basic information

Kamakura is a coastal town in Kanagawa prefecture, less than one hour south of Tokyo.

Kamakura became the political center of Japan, when Minamoto Yoritomo chose the city as the seat of his new military government in 1192. The Kamakura government continued to rule Japan for over a century, first under the Minamoto shogun and then under the Hojo regents.

After the decline of the Kamakura government in the 14th century and the establishment of its successor, the Muromachi or Ashikaga government in Kyoto, Kamakura remained the political center of Eastern Japan for some time before losing its position to other cities.

Today, Kamakura is a very popular tourist destination. Sometimes called the Kyoto of Eastern Japan, Kamakura offers numerous temples, shrines and other historical monuments. In addition, Kamakura's sand beaches attract large crowds during the summer months.

Attractions

Great Buddha (1) Large bronze Buddha Statue. Hasedera Temple (3) Attractive temple with views over Kamakura. Zeniarai Benten (10) Shrine where visitors wash their money. Hachimangu Shrine (2) Kamakura's most important Shinto shrine. Kenchoji Temple (6) Most important Zen temple. Engakuji Temple (5) Second most important Zen temple. Hiking Trails (8) Hiking trails in Kamakura's wooded hills. Ankokuronji Temple (7) Temple founded by Nichiren himself. Zuisenji Temple (12) Zen temple famous for its gardens. Myohonji Temple (14) Temple of the Nichiren sect. Jufukuji Temple (13) Third most important Zen temple. Tokeiji Temple (9) Former refuge for abused wives. Jochiji Temple (11) Fourth most important Zen temple. Beaches (4) About the sand beaches of Kamakura.

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Orientation

Orientation How to get to and around in Kamakura. Enoshima Kamakura Free Pass Kamakura Enoshima Free Kippu Special tickets for visiting Kamakura. About transportation in Japan

Tours and Packages

Kamakura Walking Tour Guided day trip from Tokyo to Kamakura.

Any advice or questions? Voice them in the forum!

news and reports

Kamakura Cherry Blossom Report April 8, 2009

travel community

Users who have been to Kamakura: 716
Most visited: Ranked 7th out of 106 destinations

Rating by users:		highly recommended (91/100, 387 votes)
Rating by staff:		highly recommended
Overall Rating:		best of the best

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