A personalized experience in Kamakura with Yoyo
- 3–5 hours
- Free cancellation up to 24h before
- 2 languages
- Private tour
Highlights
Kamakura is one of Japan's most enchanting destinations — ancient temples in forested hills, a giant Buddha gazing over the city, and the ocean never far away. But navigating it with your family, in a foreign country? That's where we come in. A private, customizable tour designed with families in mind. No rushing, no large groups, no rigid schedule. Just you, your family, and a local guide who knows Kamakura inside out. We'll explore Zen temples in Kita-Kamakura, then head to the iconic Great Buddha and Hase-dera Temple — with sweeping views of Sagami Bay as your backdrop. We go at your pace. Keen walkers enjoy the journey on foot, while others hop on a bus, the Enoden railway, or a taxi. Every tour is tailored to your family's interests. Want to add a bamboo grove? Spend more time at the beach? Just let us know — we'll craft the perfect Kamakura day for you. Kamakura has been welcoming visitors for nearly a thousand years. Let us show you why.
Inclusions
What's included
- Admission fees to Engaku-ji Temple
- Local restaurant recommendations for lunch
- Admission fees to Kotoku-in Temple (Great Buddha)
- English-speaking private guide for the full duration of the tour
- Admission fees to Meigetsuin Temple
- Admission fees to Hase-dera Temple
- Fully customizable itinerary tailored to your group's interests
What's not
- Meal and drink expenses for all participants including the guide
Itinerary
Step into one of Japan's most important Zen Buddhist temple complexes, located just a stone's throw from the station. Stroll through the atmospheric grounds filled with towering ancient trees, moss-covered stone paths, and tranquil Zen gardens. Your guide will share the fascinating history of this 13th-century temple — founded in 1282 by the regent Hojo Tokimune after the Mongol invasions, to honor the souls of all who lost their lives in the battles, both Japanese and Mongol alike — bringing the history to life in a way that resonates with visitors of all ages.
A short walk brings you to Meigetsu-in, affectionately known as the "Hydrangea Temple." Famous for its breathtaking blue hydrangeas in June, the temple is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit year-round. The highlight is the iconic circular "Enlightenment Window," which frames a perfectly composed view of the Japanese garden beyond — one of the most photographed spots in all of Kamakura. Your guide will explain the spiritual meaning behind the window's round shape and the temple's 13th-century history. The tranquil moss garden and winding stone paths make this a wonderful spot for the whole family to slow down and soak in the atmosphere.
No visit to Kamakura is complete without seeing the Great Buddha — a magnificent 13-meter bronze statue that has watched over the city for nearly 800 years. Your guide will bring this iconic landmark to life with fascinating stories, including why the statue now sits outdoors: the wooden hall that once housed it was destroyed by a tsunami in the 15th century. ] You'll also discover the meaning behind the Buddha’s serene expression and symbolic hand gestures. One of the most exciting moments for children is stepping inside the hollow statue itself — a rare experience that offers a glimpse into the remarkable craftsmanship of medieval Japanese artisans. Standing before the Great Buddha is a peaceful and unforgettable experience that captures the timeless spirit of Kamakura.
Perched on a hillside, Hase-dera Temple offers stunning panoramic views of Kamakura and Sagami Bay — and on clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance. Explore the temple’s beautiful seasonal gardens, a serene cave lined with small Buddhist statues, and the impressive 9-meter gilded statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. You’ll also discover hundreds of small Jizo statues — beloved guardian figures associated with children — lovingly dressed in colorful bibs and hats by local families. Your guide will explain the touching traditions and heartfelt meanings behind these charming figures.
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.
Know before you go
- Meeting point
- Meet your guide outside the main station entrance on the Engaku-ji Temple side of JR Kita-Kamakura Station. Your guide will be carrying a bright orange backpack, making it easy to spot.
- Pickup
- Everyone meets at the starting point; there is no pickup.
- Ticket type
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Operated by
- Oka Yokohama Guides
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
How it compares in Kamakura
- Its from-price is 157% above the median of the 117 experiences we list in Kamakura.
- Its length is typical for the group.
- The operator lists free cancellation on it.
About Kamakura
Kamakura is a coastal town south of Yokohama, once Japan's samurai capital, known for the Great Buddha, Zen temples and surf beaches.
Kamakura was the seat of the first samurai government, from the late twelfth to the early fourteenth century, and its hills still hide dozens of temples and shrines. The Great Buddha at Kotoku-in, a bronze figure about eleven metres high, sits in the open air, and the broad avenue of Wakamiya leads from the beach to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, the town's main shrine. Hasedera temple has a tall wooden statue of Kannon and a terraced garden above the sea.
Top-ranked sights in Kamakura: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
Special offers in Kamakura
Was/now prices come from the operator, never from us.
