Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

Kamakura is filled with stunning temples — the biggest and most famous being Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, which is a five minute walk from Kamakura Station. I’m slightly biased towards this temple, as this is the one I always go to to get my blessings (and my grandfather was a temple elder there when he was alive). Built in 1063, it is absolutely breathtaking. At New Year, around 30,000 people will gather to pay their respects, and it was absolutely rammed when I went. Being Japan, of course, it was the most civilised crowd ever, but if you are claustrophobic I strongly suggest not going there on January 1^st!
Hachimangu is filled with interesting street food vendors, too — so it’s worth checking them out if you’re a fan of street food — Japanese street food is awesome.

Even the promenade leading to the shrine was a joy. Before getting to the shrine from the train station, I got to experience a nice, relaxing stroll down this long street lined with shops of all sorts and strong bodies ready to give visitors a ride on their very posh and plush red Japanese Rickshaw (人力車). I am sure it would have been fun to ride in one but was on a clear mission to get to the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine.
The day must have been incredibly auspicious as I witnessed quite a few traditional Japanese weddings being held at the shrine. After entering through the open courtyard, to the left you will see a bunch of white large sake drums often mistaken as lanterns by foreigners that were donated by various businesses and organizations. At the center is a beautiful multi-​level open structure with food offerings being laid out for the wedding ceremony.
Up the long stone staircase resides the main shrine which was under renovation. Monks were chanting inside the shrine where people can pay to sit in and be «blessed».
I learned how to perform the prayer correctly with the help of my Japanese friend. First you face the alter where the deity/​deities sat and then you stand straight and bow twice, then you extend your arms forward and clap your palms twice, say your prayers and then you take one last bow. I am just loving this!
Another interesting ritual I have noticed is that one can pay money to get their fortunes told. You receive a piece of paper detailing everything from career, relationships, transportation, etc. If you don’t like what’s being said, you can tie it to one of the wooden/​bamboo rods which appear to be a large wooden panel with little knots tied to a bulletin board. This indicated that you did not like the fortune received and perhaps the shrine with its power can dis-​spell your bad luck.
The surrounding gardens and structures were simply breath-​taking! It’s definitely a must when you are at Kamakura.

Il s’agit d’un des plus beau sanctuaire shinto de Kamakura.
Au niveau de l’entrée principale, après être passé sous un torii, avoir enjambé un pont et gravi des escaliers, on se retrouve face au pavillon principal. A sa gauche, on trouvera également le petit «musée des trésors nationaux». La promenade dans le parc qui l’entoure est agréable.
A savoir: l’entrée est libre, seul le musée est payant (300 yens)

One of the oldest temples in Historic Kamakura is 鶴岡八幡宮 Tsurugaoka Hachiman-​gū, the Shinto shrine that the ancient city was built around. This incredible shrine dates to 1063 a.d.
The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the patron god of the Minamoto family, Minamoto Yoritomo was the first Shōgun of the Kamakura Government. It has been worshiped and protected by Samurai for well over 900 years! The spirits of the Emperor Ojin, Hime-​gami and Empress Jingu are enshrined at Tsurugaoka Hachiman-​gū Shrine.
I came here with my friend, Akira and sister-​in-​law, Kaori. It was a beautiful sunny spring day and Sakura aka Cherry Blossoms were in full bloom everywhere! From the Kamakura train station we probably passed a thousand Cherry Blossom trees– simply stunning. Destination 鶴岡八幡宮 Tsurugaoka Hachiman-​gū, or bust!
After a nice 10-​minute stroll through Kamakura we reach the spot that the ancient city is built around. History everywhere!
One word: BREATHTAKING!
I was surprised that the admission was absolutely free, but if you want entry into the museum that’s 200-​yen, like only $ 2 USD!
I highly recommend that too. Vendors are everywhere too, from the train station to 鶴岡八幡宮 Tsurugaoka Hachiman-​gū, so if you want a delicious «real strawberry» lollipop or a cool souvenir to cherish this moment– those things can be found everywhere. Expect more than 200-​yen for souvenirs of «things, Japanese».
The center of much cultural activity and festivals, both Yabusame — Samurai archery from horseback, and Kyūdō — Japanese archery are heavily practiced here. The grounds also has gorgeous peony gardens, three high quality coffee shops, a kindergarten, and a dōjō. Two museums, the Kamakura Museum of National Treasures and the prefectural Museum of Modern Art are located here too!
Sadly, the 1000-​year old Ginkgo tree that once towered near the steps was destroyed during the powerful storm of 2010. The tree was nicknamed kakure-​ichō 隠れ銀杏 — «hiding ginkgo» — probably because according to Edo period lore, a mysterious Ninja assassin hid behind the tree before striking his victims– no, not I!
This is one of those places that a million photos will not do it justice! Yes, it’s absolutely more stunning in person. The site, the smell of history, knowing how the Shōgun once stood here. It’s simply incredible to stand here feeling the aura. Whoa!
And like the longevity of the great ancient city of Kamakura… Remember that broken 1000-​year old Ginkgo tree? It recently started sprouting leaves… It’s still ALIVE! Just like timeless 鎌倉市 KAMAKURA!
Hours:
5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
(6:00 a.m. from October to March).
Last admission 30 minutes before closing
Open 24 hours from January 1^st to 3^rd.
Open 365 days of the year.
Admission:
FREE.
Shrine Museum:
200-​yen (about $ 2 USD).
Location:
鶴岡八幡宮 Tsurugaoka Hachiman-​gū Shrine can be reached from Kamakura Train Station either through the busy Komachi-​dori shopping street, or along the Dankazura, a pedestrian path in the center of Wakamiya Oji Street that is lined with maybe a thousand cherry blossom trees. Via either route, the walk from Kamakura Station to the shrine takes about 10 – 15 minutes. Enjoy!
SAYONARA & LIVE ALOHA…
Unilocal REVIEW #246