From Tokyo: Kamakura Temples Private Guided Tour

Exploring the historic sights of Kamakura can be a captivating experience, and a private guided tour from Tokyo offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the region’s rich cultural heritage. The tour promises to take visitors on a journey through iconic temples, including the impressive Hase Temple and the famous Kotokuin Temple, home to the magnificent 13-meter-high Great Buddha Statue. Along the way, an English-speaking guide will share valuable insights, enhancing the overall experience. While the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and admission fees, the cost of food, drinks, and some entrance fees remain unaccounted for, presenting an intriguing aspect to consider.

Key Points

• This private guided tour offers a full-day exploration of Kamakura from Tokyo, lasting approximately 8 hours with an English-speaking guide.
• The tour highlights include visits to Hase Temple, the Great Buddha Statue, and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, with transportation and admission fees included.
• Participants will be picked up from their hotels in Tokyo’s 23 ward area and transported to Kamakura for the tour.
• The tour provides opportunities to learn about the region’s rich history and cultural heritage from the knowledgeable guide.
• Costs for food, drinks, tips, and one-way train tickets from Tokyo to Kamakura are not included in the tour package.

Tour Overview

This private guided tour offers a full-day exploration of Kamakura from Tokyo, lasting approximately 8 hours with the accompaniment of a live English-speaking guide.

Visitors will be picked up from their hotels in the Tokyo 23 ward area and transported to the historic city of Kamakura.

The tour highlights include a visit to the Hase Temple to admire the Buddhist statue of Kannon, the 13-meter-high Great Buddha Statue at Kotokuin Temple, and the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.

Transportation fees and admission costs for the Hase and Kotokuin Temples are included, though food, drinks, and tips are not.

Guests should expect around 3-4 km of walking during the tour.

Tour Highlights

Visitors begin the tour by exploring the Hase Temple, where they can admire the intricate Buddhist statue of Kannon, a revered deity of compassion.

Next, the tour takes them to the Kotokuin Temple, home to the iconic 13-meter-high Great Buddha Statue. This impressive bronze figure, dating back to the 13th century, is a true highlight of the tour.

The tour also includes a visit to the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, a significant Shinto shrine known for its elegant architecture and serene gardens.

Other highlights of the tour include:

• Stunning views of the Kamakura landscape
• Opportunities to learn about the region’s rich history and cultural heritage
• Insights from the knowledgeable English-speaking guide
• Chance to immerse in the tranquil atmosphere of the temples and shrines

Included in the Tour

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Tokyo’s 23 wards, as well as all transportation fees for both the customers and the guide, which typically amount to around 1,500 yen per person.

Admission fees for the key sites visited are also covered, including 300 yen for Hase Temple and 300 yen for Kotokuin Temple, home of the iconic Great Buddha statue.

This ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for participants, who can focus on seeing the rich cultural and historical sights of Kamakura without worrying about additional costs.

The tour package is designed to provide exceptional value and a truly memorable day trip from Tokyo.

Not Included in the Tour

While the tour includes a comprehensive range of services, there are certain items that aren’t covered in the package. Specifically, the cost of food and drinks during the tour isn’t included, so you will need to budget for their own meals and refreshments throughout the day.

Plus, the tour doesn’t include tips for the guide, which are at the discretion of the participants based on their satisfaction with the service provided.

The following items are also not included in the tour price:

• 1-way train tickets (approximately 1200 YEN per person)
• Entrance fee to the Great Buddha (300 YEN per person)
• Entrance fee to the Hase Temple (400 YEN per person)
• Any other personal expenses incurred during the tour

Important Information

Spanning approximately 3 – 4 kilometers, the tour involves a substantial amount of walking, requiring comfortable footwear and a moderate level of physical fitness from participants.

Visitors should also be aware that round-trip train tickets from Tokyo to Kamakura cost around 1,200 yen per person.

Admission fees for the Hase Temple and Kotokuin Temple, home to the iconic Great Buddha statue, are 300 yen and 400 yen respectively.

While food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price, the guide will be happy to recommend local dining options to ensure guests have an authentic cultural experience.

Hase Temple

Nestled atop a hill in Kamakura, Hase Temple captivates visitors with its serene ambiance and the awe-inspiring 11-headed statue of the Buddhist deity Kannon, which stands as the temple’s centerpiece.

This magnificent statue, standing at 9.18 meters tall, is said to symbolize the deity’s ability to listen to the pleas of the faithful from all directions.

Visitors can experience the tranquility of the temple grounds, which feature:

• Picturesque gardens and ponds
• Ancient stone lanterns and pagodas
• A historic main hall dating back to the 8th century
• Intricate woodcarvings and artwork throughout the temple complex

The Hase Temple offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city, inviting guests to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Kamakura.

Great Buddha Statue

The Great Buddha Statue at Kotokuin Temple stands majestically at 13 meters (42.6 feet) tall, making it one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in Japan.

Cast in 1252, this impressive work of art depicts the Amida Buddha in a serene seated position, gazing thoughtfully out over the temple grounds.

Visitors can marvel at the statue’s intricate details, such as the folds of the Buddha’s robes and the tranquil expression on his face.

The Great Buddha has weathered many challenges over the centuries, including natural disasters and war, yet it remains a powerful symbol of Buddhist faith and a must-see attraction for those exploring the historic city of Kamakura.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

One of the most significant shrines in Kamakura, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is a prominent Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami (divine spirit) Hachiman, the patron deity of the samurai.

Situated at the end of a long approach flanked by cherry trees, this historic shrine commands attention with its impressive structures and vibrant rituals.

Visitors can explore:

• The Main Shrine Hall, a stately structure with intricate architectural details
• The Maiden Dance Stage, where traditional Noh performances are held
• The Wakamiya Shrine, a smaller shrine within the complex
• The Hachiman Festival, a lively annual event celebrated with parades, music, and food stalls

Immersing oneself in the rich history and cultural significance of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is a quintessential Kamakura experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed at the Temples and Shrines?

Photography is generally allowed at the temples and shrines in Kamakura, though visitors should be respectful and avoid using flash. Some sites may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the guide or staff upon arrival.

Can I Use My Japan Rail Pass for Transportation?

Yes, you can use your Japan Rail Pass for the transportation during the Kamakura Temples private guided tour. The tour includes train fare, which can be covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

There are restroom facilities available at the major temples and shrines visited during the tour. The guide will provide time for participants to use the restrooms at these locations throughout the day.

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit additional sites. Customers can discuss their preferences with the guide and work together to create a personalized itinerary that fits their interests and time constraints.

Is There a Dress Code or Any Prohibited Items?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should dress respectfully. Certain items like alcohol, weapons, and large bags are typically prohibited for safety reasons. The tour guide can provide more specific guidance on appropriate attire and prohibited items.

Recap

The Kamakura private guided tour from Tokyo offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to explore the historic sights of this ancient city.

With visits to iconic temples, the impressive Great Buddha Statue, and the elegant Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, travelers can enjoy Kamakura’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour’s inclusive features, such as hotel pickup and transportation, provide a hassle-free experience, ensuring a memorable day trip from the capital.