Engaku-ji temple, Kanagawa

Kamakura, the favorite summer getaway for modern Tokyoites, was also where Japan's samurai class set up their first warrior government about 900 years ago during a time known has the Kamakura Period. As such, this ancient city is filled with history and enthralling stories just waiting to be uncovered! This tour is customizable to your wants and needs. However, my standard route is as such: We'll start by taking journey through the history of Zen Buddhism and its importance to Japanese politics, art, and of course religious practices, at the gorgeous Engaku-ji Temple. After we finish there, we'll make a short stop at Tokei-ji, a former nunnery and a pilgrimmage spot for women from all over Japan. For lunch, we will indulge in "shojin-ryori" [generally only for the 8-hour tour, but available upon request for the 4-hour tour], the food that Japanese Buddhist monks eat! Then, we'll visit the center of of Kamakura-period politics at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, one of the most popular and largest shrines in the entire region. We will then venture back into Buddhism (but a different sect--don't worry, I'll explain it all in an easy-to-understand manner!) with a visit to the Great Buddha of Kamakura, one of the largest Buddha statues in the whole country, and possibly the most beautiful. Last, we'll venture to Enoshima [8-hour tour only], a holy island in ancient times, and now a favorite seaside spot for couples and families looking to get away from the city. Please note that this is mostly a walking tour, although we will make use of public transport at various points through the day. If you tire easily, please let me know, and I will plan out a route that is easier on the legs for us!

[Rental experience flow] ①Visit the store Please arrive at the time you reserved. We have all the accessories you need for kimono rental, so you can come empty-handed. ②Reception At the time of reception, we will confirm your kimono rental/yukata rental plan and provide you with options for kimono accessories. Customers who wish to add options will be required to pay. In that case, the only payment method is "cash payment". Thank you for your understanding. ③Kimono selection At our store, you can choose as many kimonos as you like no matter which plan you book! Prices do not change depending on the type of rental kimono or rental yukata, so please use with confidence. If necessary, our experienced kimonos and hair stylists will advise you on rental kimonos and obi. ④Change luggage You can leave any clothes you take off or any luggage you don't need for sightseeing with kimono rental. *Additional charges will apply for large luggage such as carry cases. ⑤Kimono dressing You can do it empty-handed! Experienced kimonos and yukatas will be fitted by experienced kimono and yukata at each store's dedicated dressing area. There is nothing special you need to prepare, so don't worry. ⑥Hair set After wearing the kimono, the hair stylist will style your hair to match the kimono. All hair styles at our store use irons and irons, and hair accessories are also included. Suitable for all hair lengths. You can choose a hairstyle from 5 patterns. *Hair styling service is not available for men. ⑦Selecting accessories such as sandals We will help you choose sandals and geta that match the rental kimono and rental yukata. At Rika Wafuku, we also make custom-made zori sandals that go well with the trendy kimono every season. ⑧Wear a kimono and go sightseeing Rika Wafuku is conveniently located for sightseeing, and after renting a kimono, you can immediately enjoy a kimono walk around the sightseeing spots. There are tourist spots and restaurants in the surrounding area, so please enjoy strolling around in your kimono until it's time to return your kimono. ⑨Return of kimono Please return the kimono by the final return time. If the final return time is not met, a late fee will be charged. please note.

Looking at Kamakura’s beautiful and scenic streets of today, it is difficult to imagine it has gone through many bloody battles before and after its establishment in 1192. There are more than 170 Buddhist temples in Kamakura mourning the dead. Some built by the powers at that time, are magnificent and impressive to look at. We will start the tour at the Kita- Kamakura Station. The second most important Zen temple, Enkaku-ji is just 2minutes walk from the station. We will entre the temple through the great “Sanmon Gate”. Then go to “Butsuden” (Buddha Hall) to admire the Buddha statue. Moving on to “Hatto” (Dharma Hall) to see the picture of a dragon painted on the ceiling. After that, climb 135 stairs to see “Bonsho” (temple bell), a national treasure. As a reward to your effort to climb these stairs, 800 years old Bell will welcome you. We will then visit the most prestigious Zen temple in Kamakura, "Kencho-ji". “Sanmon Gates”, “Butsuden”, “Hatto” (Dharma Hall) and “Bonsho (national treasure) await at a grander scale. ("Butsuden" is closed for maintenance until 2027.) Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, was built to display and impress the power of the first Shogun, and it has been the symbol of Kamakura ever since. The shrine is dedicated to the Hachiman kami(deity), the deity of good fortune in warfare. Located at the top of the hill, you can enjoy the scenic view of Kamakura. We will walk through ”Dankazura”, the 450m walkway that extends from the then seacoast to the Third Torii gate, the entrance to the grounds of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. It was also built by the first Shogun to pray for the safe delivery of an heir. We will walk from the Third Torii gate to the Second Torii gate, which is the current starting point of "Dankazura". The road is also famous for cherry blossoms. Kamakura is also home to beautiful and powerful Kamakura Lacquerware (METI certified Japanese traditional craft), that was originally made by Buddhist sculptors 800 years ago. During the Edo period (1603～1868), Kamakura-Lacquerware spread beyond Buddhist ritual items, and daily goods began to be produced. They are popularly used in tea ceremonies nowadays. We will be visiting Kamakura Lacquerware Museum that displays works from Muromachi period (1336～1568) to the present day.

Experience the beauty and history of Kamakura on a full-day private sightseeing trip with a knowledgeable guide. Begin your journey by visiting the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a massive bronze statue that stands as a symbol of the city. Stroll through the serene Hase-dera Temple, known for its stunning gardens and impressive views of the coastline. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Japanese cuisine. Afterward, explore the charming streets of Kamakura, lined with quaint shops and cafes, where you can sample local snacks and pick up unique souvenirs. Your guide will take you to the picturesque Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, an important Shinto shrine surrounded by beautiful nature. You may also have the opportunity to visit the hidden gems of Kamakura, such as the tranquil Engaku-ji Temple or the scenic hiking trails that offer breathtaking views. Throughout the day, your guide will share fascinating stories and insights about Kamakura's rich cultural heritage, making your visit both informative and enjoyable. This personalized tour allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of one of Japan's most beloved destinations.