• Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura) - The tour kicks off with a visit to Kotoku-in, a revered Buddhist temple. Here, visitors can marvel at the impressive Great Buddha of Kamakura, a renowned bronze statue. Originally crafted in wood and later cast in bronze in the 13th century, the statue stands at 13.35 meters. For a nominal fee of 50 yen, guests can explore the interior of the statue. General admission is 300 yen, while children aged 6-12 are charged 150 yen, and entry is free for children under 6.
• Hase-dera Temple - Discover the magnificent 9.18-meter tall “Eleven-headed Kannon” wooden statue, intricately carved 1,304 years ago in 721 AD.

Stroll through the exquisite gardens, which boast a wide array of flowers blooming year-round. The hydrangea path in June is particularly breathtaking, featuring over 40 varieties of hydrangea flowers adorning the hills.

Enjoy a picturesque view of the sea and the town of Kamakura.

Admire the rows of a thousand jizo statues.

Explore a small cave and appreciate the statue of Benzaiten and her followers carved into the rock walls.

• Hokoku-ji Temple Bamboo Grove - Hokoku-ji, a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple established in 1334, is fondly known as the “Bamboo Temple.” The highlight of a visit here is the 2,000 moso bamboo plants. For a small fee of ¥600, visitors can savor authentic matcha green tea in a teahouse overlooking the breathtaking bamboo grove. Listen closely to hear the wind whispering through the bamboo. The temple grounds also feature seasonal flowers, moss gardens, bonsai, and statues.
• Komachi - Komachi Street is the main pedestrian shopping street in the heart of Kamakura. It’s a delight to explore the hidden gems of this street. Visitors can indulge in a variety of dining options, including fresh local seafood, gourmet burgers, craft beers and sake, desserts, coffee shops, and tasty street snacks. Kimono rentals are available for a day of sightseeing. Souvenir shops offer items like knives, ceramics, personalized name-engraved chopsticks, retro toys, trinkets, and more. There’s even an indoor pig park where guests can cuddle a micro baby pig.
• Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine - Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is Kamakura’s most significant Shinto shrine. Established in 1063, it is dedicated to Hachiman, the guardian deity of warriors. Visitors approach the shrine via Wakamiya Ōji street, passing under red Shinto gates known as “torii.” A small bridge crosses a canal connecting two ponds. Further along, a pavilion called ‘Maiden’ awaits. With some luck, visitors might witness a traditional Japanese wedding, dance, or music performance here. Climbing the Great Stone Steps leads to the shrine’s main hall, offering a splendid panoramic view of the city. Many come to this famous shrine to make wishes and pray for good fortune.

• Guiding services

• Temple admission fees are excluded & must be paid by each guest separately (approx. 2,000 yen)
• Private transportation
• Lunch
• Local train & bus fares are excluded & must be paid by each guest separately.

Buddha, Bamboo & Zen is an all-day bespoke walking tour designed exclusively for you and your family/friends. Stroll around at your own leisurely pace, stopping whenever you feel like it. Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura, the Bamboo Temple (enjoy some green tea) and a famous Shinto shrine. Our guide is conscious of guests being templed out. We can call it a day whenever you are satisfied.

Share your own itinerary with us & we’ll tailor a day walk for your group or hand over the reins to us and we’ll guide you around our favourite spots.

See some man-made caves called yagura.

Step back in time and learn about samurai history and zen, while enjoying the Spartan charm and understated elegance of the rustic temples.

Escape the Tokyo megalopolis for a day and restore your equilibrium in this charming coastal town.

A charismatic native English-speaking (Australian) local guide will make you feel at ease.

• Please note that I have allocated two hours travel time to access the various attractions on foot, train and bus and also to include rest and food/drink breaks.
• We recommend that each guest bring 2,000 yen to cover temple admission fees & transportation. Some extra cash for food & drinks is also recommended.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.