Kamakura Kotoku-in Temple and Enoshima Tour

Exploring the spiritual and natural wonders of Japan’s Kamakura region, the Kotoku-in Temple and Enoshima Tour offers a captivating experience for visitors. Witness the awe-inspiring Great Buddha statue before venturing to the picturesque Enoshima Island, where stunning ocean vistas and rich cultural heritage await. With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an enriching opportunity to take in the serene landscapes and historic sites of this remarkable destination. What else might this tour have in store?

Key Points

• The tour highlights include exploring Kotoku-in Temple, the Great Buddha statue, and the scenic Enoshima Island with its charming streets and shrines.
• Visitors can learn about the history and significance of Kotoku-in Temple, home to the impressive 13th-century bronze Great Buddha statue.
• Enoshima Island offers panoramic views of Sagami Bay, along with the opportunity to visit Enoshima Shrine and climb the observation tower.
• The tour includes convenient sightseeing bus transportation, which is wheelchair accessible, and the option to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.
• The tour pricing starts from €678.74 for groups of up to 9 people, with the Kotoku-in Temple entrance fee of approximately $2 per person included.

Tour Highlights

This tour offers visitors a chance to explore two of Kamakura’s most iconic destinations.

At Kotoku-in Temple, you’ll see the impressive bronze Great Buddha statue, one of Japan’s largest. Wander the peaceful temple grounds and learn about its history and significance.

Then, head to the seaside town of Enoshima, a scenic island connected by bridge. Climb the stairs to the top of the island for panoramic views of the Sagami Bay.

Spend time exploring the charming streets, shrines, and caves before returning to Tokyo.

With convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience.

Visiting Kotoku-in Temple

Visitors first arrive at the majestic Kotoku-in Temple, home to one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks – the Great Buddha statue. This 13th-century bronze Buddha, standing over 13 meters tall, is an awe-inspiring sight.

Guests can explore the temple grounds, admiring the ornate structures and learning about the site’s rich history. The entrance fee is approximately $2 per person, providing access to the main temple and the opportunity to witness the magnificent Buddha statue up close.

With ample time allotted, travelers can soak in the serene atmosphere and capture memorable photos of this renowned Buddhist sanctuary.

Exploring Enoshima Island

After exploring the majestic Kotoku-in Temple, the tour moves on to the picturesque Enoshima Island.

Accessible by a scenic bridge, the island offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Visitors can wander through the charming streets, browse local shops, and take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

The tour includes a visit to the Enoshima Shrine, a historic site that dates back to the 8th century. Travelers can also opt to climb the iconic Enoshima Observation Tower for panoramic vistas of the Shonan coast.

With its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Enoshima is a highlight of the Kamakura tour.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour provides sightseeing bus transportation throughout the day, which is wheelchair accessible.

Guests will be picked up at 8:00 AM, with pickup details emailed the previous afternoon. The bus can accommodate infants who must sit on laps, and strollers are permitted.

However, child seats aren’t available. Due to Japanese law, the vehicle use time is limited to 10 hours, so the itinerary may be shortened if there are significant delays.

Late arrivals won’t receive refunds or amendments.

Pickup and Confirmation Details

Guests will be picked up at 8:00 AM on the day of the tour.

An email with the pickup details, including the tour guide and vehicle information, will be sent between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM the day before the experience.

Guests should enter their hotel name and address at checkout for reconfirmation.

The pickup time and details are important, as the tour may not wait for late arrivals, and no refunds or amendments will be issued for no-shows.

Guests are advised to arrive at the pickup location on time to ensure they don’t miss the start of the tour.

Inclusions and Pricing

The tour includes admission to the Kotoku-in Temple, which costs approximately $2 per person.

Transportation is provided via a sightseeing bus that’s wheelchair accessible. Participants will receive confirmation of their booking at the time of purchase.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. However, personal expenses like meals and drinks aren’t included in the tour price.

The cost of the tour starts from €678.74 per group of up to 9 people.

Available languages for the guided tour are Chinese, English, and Japanese.

Tour Conditions and Amendments

Although the tour schedule may change due to traffic and weather conditions, the itinerary will be followed as closely as possible. The tour capacity is limited, so some attractions may need to be skipped. Refunds or amendments are not issued for late arrivals or no-shows, as that would disrupt the schedule for other participants. Plus, Japanese law mandates that vehicle use time not exceed 10 hours, so the itinerary may be shortened accordingly.

Condition	Impact	Mitigation
Schedule changes	Itinerary adjustments	Follow revised plan
Attraction capacity reached	Skipping select sights	Prioritize key highlights
Late/no-shows	Disruption to schedule	No refunds or amendments
Vehicle time limit	Shortened itinerary	Efficient time management

Preparing for the Tour

To make the most of the Kamakura Kotoku-in Temple and Enoshima tour, travelers should arrive at the designated pickup location on time.

Guests are advised to check their confirmation emails for the exact pickup time and location details.

Dressing comfortably in weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as the tour involves walking at the temples and sites.

Since meals aren’t included, travelers may want to pack snacks and water.

Remember to bring any necessary medications, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the historic temples and scenic Enoshima island.

Following these simple tips will ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a specific dress code. Casual, comfortable clothing that’s appropriate for the weather is recommended. Visitors should dress respectfully when visiting the temple, avoiding revealing or inappropriate attire.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, participants can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour’s inclusions only cover admission fees and transportation, so any meals or beverages are the responsibility of the individual travelers.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions. Infants must sit on laps, and strollers are allowed, but child seats are not available. Most travelers can participate, though the capacity of some attractions may be limited.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Meet My Needs?

While the tour itinerary is generally fixed, travelers can’t customize it to meet their specific needs. However, the tour operator aims to accommodate most travelers within the established schedule and capacity constraints.

What Should I Bring for the Tour?

For this tour, you’ll want to pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and any necessary medications. Bringing snacks and water is also a good idea, as meals and beverages aren’t included in the tour price.

The Sum Up

The Kamakura Kotoku-in Temple and Enoshima Tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the iconic Great Buddha statue, explore the charming streets of Enoshima Island, and enjoy breathtaking views. With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an enriching experience that immerses travelers in serene landscapes and historic sites.