Kamakura: Where Ancient Spirituality Meets Modern Japanese Charm
Kamakura, a coastal town just an hour from Tokyo, offers visitors a perfect blend of spiritual heritage, culinary delights, and natural beauty. From its iconic Great Buddha to hidden cafes tucked away in quiet neighborhoods, this former capital of Japan continues to enchant visitors with its unique attractions. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, Instagram-worthy desserts, or simply a peaceful escape from the city, Kamakura’s diverse offerings cater to every traveler’s interests.
Kotoku-in (鎌倉大仏殿高徳院)
The majestic Kamakura Daibutsu (Great Buddha) stands as the city’s most recognizable landmark. This 13.35-meter bronze statue of Amida Buddha, created in 1252, has survived numerous natural disasters and continues to awe visitors with its serene expression. Originally housed within a great hall, the statue now sits in the open air, creating a uniquely photogenic setting. Designated as a National Treasure, the Great Buddha represents the pinnacle of Japanese Buddhist art and attracts spiritual seekers and tourists alike.
Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine (弁財天宇賀福神社)
This mystical shrine, founded in 1185 by Minamoto no Yoritomo, is famous for its unique coin-washing ritual. Hidden within a cave-like entrance carved into the rock, the shrine features multiple torii gates and a sacred spring where visitors wash their money in the belief it will multiply. The shrine’s atmospheric setting, surrounded by lush greenery and rock formations, creates an enchanting experience that feels worlds away from the busy tourist areas. Legend suggests that money washed in the shrine’s waters will bring good fortune when spent.
Sabo Kirara (茶房 雲母)
A beloved dessert café specializing in shiratama (rice flour dumplings), Sabo Kirara has earned a reputation for its exquisite Uji Shiratama Cream Anmitsu. Located within a 10-minute walk from Kamakura Station’s west exit, this traditional Japanese dessert house often sees waiting times of up to two hours on weekends. Their signature dessert features matcha-flavored shiratama, anko (red bean paste), matcha ice cream, and various traditional accompaniments, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Yoridokoro (カフェ ヨリドコロ)
Just two minutes from Inamuragasaki Station, this retro-modern café offers a unique dining experience with views of the passing Enoden trains. Opening at 7am, Yoridokoro serves affordable breakfast options starting from 600 yen and specializes in set meals featuring premium dried fish and exceptionally fluffy tamago kake gohan. The café sources its coffee beans from the local favorite Tsubame Coffee Roastery and provides a perfect vantage point for experiencing daily life in Kamakura.
Inamuragasaki Onsen (稲村ケ崎温泉)
This natural hot spring offers a unique bathing experience with its sodium bicarbonate cold mineral water, known as “Moor Springs.” The golden-hued water, rich in bicarbonate ions and metasilicic acid, is renowned for its therapeutic properties, including relief from fatigue and skin beautification. The onsen’s location provides stunning panoramic views, and its waters contain traces of historical significance – the nearby beach was once used for sword forging during the Kamakura period, and occasional gold dust can be found in the spring water.
