The Samurai's Spiritual Axis

Minamoto no Yoritomo moves his ancestral shrine here to anchor the new capital. It becomes the religious and political heart of the Kamakura samurai.

Walking the Dankazura

Walk the raised pedestrian path straight from the coast. Shogun Yoritomo had it constructed for his wife Hōjō Masako’s safe delivery of their heir.

Legend of the Great Ginkgo

Climb the main steps past where the 1,000-year-old ginkgo tree stood until 2010. Shogun Sanetomo’s assassin hid behind it to strike him down in 1219.

Finale at the Maiden Stage

Stop by the lower Maiden pavilion for a view back down the main avenue. If you are lucky, you might spot a traditional wedding procession.