Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu (߉{, Tsurugaoka Hachimangū) is Kamakura's most important shrine. It was founded by Minamoto Yoriyoshi in 1063, and enlarged and moved to its current site in 1180 by Minamoto Yoritomo, the founder and first shogun of the Kamakura government.
The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the patron god of the Minamoto family and of the samurai in general. The deified spirits of the ancient Emperor Ojin who has been identified with Hachiman, Hime-gami and Empress Jingu are enshrined at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
The shrine is reached via a long, wide approach that leads from Kamakura's waterfront through the entire city center, with multiple torii gates along the way. The main hall (Hongu or Jogu) stands on a terrace at the top of a wide stairway. The main hall includes a small museum, which displays various treasures owned by the shrine, such as swords, masks and documents.
To the left of the stairway stood until 2010 a large ginkgo tree, which predated the shrine, and was once used as a hideout in an ambush attack on a shogun. Every autumn, the tree turned beautifully golden, but it did not survive a winter storm in March 2010. At the base of the stairway stands the Maiden, a stage for dance and music performances. Other structures on the shrine grounds include the Wakamiya Shrine, a secondary shrine to the right of the stairway and various auxiliary buildings.
Flanking the main approach to the shrine are two ponds. One pond represents the Minamoto Clan and has three islands, while the other represents the Taira Clan, the Minamoto's arch rivals, and has four islands, as the number four can be pronounced the same as "death" in Japanese. A garden, known for its peonies, surrounds the Minamoto Pond halfway. It is open seasonally in spring and winter and costs 500 yen to enter.
Various events are held at the shrine throughout the year. During the New Year holidays, it registers over two million visitors, making it one of the country's most popular shrines for hatsumode (the year's first visit to a shrine). In mid April and mid September, horseback archery (yabusame) is performed along the main approach to the shrine.
Getting there and around
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine can be reached from Kamakura Station either through the busy Komachi-dori shopping street, or along the Dankazura, a pedestrian path in the center of Wakamiya Oji Street that is lined with several hundred cherry trees. Via either route, the walk from Kamakura Station to the shrine takes about 10-15 minutes.
How to get to and around Kamakura
Hours and Fees
Hachimangu Shrine
Hours
Closed
Admission
Treasure hall (at the main hall)
Hours
Closed
Admission
Questions? Ask in our forum.
Links and Resources
Hotels around Kamakura
-
-
![]()
HOTEL AO KAMAKURAView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Hotel Ao Kamakura in Kamakura offers rooms with sea views, air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a tea and coffee maker, refrigerator, and TV.Dining Experience
Guests can enjoy Japanese cuisine at the on-site restaurant, offering lunch and dinner. The terrace provides a relaxing outdoor dining area.Convenient Facilities
The hotel features a terrace, restaurant, free WiFi in public areas, and a 24-hour front desk. Additional services include a lift, daily housekeeping, room service, and luggage storage.Prime Location
Located a few steps from Koshigoe Beach, the hotel is 43 km from Tokyo Haneda Airport. Guests appreciate the scenic views, comfortable rooms, and easy beach access. -
![]()
Hotel Metropolitan KamakuraView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Hotel Metropolitan Kamakura in Kamakura offers spacious rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and city views. Each room includes a work desk, wardrobe, and free toiletries.Dining Experience
Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and dine at the family-friendly restaurant serving Japanese and European cuisines. The restaurant offers lunch and dinner in a welcoming ambience.Convenient Facilities
The hotel provides free WiFi, a lift, 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, full-day security, and luggage storage. Paid on-site private parking is available.Prime Location
Yuigahama Beach is a 15-minute walk away, and Tokyo Haneda Airport is 40 km distant. Public transport options nearby enhance the guest experience. -
![]()
CASA Kamakura Espresso&BEDView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
CASA Kamakura Espresso&BED in Kamakura offers adults-only rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and parquet floors. Each room includes a tea and coffee maker, bidet, hairdryer, refrigerator, free toiletries, shower, slippers, and a parquet floor.Essential Facilities
Guests enjoy free WiFi, private check-in and check-out services, full-day security, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a ground-floor unit with a quiet street view and a private bathroom.Prime Location
Yuigahama Beach is a 6-minute walk away, and Tokyo Haneda Airport is 42 km from the property. The host is highly rated for their friendly service and convenient location. -
![]()
