Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
鶴岡八幡宮
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, arguably the symbol of Kamakura, is the shrine established by Minamoto no Yoritomo when he founded the Kamakura shogunate. Facing Wakamiya Oji Avenue, its impressive approach lined with a series of large torii gates makes a striking first impression. Every September, the shrine holds Yabusame (mounted archery) rituals that draw large crowds of visitors, and it is beautiful throughout the year with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage in fall.
Highlights
The "Dankazura," the raised approach leading to the main shrine, was built by Minamoto no Yoritomo as a prayer for his wife Masako's safe childbirth, and is beautiful with its tunnel of cherry blossoms in spring. Climbing the 60 stone steps to the main shrine rewards visitors with a sweeping view over Kamakura and Sagami Bay. The grounds also include the Kamakura Museum of National Treasures, displaying precious cultural artifacts such as Buddhist statues and crafts.
History
A small shrine originally enshrined at Yuigahama Beach was relocated to its current site by Minamoto no Yoritomo in 1180. Since then, it has served as the spiritual pillar of the Kamakura shogunate, drawing deep reverence from the samurai class. At the September grand festival, Yabusame mounted-archery rituals are performed on the grounds' riding grounds, keeping the warrior culture of the Kamakura period alive today.
The surrounding area
Around the shrine is Komachi-dori Street, popular for Kamakura souvenirs and street food. Heading south along Wakamiya Oji Avenue leads to Yuigahama Beach. It's also conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from Kamakura Station's east exit.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
Starting with plum blossoms in early February, the Dankazura's cherry trees reach full bloom in March and April. The peony garden on the grounds also offers beautiful flowers.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
The grand festival in July and August fills the grounds with festivity. Lotus flowers bloom in the Genpei Ponds, drawing many evening visitors seeking respite from the heat.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
November is the best time to see the trees on the grounds turn color, with the great ginkgo tree glowing gold. Ducks can also be seen on the Genpei Ponds.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
New Year's Day brings the biggest crowds in Kamakura for the first shrine visit of the year. In the quiet of a calm winter day, you can slowly take in the view from the main shrine.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 60-90 minutes
- Crowd levels
- New Year's visiting (January 1-3) is extremely crowded, and weekends 10:00-14:00 also see many visitors. Weekday mornings are relatively quiet.
- Best time to visit
- An early-morning visit (8:00-9:00) is best — the grounds are quiet and easy to photograph.
| Address | 2-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | 6:00-21:00 (Treasure House: 9:00-16:00) |
| Admission | Free to enter the grounds (Treasure House ¥200) |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 10 min walk from Kamakura Station (East Exit) (JR Yokosuka Line / Enoshima Electric Railway)