Hidden Temples in Kamakura

You will meet your guide at the East Exit of JR Kamakura Station at 9:00 am. The tour will start with a visit to a couple of traditional shops; a handicraft shop that features carvings and a traditional towel shop where we can see how old Japanese traditions persist and are still relevant today. Please note this is not a shopping tour but the shop visits are just a way to showcase some aspects of Japanese traditions.

We will then continue the walk to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine which is located in the center of Kamakura.The shrine was originally established by Minamoto Yoriyoshi in 1063. When his descendent Minamoto Yoritomo became Shogun and established the city as his political center, the shrine took on an important role as guardian of the city. Even to this day, the shrine is a symbol of Kamakura that attracts thousands of visitors throughout the year. You will get to see a couple of the shrine buildings surrounded by gardens.

Once we have taken in our fill of Hachimangu Shrine, we will head to two temples. The first, Jufukuji Temple, is around a 15 min walk away. Jufukuji Temple is ranked as third most important on the list of "The Five Great Zen Temples of Kamakura". Masako Hojo, who was the wife of Shogun Minamoto Yoritomo, invited Eisai to Kamakura to have him build the temple. Eisai later on came to be known as the father of Zen Buddhism in Japan. At this temple, you will enjoy a beautiful stone pathway surrounded by woods. Another 10 min walk will get you to Enshoji Temple. This temple is the only remaining nunnery in Kamakura. The temple is unique in its humble building structures scattered in a beautiful garden and a stunning bamboo grove.

After we have taken in the sights of Eishoji, we will walk to the entrance of Komachi Street (another shopping street) where we will end the tour. Your guide will give you some suggestions for your afternoon activities and directions to your next destination.