Not all the best spots in Kamakura are in the guidebooks. This local-led tour takes you off the beaten path to 2–3 hidden bars and eateries cherished by locals—places you’d likely miss without insider knowledge. Wander through the quiet backstreets of this historic city as your guide—someone who grew up here—introduces you to a side of Kamakura most visitors never see. Each stop offers a unique a…
Hase Temple in Kamakura is a popular spot for foreigners. In the main hall of the temple The largest wooden Buddha statue in Japan is an impressive sight. Visitors enjoy the craftsmanship and spirituality of the artisans while being surrounded by silence. Experience cultural exchange and craftsmanship and leave with cherished memories of Japanese traditions.
Immerse in Kamakura's charm with a hands-on music box crafting experience, creating your unique souvenir. Explore the serenity of Japan's largest wooden Buddha statue, a marvel of craftsmanship and spirituality. Engage in cultural exchange and craftsmanship, leaving with cherished memories of Japanese tradition
Kamakura is an ancient city that has produced its own, original culture. Once it was a political capital along with Nara and Kyoto, and was also the birthplace of Japan's first samurai government, the "Kamakura shogunate". Customizable private tour Our small-group tour offers a personalized, hassle-free exploration of Kamakura. Join us to uncover this enchanting city's beauty, culture, and warm h…
We will begin our adventure at the majestic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, a Shinto shrine that mesmerizes with its traditional architecture and serene gardens. We will explore every corner of the shrine, capturing photographic portraits in its most iconic and picturesque spots. We will continue our journey to the iconic Great Buddha of Kamakura, an imposing bronze statue that dominates the landscape wit…
Kamakura is the home of the first Samurai Government so its history goes back 800 years. We will meet up at Kamakura station and transit by car. We will first see a panoramic view of Enoshima/Mount Fuji and take a quick stroll near where the basketball anime SLAM DUNK was staged. (Tokyo/Shinjuku starter only) We will visit the TEMPLES BUILT INSIDE CAVES and see a shrine with beautiful ROWS OF RED…
The History of Karaoke: The concept of karaoke dates back to the early 1970s in Japan. The word "karaoke" (カラオケ) comes from "kara" (空), meaning "empty," and "oke" (オケ), short for "orchestra." This literally translates to "empty orchestra," referring to music tracks without vocals. Karaoke Culture Today: Today, karaoke remains a beloved pastime worldwide. In Japan and many Asian countries, karaoke…
The Japanese royal family spends their holidays relaxing at the Imperial Villa, which is also a power spot. We will guide you to the special power spots around the Imperial Villa that we know only because we are locals. We recommend starting in the afternoon after sightseeing in Kamakura. For dinner, enjoy a Japanese set meal guided by a local.
Our 2-day tour offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and expert guidance, making for an unforgettable experience. Explore Kamakura’s hidden gems, including the serene Sasuke Inari Shrine, the enchanting Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine, and the tranquil Eishō-ji Temple. Led by passionate local guides, you’ll discover the rich history and traditions of each site while enjoying delicious meals at La…
Unlock the Secrets of Kamakura: Zen & Spirit Discover the ancient capital beyond the guidebooks. While standard tours focus only on architecture, I invite you to connect with the "invisible presence" and sacred energy of this land. I will share the deep myths, history, and spiritual significance behind the Great Buddha and Bamboo Grove, tailored to your interests. Why Choose This Tour? • Proven E…
Ever tried Japanese Calligraphy? Here is the chance to discover one of the most popular Japanese cultures, Shodo. Our cultural tour will be held at a local Gibier bar-restaurant in Kamakura. We offer calligraphy experience, including a short lecture on Japanese letters and basic skills with a brush. After some practice, you will make an artwork on a traditional card to bring back. The tour also c…
We will visit two of Kamakura's famous shrines and temples for a walk. You can learn the traditional Japanese way of praying, and even try your luck at Omikuji! If the weather is nice, you can enjoy the beautiful view from the observatory on the hiking trail at Kenchoji Temple. Come and enjoy with me!
