Greetings, r/travel.
This marks my inaugural post within this community. I hold a deep appreciation for the members of this subreddit, which has inspired me to share details of my recent day trip from Tokyo to Kamakura, Japan, on December 1, 2025.
I am unable to add captions to individual images, so please excuse the length of this post. Thank you for your attention.
Photo 1: Kamakura Station - This station is notable for the iconic green train that operates along the Kamakura coastline. We traveled from Tokyo via the Sobu line to Kita Kamakura Station, arriving at approximately 8 AM. A transfer to Kamakura Station is available from this location. Suica cards are accepted here.
Photo 2: Our initial visit was to Kotoku-in, as it opens at 8 AM, an hour earlier than most other temples. A visit to Kamakura is incomplete without experiencing this location. The site offers an amazing, tranquil, and serene atmosphere, with the autumn foliage at its peak. The historical significance is profound, and the Buddha statue is truly remarkable in person. Entrance fee is 500 yen.
Photo 3: The back garden at Kotoku-in presented a truly beautiful blend of yellow and red leaves, offering a remarkably quiet experience.
Photo 4: Our subsequent destination was Meigetsu-in. This opens at 9 AM. The location's aesthetic appeal, particularly the interplay of yellow and red foliage, is truly remarkable. I utilized my time there for personal contemplation, observing the falling leaves and the movement of people passing by. Entrance fee is 500 yen.
Photo 5: The window. The depth, relaxation, and tranquility offered by this window are truly remarkable. This is undoubtedly a highlight for any visitor to the temple.
Photo 6: The rear garden. There is an additional 500 yen charge to access the garden, which is highly recommended. The visual appeal of the photograph speaks for itself.
Photo 7: Next is San-Mon Gate, Kencho-ji Temple. This temple, established in 1253, holds the distinction of being the oldest Zen temple in both Kamakura and Japan. It is believed that passing through the San-Mon Gate offers liberation from intense desires, addictions, and obsessions. I found myself traversing it multiple times. 😂
Photo 8: Walking in Kencho-ji area. No explanation needed. A gentleman doing an artwork of the foliage. Just amazing.
Photo 9: We embarked on a hike to the observation deck, which offers a glimpse of Mount Fuji. Despite the strenuous ascent, I was fortunate to witness a glimpse of its snow-capped peak.
Photo 10: This image captures our descent from the hike, showcasing the remarkable foliage. It is truly beautiful.
Photo 11: Kencho-ji Temple main entrance. With entrance fee of 500 yen.
Photo 12: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. It's one of the most important Shinto shrines in Kamakura. I got my fortune told here and even got a cute frog amulet! Frogs are considered lucky because "kaeru," the Japanese word for frog, sounds just like the word for "to return." That can mean money coming back, good luck, or even a safe trip home. Since I love to travel, I keep mine in my wallet. No charge to get in here.
Photo 13: The garden in Tsurugaoka Hachimangu.
Photo 14: Komachi Street. Took our latr lunch here. So many restaurants, souvenir shops and more.
Photo 15: Houkokuji, an ancient temple renowned for its dense bamboo grove, also features a tea house that provides a matcha reception. I found the robust flavor of the matcha to be exceptionally peaceful and relaxing.
Photo 16: The bamboo grove at Houkokuji is more compact than anticipated.
Photo 17: Houkokuji main entrance. With entrance fee
Photo 18: This renowned train, situated alongside the water, served as the inspiration for the anime series "Slam Dunk." The location is experiencing a high volume of visitors. We took time here to watch the sunset.
Photo 19: Concluding our journey with a sunset viewing by the beach, overlooking Enoshima Island.
This report details my recent day trip to Kamakura, an exceptional and picturesque location conveniently situated near Tokyo. I highly recommend this destination. I am experiencing a sense of nostalgia due to its remarkable beauty. Please be advised that most temples in the area operate on a cash-only basis, so it is prudent to carry sufficient currency.
Thank you for your time and attention. I look forward to our next interaction.