Can’t go to Okinawa? Then check out the stunning beaches of Kamakura, offering a beautiful seaside atmosphere accessible from Tokyo!
There are plenty more beaches to enjoy in Japan than just Okinawa, after all, Japan is an island nation surrounded by ocean. Whether you’re in for a stroll along the beach, surf or swim, or just a good meal by the ocean, Kamakura is the place to do it!
What Is Kamakura?
Kamakura is a seaside city located south of Tokyo. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and ocean views on Japan’s Honshu island.
Despite its many beaches and stunning coastline walks, Kamakura is typically associated with the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) at Kotoku-in Temple.
However, I’ve found the true beauty of Kamakura lies beyond this popular tourist destination.
Regardless of your reasons for coming to Kamakura, you’ll fall in love with the endless blue seas and sandy beaches that surround the coastal city.
Glistening Oceans, Railway Crossings, and…Slam Dunk?
There’s no better time to visit Kamakura than on a bright clear day, no matter what time of year!
The water sparkles brightly against Japan’s rising sun, and the iconic railway crossings of the Enoshima Electric Railway line can be seen extending all along the coast.
For fans of the popular basketball manga series Slam Dunk, Kamakura offers popular photo spots that are featured in the series.
In particular, you may find crowds of Slam Dunk fans flocking around the railway crossings to take photos posing as their favorite characters from the series.
Swim, Surf, Or Sail At Yuigahama Beach
It’s not all tourist vibes at Kamakura as you can enjoy swimming, surfing, or sailing just like any other beach around the world.
It’s a shame that many who visit the big Daibutsu statue and the Slam Dunk locations fail to enjoy the amazing beach vibes just around the corner.
Yuigahama Beach is the main beach spot at Kamakura, offering vast shores where you can cool off in the water or sunbake on the sand.
As an Australian, I’m often told the beaches in my home country are the best in the world, however, I’d argue that the beaches in Japan are just as magnificent!
With the surrounding mountains of Honshu Island providing unique scenery for beach-goers, Japan’s beaches offer spectacular views of mountains, oceans, and forests that I’ve yet to experience in other countries.
Chill Out At Kamakura Chacha
The best way to cool down after a hot day at the beach is with a refreshing iced matcha beverage near Kamakura station.
Easily recognizable by the witch hat clock tower, this train station has become a hangout hub for tourists and residents alike.
Cafes and restaurants surround the iconic clock tower, with unique brands such as Kamakura Chacha serving up delicious matcha green tea beverages and soft serves.
So if you’re regretting not being able to go to Okinawa (flights are expensive after all), then head on down to Kamakura, the beautiful beach paradise of Honshu Island!
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!