If you find yourself in Kamakura and itching for a taste of nature and a peaceful and slightly-demanding walk through the trees, why not try the popular hiking path from Kamakurayama (Kamakura mountain) and Gokurakuji? The walk itself is around half an hour at a leisurely pace and rewarding if you are a fan of fresh air and beautiful views.
Needing to walk off the delicious meal I ate at nearby Rai Tei (you can read more about that here), I was guided to nearby Kamakurayama Jinja (Kamakura Mountain Shrine). From here I began my hiking trip all the way towards Gokurakuji.
The entrance to the hiking trail is a little difficult to navigate. It is located around the corner from Kamakurayama Jinja, off to the left side of the street. Below, I have provided a little map that should help you find your way to and through the trail.
On your way from the shrine to the hiking trail, you will catch some nice glimpses of Kamakura and the ocean. Once you find yourself in the trail itself, you will spot some even better views! Let’s go!
“Dangerous! Do not enter past these signs!”
While hiking this path, you will be able to spot a lot of different plants and trees, and breathe in some of that fresh Kamakura air. No densely-populated city air for us! One of my favorite things to walk through in Japan are the bamboo trees.
From here, just keep making your way along the trail.
Be careful! The trail gets a little precarious at times.
Right before you finish the hiking trail, you will get to catch one of my favorite views of Kamakura so far.
Taking in the city, the ocean and the mountains all at the same time, for a moment I was able to stop and appreciate the beautiful city that is Kamakura. Soon after, you will take a left to exit the path and head to Gokurakuji.
Now that you have made it to Gokurakuji, why not take a break and relax at the local café, Halenova (you can read about my experience here)? (Note: This cafe was closed on business in 2017.)The Kamakurayama to Gokurakuji is a short path, but beautiful nonetheless. As it can be a little bit slippery, during the rainy periods it can make the path slightly dangerous. Because of this, I recommend only hiking it during clearer weather. Besides, you will want to get a good view of Kamakura if you come all this way. Enjoy the hike!
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