Great Buddha and Little Buddhas: Discover Kamakura (1)

Kamakura is a beautiful city by the sea and easily accessible from Tokyo. Even hearing the name reminds you of the sea and waves!

The Great Daibutsu (Buddha) is one of the representative spots of Kamakura. Whenever people plan a trip to this area, the first thing on the list is the giant Buddha. But did you know apart from the Buddha located in Kotoku-in, there are many other remarkable spots in this area. How about discovering all the tiny, cute Buddha statues that you can find here? The nearest station to Kotoku-in is Hase on the Enoden. Check out the easiset way to get around Kamakura! One-day using the 600 yen Enoden Pass: Discover Kamakura (2)

Get off at Hase and walk in the opposite direction to that of the sea. Kamakura is one of those unbelievably sleepy places where time stands still and the best thing to do is slow down and enjoy the streets! The sight of Buddha images everywhere are great to photograph, here you have one on the small flags along the street...

Many stores have their own unique Buddha noren . Don't they look beautiful?

On the way, you will pass by a Dagashi Yahase, originally this place used to sell snacks and treats but now offers a range of products. Dagashi Yahase Hasedera There are all kinds of Buddha things you can get here that are relatively cheap. Big Buddha Lollipop (70 yen)

Big Buddha Gummies (200 yen)

Buddha stickers (300 yen)

Coasters

Address: 2-14-20 Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa

After shopping for a few souvenirs, go ahead and you will reach an intersection. Notice the super cute coffee shop here.

Kannon Coffee opened in September 2017 so its still relatively new. Here you can savor on the yummy crepe that comes with a Buddha!

Other delicious snacks and drinks are also available; you don't have to worry about not knowing Japanese either.

You can choose from a range of coffee beans and the sodas are perfect for a hot summer's day.

Aren't these visiting cards wonderful? Showing illustrations of the shop owners and staff, you can use it as a bookmark too.

Address: 3-10-29 Hase, Kamakura-shi, Kanagawa

After a short break at the coffee shop, you will see road signs for the Great Buddha and of course, the sign itself has a Buddha on it.

As far as the eye can see, you will see the top of the Great Buddha within Kotoku-in. Looking for the smaller Buddhas along the way is sometimes a lot more fun than seeing the Great Daibutsu up front. The entrance to the temple gives you an idea of what's in store. This time, we didn't go inside but if you wish to do so, make sure to buy tickets! Our journey ends with the little Buddhas!

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