feature tranquil gardens and shrines. Exploring these historic sites provides a deeper understanding of Kamakura’s rich cultural heritage and the influential role of Buddhism in Japan’s history.

Discovering Enoshima and Hachimangu Shrine

After exploring the iconic Kotoku-In and the colossal Great Buddha, the Kamakura Full Day Tour takes visitors on a journey to discover the charming island of Enoshima and the revered Hachimangu Shrine.

Enoshima is a picturesque island connected to the mainland by a bridge, offering stunning views of the Sagami Bay. Visitors can explore the island’s shrines, temples, and caves, as well as its scenic hiking trails.

The tour then proceeds to the Hachimangu Shrine, a significant Shinto shrine that dates back to the 8th century and is known for its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Schedule and Approximate Timings?

The tour schedule includes visiting Kotoku-in, Enoshima, and Hachimangu Shrine. Exact timings aren’t provided, but the full-day tour allows ample time to explore these major sights in the Kamakura area near Tokyo.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with participants expected to navigate through historical sites and neighborhoods. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for occasional inclines or uneven terrain during the day’s activities.

Are There Any Opportunities for Restroom Breaks?

The tour includes ample opportunities for restroom breaks. Participants can use facilities at various sites visited, like Kotoku-in and Hachimangu Shrine. The tour’s pacing allows time for these stops, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not prohibit bringing your own food and drinks. However, it’s important to note that no meals or refreshments are included in the tour price, so you’ll need to plan and bring your own sustenance for the day.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for seniors or children. However, infants can sit on laps for free. The tour price is a flat rate per person, regardless of age or senior status.

The Sum Up

The Kamakura Full Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the historic city’s iconic sites, including the Kotoku-in temple, Enoshima island, and Hachimangu Shrine. With convenient transportation, a certified guide, and reasonable additional costs, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience blending Japan’s rich history and stunning natural scenery. It’s an excellent choice for visitors seeking to discover the captivating essence of Kamakura.