Amanawa Shinmei Shrine
甘縄神明神社
Said to have been founded in 710, this is considered the oldest shrine in Kamakura. It was devoutly worshipped by the Kamakura samurai clans, including Minamoto no Yoritomo, Hojo Masako, and Minamoto no Sanetomo, and its hilltop grounds look out over Yuigahama Beach. It's close to Hasedera Temple and the Great Buddha, making it easy to fit into a Hase-area walking route.
Kamakura's oldest shrine
According to tradition, the shrine was founded in 710 by the monk Gyoki, with support from the local clan leader Someya Tokitada. Legends connect it to the birth of Minamoto no Yoshiie and its restoration by Minamoto no Yoriyoshi, and it has long been devoutly worshipped by the Minamoto shogunal family.
A faith tied to the samurai
On the south side of the grounds stands a stone monument marking what is said to be the former residence of Adachi Moriaga, a close retainer of Minamoto no Yoritomo (though recent research suggests the site may have been elsewhere). Perched on the heights of Hase, the shrine reflects a long history of veneration by the samurai class.
A hilltop view over Yuigahama
The shrine sits on slightly elevated ground, making it an easy final stop after visiting Hasedera Temple and the Great Buddha. The quiet grounds also offer a pleasant view toward the sea.
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Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
A pleasant season to enjoy the fresh greenery of the shrine's trees along with the view of the sea.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
Sea breezes make it comfortable to visit even on the hilltop grounds.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
A fitting final stop for an autumn-leaf walk that includes Hasedera Temple and the Great Buddha.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
The clear winter air makes the view toward Yuigahama Beach even sharper.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 15-20 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Fewer visitors than Hasedera Temple or the Great Buddha
- Best time to visit
- Best visited as the final stop of a Hase-area walk
| Address | 1-12-1 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open access to the grounds |
| Admission | Free |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 5 min walk from Hase Station (Enoshima Electric Railway)