What Kind of Place is Kamakura?
Kamakura is a town where the sea meets history. Located just about an hour by train from Tokyo, it is one of Japan’s most popular travel destinations. The old streets, historic temples, and scenic coastal views offer a quintessential Japanese experience. Once the political center of Japan, Kamakura is still home to many carefully preserved cultural treasures. Each season brings its own beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn drawing large crowds. Whether it’s your first time in Japan or not, this guide will help you choose the perfect place to stay in Kamakura.
Accommodation Types in Kamakura
Kamakura offers a wide variety of accommodation options. From hotels and traditional inns (ryokan) to guesthouses and whole house rentals, you can select a place that fits your purpose and budget. Each type has its unique charm, enriching your travel experience. Here’s a simple comparison table of accommodation types:
| Accommodation Type | Features | Price Range | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Well-equipped, English-speaking staff | Medium–High | First-time visitors, comfort seekers |
| Ryokan | Japanese cultural experience, traditional meals, tatami rooms | Medium–High | Travelers wanting cultural immersion |
| Guesthouse/Hostel | Affordable, great for socializing | Low–Medium | Budget-conscious travelers, social explorers |
| Vacation Rental | Entire home rental, kitchen included, private space | Medium–High | Families, groups of friends |
Kamakura’s Areas and Recommended Places to Stay
Each area of Kamakura offers unique charms, so where you choose to stay can shape your travel experience. Let’s go through the areas starting from the central hub.
Around Kamakura Station
This area is very convenient for both transport and sightseeing. You’ll find lots of shopping and famous attractions nearby. Hotels like Hotel Metropolitan Kamakura and KAMAKURA HOTEL are popular choices. Dining and shopping options are plentiful, making it ideal for short stays.
Near the Coast (Yuigahama, Shichirigahama, Koshigoe)
Enjoy breathtaking seaside views in this area. Perfect for those who want a resort-like atmosphere, with favorites like Kamakura Prince Hotel and HOTEL AO KAMAKURA. A morning walk along the beach is a wonderful way to start the day.
Hase Area
Close to the Great Buddha of Kamakura and Hase-dera Temple, this area is great for sightseeing. Diamond Kamakura Bettei Society offers comfortable stays where you can enjoy the town’s historic vibe while relaxing.
Kita-Kamakura Area
A peaceful and calm environment awaits here. With hidden retreats like NIWA Kamakura and Kita-Kamakura 520, it’s a great spot for those who want to unwind in nature.
Ofuna Area
Ideal for budget travelers and those prioritizing convenience. With JR stations nearby, you’ll have easy access to Kamakura, Yokohama, and even Tokyo. Options include Sotetsu Fresa Inn and JR-East Hotel Mets Kamakura Ofuna.
Popular Accommodations for International Travelers
Here are some of the best-rated accommodations for international visitors, complete with address details for your convenience.
Luxury and Boutique Hotels
- Hotel Metropolitan Kamakura
Address: 1-8-1 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa
2-minute walk from Kamakura Station East Exit. Comfortable rooms and friendly staff. - KAMAKURA HOTEL
Address: 12-27 Onarimachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa
2-minute walk from Kamakura Station West Exit. Stylish design with a tea and sake bar. - HOTEL AO KAMAKURA
Address: 3-1-7 Koshigoe, Kamakura, Kanagawa
3-minute walk from Koshigoe Station. Spacious rooms near the beach with excellent breakfast.
Mid-range and Good Value Hotels
- Tosei Hotel Cocone Kamakura
Address: 7-10 Onarimachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa
4-minute walk from Kamakura Station West Exit. Relaxing atmosphere with a Japanese modern touch and large bath. - Sotetsu Fresa Inn (Ofuna)
Address: 1-26-5 Ofuna, Kamakura, Kanagawa
1-minute walk from JR Ofuna Station East Exit. Excellent access and affordability. - JR-East Hotel Mets Kamakura Ofuna
Address: 1-2-1 Ofuna, Kamakura, Kanagawa
3-minute walk from JR Ofuna Station South Exit. Spacious rooms, great for both sightseeing and business.
Traditional Ryokan for Cultural Experiences
- Kaihinso Kamakura
Address: 4-8-14 Yuigahama, Kamakura, Kanagawa
1-minute walk from Yuigahama Station. Historical building with delightful traditional meals. - Kakiya Ryokan
Address: 3-7-24 Koshigoe, Kamakura, Kanagawa
3-minute walk from Koshigoe Station. Affordable and full of Japanese charm. - kishi-ke
Address: 3-5 Sakanoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa
Private, one-group-per-day lodging. Offers tea ceremony and Zen experiences.
Hotel Summary Table
| Accommodation Name | Address | Nearest Station & Access | Features |
| Hotel Metropolitan Kamakura | 1-8-1 Komachi, Kamakura | 2-min walk from Kamakura East Exit | Comfortable rooms, friendly staff |
| KAMAKURA HOTEL | 12-27 Onarimachi, Kamakura | 2-min walk from Kamakura West Exit | Stylish design, tea & sake bar |
| HOTEL AO KAMAKURA | 3-1-7 Koshigoe, Kamakura | 3-min walk from Koshigoe Station | Near the beach, spacious rooms, great breakfast |
| Tosei Hotel Cocone Kamakura | 7-10 Onarimachi, Kamakura | 4-min walk from Kamakura West Exit | Japanese modern style, large bath |
| Sotetsu Fresa Inn (Ofuna) | 1-26-5 Ofuna, Kamakura | 1-min walk from Ofuna East Exit | Excellent access, affordable price |
| JR-East Hotel Mets Kamakura Ofuna | 1-2-1 Ofuna, Kamakura | 3-min walk from Ofuna South Exit | Spacious rooms, sightseeing & business-friendly |
| Kaihinso Kamakura | 4-8-14 Yuigahama, Kamakura | 1-min walk from Yuigahama Station | Historical building, traditional meals |
| Kakiya Ryokan | 3-7-24 Koshigoe, Kamakura | 3-min walk from Koshigoe Station | Japanese charm, affordable price |
| kishi-ke | 3-5 Sakanoshita, Kamakura | Private booking only | Tea ceremony, Zen experience |
Tips for Enjoying Kamakura Even More
To make your stay in Kamakura even more enjoyable, keep the following points in mind. Especially during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage season, it gets crowded—early reservations are highly recommended!
Language Support
Many hotels have English-speaking staff, but at traditional ryokan, Japanese may be the main language. Having a translation app handy is a great idea. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can also make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Services and Amenities
Most accommodations offer free Wi-Fi. Be sure to check in advance whether breakfast is included and if there are luggage storage services available. Knowing these details can make your stay much easier.
Transportation
JR trains and the Enoden railway are convenient for getting around Kamakura. Buses are helpful for reaching distant temples. Choosing accommodations near train stations makes moving around simpler.
Booking Tips
Compare prices and reviews across several booking sites before making a reservation. Check official websites too, as they sometimes offer exclusive deals!
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Stay and Enjoy Kamakura
Kamakura offers a wide range of charming accommodations. Whether you prefer a convenient hotel near the station, a relaxing seaside stay, or a traditional ryokan for cultural immersion, there’s something for everyone. Book early and enjoy your wonderful time in Kamakura. With its blend of nature and history, Kamakura will surely leave you with unforgettable memories!
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