Summer Escape to Kamakura: Ancient Temples, Ocean Breezes & Hydrangea Magic

#summervacay
Just an hour from Tokyo, **Kamakura** is Japan’s perfect summer getaway—where **12th-century temples meet surf beaches and lush hydrangea trails**. I spent a sun-drenched weekend here, balancing culture with coastal chill. Here’s how to do it right.

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## **First Impressions: A Seaside Time Capsule**
Stepping off the Enoden train at **Kamakura Station**, I was hit by the **salt-tinged breeze** and the juxtaposition of **samurai history** and **beach shacks**. Giant **tanuki (raccoon dog) statues** and **shaved ice stalls** set the tone—this is Japan at its most relaxed.

☀️ *Summer Tip:* June–July means **hydrangeas (ajisai)** and humid temps (25–32°C). Pack a **hand fan, sunscreen, and sandals** for temple-hopping.

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## **Must-Do Summer Experiences**

### **1. Temple Hopping with a Twist**
- **Hasedera Temple:** The **hydrangea path** (June) winds past **1,200 blooms** with ocean views. Don’t miss the **11-headed Kannon statue**.
- **Engakuji:** A **Zen oasis** with bamboo groves—perfect for a meditation break.
- **Tsurugaoka Hachimangu:** Kamakura’s iconic shrine. Time your visit for **yabusame (archery on horseback, held in September)**.

### **2. Cool Off at the Beach**
- **Yuigahama Beach:** Rent a **parasol (¥2,000/day)**, try **beachfront ramen**, or take a **surf lesson** at dawn.
- **Shichirigahama:** A quieter stretch with **cliffside cafés** like **Amalfi Caffe** (limoncello gelato!).

### **3. Ride the Enoden Line**
- The **tiny coastal train** stops at:
- **Gokurakuji Station:** Walk the **"Bamboo Temple" (Hokokuji)**—order **matcha in a bamboo grove**.
- **Enoshima Island:** Cross the bridge for **sea caves, shrines, and sunset views** from the lighthouse.

### **4. Eat Like a Local**
- **Kamakura-bori (carved lacquerware) cafés:** Sip **hojicha latte** at **Kannonyama Chaya**.
- **Street snacks:** **Hato Sabure** (dove-shaped cookies), **shirasu (baby sardines) donburi**, and **purple sweet potato soft serve**.

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## **Hidden Gems**
- **Zeniarai Benten Shrine:** Wash money in a **cave spring** for good fortune (yes, really!).
- **Komachi-dori back alleys:** Skip the touristy main strip and hunt for **vintage kimono shops** and **waffle taiyaki**.
- **Jōmyōji Temple:** A **hidden moss garden** with a teahouse run by monks.

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## **Day Trip Idea: Enoshima**
- **Explore the island’s** shrines, **Samuel Cocking Garden (hydrangea tunnel)**, and **fresh seafood** at **Iwamotoro**.
- **End at Enoshima Sea Candle** for **360° views of Mt. Fuji at dusk**.

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## **Summer Festivals**
- **Kamakura Festival (April):** Samurai parades and **yabusame**.
- **Enoshima Lantern Festival (July–August):** Thousands of **floating candles**.