คามาคุระ เมืองหลวงวันวาน ญี่ปุ่น
Kamakura was one of Japan 's former capitals, dating back to the time of Shogun Yoritomo Minamoto. It was a period when the samurai class rose to power and the feudal system was widely implemented in Japan. Kamakura could thus be considered an old samurai city.
Visit Kamakura, Japan's former capital.
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What's so interesting about Kamakura?
When you think of Kamakura, you immediately picture the Daibutsu, the giant Buddha statue. The word Daibutsu literally means "great Buddha," but that's not all... Kamakura has many other interesting places that are just as fascinating as the Daibutsu. Let's take a look.
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1. Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine is an ancient Shinto shrine, the most famous in Kamakura. Some of its structures are over a thousand years old. The shrine is also the venue for important events and ceremonies of Kamakura. Furthermore, it houses two important Kamakura museums: the Kamakura Museum of National Treasures and the Museum of Modern Art, Kamakura & Hayama. The shrine is open from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM, and admission is free. It is located near Kamakura train station.
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2. Kenchoji Temple: This Zen Buddhist temple is the oldest in Kamakura. From its magnificent Sanmon gate to its extensive grounds extending up the mountain, and its beautifully landscaped Zen garden, Kenchoji Temple is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Admission fees are 300 JPY for adults and 100 JPY for children. It is located near Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
3. The Great Buddha of Kamamura Temple: Its main feature is the massive bronze Buddha statue, standing 13.35 meters tall. It represents Amida Nyoyurai (the Buddha of good fortune). Originally, the statue wasn't in the open air as it is today; natural disasters swept away the surrounding temples and buildings, leaving only the Great Buddha as it stands. It's also believed that the Great Buddha protects Japan from enemy invasions. The temple is open from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Admission is 300 JPY for adults and 150 JPY for children. The entrance fee to the interior of the Great Buddha is 20 JPY. It's near Hase (Kanagawa) station. Tickets can be purchased from Kamamura station for 190 JPY.
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4. Hasedera Temple: This temple is incredibly beautiful, from its natural surroundings and trees to its architecture. However, its true highlight is the stunning 11-faced Kannon Bodhisattva statue, beautifully carved and located in the main hall. Unfortunately, photography is prohibited in this area. The temple also features gardens and caves containing important artifacts that visitors can explore. Hasedera Temple is open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Admission is 300 JPY for adults and 100 JPY for children. It's located near Hase (Kanagawa) train station.
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5. Yuigahama Beach: Since Kamakura is a coastal city, its beaches are another popular tourist attraction, besides the temples. It's also a great place for surfing. Taking the Enoden train line will take you along the coast, offering beautiful scenery.
