[2024 Kamakura Attraction] Travel Guide for Tsurugaoka Hachimangu (Updated Oct)

Kamakura: the Symbol of Zen

Serenity is everywhere in the air in Kamakura! Besides Hasedera Temple (in the other post), Kamakura Great Buddha (Kotoku-in), Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu and Shichirahama Beach are places not to be missed. It’s recommendable to allocate early morning for the temples for the best view without the crowd (Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu opens as early as 6am and Kotoku-in 8am); and evening for the beach/islands. #100WaysOfTravel

Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu is a breathtaking site to behold during Sakura blossom season. With over 1,000 sakura trees, the shrine is transformed into a sea of white flowers from late March to early April. The blooming sakura trees serve as a beautiful backdrop to the many traditional buildings and structures in the shrine complex, creating a stunning contrast between the natural beauty of the sakura and the historical architecture of the shrine. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the various paths and trails within the shrine complex, taking in the incredible sight of the flower petals fluttering down like snowflakes. The raised platform in front of the main hall is especially popular for sakura viewing, as it offers a panoramic view of the shrine and the surrounding area, all of which are covered in beautiful pink cherry petals. In the evening, the cherry blossom trees are lit up with lanterns, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. Overall, the Sakura blossom season at Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu is a must-see for anyone visiting Kamakura. 櫻花盛開的季節，鶴岡八幡宮是一個令人嘆為觀止的景點。 今年3月下旬已經有5成花開比住年早了點，擁有 1,000 多棵櫻花樹的神社化身為粉紅色和白色的花海。 盛開的櫻花樹作為神社建築群中許多傳統建築的美麗背景，在櫻花的自然美景與神社的歷史建築之間形成了驚人的對比。 遊客可以漫步在神社內的各種小徑上，欣賞花瓣像雪花一樣飄落的令人難以置信的景象。 正殿前的高台是觀賞櫻花的熱門場所，因為它提供了神社和周邊地區的全景，所有這些都覆蓋著美麗的粉紅色櫻花花瓣。 傍晚，櫻花樹上張燈結彩，營造出神奇浪漫的氛圍。 鶴岡八幡宮的櫻花季是任何來鎌倉的人必看的地方。

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is a shrine only 10-15 minutes walk from Kamakura Station. The shrine has a huge estate with lots to observe and entertain. Impressive, historic, inspiring and photographic Shrine and grounds. Very well preserved Temple, recommended if you are visiting the Kamakura area. You should spend time walking through them as well as going up the stairs to the main shrine building. Depending upon the season, there will be different flowers blooming, including in the ponds and on the island. There are also several other smaller shrines in the grounds that are also worth a look. Regardless the ages, there are things to do. There are worshippers, tourists, kindergarten students, etc. Of course, there are many places to visit in Kamakura. #givethanks #givethanks

Kamakura Sightseeing: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

The Kamakura period, when the samurai society was born. Once, Kamakura was the center of the country. At that time, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine was the spiritual support for the people as the 'Guardian Deity of Kamakura' and the 'Guardian Deity of the Samurai.' From this place, many histories and cultures that remain in Kamakura today were born, and the capital of the samurai flourished. With over 800 years of history, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine continues to walk alongside Kamakura as the starting point of Kamakura's culture. You can see the beautiful Kamakura that remains through the ages, the precincts of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the sights of Kamakura, and the treasures passed down in the shrine.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.

Visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kamakura, Japan. Kamakura, as the heart of the Kanto region in Japanese history, was the residence of the Shogun and the regent of the first shogunate in Japan, the Kamakura Shogunate, and later gradually evolved into the gathering center of the Japanese samurai class. Although the second shogunate, the Ashikaga Shogunate, set up its government in Kyoto, it still deliberately sent a relative to serve as the Kanto Shogun and stationed in Kamakura to control the samurai power. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, which is famous in Japanese history, enshrines the main god, Minamoto no Yoriyoshi, the sixth ancestor of Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first shogun of the Kamakura Shogunate. In 1063, he was invited from Ishiyama Hachimangu Shrine in Kyoto, and since then he has been regarded as the patron saint of the Japanese samurai group. The shoguns of the shogunate and the lords who guarded this place will come to worship, and the incense will continue. I first learned about this place when I was playing "Taiko Risshiden". There is a plot in the game: In 1561, during the Japanese Warring States period, the military god Uesugi Kenshin recognized Uesugi Norimasa as his adoptive father, so he raised 100,000 troops and vowed to avenge his adoptive father and attacked the Kanto overlord Hojo Ujiyasu. Hojo Ujiyasu adopted a strategy of clearing the field and defending the city, and defended the main city of Odawara Castle. Uesugi Kenshin besieged for more than a month and failed to capture it. In the end, in front of the wooden statue of Minamoto no Yoritomo in Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Uesugi Kenshin inherited the position of Kanto governor and then withdrew his troops.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: The Starting Point of Minamoto no Yoritomo's Samurai Government and the Fusion of Genpei Culture

