Kamakura and Hakone: A super Guide to Visiting Japan’s lovely Scenic Coastal Towns

Japan’s scenic coastal towns offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern charm. Two of the most popular coastal towns are Kamakura and Hakone, both located near Tokyo. Here’s a guide to help you plan your trip:

Kamakura (30 minutes from Tokyo by train)

Beaches: Kamakura is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Yuigahama Beach and Shichirigahama Beach.
Temples and Shrines: Visit the iconic Great Buddha at Kotokuin Temple, and explore other historic temples like Hasedera Temple and Meigetsuin Temple.
Walking Trails: Take a leisurely stroll along the coastal path, which offers stunning ocean views and scenic lookout points.
Food: Try local specialties like kamaboko (Japanese fish cakes), sushi, and fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants.
Accommodation: Stay at a traditional ryokan (inn) or a modern hotel with ocean views.

Hakone (1-2 hours from Tokyo by train)

Hot Springs: Soak in natural hot springs at Yunessun or Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Hot Springs Resort.
Scenic Cruises: Take a cruise on Lake Ashi for breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
Ropeway: Ride the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Pirate Ship: Board the pirate-themed pirate ship for a fun cruise on Lake Ashi.
Accommodation: Stay at a ryokan or hotel with hot spring facilities, or opt for a luxurious resort like Gora Kadan or Hoshinoko-en.

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Tips

The best time to visit is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Be prepared for crowds during peak season (June-August).
Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring Kamakura’s scenic coastal paths.
Don’t miss the stunning sunsets in both towns!
Try local specialties like mochi (rice cakes) and wasabi ice cream in Hakone.

Getting There

From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Station (30 minutes).
From Odawara Station, take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Hakone-Yumoto Station (45 minutes), then transfer to the Hakone Ropeway or Hakone Tozan Bus to various destinations.

Accommodation Options

Budget-friendly options: Guesthouses, hostels, and Airbnb apartments
Mid-range options: Hotels, ryokans, and inns
Luxury options: High-end hotels, resorts, and luxury ryokans

Budget Breakdown

Transportation: ¥2,000-¥5,000 per person (depending on the route and mode of transport)
Accommodation: ¥5,000-¥20,000 per night (depending on the type of accommodation)
Food: ¥500-¥1,000 per meal (depending on the type of restaurant)

Kamakura and Hakone are must-visit destinations for anyone looking to experience Japan’s scenic coastal towns. With their rich history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, these towns offer something for everyone. Plan your trip accordingly, and get ready to be mesmerized by the stunning scenery!

Kamakura: A Guide to Japan’s Coastal Town

Kamakura is a charming coastal town located about 30 minutes from Tokyo by train. It’s a popular day-trip destination from Tokyo, but it’s worth spending a night or two to truly experience its unique charm. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit:

Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions

Kotokuin Temple: Home to the famous Great Buddha, this temple is a must-visit attraction in Kamakura. The temple grounds are also home to many other important Buddhist statues and artifacts.
Hasedera Temple: This temple is famous for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of the ocean. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine: This Shinto shrine is dedicated to the god of war and is located on a hill overlooking the town. It’s a great place to get panoramic views of Kamakura.
Yoshimine-dera Temple: This temple is known for its beautiful garden and its historic significance as one of the first temples in Japan.
Komachi Street: This historic street is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, and is a great place to try some local specialties like kamaboko (Japanese fish cakes) and sake.

Other Attractions

Beaches: Kamakura has several beautiful beaches, including Yuigahama Beach and Shichirigahama Beach.
Walking Trails: Kamakura has many walking trails that offer stunning views of the ocean and surrounding countryside.
Local Markets: Visit the local markets on weekends to try some fresh seafood and local produce.
Festivals: Kamakura hosts many festivals throughout the year, including the Kamakura Matsuri (Kamakura Festival) in April and the Ennosaki Fire Festival in July.

Food

Kamaboko: Try some kamaboko, Japanese fish cakes made from surimi (fish paste) at one of the local shops or restaurants.
Sushi: Kamakura is famous for its sushi, and you can find many sushi restaurants throughout the town.
Seafood: Fresh seafood is abundant in Kamakura, and you can try some at one of the local restaurants or markets.
Tea Houses: Visit one of the traditional tea houses to try some Japanese green tea and Japanese sweets.

Accommodation

Ryokans: Stay at a traditional ryokan (inn) for a unique Japanese experience.
Hotels: There are many modern hotels in Kamakura that offer comfortable accommodations and amenities.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Tips

Getting There: The easiest way to get to Kamakura is by taking the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station (about 30 minutes).
Weather: The best time to visit Kamakura is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Japanese phrases before your trip.
Respect Local Customs: Remember to respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples and shrines.

Overall, Kamakura is a charming coastal town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its many attractions, delicious food, and comfortable accommodations, it’s a great destination for any traveler.

Hakone: A Guide to Japan’s Famous Hot Springs and Scenic Views

Hakone is a popular day-trip destination from Tokyo, famous for its natural hot springs, scenic views, and romantic atmosphere. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit:

Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions

Owakudani Valley: Take a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for stunning views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding landscape.
Lake Ashi: Take a cruise on Lake Ashi for breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding mountains.
Hot Springs: Soak in natural hot springs at one of the many onsen (hot springs) in Hakone, such as Yunessun or Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Hot Springs Resort.
Odawara Castle: Visit this historic castle, which dates back to the 15th century, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and views of the surrounding area.
Hakone Pirate Ship: Board the pirate-themed pirate ship for a fun cruise on Lake Ashi.

Other Attractions

Scenic Views: Hakone offers many scenic views of Mt. Fuji, including from the Hakone Ropeway, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani Valley.
Walking Trails: Explore the many walking trails in Hakone, including the Hakone Tozan Heritage Trail and the Lake Ashi Trail.
Villages: Visit the charming villages of Hakone, such as Moto-Hakone and Gora, for a taste of traditional Japanese culture.
Food: Try some local specialties like black eggs, which are said to have healing properties, and Hakone’s famous black tea.

Accommodation

Hot Spring Ryokans: Stay at a traditional ryokan (inn) with hot spring facilities for a unique Japanese experience.
Modern Hotels: There are many modern hotels in Hakone that offer comfortable accommodations and amenities.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Tips

Getting There: The easiest way to get to Hakone is by taking the Odakyu Railway from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo (about 2 hours).
Weather: The best time to visit Hakone is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Reservations: Book your hot spring visits and accommodations in advance to avoid long wait times.
Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Japanese phrases before your trip.

Overall, Hakone is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in natural beauty, hot springs, and scenic views. With its many attractions, delicious food, and comfortable accommodations, it’s a great destination for any traveler.