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Tsurugaoka Hachimangu was originally founded in 1063 by Minamoto no Yoriyoshi and relocated to its present site and expanded by Minamoto no Yoritomo in 1180. It is Kamakura's most important shrine, drawing around 8 million visitors a year. The raised stone avenue (dankazura, approx. 500 m) running along the centre of Wakamiya-oji is lined with cherry trees in spring, one of Kamakura's iconic scenes. Climbing the stone steps to the main shrine reveals a sweeping view of the city and sea below, and the grounds contain the Maiden Hall, National Treasure Hall, and several other historic sites.
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この記事で分かること：Guide to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu: the dankazura avenue, cherry blossoms, the stone steps and main shrine view, Maiden Hall and the Shizuka Gozen legend, and the National Treasure Hall.
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The Cherry Blossom Avenue of Dankazura
The approx. 500 m raised stone pathway (dankazura) running along the centre of Wakamiya-oji becomes a tunnel of falling cherry petals in late March to early April. The pathway itself is built slightly higher than the surrounding road, creating a subtle visual perspective that builds anticipation as you approach the main shrine.
Panoramic View of Kamakura from the Main Shrine
Climbing the 61 stone steps to the main shrine (Honden) reveals a panoramic view of the city of Kamakura and Yuigahama beach beyond. The contrast between the sweeping shrine precinct below and the glittering sea in the distance makes this one of the most satisfying viewpoints in the city.
Maiden Hall and the Legend of Shizuka Gozen
The Maiden Hall (Maidono) within the shrine grounds is said to be the spot where Shizuka Gozen, the lover of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, danced before Yoritomo. Today it is still used for traditional events including yabusame (mounted archery) and the Grand Festival.
The Kokuhōkan and Cultural Treasures
The National Treasure Hall (Kokuhōkan) within the grounds holds Buddhist sculptures, craft objects, and ancient documents from the Kamakura period, including a National Treasure silk painting of a deity donated by Minamoto no Sanetomo.
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Basic Information
Time Required
1–1.5 hours
Admission
Free (Kokuhōkan: ¥200)
Opening Hours
6:00–21:00 (Kokuhōkan: 9:00–16:30)
Address
2-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa
Best Time
Early morning 6:00–9:00
Access
JR Kamakura Station (East Exit) — approx. 10 min on foot
What to See
Dankazura and Wakamiya-oji Avenue
The raised stone pathway (dankazura) running along the centre of Wakamiya-oji is said to have been built by Yoritomo as a prayer for the safe delivery of his wife, Hojo Masako. The approx. 500 m stone-paved avenue is framed by cherry trees in spring and by autumn foliage in October and November, making it beautiful throughout the year. The dankazura sits slightly higher than the surrounding road, and the subtle perspective draws the eye towards the main shrine ahead.
The Stone Steps and the Main Shrine (Honden)
Walking through the shrine grounds, 62 stone steps lead up to the main shrine. The Honden was rebuilt by Shogun Tokugawa Ienari in 1828 (Bunsei 11) and is distinguished by its vivid red-and-black lacquered construction. From the square in front of the shrine, there is a panoramic view of the city of Kamakura and Sagami Bay — one of the finest viewpoints in the city and a popular photo spot.
Hataage Benten-sha and Genpei Pond
The Genpei Pond in the shrine grounds is divided into a white-flag (Genji) side and a red-flag (Heike) side, where lotus flowers representing the two clans are grown. The June iris display is also impressive. On the island in the pond stands Hataage Benten-sha, a shrine to the goddess of arts and fortune, which is also said to bring luck in love.
Getting There
By Train (Recommended)
JR Yokosuka Line / Shonan Shinjuku Line — "Kamakura Station" (East Exit): approx. 10 min on foot
Enoshima Electric Railway — "Kamakura Station": approx. 10 min on foot
By Bus
From Kamakura Station (East Exit): various bus routes — "Tsurugaoka Hachimangu-mae" stop
Tips & Things to Know
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