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is not only an important religious site in Japanese history but also a symbol of Minamoto no Yoritomo's establishment of the shogunate government. In the 11th century, Minamoto no Yoriyoshi invited the Hachiman deity from Kyoto to Kamakura and built a shrine. In 1191, Minamoto no Yoritomo relocated the shrine to its current location and revered the Hachiman deity as the guardian of the Minamoto family and samurai. The establishment of the Ōkura Palace beside the shrine marked the beginning of the shogunate era. The entrance of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine features two ponds: Genji Pond and Heike Pond. The three small islands in Genji Pond represent 'life,' while the four small islands in Heike Pond symbolize 'death.' The white and red lotuses in the ponds represent the Minamoto and Taira clans, respectively. Although the Taira clan was ultimately defeated and the Minamoto shogunate lasted only three generations, the intertwined growth of the lotuses in the ponds today symbolizes the intertwined fates of the two clans. The dance stage within the shrine is where Shizuka Gozen danced out of longing for her husband Yoshitsune, and the Shirahata Shrine is the resting place of Minamoto no Yoritomo. Ultimately, the beliefs of the two clans merged under the protection of the Great Bodhisattva Hachiman and are jointly revered by later generations.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu in Kamakura is so beautiful

The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, close to Komachi Street, is the family temple of the Genji clan who founded the ancient city of Kamakura. It's the center of the entire city, like a big park with mountains, water, ponds, and lotus flowers, very beautiful. On the right side, there is a small shrine with many pigeons. At noon, when school is out, the surrounding elementary and middle school students come with their lunch boxes to feed the pigeons. You have to climb the stairs to reach the main hall, where many young people gather, and after work, some office workers also come to pay their respects. On the right side of the stairs, there is a large rest hall with food, drinks, and restrooms, but apart from that, there are almost no places to sit.

In addition to 'Sakuragi Hanamichi' in Kamakura, Japan, there is also an 'Ancient Cherry Blossom Trail'

Facing the red torii gate of 'Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine', there is a pedestrian walkway that is over one meter above the ground. The base on both sides is built with black stones, and the middle is filled with finely compacted yellow soil, which has been trodden for a thousand years, making it even flatter and harder than a cement surface. The trees lining the path are Japan's national trees, the cherry blossoms. Even when it's not cherry blossom season, the branches form a green canopy, creating an atmosphere that is very quaint and refreshing. At the other end, there is another red torii gate, flanked by a large stone lion on each side. This is the starting point of the ancient trail, and also the place where people from the ancient capital would start their pilgrimage to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine a thousand years ago. The roads and sidewalks on both sides are bustling with people, but this place remains very quiet.

Kamakura Dankazura: A Perfect Blend of History and Nature.

In Dankazura, Kamakura City, Japan, I enjoyed a leisurely and culturally rich journey. Dankazura is an important road leading to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, lined with cherry blossom trees, offering a charming view. I took ten photos to capture this wonderful experience. The history of Dankazura dates back to the Kamakura period, where it served as an important ceremonial path. Today, it has become a favorite walking spot for tourists and locals alike. Walking on this ancient road, I felt the weight of history and the beauty of nature. In spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, Dankazura turns into a pink floral path, drawing countless visitors for flower viewing. Even in other seasons, the scenery remains enchanting, with shady green trees and picturesque landscapes. I captured the beauty under the cherry trees, the ancient stone lanterns, and the distant Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, these photos perfectly capturing the charm of Dankazura. Beyond the natural scenery, there are many historical buildings and cultural sites along Dankazura, each filled with stories and historical significance. This stroll through Dankazura not only allowed me to experience the natural beauty of Kamakura but also made me feel the deep historical and cultural heritage of the place. I will forever cherish these beautiful memories and look forward to returning to Dankazura in the future to enjoy more of its beautiful landscapes.

A Place Worth Visiting from Kamakura Station

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is the place to go. You can get off at Kamakura Station to get there. It was a place I personally really enjoyed. There's the Genji Pond, and the garden is beautiful as well. The scenery before entering the gate is also beautiful. I think it would be even more charming and stylish to visit when the cherry blossoms bloom in spring. Have a happy trip ~. Thank you.

