How to Get from Tokyo to Kamakura: 2 Ways Compared

Fastest Option

JR Yokosuka Line (from Shibuya via Shonankinjuku)

Fastest Time

52 min

Arrives at

Kamakura Station

Kamakura is one of Tokyo's most rewarding day trips — a historic coastal city 50km south of Tokyo, home to the famous Kotoku-in Great Buddha (Daibutsu), bamboo temple gardens, and the atmospheric Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine. The JR Yokosuka Line connects Shimbashi to Kamakura in 55 minutes.

All Transport Options Compared

TransportTimeCostFrequency

JR Yokosuka Line (from Shimbashi)

JR Pass accepted — most direct route from central Tokyo

55 min

¥920

Every 15 min

JR Yokosuka Line (from Shibuya via Shonankinjuku)

JR Pass accepted — convenient from Shibuya and Shinjuku areas

52 min

¥920

Every 30 min

JR Pass Tips for Tokyo → Kamakura

JR Pass holders ride free on the JR Yokosuka/Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Kamakura. The Enoden tram (Kamakura–Enoshima, ¥350) is not covered by the JR Pass.

Book a Japan Rail Pass or IC Card on Klook:

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Hotels in Kamakura

Find hotels near Kamakura Station. Free cancellation on most bookings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get from Tokyo to Kamakura?+

The JR Yokosuka Line from Shimbashi reaches Kamakura in 55 minutes (¥920, JR Pass eligible). From Shibuya, the Shonankinjuku Line takes 52 minutes. Trains depart every 15–30 minutes.

What should I see in Kamakura?+

Must-see sites: Kotoku-in Great Buddha (11.3m bronze statue), Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Hasedera Temple (cliff-side Buddha and sea views), Engakuji Temple, and Enoshima Island (30 min away by Enoden tram). A full day is ideal.

What is the Enoden tram?+

The Enoden is a charming vintage tram line running along the coast between Kamakura and Enoshima. It passes through residential streets just meters from houses and offers beautiful ocean views. The ¥350 one-way fare is not JR Pass eligible.

Is Kamakura crowded?+

Kamakura is popular year-round — especially on weekends and during hydrangea season (June). Arriving before 9am avoids the worst crowds at major sites. Tuesday–Thursday is noticeably quieter.

Can I combine Kamakura and Enoshima in one day?+

Yes — many visitors do both in one day. Take the Enoden tram (30 min, ¥350) from Kamakura to Enoshima to see the sea caves and coastal shrine. Allow 5–6 hours total for both Kamakura and Enoshima with a relaxed pace.

Itineraries for This Route

Kamakura 2days →Japan 7days →

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