Kamakura is home to many shrines, temples, shopping streets, and other interesting tourist attractions. There are also options for nature lovers and sporting enthusiasts. Among these are the hiking paths, which often lead to temples, scenic areas, and other attractions.
The Kinubariyama hiking path can be quite rough, so make sure to bring sturdy hiking boots. Taking the path during dry weather while wearing appropriate clothing and bringing water and refreshments is highly recommended. The entrance to the path is under construction at the time of writing, so you will have to enter through a hole in a fence, but do not be discouraged by this.
One of the most impressive attractions on the hiking trail is the Mount Fuji viewpoint. You are in for a treat if you are prepared to go the extra mile. Those traveling with heavy backpacks or who are in less than top physical shape should be aware that reaching the viewpoint is a bit of a trek, though nothing too strenuous. Make sure to bring along a bottle of water or two, especially if you go during August or any other time with high temperatures.
You will know when you get there. The serene forest comes into view below a rolling meadow hidden away behind a sturdy fence, so no worries if you go in winter and find the hiking path a bit too slippery for your liking. You will see the magnificent Mount Fuji rising above the landscape — that is, if you are lucky.
It was fairly cloudy when we arrived there, so there was not much to see in terms of Fuji. The sight was still amazing and definitely worth the walk there, but obviously Fuji is the main attraction. Maybe you will have more luck if you decide to go, but do not be disappointed if you don’t see much of the mountain. If you are a photography enthusiast, you will like what you will find here, so bring your lenses. If you are more the type for selfies, the background should find you quite pleased as well.
If you are coming from the right side, you will have to climb 288 stairs to reach the viewpoint, as helpfully noted by an elderly resident of Kamakura. If you have trouble finding it and your GPS is not as helpful as you would like, watch for a yellow house on the main street next to a small bridge. You will find a forest with a few neatly placed logs on one side and an uphill path into a residential area on the other. Take the latter, and the 288 steps will soon appear in front of you.
If the climb exhausted you or you just want to have some snacks, there are benches scattered around the viewpoint’s area, though most of them are out of the shade. If you continue a bit further to the left side, there is a picnic area with tables and benches in the shade. However, you will not be able to enjoy the view and your food at the same time in that case. Instead, get some refreshment at the public water fountain (refill your bottles, if necessary), listen to the pleasant chirping of birds, kick back, and take a well-deserved rest before continuing on your adventure.
