Travel plan for first timers in Kamakura

Hase-dera is famous for its garden. During the rainy season (around June), 2500 colorful hydrangeas of 40 varieties bloom all at once to create a wondrous spectacle.

The tourist spot symbolizing Kamakura, you can even enter the interior of the huge Great Buddha itself. US President Obama also visited the statue when he came to Japan.

When money is washed in the holy water of the shrine’s spring, it is said that you will earn even more money which has given rise to the large number of worshipers who come to wash their money in bamboo baskets.

The famous shrine which has acted as the guardian deity for warriors. A symbolic building for tourism in Kamakura, events such as the Kamakura Festival and the Yabusame (horseback archery) are also held there. The hatsumode (first shrine visit) during New Year’s attracts some of the largest numbers of visitors in Japan, and in spring, splendid cherry blossoms open all at once around the path heading towards the shrine and Genpei Pond.

Cuisine and souvenirs specific to Kamakura can also be enjoyed. Kamakura vegetables and Hato Sable cookies are popular. If there is time, have a ride around town on the rickshaws.