Cultural & Gastronomic Hiking Tour in Kamakura

The small seaside city of Kamakura, eastern Japan's political powerhouse in the 12th century, is a popular destination known for its beautiful Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Less than an hour south of Tokyo, Kamakura is the perfect place to explore history and culture during a day trip. So, grab your hiking boots and explore Kamakura's best sights! After meeting your host and certified tour guide, you'll kick off with a visit to Engakuji Temple, one of eastern Japan's most important Zen temples, where you'll learn the temple's history and the origin of the name Fukudori, your lunch spot. After a scenic hike, you'll visit the scenic Kuzuharaoka Shrine, popular among couples and those looking for luck in love or marriage, and take part in an optional purification ritual. Next, move to Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine, which is famous for granting wealth and prosperity. "Zeniarai" means "coin washing," so grab some money for a unique coin-washing experience in the shrine's spring and pray for good luck! Afterward, you'll take a break to enjoy tea at nearby Benten Chaya. Your journey will continue to the colorful Sasuke Inari Shrine, built in the 12th century by Kamakura's first shogun to honor Inari, the fox god. Here, you'll see hundreds of fox statues and vibrant torii gates! The tour culminates at Fukudori restaurant, where you'll enjoy a Japanese lunch made from local and seasonal ingredients, including Kamakura daikon (radish). The lunch will consist of at least five items, including dessert. Fukudori also serves vegan and vegetarian options. You will have the opportunity to meet the owner and hear the story behind the restaurant's origins and their quest to revitalize local agriculture. Experience flow: - Meet at Kita-Kamakura Station East Exit - Visit Engakuji Temple - Start hiking - Visit Kuzuharaoka Shrine - Visit Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine and rest at Benten Chaya on the shrine grounds - Visit Sasuke Inari Shrine - Lunch at Fukudori - Tour ends