Private Kamakura & Yokohama Day Tour with English Driver

Summary

Kamakura Temples & Yokohama Sights in One Day

You’ll get to see Kamakura’s temples and shrines plus Yokohama’s lively Chinatown—all in one easy day with an English-speaking driver who knows all the shortcuts and photo spots. Perfect if you want real local flavor without worrying about trains or maps.

What’s the experience like?

First thing you’ll notice as we leave Tokyo behind is how the air changes—salty, a bit cooler, especially if you crack the window. Our driver chatted about his favorite childhood snack from Komachi Street (I still can’t pronounce it right). We started at Hōkoku-ji, the Bamboo Temple. The path crunches underfoot, and there’s this soft hush from the bamboo swaying overhead. I remember catching the scent of incense mixing with fresh earth—honestly, it’s calming in a way that’s hard to explain until you’re standing there.

Next up was Hase-dera. It’s a climb up some stone steps, but totally worth it for the view over Sagami Bay. Inside, the wooden Kannon statue is huge—almost glowing in the dim light. There were locals offering tiny paper fortunes; mine said “good luck,” which felt like a win. Then we headed to Kōtoku-in to see the Great Buddha. Even with tourists around, there’s this quiet respect everyone seems to have. Our driver pointed out where the tsunami line hit back in the 1400s—hard to imagine that kind of history just sitting here in bronze.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine was buzzing with families and students on field trips. The ponds out front shimmered with koi, and I caught a glimpse of a wedding party posing for photos near the torii gate. Komachi Street nearby is packed—think sweet potato ice cream stands and little shops selling lucky charms. If you’re into people-watching or street snacks, this is your spot.

After Kamakura, we drove down to Yokohama’s Chinatown—the lanterns strung overhead make it feel festive even on a weekday afternoon. I grabbed some steamed buns from a vendor who joked about my chopstick skills (fair enough). Sankei-en Garden was next: peaceful paths winding past old tea houses and ponds dotted with turtles sunning themselves on rocks. If there’s time left, Minato Mirai is worth a stroll—the skyline lights up early in winter and you can hear faint music drifting from Rinko Park if there’s an event on.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kamakura Temples and Shrine

• Visit Hōkoku-ji Bamboo Temple
• Explore Hase-dera Temple
• See Kōtoku-in Great Buddha
• Visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
• Walk Komachi Street

Day 2 — Yokohama Highlights

• Explore Yokohama Chinatown
• Visit Sankei-en Garden
• Optional visit to Minatomirai

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young kids?

Yes! The car has space for strollers or infant seats and most places are stroller-friendly. Kids usually love Komachi Street snacks and seeing turtles at Sankei-en.

Can we customize stops or spend more time at certain places?

Absolutely—just let your driver know what interests you most or if you want extra time somewhere. The schedule's flexible within the 10 hours.

Is an English-speaking guide included?

The driver speaks English and shares local tips but isn’t a licensed guide by default. A professional guide can be arranged for an extra fee if you want deeper historical info.

Are meals included?

No meals are included but your driver can recommend great local spots for lunch or snacks along the way—especially in Komachi Street or Chinatown.

What’s included

Your own private car with air conditioning, bottled water for everyone onboard, all fuel and toll charges covered, plus help taking group photos if you want them—just ask! Wheelchair access available too.