Kamakura Things to Do

Established in 1104, this red-lacquered shrine honors the patron of scholarship and academics, Michizane Sugawara (better known by his divine name, "Tenjin"). Students visit to petition for good luck in entrance exams by writin... more

Among this city's very old, but small temples is Emmei-ji which was established around 1260 by the wife of the fifth Kamakura regent. The temple was formed under the Jodo sect of Buddhism. The notorious, unclothed Hadaka Jizo s... more

This shrine complex is quite young by Japanese standards and was finished in time for a visit by Emperor Meiji in 1873. The treasure house holds memorabilia of this important event. It was the young emperor who founded the shri... more

Formerly known as "Gokuraku-ji," this temple was founded in 1188 under the Rinzai sect of Buddhism. The green copper roof of the building is quite striking. After a visit here, enjoy the delightful Zen garden with a cup of trad... more

This small temple was established in 1283 by Murotoki, the grandson of Tokimune, the sixth Kamakura regent. It is ranked fourth among the "Gozan" or the five major Zen temples. A portion of the garden is open to the public and... more

As the buildings are very new, this temple is better known for its lovely grounds. Some of the miracles attributed to Nichiren supposedly took place at the Koimizu Well here. A huge bronze statue of Nichiren, which Koun Takamur... more

While living in a cave for three years--near the entrance gate of this temple--Nichiren wrote his famous treatise that Japan would be doomed unless false religions were abandoned. This piece was called "Rissho Ankoku Ron" from... more

Dedicated to the Minamoto family's guardian, the god of war, this shrine is believed to date to 1063. Noted for its striking vermilion embellished and lacquered torii arch, the shrine is very different from the Zen temples usua... more

Fishing Boat Service Akitaya is a charter boat service whose marina is located in Kamakura Bay. Fishing Boat Service Akitaya offers saltwater fishing enthusiasts charters on deep-sea fishing vessels with experienced captains wh... more

In honor of the Hojo family and especially to appease Takatoki's ghost, Emperor Go-Daigo established this Tendai-sect temple in 1335. Documents tell us that a Chinese ship transported the figures on the altar - Teishaku, Benten... more