What other travelers are saying about Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
The shrine is really popular. Since we came on Saturday, there's a lot of tourist. Even some children from different schools were sightseeing at this time. We are so glad that we got a chance to see a wedding ceremony. It was really amazing to see how the traditional wedding goes. You can also go inside the shrine. There are some stalls that sells tanghulu and accessories. The place is pretty crowded so it is recommended to go on a weekdays. The shrine was also highly maintained.
I highly recommend visiting this shrine, especially during the early morning hours. I arrived around 8 AM and it was nearly empty, making the entire experience incredibly peaceful and calming. The views around the shrine are fantastic absolutely gorgeous in every direction and the serenity adds to the overall impact.
From this location, it’s also very easy to visit another nearby shrine, so you can enjoy both in one outing. Entry is completely free; you do not need a ticket to access the grounds. However, once you’re inside the main shrine, be mindful not to take any photos. There are signs clearly indicating this, and if you miss them, someone nearby will likely remind you.
The energy of this place felt very tranquil and grounding. I took my time strolling through the area, enjoying the stillness and beauty. The flowers surrounding the shrine were in full bloom and made everything even more stunning. This was a 10 out of 10 experience, and I absolutely recommend stopping here before moving on to the next shrine nearb
I recently visited this shrine, and while it was quite crowded—as expected—it still offered a peaceful and memorable experience. The shrine itself isn’t particularly large, so the high volume of visitors made the space feel a bit tight at times. However, the vibrant atmosphere created by locals and tourists alike gave the visit an energetic and authentic feel.
One of the highlights for me was the pond located on the grounds. It’s filled with lively fish and surrounded by greenery, offering a moment of calm away from the bustle. I found myself lingering there longer than expected, just enjoying the gentle ripples and natural beauty.
There are also a few small shops lining the path that sell traditional snacks, charms, and souvenirs. These added a nice touch of local culture and gave me the chance to pick up some omamori (protective charms) and try a sweet treat.
Overall, although the crowds can be overwhelming, especially during peak hours, the shrine is still worth a visit for its charm, serenity, and cultural touches. If you’re planning a trip, I’d recommend going early in the morning or later in the day for a slightly quieter experience, and to avoid the summer heat.
Visiting here felt like stepping into the living soul of Kamakura.
It’s vast, commanding & yet somehow deeply peaceful. The long approach, framed by torii gates & lanterns, leads you steadily toward a temple that’s both majestic & approachable.
By day, the grounds are alive with visitors, locals & the quiet rituals of shrine life. The bold vermillion structures stand out against the deep green of the surrounding forested hills, giving the whole space a sense of balance between human craft & nature. Climbing the broad stone steps to the upper hall felt like more than exercise...it was a transition into stillness, the noise of the city left below.
We returned again at night & the mood was transformed. Lanterns glowed softly & the main shrine stood illuminated against the hillside like a guardian watching over the city. With far fewer people around, the stillness became even more pronounced. It was easy to just stop, breathe & take it all in.
Even as an atheist, I found the experience moving. The shrine is less about belief for me & more about presence...about how a space can hold centuries of history & still offer something immediate & human today. Whether you’re here for spirituality, architecture, or just a walk through beauty, it delivers.
Beautiful temple and compound in Kamakura. On the day we visited, we were extremely lucky to be there right when a festival was taking place. This event included a shinto ceremony that attracted a lot of visitors, specially because it included a demonstration of yasubame, or archery from horseback riding
The shrine is about a 10-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station. From Tokyo, take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo or Shinagawa Station, which takes about an hour. If coming from the Enoshima area, take the Enoden Line.
The main hall sits on top of a long staircase, giving a great view of Kamakura. The Genpei Pond, with two sides, represents the Minamoto and Taira clans. The Maiden Stage is used for performances and ceremonies. The shrine also has many smaller buildings and sacred areas to explore.
The biggest event is the Reitaisai Festival every September 14–16, which features Yabusame, a samurai-style horseback archery show. Many people also visit for New Year’s prayers and other seasonal festivals in spring and autumn.
Spring (March-April) is great for cherry blossoms, while autumn (November) brings beautiful red and yellow leaves. The September festival is a good time to see traditional samurai rituals, but it can be crowded.