Kamakura, cradle of samurai culture, awaits you for a fascinating immersion on a walking tour of about 4 hours. Guided by an experienced journalist who has lived in France for more than 15 years, you will discover the history of the samurai and the evolution of their culture through iconic temples and shrines. Explore the mysterious Zeniarai Benzaiten, where one purifies one's money (according to…
Explore the fascinating history of the samurai on a 3-hour guided tour of Kita-Kamakura and Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine. Guided by a journalist who lives in France for more than 15 years and is an expert in Japanese and French culture, discover iconic temples and shrines such as Meigetsu-in and Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu, while deepening your understanding of samurai culture. Enjoy a stroll and end…
Kamakura was the political center of Japan 800 years ago, when the capital was still Kyoto and Tokyo was under the sea. It was the origin of Tokyo's history and a symbol of samurai rule. On this tour, we use the latest E-Bikes and a professional local bicycle guide will take you to the best places in Kamakura. You will avoid traffic jams and crowds, ride through beautiful bamboo forests and beach…
Unlike typical tourist experiences, our community dinner offers authentic cultural exchange with local Kamakura residents in an intimate home-like setting, creating genuine connections and insider knowledge that guidebooks can't provide. What makes us special: INTIMATE SETTING: Maximum 8 guests in our cozy shared living space - feel like you're visiting Japanese friends, not attending a commercia…
This hands-on workshop lets you create and learn about Japan's unique food sample culture. Enjoyable for all ages, from children to adults, it's perfect for first-timers. Experience both traditional sushi candle-making using wax and lifelike food sample creation. Discover the secrets and history behind their lifelike appearance through easy-to-understand explanations. Take your finished creations…
Step into the world of the samurai with a live theater performance at Jochi-ji Temple, one of Kamakura's historic Zen temples. Enjoy dramatic storytelling and thrilling sword-fighting action inspired by the history of the Kamakura period. Surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful temple, experience the tale of Hōjō Munemasa and the spirit of the samurai through an original Japanese…
Enjoy a relaxing matcha experience by the sea in Kamakura. At a quiet cafe next to Yuigahama Beach, you will soak your feet in a warm footbath while you make your own bowl of matcha. Your English-speaking host guides you slowly through each step, so it is easy even on your first try. You will also enjoy two seasonal Japanese sweets. It is a simple, peaceful way to relax and enjoy Japanese tea cul…
Craft a Pair of Chopsticks Made Just for You Create a one-of-a-kind pair of chopsticks in a historic city with over 1,000 years of tradition. This immersive experience lets you work alongside skilled artisans to shape natural wood into your very own chopsticks. Carefully adjusted to fit your hands down to the millimeter, they offer an exceptional level of comfort and usability. You can even have…
Welcome to my city! As a local passionate about the history and hidden corners of Kamakura, I designed this experience to show you the true contrast of its ancient samurai capital. On this private tour, we will not only visit the most emblematic and sacred temples, but I will take you for a walk along the less traveled paths that only those of us who live here know. From the majesty of historic a…
See how craft beer is made at a working brewery in the heart of historic Kamakura, a short walk from Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. A guide walks you through the brewing equipment and process, then leads a tasting of freshly brewed house beers with time for questions. Upgrade to the Wagyu meal option to enjoy A4 Japanese Black Wagyu sirloin roast beef served three ways, including hitsumabushi-styl…
Embark on a sensory journey through Kamakura, where the ancient practice of pilgrimage meets the bustling energy of modern commerce. Discover how a simple sweet shop or a carved wooden box is intimately connected to the 850-year-old Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine. This tour reveals the hidden logic of 'monzen-machi' (shrine towns), proving that faith and commerce aren't opposing forces, but complem…
Discover two sides of Kanagawa in one day on a private, customizable tour combining historic Kamakura with modern Yokohama. Start at Kamakura Station and visit 2 to 3 attractions based on your interests, such as Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, the Great Buddha, Hasedera, Hokokuji, or Kenchoji. Your English-speaking Japanese local guide will share history, culture, local customs, and everyday perspectives…