This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Kamakura.
Kamakura is one of Japan's top cultural destinations -- it's a great place to visit if you want to experience old Japan but can't find time to travel far from Tokyo. All you've got to do is travel south, and in an hour, you will arrive in a new setting reminiscent of ancient Japan -- Kamakura.
Amidst urban cities in Kanagawa Prefecture, Kamakura has retained its heritage and history. Tourists and locals will remember its glorious past as Japan's capital for one hundred and fifty years way back in the twelfth through fourteenth centuries. People come here to experience the traditions of Japan and it's a good alternative if traveling to Kyoto is not feasible.
Kamakura's temples -- seventy of them -- are top attractions; however, only a few are open to the public for a small fee. Still, temples open for travelers are enough to give travelers a good grip of traditional Japan. Then, there is Kamakura's icon, the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), an eleven-meter-high bronze structure. Museums as well as the beach are local tourist spots too. For a fee, you can ride the traditional rickshaw and drivers will act as your local guide while in Kamakura.
What better way to truly experience the area than to stay in a Kamakura hostel? Japan is notorious for being expensive and it is impressive that there are hostels in Kamakura in which visitors can stay while in this historic town. Kamakura hostels are not just affordable choices, but they also offer guests a chance to immerse themselves more in Japanese culture during their stay.
Hostels in Kamakura are usually close to train stations, some just ten minutes away by walking. Hostels in Kamakura are Japanese-style accommodations, and that alone will make you want to book your nights at these accommodations. Guests will have a chance to stay in a Japanese home, some with the Japanese sunken cooking hearth, known as "irori." For sleeping quarters, some of these Kamakura hostels, like traditional Japanese homes, let you sleep on a futon (Japanese foam). True to Japanese standards, hostels in Kamakura are furnished with high-standard amenities and facilities. Even Japanese-style Kamakura hostels are equipped with fully furnished kitchens, air conditioners, heating systems, hair dryers, and more. Many hostels also offer bike rentals. Walking and biking are great ways to explore this samurai town of Kamakura. With the affordable hostels in Kamakura, there is no reason not to visit Kamakura when in Japan!
Written by local enthusiast for Kamakura hostels
vcaulin