WeBase KAMAKURAWeBase Kamakura is a resort hotel in the ancient capital of Kamakura, one minute from the Shonan sea and one hour from the city. WeBase Kamakura is a 3 minutes walk from Yuigahama Station and there are many tourist attractions within walking distance, such as the Kamakura Great Buddha, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and Kamakura Komachi Street. There are 8 sophisticated guest room types with high ceilings and a total of 22 guest rooms. Free Wi-Fi is available. We offer a breakfast course that includes cider, a choice of three types of galettes, an amuse-bouche with plenty of Kamakura vegetables, and soup. Enjoy a luxurious breakfast that starts with cider and freshly baked galette, grilled right in front of you. There is a large communal bath with a sauna which offers a self l?yly style sauna. At our on-site restaurant, "Restaurant Co," we provide a fusion of teppanyaki and Italian cuisine that allows you to enjoy the seasonal flavors of local Kamakura with all your senses. Savor modern Italian cuisine incorporating teppanyaki techniques, along with wine pairings. There is also a kids' menu for children of elementary school age and younger.View on Booking.com -
![]()
KAMAKURA HotelView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
KAMAKAmanakura Hotel in Kamakura offers 4-star comfort with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a tea and coffee maker, refrigerator, and free toiletries.Essential Facilities
Guests enjoy a bar and free WiFi, a lift, 24-hour front desk, concierge service, daily housekeeping, and luggage storage. Additional features include a terrace, balcony, and work desk.Dining Experience
The hotel serves an Asian breakfast, highly praised by guests for its quality and variety.Prime Location
Located 40 km from Tokyo Haneda Airport, Yuigahama Beach is a 16-minute walk away. Nearby attractions include Kamakura Station and Tokyo Bay. -
![]()
KIYAZA RESORT KamakuraView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
KIYAZA RESORT Kamakura in Kamakura offers family rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and garden views. Each room includes a balcony, sofa bed, and work desk.Leisure Facilities
Guests can relax on the sun terrace, enjoy the seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and take advantage of free WiFi throughout the property. Additional amenities include a lounge, pool with a view, and outdoor dining area.Convenient Location
Located a 2-minute walk from Zaimokuza Beach, the guest house is 41 km from Tokyo Haneda Airport. Nearby attractions include Kamakura Museum and Kamakura Shrine.Guest Satisfaction
Highly rated for its beach access, attentive staff, and convenient location, KIYAZA RESORT Kamakura ensures a pleasant stay for all visitors. -
![]()
Guest House Kamakura Zen-jiView on Booking.comBeachfront Location
Guest House Kamakura Zen-ji in Kamakura offers direct beachfront access and a serene garden. Yuigahama Beach is just a 3-minute walk away, providing easy seaside relaxation.Comfortable Accommodations
The guest house features adults-only rooms with air-conditioning, bidet, and tatami floors. Each room includes a work desk, refrigerator, and soundproofing for a comfortable stay.Guest Amenities
Guests enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a lounge, and yoga classes. Additional facilities include a shared bathroom, dressing room, and private entrance.Local Attractions
Nearby attractions include Kamakura Museum, Hase Temple, and Kamakura Golf Club. Tokyo Haneda Airport is 43 km away, offering convenient travel options. -
![]()
BIRD HOTELView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
BIRD HOTEL in Kamakura offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, balconies, and garden views. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi.Dining and Leisure
Guests can enjoy a sun terrace, garden, restaurant, and bar. The restaurant serves American cuisine with vegetarian options in traditional, modern, and romantic settings. Breakfast includes local specialities, warm dishes, juice, and fruits.Convenient Amenities
The hotel provides a public bath, coffee shop, outdoor seating area, full-day security, bicycle parking, room service, and luggage storage. Paid on-site private parking is available. h2>Prime Location Yuigahama Beach is a 2-minute walk away. Tokyo Haneda Airport is 42 km from the hotel. -
![]()
Tosei Hotel Cocone KamakuraView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Tosei Hotel Cocone Kamakura in Kamakura offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and free WiFi. Each room includes a bath, bidet, hairdryer, yukata, free toiletries, slippers, TV, and electric kettle.Dining and Amenities
Guests can enjoy American and Asian breakfasts at guests. The hotel features a restaurant, public bath, hot tub, 24-hour front desk, full-day security, and luggage storage. Paid off-site private parking is available.Prime Location
Located a 12-minute walk from Yuigahama Beach, the hotel is 41 km from Tokyo Haneda Airport. Nearby attractions include Kamakura Museum and Kamakura Shrine. Guests appreciate the convenient location, excellent staff, and nearby public transport options. -
![]()
guesthouse SHIBAFUView on Booking.comComfortable Accommodations
Guesthouse SHIBAFU in Kamakura offers comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and garden views. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free toiletries.Exceptional Facilities
Guests can relax on the sun terrace or in the garden. The property features a bar, lounge, and outdoor seating area. Free WiFi is available throughout the guest house.Convenient Location
Yuigahama Beach is a 6-minute walk away, and Tokyo Haneda Airport is 42 km from the property. Highly rated for its convenient location and excellent service.
-
Experiences around Kamakura
-
-
![]()
SponsoredMake Modern, Beautiful Wagashi With an Artisan in a Kamakura TeahouseAt the teahouse Temari in Hase, Kamakura, you can learn to make traditional Japanese sweets, nerikiri, from a skilled wagashi artisan. After crafting your sweets, watch the artisan demonstrate advanced techniques up close, then enjoy your freshly made treats with matcha you prepared yourself.View experienceSponsored
-
