Kamakura: Private Cruise Shore Excursion Tour

Overview

Step back in time to the era of the samurai with our Best of Kamakura Shore Excursion. Often referred to as the “Kyoto of Eastern Japan,” Kamakura served as the nation’s political center during the 12th century. This 7-hour private tour is the perfect cultural escape for cruise passengers docking at the Port of Yokohama or the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal who wish to explore ancient Zen temples, towering coastal monuments, and traditional Japanese aesthetics.

Whether your ship is the Diamond Princess, Celebrity Millennium, ms Westerdam, or Ovation of the Seas, our private tours are meticulously coordinated with your ship’s arrival. Kamakura’s proximity to the Yokohama terminals—such as Osanbashi, Daikoku, and Shinko Pier—makes it an exceptionally efficient and rewarding destination. With our professional “Back-to-Ship Guarantee,” you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of these sacred sites without any concerns about your departure schedule.

Accompanied by a licensed English-speaking guide and traveling in a premium chartered vehicle, you will bypass the crowds of public transit to visit the iconic Great Buddha, the floral paradise of Hasedera, and the historic Sankeien Garden. This tour is an essential choice for those seeking deep historical insights and breathtaking scenic views away from the neon lights of the capital.

Highlights

• The Great Buddha (Kotokuin): Stand in awe before the “Daibutsu,” a massive 11.4-meter bronze statue of Amida Buddha that has stood in the open air since a 15th-century tsunami.
• Hasedera Temple: Explore this hillside temple famous for its 11-headed statue of Kannon, its “sea of Jizo” statues, and a stunning panoramic terrace overlooking Sagami Bay.
• Sankeien Garden: Visit a sprawling traditional garden in Yokohama that acts as an outdoor museum, featuring historic buildings—including tea houses and a three-story pagoda—transported from across Japan.
• Direct Port Logistics: Enjoy a seamless meet-and-greet service directly at your cruise terminal with a private driver and guide.
• Luxury Transit: Travel between the coastal hills of Kamakura and the Yokohama waterfront in a high-end Toyota Alphard or Hiace Wagon.

Complete Details

Your Japan shore excursion begins with a warm welcome at your ship’s terminal. Your guide will meet you with a personalized sign to lead you to your private vehicle. The drive to Kamakura is brief and scenic, allowing your guide to share the fascinating history of the Kamakura Shogunate.

The first stop is Kotokuin Temple, home to the second-tallest bronze Buddha in Japan. Your guide will explain how the statue survived centuries of natural disasters, remaining a stoic symbol of Japanese resilience. Next, you will visit Hasedera Temple, built along the wooded slopes of a hill. Here, you will walk through the Jizo-do Hall and its thousands of small statues before ascending to the observation deck for a spectacular view of the Kamakura coastline.

Before returning to your ship, the tour stops at Sankeien Garden in Yokohama. This is one of the most beautiful landscape gardens in the country, featuring a central pond, meandering streams, and 17 historic structures relocated from places like Kyoto and Shirakawa-go. It offers a peaceful conclusion to your cultural journey. Throughout the day, your guide will ensure a relaxed pace, concluding with a punctual return to the Yokohama or Tokyo port well in advance of your ship’s departure.

Booking with Jasumo

To book your private Tokyo shore excursion or to customize an itinerary based on your ship’s arrival, please contact us via our Contact Us Form. Our travel consultants will verify your cruise ship’s docking terminal and schedule to ensure a seamless experience during your time in port.

Jasumo also provides Destination Management Company (DMC) services, supporting not only individual travelers but also tour companies, travel agencies, and group tours. We offer end-to-end destination support, tailored itineraries, and reliable local coordination for partners seeking professional on-ground services in Japan.

Complimentary 10GB eSIM with Every Jasumo Tour Booking

When you book your tour through Jasumo, we make your journey even smoother by giving you a free 10GB eSIM. Stay connected across Japan from the moment you arrive—use maps, messaging, ride apps, and travel updates without worrying about finding Wi-Fi or buying a SIM. It’s our way of ensuring a stress-free and fully connected travel experience.

FAQs

How far is Kamakura from the Yokohama cruise ports?

Kamakura is very close to Yokohama. Depending on your specific pier (e.g., Osanbashi or Daikoku), the drive typically takes only 30–45 minutes, making it one of the most accessible and “time-efficient” shore excursions available.

What is the significance of the statues at Hasedera?

Hasedera is famous for the Hase Kannon, one of the largest wooden statues in Japan, depicting the Goddess of Mercy with eleven faces. It is also known for the thousands of small Jizo statues placed by parents to protect the souls of lost children, creating a poignant and spiritual atmosphere.

Can we enter the Great Buddha statue?

Yes, for a very small additional fee (usually paid on-site), visitors are allowed to step inside the hollow interior of the Great Buddha. This offers a unique perspective on the ancient bronze-casting techniques used to create this 13th-century masterpiece.

Is Sankeien Garden located in Kamakura or Yokohama?

Sankeien Garden is located in Yokohama, very close to the cruise terminals. We include it in the Kamakura tour because it perfectly complements the historic theme and is conveniently located on the way back to the ship, ensuring a stress-free final stop.

What should we wear for this cultural discovery tour?

We recommend comfortable walking shoes, as there are stairs at Hasedera Temple and gravel paths in the gardens. As these are active religious sites, modest dress is appreciated, though there is no strict dress code for tourists.

Location