- Japan›
- Kamakura›
- Tours›
- Highlights›
- History & Real Life in Kamakura
History & Real Life in Kamakura
Enjoy Kamakura with a friendly local guide. History, tradition, and you can also talk about many things with Masa. This town is not so far from Tokyo but different from Tokyo. Walk the small path, peaceful residential street with Masa. You will understand and enjoy REAL Japan much more.
Masa I.
Meeting Point
JR Kitakamakura station
The hidden Kamakura gems
We will meet up at the Kita-Kamakura Station. It's one hour from Tokyo.
In the morning, we will visit some hidden gems such as local temples and shrines. We walk on the small alley or off-beaten path. If you like hiking, we go through the trail.
Engakuji Zen Temple
The first gem, we visit the Engakuji temple, one of the most respected Zen Buddhism temples.
Though it's a big Zen temple, it's calm and peaceful in the morning. We walk in the temple area and will find Buddhism statues, Japanese gardens, and small pavilions. You will feel the Zen mind there.
Old path walking, and the hidden Kamakura gems
We walk along the 700-year-old path.
The magical spring water in the Zeniarai shrine is believed to make your money double. Really? Sasuke Inari is the shrine for success. There are many red Torii gate and fox figures. Those have been loved by the Kamakura people for a long time.
Lunch break at central Kamakura
We will take a one-hour lunch break at central Kamakura.
There are many restaurants and cafes.If you request, the guide takes you to a recommended restaurant and attends your lunch. No additional guide fee, but please pay for the meal of the guide to the restaurants.
Kamakura highlights
In the afternoon, we will visit some must-see spots such as the Bamboo temples and the Great Buddha.
Those places are worth visiting. However, this tour is not just to visit many famous sites. From one place to the next, we walk an alley or move by public transportation like locals. The guide will explain not only history and tradition but also about modern people and lifestyles.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
The first highlight is the shrine founded about 800 years ago by a Samurai.
You will find many Japanese traditions and customs. Your guide will explain it. At the main shrine, we will make a greeting to the deities the same as local people. Let's try it together!
Hokokuji Temple
The next highlight, Hokokuji Temple is known as the Bamboo Temple.
We will observe some beautiful gardens and the famous bamboo forest. If you prefer green tees, they offer matcha green tea at the cafe. You can drink tea watching the bamboo forest.
Great Buddha
The third highlight, the Great Buddha is an 11 meters high bronze statue built about 700 years ago.
It's a magnificent landmark of Kamakura. The guide will explain how to make the statue. The story of the Great Buddha and the earthquakes is also impressive. If it's a comfortable evening, it's a good idea to stroll along the beach.
Kamakura station
We will finish the tour at Kamakura station.
If you have time after the tour, Komachi-Dori shopping street near the station is the best to buy some souvenirs.
Ending Point
JR Kamakura station
What to Expect
Kamakura is a beautiful traditional city. It's not the same as Tokyo.
You can visit both of the famous and hidden sites in Kamakura.
The guide was born and grown up in Japan.
Masa is a knowledgeable, friendly local guide.
Masa likes talking with guests. On the way, you can ask Masa many things. You will understand Japan and Japanese people through the conversation. It will make your stay in Japan more fruitful.
Want to personalize this tour?
- Our tours can be customized according to your needs and preferences
- Click below to tell us what you are looking for:
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Transportation cost of you from/to your hotel and Kamakura
Transportation cost of you during the tour (about 600 yen per person)
Entrance fee of you for the temples/shrines (about 1700 yen per person per day)
Lunch of you (about 1000 yen per person)
Beverages
Important Information
I'm a vaccinated tour guide for COVID-19.
I will make the best itinerary for you with your preferences. On this tour we move by walking and public transportations because those are the best way to know about the town.
If you like walking, I would plan more walking tours.
If you'd like to avoid many walks, don't worry, I would plan a tour by bus and local trains. Taxi and rikisha require extra cost.
I would make the itinerary according to the communication.
Thank you.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Reviews
Narelle J.
“ Kamakura Explore with Masa ”
We had the most amazing experience with a private full day tour with Masa. He is kind, engaging and so passionate about sharing his Kamakura knowledge. Communication prior to the tour was quick and he was flexible to allow us to start a bit earlier to fit in with other plans- this was great because it meant that at some places we could experience the temple without crowds. Although a busy day, we never felt rushed and as we used many backstreets got to experience a real sense of the town and its people. Million star rating if we could !! Thank you Masa - hope to see you again one day and explore Kamakura with you.
Masa I.
Hi Narelle and Bruce, Thank you for your positive review. Especially, I'm delighted to hear that you found the authentic Japanese lifestyle. We truly enjoyed our walks and conversations along the way, exchanging many ideas! I assume you're going to explore various destinations across Japan. I hope you'll savor the diverse aspects of my country. Have a fantastic trip! See you next time! Masa
Antoine P.
“ Great visit of Akihabara ”
Masa is a great guide, he has a lot of knowledge about Japan and I had a great time with him
Masa I.
Hi Antoine! Yes, we had a good walking and talking like locals. I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it. Thank you.
Noriko S.
“ Japanese Samurai Town History Walk ”
The tour was well prepared. Masa was knowledgeable and easy to speak with. I would like to visit Kamakura and hire Masa as a tour guide.
Masa I.
Hi Noriko! I'm very happy to hear that. Thank you. Masa
Quantic school of business and technology N.
“ Great tour with Masa! ”
Our company did a virtual tour with Masa and we learned all about Japanese culture, religion, and practices. The tour was informative, insightful, and personable. Masa was a great tour guide and a lot of fun. Highly recommend.