Kamakura: Half Day Walking Tour & Japanese Sweets

Explore the historic charm of Kamakura on this immersive half-day walking tour. Uncover the city’s iconic landmarks, from the serene Hase-dera temple to the significant Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, as you explore its rich samurai heritage. Along the way, savor traditional Japanese sweets and matcha tea, capturing the essence of Kamakura’s enduring cultural allure. While the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, the engaging insights and comprehensive experiences it offers make it a must-visit for anyone seeking to discover the true heart of this captivating destination.

Key Points

• Explore Kamakura’s top landmarks, including the Great Buddha statue, Hase-dera temple, and Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, on a 4-hour walking tour.
• Enjoy a relaxing tea break with traditional Japanese sweets like Wagashi and Matcha Lattes on the lively Komachi Dori Street.
• Learn about Kamakura’s rich samurai history and cultural significance during the guided tour.
• Discover the beautiful temple architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning ocean views at Hase-dera.
• Browse a variety of artisanal craft shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs on Komachi Dori Street.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

This half-day walking tour of Kamakura allows visitors to explore the city’s popular landmarks and indulge in traditional Japanese sweets over the course of approximately 4 hours.

The tour starts at the Kamakura City Tourist Information Center and includes a train ride to Hase station.

Highlights include visiting the iconic Great Buddha statue at Kotoku-in, the stunning Hase-dera temple, and the historic Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine.

Participants will also enjoy a tea break and shopping time on Komachi Dori Street.

Throughout the tour, a local, licensed guide provides insights into Kamakura’s rich samurai history and culture.

The tour is priced at $47.85 per person and includes all entrance fees, transportation, and the cost of the Japanese sweets and matcha tea.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour starts at the Kamakura City Tourist Information Center, where visitors board a train to Hase station, just a 10-minute journey away.

Once there, the group visits the impressive Kōtoku-in, home to the Great Buddha statue, before heading to the beautiful Hase-dera temple, where they’ll spend an hour exploring the grounds.

Next, it’s a 10-minute train ride to Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, a significant Shinto shrine with a 45-minute visit.

After, the group enjoys a 45-minute tea break on Komachi Dori Street, sampling traditional Japanese sweets and matcha tea, before having time to shop along the lively street.

The tour concludes back at Komachi-dori Street.

Visiting Hase-dera Temple

After visiting the impressive Great Buddha statue at Kōtoku-in, the tour group makes their way to the beautiful Hase-dera temple, where they’ll spend an hour exploring the grounds. This historic temple, founded in 736 AD, is known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Kamakura coastline.

The tour group will have the opportunity to:

• Admire the temple’s impressive wooden architecture and intricate carvings
• Climb the hill to the Kannon statue, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding area
• Discover the temple’s collection of Buddhist statues and relics, including a famous 9-headed Kannon statue

With its serene atmosphere and rich history, Hase-dera is a truly enchanting stop on the Kamakura tour.

Exploring Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine

Next, the tour group boards the train for the short 10-minute ride to Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, one of the most important Shinto shrines in Kamakura. As they approach the shrine, they are greeted by the impressive main gate, the Nitenmon, which stands tall and imposing. The guide explains the shrine’s significant role in Kamakura’s history, particularly its connection to the samurai culture.

Shrine Feature	Significance
Main Gate	Symbolizes the entrance to the sacred space
Archery Range	Site of annual archery competitions for samurai
Main Shrine	Dedicated to the Shinto deity Hachiman, protector of the samurai
Surrounding Park	Offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors

The group spends 45 minutes exploring the shrine’s grounds, seeing the rich history and cultural traditions of Kamakura.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Enjoying Japanese Sweets and Matcha Tea

From the serene shrine, the group now heads to Komachi Dori Street for a relaxing tea break, where they’ll savor traditional Japanese sweets and fragrant matcha tea.

Along the bustling street, they’ll discover:

• Delicate Wagashi – elegant, bite-sized confections made with mochi, bean paste, and seasonal ingredients.
• Creamy Matcha Lattes – frothy, green tea-based drinks, perfect for sipping and savoring.
• Handmade Cookies – buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats, often infused with unique flavors like matcha or sakura.

As they indulge, the group will learn about the rich history and cultural significance of these beloved Japanese specialties, adding depth to their Kamakura experience.

Shopping at Komachi Dori Street

With their tea and sweets savored, the group now turns their attention to the charming shops lining Komachi Dori Street, eager to explore the variety of traditional and modern Japanese goods on offer.

The bustling shopping street is known for its eclectic mix of stores, from artisanal craft shops to trendy boutiques. Visitors can browse through an array of handmade ceramics, intricate woodcarvings, and colorful Yukata fabrics.

Locally-sourced snacks, sweets, and souvenirs are also popular purchases. The group takes its time, weaving through the lively crowds and popping into stores that pique their interest.

With so much to discover, they’re sure to find the perfect keepsakes to bring home from their Kamakura adventure.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or people with low fitness levels, as the itinerary involves walking for extended periods and accessing sites with uneven terrain or stairs.

Plus, high-heeled shoes and pets (except assistance dogs) aren’t allowed on the tour.

To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, the tour provider recommends:

• Wearing comfortable walking shoes
• Bringing any necessary medications or mobility aids
• Informing the guide in advance of any special needs or concerns

Guests should consider their physical capabilities and prepare accordingly to fully enjoy the cultural exploration and natural beauty of Kamakura on this half-day walking tour.

Inclusions and Pricing

The tour includes a local, National licensed guide, entrance fees for Kōtoku-in and Hase-dera, as well as the cost of traditional Japanese sweets and matcha tea.

Plus, the transportation fare between Kamakura and Hase station is covered.

The total cost for this half-day walking tour is $47.85 per person.

This price point makes the experience accessible and provides great value for the comprehensive itinerary.

Visitors can expect to explore popular attractions, enjoy Japanese culture, and indulge in delectable local treats, all while being guided by a knowledgeable professional.

The tour’s inclusions and pricing make it an appealing option for those seeking an enriching and well-rounded Kamakura adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, bringing outside food and drinks is generally not allowed on guided tours. The tour package includes traditional Japanese sweets and matcha tea, which are part of the experience.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Free Time and Exploration?

The walking tour provides approximately 45 minutes of free time and exploration during the tea break on Komachi Dori Street. Participants can use this time to browse the shops, sample local cuisine, or take in the surroundings independently.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the tour duration or customize the itinerary. Travelers can inquire with the tour operator about add-ons or modifications to meet their specific interests and needs within the available time frame.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounted rates for children under 12 and seniors over 65. Children receive a 20% discount, while seniors get 15% off the regular tour price. These discounts must be requested at the time of booking.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, photography is generally allowed during the tour. Participants can take photos at the various historical sites and attractions visited, though they should be respectful and avoid disruptive behavior.

Recap

The Kamakura: Half Day Walking Tour & Japanese Sweets offers an immersive look into the historic city’s iconic landmarks and cultural experiences.

Visitors can explore the Great Buddha, Hase-dera Temple, and Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, while savoring traditional sweets and tea.

Though not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour provides an engaging introduction to Kamakura’s enduring charms.

You can check if your dates are available here: