Below is a list of some of Kamakura's most popular spots for cherry blossom viewing (hanami), including the typical timing for best viewing in the average year and japan-guide.com ratings. See also our nationwide list of famous cherry blossom spots.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Early April The cherry tree lined approach starts a short walk northeast of Kamakura Station Admission: Free Known as Dankazura, the final approach to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is lined and covered for almost 500 meters by hundreds of cherry trees, creating one of Japan's most spectacular cherry blossom tunnels.

Genjiyama Park Early April Halfway along the Daibutsu hiking trail, that connects the Great Buddha with Kitakamakura. Or a 20-30 minute walk northwest of Kamakura Station. Admission: Free This hill top park, which was the site of various historical events during the Kamakura Period and features a statue of Minamoto Yoritomo, offers several dozens of cherry trees in multiple park areas that are well suited for hanami picnics.

Kamakura Daibutsu (Great Buddha) Early April 5-10 minutes from Hase Station Admission: 200 yen The number of cherry trees on the grounds of Kotokuin Temple, the home of Kamakura's famous Great Buddha, is not very large. But one well placed tree to the right of the Daibutsu lets visitors beautifully combine the statue with cherry blossoms into photos.

Ratings:    best of the best    best of Japan    outstanding

Guide to Cherry Blossoms
How to do hanami?
When do they bloom?
Popular hanami spots
Cherry tree varieties

Cherry Blossom Report 2012
Cherry Blossom Report 2011
Cherry Blossom Report 2010
Cherry Blossom Report 2009

Great Buddha
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
Hase Temple
Kenchoji Temple
Engakuji Temple

Zeniarai Benten
Zuisenji Temple
Jufukuji Temple
Jochiji Temple
Tokeiji Temple
Meigetsuin Temple
Ankokuronji Temple
Myohonji Temple

Enoshima

Hiking Trails
Beaches of Kamakura