Things to do & Where to eat in Kamakura
About an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura is a small coastal city known for its temples, cafés, the beach and relaxing traditional atmosphere. Iv’e lived here for over 2 years now, whether you’re coming for the day or staying the weekend, here are a few of my favorite spots that make it worth the trip!
The underlined items are must do locations run by local kamakura business owners i think you should definitely support.
CAFES & COFFEE:
Coffee Talks – MY GO-TO COFFE SPOT! The owner is amazing, super friendly and speaks english not the mention the coffee is great! He has 2 small tables inside but its more common to get a coffee to go or just hang around outside and drink it. He has fun seasonal items like lemonade coffee ( i know, but trust it it was good). It’s just him running the entire shop so be sure to check his instagram for daily opening hours.
WOODBERRY COFFEE 鎌倉店 – Amazing cafe near the beach. The place is stylish with quality espresso, indoor and outdoor seating, wifi and calm surrounding. Definitely quality/ high end comes to mind. The coffee and food is amazing but the pancakes are garbage so skip those.
WITH KAMAKURA – One of the most impressive cafes i’ve ever seen. It’s a renovated spacious café restaurant built from a 200-year-old Gassho-style house! it was relocated here to kamakura. They have a workspace (paid) and the bottom floor is the cafe.
I used to have a monthly work area subscription because the place was so beautiful but the staff was terrible and very rude to me one day so i haven’t been back in a while but nonetheless it’s an amazing place
CHEEERS COFFEE – A fun, cozy stop with sweet treats and good brews. The staff is super amazing and it’s very close to the big Buddha.
Café Yoridokoro – The famous cozy café/lunch-spot where you can watch the charming Enoden train pass by just outside! It’s a unique spot because of the proximity to the train. The food iteself isn’t great, mainly just fish with raw egg on rice. but absolutely worth it for the experience.
BREEZE BIRD CAFE & BAKERY – Excellent cafe!This place fills up fast be sure to have a reservation.
Bread, Espresso & – Beautifully made pastries and light meals in a minimal, warm setting. Beautiful outdoor seating and you can take the bread to go. This shop has another location in Arashiyama Kyoto. Be sure to get the french toast with a jar of hunny.
Slow Rush Coffee – Newer quiet little spot for a quick good coffee.
The Good Goodies – Known for its pour-over coffee and outdoor bench seating.
The 3rd. Kamakura – Cafe with a nice full menu, location in the busy street area. Stop in for some food and a break from the crowd.
Momiji Chaya – A more traditional café with Japanese sweets and garden views. 2 locations, Try anything matcha related or get some shaved ice!
Chocolate Bank – Set in a renovated bank, this spot serves various rich chocolate dishes and light lunch/breakfast items. It’s extremely close to the west exit of the station.
Wildflower Kamakura – Cafe right next to Coffee Talk, with a natural, handcrafted feel if you want a place with food.
27 COFFEE ROASTERS KAMAKURA – For the real coffee lovers. Located on one of the side streets off the main road. They have yummy food options and amazing coffee. You can also buy freshly roasted beans here.
Food Stand Magali – A neighborhood gem with a handful of seats and homemade dishes. It’s small, cozy, and tucked away from the crowds. I go here often, try the lasagna.
Inamura Blue Ocean- The kindest older gentleman runs this cute cafe with an ocean view!. Good coffee and great service.
CUPS kamakura- cafe known for it’s cupcakes located across from the beach. It’s a dog friends shop so be sure to bring the pup!
VERVE kamakura- My go to cafe of choice. They have 2 locations but i’m ofetn at the one near the shrine. It’s a great place to get some work done since they have a large seating options and wifi with outlets. Be sure to try the pecan squares!
RESTAURANTS & FOOD:
When you’re ready for something more substantial, Kamakura’s restaurants offer everything from seaside seafood to quiet Japanese fine dining. Here are some dependable favorites:
Barchie's Spareribs Factory – Tender ribs and authentic tacos! Two very rare items in japan. They often speak english and the atmosphere is nice and cozy. 2 locations in Kamkura.
AWkitchen GARDEN 鎌倉店 – Fresh pastas, salad and pizza with indoor and outdoor laid-back, garden seating. The best part? TRAIN VIEW! They have tables lining the railway where you can watch the Enoden ( green train) go by very upclose.
Kamakura Sukiyaki & Shabu-Shabu Restaurant Sasho- If you’re looking to be impressed, look no further. This authentic Japanese restaurant is mind blowing! Beautiful traditional interior and amazing top level serivice. it’s a bit pricey for the courses but absolutely worth it. Come during lunch for more afforadle prices and a beautiful garden view.
Garden House – Cafe/restaurant with amazing outdoor seating! Literally eating in a garden.
