Kamakura, JapanThe Essential Guide to Kamakura
Summary: Discover the charm of Kamakura with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.
Welcome to Kamakura! If you're planning to move to Kamakura, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Kamakura has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Kamakura.
Kamakura, is a city rich in history and culture, offering a plethora of attractions for both tourists and locals. The city is home to the iconic Great Buddha of Kamakura, a colossal bronze statue of Amida Buddha, which is one of the most famous landmarks in Japan. The statue is located at the Kotoku-in Temple, a Buddhist temple of the Pure Land sect. Another must-visit site is the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the most important Shinto shrine in Kamakura, which is known for its beautiful gardens and museum. The Hasedera Temple, famous for its eleven-headed statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, offers stunning views of the city and the sea. For nature lovers, the Kamakura Komachidori Street is a shopping street with numerous stores selling local specialties, souvenirs, and street food. The Enoshima Island, just a short train ride from Kamakura, is a popular spot for its shrines, park, observation tower, and caves.
The restaurant and nightlife scene in Kamakura is diverse and vibrant, offering a mix of traditional Japanese and international cuisines. One of the most popular restaurants is Kamakura Gozan, known for its exquisite tempura dishes. The restaurant is located in a traditional Japanese house, providing a unique dining experience. Another popular spot is the Kamakura Ichibanya, a sushi restaurant that offers a wide variety of fresh seafood. For those looking for a more international flavor, the Kamakura Pasta is a popular Italian restaurant with a Japanese twist. The nightlife in Kamakura is more laid-back compared to Tokyo, but there are still plenty of bars and pubs to enjoy. The Speak Low bar is a popular spot for its craft cocktails and cozy atmosphere. The Kamakura Beer is a local brewery that offers a wide selection of craft beers, and the Kamakura Music Bar is a great place to enjoy live music with a drink.
Recreational activities in Kamakura are diverse, ranging from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. One of the most popular activities is hiking the Kamakura Alps, a series of hills that offer stunning views of the city and the sea. The trails are well-marked and suitable for all levels of hikers. The Kamakura Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, with several surf shops offering lessons and equipment rental. For those interested in Japanese culture, the Kamakura Traditional Crafts Center offers workshops on traditional Japanese crafts such as pottery and bamboo weaving. The Kamakura Museum of Literature is a great place to learn about the city's literary history, and the Kamakura Performing Arts Center offers a variety of performances, from traditional Japanese theater to modern dance. For golf enthusiasts, the Kamakura Public Golf Course offers a challenging course with beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Kamakura: Making the Most of Life and Connections
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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
AGS Worldwide MoversRelocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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AGS Worldwide MoversGet Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
AGS Worldwide MoversRelocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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