Yokohama or Kamakura Private Tour with Local Guide

Summary

Walk historic streets, taste ramen, visit temples & shrines with a guide

You’ll walk ancient temple grounds in Kamakura or explore Yokohama’s lively neighborhoods with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. Expect moments of quiet awe at Daibutsu, laughter over matcha breaks, and small surprises along winding paths — all tailored to your pace. It’s one of those days you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We met our guide, Emi, just outside the station in Kamakura — she was holding a tiny sign and smiling like she’d been waiting for us all morning. I didn’t expect to feel so instantly at ease, but she started chatting about the best route before we’d even introduced ourselves properly. First stop was Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. The main path was lined with school kids on field trips and locals doing their usual prayers; there was this faint scent of incense and something sweet from a nearby food stall. Emi explained the samurai history in a way that made it feel less like a textbook and more like family gossip. I tried tossing a coin into the offering box (missed), which made her laugh.

After that, we wandered through narrow streets toward the Great Buddha of Kamakura — Daibutsu. It’s bigger than you think, but somehow not intimidating? There were crows calling overhead and someone playing shamisen near the entrance. Emi pointed out how people touch the Buddha’s feet for luck; I gave it a go (felt oddly grounding). We stopped for matcha at a tiny café tucked behind some hydrangeas — honestly, I still think about that cup of tea when I’m stressed at work. The weather kept shifting between sun and cloud, but nobody seemed to mind.

We only had time for three sites (the day trip from Yokohama to Kamakura is about 30 minutes by train each way), but Emi let us pick what mattered most. She suggested Hokokuji Temple’s bamboo grove for our last stop — walking those shaded paths felt like stepping into another world. There was this hush except for bamboo creaking in the wind and the soft clink of teacups from the little teahouse. We sat down for matcha again (couldn’t resist) while Emi told us about local legends — her English wasn’t perfect, but honestly it made everything feel more real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Yokohama and Kamakura Highlights

• Visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
• See Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Explore Hasedera Temple
• Walk through Hokokuji Temple Bamboo Grove
• Tour Enoshima Island
• Visit Engaku-ji Temple
• Explore Kenchoji Temple
• Experience Zeniarai Benten Shrine
• Visit Meigetsuin Temple
• Hike around Ankokuronji Temple
• See Jomyoji Temple and garden
• Explore Zuisenji Temple and garden
• Visit Myohonji Temple
• Tour Jochiji Temple
• Visit Tokeiji Temple
• See Jufukuji Temple (outside view)
• Visit Eisho-ji Temple and bamboo grove
• Stroll Sankeien Garden
• Explore Yokohama Chinatown
• Visit Minato Mirai 21 area
• Walk Yamate area historic sites
• Tour Cup Noodles Museum
• Relax at Yamashita Park
• Walk Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal
• Visit Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum

Top questions

How long does the private Yokohama or Kamakura tour last?

The tour lasts approximately six hours, including travel time between sites.

Can I visit both Yokohama and Kamakura in one day?

No, you need to choose either Yokohama or Kamakura for your day trip due to time limits.

How many places can I see during the tour?

You can visit about three sites (maximum four) within six hours.

Is transportation included in this private tour?

The tour is on foot with public transportation options nearby; pickup is on foot within designated areas.

Are guides licensed or official?

Yes, your guide holds a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification.

Is this tour suitable for families with children or strollers?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers; all areas are wheelchair accessible too.

What are some highlights I can choose in Kamakura?

You might visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Daibutsu (Great Buddha), Hokokuji Temple’s bamboo grove, or Engaku-ji Temple.

Does the tour include food or lunch?

No meals are included by default, but your guide can recommend local spots during your walk.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting up with your government-licensed English-speaking guide on foot within designated areas of Yokohama or Kamakura. You’ll get a fully customizable walking itinerary based on your interests—choose three to four sites from an extensive list—and enjoy stories and insights along the way before heading back by public transport if needed.