Ocean Harvest Cocomo – Restaurant close to the waves. One of my absolute favorite restaurants ( if not my favorite) in kamakura. The food is amazing, i haven’t tried anything i didn’t like yet. Be sure to end with the basque cheesecake.
Pacific DRIVE-IN – Hawaiian-inspired lunch plates with one of the best ocean views in town. Everything on the menu is yummy, it’s very large and you can get to-go plates ( very rare in japan). You HAVE TO try the pancakes.
Ramen Hanabi – A small shop run by the owner and a small crew. Seating is limited but the ramen is very special and delicious. Thin light broth with amazing pork on top.
The Factory – Simple, stylish meals in a clean-lined, welcoming space.
Another Day Kamakura – Fully glass building serving yummy healthy options like salads wraps and bowls.
Kamakura Miyokawa – Elegant authentic Japanese cuisine with enough room for large groups. If you’re in the mood to feel like you’re trully in japan, stop here. The course menus are so impressive and delicious . Try the sake tasting course alongside your meal.
Misaki Donuts – Soft, flavorful donuts that feel like a reward. She has many fun seasonal flavors.
JUNK HEAVEN BUGER & CRAFT BEER(ジャンク ヘブン)- Fun burger spot close to VERVE cafe. Yummy burgers, fries and wings with friendly staff.
THINGS TO DO:
Everything is close but a bit spread out. In order to make the best of the city you REALLy should rent a bike near the station. Biking is the best way to get around by far. most places are located in narrow areas with no parking or public transport nearby so a bike really is the best option.
1. Visit the Great Buddha
No trip to Kamakura feels complete without stopping by the Great Buddha, or Daibutsu, at Kōtoku-in. This 13-meter bronze statue has stood calmly for centuries, open to the elements and always photogenic. It's a simple, moving place, and a good starting point for your day.
2. Tsurugaoka Hachimangū
It is the most important Shinto shrine in the city of Kamakura. The shrine is a cultural center and serves as the venue of many of its most important festivals with two museums. You can reach the shrine Via a long, wide cobblestone path lined with cherry blossom trees that leads from Kamakura's waterfront through the entire city center, with multiple torii gates along the way. The often have food stalls up as well.
3. Wander Komachi Street
This lively shopping street just outside Kamakura Station is full of life and snacks. You’ll find everything from matcha soft cream to handmade pickles, fresh croquettes, tiny cafés, and boutiques selling ceramics, linen, and souvenirs that feel thoughtfully chosen. It can be busy, but the energy is warm and local.
4. Visit Hasedera Temple
Near the Great Buddha, Hasedera is one of Kamakura’s most beautiful temples. With its tiered gardens, koi ponds, hillside views, and small statues hidden throughout the grounds, it’s a place to walk slowly and notice the details. Don’t miss the little cave near the back it’s home to dozens of tiny statues and flickering candlelight
5. Local Makers: Kamakura Bells
If you’re looking for a meaningful souvenir, stop by Kamakura Bells. A small shop specializing in handmade wind chimes. Each one is crafted with care to capture the natural sounds of Kamakura’s breeze, whether it’s coming from the sea or the mountains. The chimes are all slightly different in tone, so you can choose the one that resonates most with you. The owner is friendly, speaks English, and is clearly passionate about his craft. These wind chimes are more than decorative, they’re a quiet reminder of Kamakura’s atmosphere, long after your trip ends.
6. The Beach
Yuigahama Beach is just a short stroll from central Kamakura. On warm days, you’ll see families, surfers, and friends unwinding along the shore. Grab a drink, sit by the seawall, and watch the trains roll past behind you and the waves stretch out in front. It’s one of the best ways to take in Kamakura’s quiet charm.
7. Kamakura Rickshaw
Riding on a traditional Japanese rickshaw is one of the most popular activities for tourists in all of Japan. Kamakura is an amazing town for such an activity. a bit pricey but definitely worth it.
8. Kamakura kimono rental
There are multiple places to rent kimonos for the day just google kimono rentals kamakura. I’ve tried a few establishments and ∂epending on the package you get they can do your hair, help you get dressed and pick out a kimono and even have photoshoot and tour packages.
9. Zeniarai Benten Shrine- The money shrine! Located a bit out of the way there is a small shinto shrine known for good fortune and new beginigs. Here it’s common to wash your wash to grant it luck in the future.
10. Hike the Daibutsu Trail- If you're up for a walk, the Daibutsu Hiking Trail leads from near the Great Buddha through quiet forest paths toward Kita-Kamakura. Along the way, you’ll pass small shrines, leafy lookouts, and a few stretches of pure stillness. It’s not too long or too steep, but it gives you a real feel for Kamakura’s landscape.