Kamakura Attractions: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Embrace Tradition and Serenity

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, located in Kamakura City, Japan, is a shrine with a history of over 800 years. It is not only a symbol of Kamakura but also an important witness to Japanese history and culture. The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the patron god of warriors, and is closely related to Japan's samurai culture. The shrine's current location is in the center of Kamakura City and is considered the soul of the city by local residents. Passing through the red torii gate tunnel in the center of Kamakura City, one arrives at this sacred place. Along the shrine's approach, there are two ponds representing the Genji and Heike clans, with the peony garden beside the ponds being particularly beautiful in spring. Every April, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu holds a grand festival that attracts thousands of visitors. The Yabusame archery event in September is also a major tourist attraction. In addition to festivals, the shrine has many historical buildings worth seeing, such as the dance hall and museum, which display the shrine's precious cultural assets. Visiting Tsurugaoka Hachimangu allows one to not only experience Japanese tradition and history but also to find inner peace and serenity.

Spring | Leisurely stroll in Kamakura, admiring the flowers and scenery, and gazing at Mount Fuji

🌟 Kamakura, you sure know how to enjoy yourself! ❤ When it comes to Kamakura in Kanagawa, Japan, many people born in the 80s and 90s think first of the railway crossing in front of Kamakura Koukou, having passed it countless times. Each time they pass by, they recall the familiar and thrilling 'I Want to Shout Out that I Like You'. 👍 Kamakura is a tourist city in Kanagawa. Although it is not large in size, it is bustling with tourists year-round, with crowds of people in every season. Located on the coast, Kamakura also offers distant views of Mount Fuji, and these various factors make it the second most prominent destination in the Kanto region after Tokyo. 🧳 How to enjoy Kamakura: ✅ The Great Buddha of Kamakura, built in the 13th century, is located in Kotoku-in and is a landmark of Kamakura. Made of bronze, it is the second largest seated Buddha statue in Japan. ✅ Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, located in the central area of Kamakura, has developed the city around the Hachimangu shrine. Countless events are held here each year, from festivals to exhibitions, to personal weddings, with a constant stream of visitors. From spring cherry blossoms to summer hydrangeas, to autumn maple leaves, this place is always a favorite for those who enjoy scenery. ✅ Hase-dera, known for its beautiful gardens, is close to the Great Buddha of Kamakura, faces the sea, and offers enchanting views. A hydrangea path makes it a must-visit spot for flower enthusiasts in summer. Other temples like Engaku-ji, Jochi-ji, Kencho-ji, and the Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine, collectively known as the 'Five Mountains of Kamakura', provide a full day's worth of leisurely exploration. ✅ Komachi Street, Kamakura's famous shopping street, satisfies all needs from the first cup of coffee in the morning to a late-night snack before bed, offering a complete experience of dining, shopping, and entertainment. ✅ Enoshima and the Shonan coast are part of Kamakura's coastline, attracting surfers year-round to enjoy the thrill of the sea. With abundant sunshine in summer, many restaurants and cafes open here, making the beach a great place for leisure and entertainment. Stepping onto Enoshima, you reach a prime spot for viewing Mount Fuji, where you can rest and dine at the observatory while admiring the beauty of Mount Fuji (with a bit of luck).

The iconic shrine in Kamakura

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu (鶴岡八幡宮, Tsurugaoka Hachimangū) is Kamakura's most important shrine. And it is a 1000-year old shrine. The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the patron god of the Minamoto family and of the samurai in general. The shrine is reached via a long, wide approach that leads from Kamakura's waterfront through the entire city center, with multiple torii gates along the way. The main hall (Hongu or Jogu) stands on a terrace at the top of a wide stairway. The main hall includes a small museum, which displays various treasures owned by the shrine, such as swords, masks and documents. In 2024, I want to go to this shrine again. #2024wish

Tsurugaoka Shrine

Surprisingly well-rounded temple experience, it has a little bit of everything. It's more impressive in person than on most pictures. It's a solid choice to visit here. The main building is nice, the gardens and ponds and lakes and islands are fantastic, there are also some short torii gate tunnels. It gets extremely crowded with both local and foreign tourists so show up early. #2024wish

Hegang Eight Diagrams Palace was once the political center of the Kamakura shogunate. It was founded in 1063 by Lai Yi. He settled in Kamakura after the rebellion in northern Japan in 1051. He grew up with a family of samurai who is based on the samurai class. He is here. A small shrine dedicated to the god of the Eight Diagrams was built near the Cangco Coast. Many years later, his descendants, Lai Chao, moved the shrine to the center of Kamakura City in 1180, which is now the Hegang Eight Diagrams Palace. In 1192, Lai Chaogong was appointed as the general of the levy, and the shogunate (1192-1333) was created. As a result, Japan's political center moved from Kyoto to Kamakura, and Japan's first warrior regime came into being. During this period, Hegang Eight Diagrams Palace is a religious center and a political center. From the creation of the shogunate to the fall of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1867, the Japanese samurai regime lasted for 675 years, and it has been the originator of later Japanese leaders such as Ashikaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Therefore, the historical value of Hegang Eight Diagrams Palace is very high.