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Kamakura's Top 6 Fall Foliage Spots in 2023: Temples, Parks, and More!

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While Kamakura is a popular sightseeing spot year-round, we recommend visiting in the fall when the trees turn red and gold. We'll introduce six fantastic foliage spots in Kamakura, from famous temples to the famed Great Buddha statue, and tips on when to enjoy the fall scenery!

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Enjoy the Fall Foliage in Kamakura, Japan's Ancient Capital!

The ancient city of Kamakura is an ideal destination to enjoy the fall foliage. It is accessible about one hour from Tokyo, making it an excellent day trip from the capital.

The best months to see the fall foliage in Kamakura are November and December. Read on to learn about six fall foliage locations in Kamakura and when and how to enjoy the colorful leaves come autumn!

Top 6 Fall Foliage Spots in Kamakura

1. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
2. Great Buddha of Kotokuin Temple
3. Hokokuji Temple
4. Meigetsuin Temple
5. Hasedera Temple
6. Genjiyama Park

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1. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Kamakura's Top 6 Fall Foliage Spots in 2023: Temples, Parks, and More!

Photo by Pixta

Throughout the year, many come to visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. One of the travel highlights of Kamakura, this is a great spot to enjoy the autumn scenery when the leaves start changing color. It is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Kamakura Station. This is a perfect spot for those looking to casually enjoy the foliage in Japan.

Best time to see the leaves: late November to early December

2. Great Buddha of Kotokuin Temple

Giant Buddha Kotokuin

Photo by Pixta
The Great Buddha, or Daibutsu of Kotokuin Temple, is a must-visit attraction in Kamakura. The centuries-old Buddha statue and temple are stunning year-round but incredibly gorgeous in the fall. Red and gold foliage color the temple grounds in vibrant hues surrounding the statue. The beautiful scene will take your breath away when seen in person.

The comfortable fall temperatures in Kamakura make it ideal for strolling through the surrounding nature, traditional shops, and historically-rich areas.

You can see the fall foliage at Kotokuin Temple from mid-November to early December.

To access Kotokuin Temple, take the Enoshima Electric Railway to Hase Station. There will be signs directing you to the temple and Buddha statue.

Best time to see the leaves: mid-November to early December

3. Hokokuji Temple

Hokokuji Temple

Photo by Pixta
Famed for its bamboo forest, the grounds of Hokokuji Temple transform with fiery red and yellow colors in autumn. Stroll through this serene temple and marvel at the traditional buildings, gardens, and bamboo in the pleasant fall weather.

The delicate fall colors peeking through the lush green bamboo are especially stunning. Be sure to look for the deeply-hued magenta camellias that bloom during this season to further stimulate your senses.

Hokokuji Temple is located near Jomyoji Temple. The easiest access route is on the Keikyu bus from Kamakura Station. Ride the #23 or #24 bus bound for Kanazawa Hakkejima Station and get off at Jomyoji Temple, then look for signs for Hokokuji Temple.

Best time to see the leaves: late November to early December

4. Meigetsuin Temple

Kamakura's Top 6 Fall Foliage Spots in 2023: Temples, Parks, and More!

Photo by Pixta
Meigetsuin Temple is a part of the Rinzai School of Zen Buddhism and is among the top three hydrangea-viewing spots in Kamakura. In fact, this temple is often referred to as the "hydrangea temple" for the beautiful flowers on the temple grounds. It is also gorgeous in the fall and a popular spot for foliage.

During autumn, the highlight of this temple is the view from the main hall. Visitors can enjoy this fantastic view of the autumn leaves framed by an unusual circular window. This is a sight you shouldn't miss when visiting during autumn!

Best time to see the leaves: late November to early December


5. Hasedera Temple

Kamakura's Top 6 Fall Foliage Spots in 2023: Temples, Parks, and More!

Photo by Pixta
Hasedera Temple is another famous temple in Kamakura known for its hydrangeas and stunning seasonal scenery.

The crimson and golden-hued leaves transform the trees during autumn, with the scene illuminated after sundown. We recommend visiting during the day or evening for this dynamic fall scenery.

Best time to see the leaves: late November to early December

6. Genjiyama Park

Genjiyama Park

Genjiyama Park is a short walk from Kamakura Station and a favorite spot among nature lovers. It is also home to many cherry blossom trees, drawing swarms of visitors during spring and fall.

But that's not all! In the summer, the hydrangeas are in full bloom. Genjiyama Park is a wonderful place to witness the seasonal changes in scenery. No wonder the red leaves in late fall are a highlight of this area. Why not have a picnic on a sunny day, or even go on a hike throughout the park?

Best time to see the leaves: late November to early December

Plan a Visit to Kamakura in Autumn!

As you can see, Kamakura's temples are especially picturesque during autumn. In addition to the spots introduced above, there are plenty of wonderful destinations, including Jochiji Temple and Engakuji Temple to see the foliage. Kamakura itself is a beautiful city and a great spot to enjoy the seasonal views!

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Main image by Pixta

 

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