The must-see attractions in Kamakura

Kamakura (鎌倉) is a very popular day trip from Tokyo, with 65 Buddhist temples and 19 Shinto shrines and its Kotoku-in, a big statue of Buddha, dating back to the 13th century.

It has flourished since warlord Minamoto Yoritomo established a new government in 1192. And was once the political capital of Japan during the Kamakura Shogunate, from 1181 to 1333.

From then, Japan was ruled through a dual government structure. While the emperor retained cultural and religious sovereignty over the nation, the samurai elite during this period, assumed political and economic leadership. This system of governance remained in place until the late 1800s.

Kamakura was also the city where Japanese Zen Buddhism first developed, and where the Nichiren school of Buddhism was created.

Thanks to this exceptional heritage, Kamakura is only second to Kyoto for the number of major historical temples. And is now a charming seaside town that attracts visitors with its rich history, beautiful temples, and serene atmosphere.