All About Japan

10 Great Sights in Kamakura & Enoshima

Museum Temples & Shrines Day Trips Kamakura

Kamakura is located in the southern part of Kanagawa Prefecture, just outside of Tokyo and less than an hour away by train. Kamakura played a huge role in the history of Japan and was the political center of Japan during the Kamakura Period (1185-1333). There are many well-known sights in the area, including the following ten!

10. Enoshima Aquarium

10. Enoshima Aquarium

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The deep blue Enoshima Aquarium is best known for its jellyfish exhibit. Over 14 species of jellyfish can be viewed at Enoshima Aquarium, and observing their slow, mysterious movements has an oddly alluring and relaxing effect. Apart from the jellyfish, shows also take place at Enoshima Aquarium. There is also a beach outside Enoshima Aquarium that you can explore, which is especially beautiful at sunset.

9. Sugimoto Temple

9. Sugimoto Temple

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Sugimoto Temple has a history of over 1,300 years, and is said to be the oldest temple in Kamakura. Various historical artifacts, such as the Nio statues (guardians of the Buddha) located at the main gate, can still be viewed. There is also a beautiful staircase (shown in the photo above) covered in moss that developed over the long years. The staircase cannot be used for safety reasons but its beauty is amazing. Sugimoto Temple is located at a very convenient location, just nine minutes from Kamakura Station by bus, and definitely shouldn't be missed.

8. Toyoshimaya Confectionary Store

8. Toyoshimaya Confectionary Store

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Toyoshimaya is the name of a confectionary store in Kamakura which sells the “Hato Sabure," a cute, pigeon-shaped biscuit which is very famous in Japan. The flagship store of Toyoshimaya is located just three minutes from Kamakura station, and it sells various cookies and biscuits exclusive to the brand.

7. Iwata Coffee

7. Iwata Coffee

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Who can say no to a thick, decadent pancake?! Iwata Coffee is a café located just one minute from Kamakura Station. It is an extremely popular store that almost always has a crowd, and waiting times can get up to two hours! The famous pancakes of Iwata Coffee come with delicious maple syrup and butter. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, the mouth-watering pancake is certainly worth the wait. The pancakes of Iwata Coffee may be sold out by evening, so be sure to visit the café early!

6. Enoshima Sea Candle

6. Enoshima Sea Candle

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Enoshima Island is connected to the mainland by a bridge, and is famous for its scenic seascapes. During the day, you can enjoy the unparalleled beauty of the nearby beach. After the resplendent sunset, the area will be gorgeously illuminated at night to create an extremely romantic atmosphere. The Enoshima Lighthouse Observation Tower, more popularly known as the Enoshima Sea Candle, can be provides a splendid panoramic view of the seascape and Kamakura.

5. Kamakura Museum of Literature

5. Kamakura Museum of Literature

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For fans of Japanese literature, the Kamakura Museum of Literature is a must-visit destination. The museum building was originally built in 1910, and used to be the villa of Maeda Toshitsugu, a feudal lord. It was then restored and rebuilt in a European style in 1936 following a fire. Various exhibits are placed within the museum that showcases the lifeworks and bibliography of renowned Japanese authors. Apart from that, the Kamakura Museum of Literature is also famous for its rose festival, which can be enjoyed from mid-May to end-June and mid-October to end-November.

For the rest of the exciting sights in Kamakura, read the full article from Trip101 via the link below!