Although Kamakura is home to some of Japan’s most famous hatsumode (New Year shrine visits),
one of its defining features is that, by choosing the right place and time,
you can still enjoy a surprisingly calm and peaceful atmosphere.
During the day, many shrines and temples are filled with visitors,
but in the early morning or late at night, the mood changes completely.
As you step into the silent precincts in the crisp winter air,
you naturally straighten your posture and begin to prepare your heart for the year ahead.
Cleanly swept stone paths, softly illuminated shrine buildings, and people praying quietly.
Hatsumode in Kamakura is more than just a seasonal tradition —
it is a meaningful moment to close one chapter of life and take your first steps into the new year with a refreshed mindset.
Hatsumode in Kamakura — “How You Spend It” Matters More Than “Where You Go”
One of the great attractions of hatsumode in Kamakura is that it does not revolve around a single place.
Instead, you can choose your destination depending on how you wish to welcome the New Year.
- A lively, traditional hatsumode experience
- A visit focused on scenery and seasonal ceremonies
- A quiet, reflective start to the year
With a wide variety of shrines and temples to choose from,
everyone can welcome the New Year in their own way.
Classic Hatsumode Spots
【Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine】
— For those who want a traditional and vibrant hatsumode
Closely associated with Minamoto no Yoritomo, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is the symbolic heart of Kamakura.
Every year, approximately 2.5 million people visit during the New Year period, making it one of Japan’s most popular hatsumode destinations.
Blessings
- Protection from misfortune
- Success in competition
- Prosperity in business
- Traffic safety
New Year Visiting Hours (2025)
- December 31 – January 2: Open 24 hours
- January 3: 12:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- From January 4 onward: 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Walking along the Dankazura approach, climbing the grand stone steps, and reaching the main shrine strongly evokes the spirit of the Japanese New Year.
While the shrine is extremely crowded during the first three days of January, visiting late at night or early in the morning allows for a calmer experience.
【Hasedera Temple】
— For those who value scenery and prayer
Hasedera Temple, famous for its Eleven-Headed Kannon statue, is a wonderful place to combine hatsumode with sightseeing.
Blessings
- Good relationships
- Protection from misfortune
- Health and well-being
Highlights during the New Year
- Late-night free entry on New Year’s Eve (reopens at 11:00 p.m.)
- New Year ceremonies such as the Bell-Ringing Ceremony, Shusho-e, and the Mantō Prayer Event
- A magical scene created by around 6,000 votive candles lighting up the grounds
On clear days, visitors can also enjoy the first sunrise of the year from the observation deck.
Compared to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, crowds here are more moderate, making it ideal for those who prefer a peaceful atmosphere.
Welcoming the New Year in Silence — Zen Temples of Kita-Kamakura
【Kencho-ji Temple】
The highest-ranking temple of the Kamakura Five Mountains.
Known for blessings of good health and good fortune, it offers a spacious and tranquil environment for prayer.
【Engaku-ji Temple】
With its refined Zen atmosphere, Engaku-ji is perfect for those seeking a calm and reflective start to the year.
Both temples are far less crowded than Tsurugaoka Hachimangu and are well suited for adults who wish to begin the New Year quietly.
Other Hidden Gems for Hatsumode
- Hongaku-ji Temple
Famous for “Kamakura Ebisu,” associated with business prosperity. The lively First Ebisu celebration is especially enjoyable. - Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine
A popular spot for financial luck, where washing money is said to bring prosperity in the coming year. - Sasuke Inari Shrine
Known for its rows of vivid red torii gates and blessings for career success and advancement.
Tips for Enjoying Kamakura during the New Year Holidays
- Visit shrines and temples early in the morning or late at night
- Avoid peak daytime hours (10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.)
- Limit your visits to one or two locations
- Dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes
Rather than trying to see everything,
leaving space in your schedule is the key to enjoying Kamakura during the New Year season.
Why Staying Overnight Makes All the Difference
Late-night visits on New Year’s Eve, early morning prayers on January 1, and quiet walks through empty streets —
these experiences are only possible when you stay overnight.
Walking through Kamakura in the crisp morning air reveals a side of the city that day-trippers rarely see.
Conclusion — Welcoming the New Year with a Clear Mind in Kamakura
Kamakura is a city that allows you to choose between liveliness and tranquility.
- Experience a traditional hatsumode at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
- Be surrounded by prayer and candlelight at Hasedera
- Begin the year quietly at a Zen temple
For those who wish to welcome the New Year at their own pace,
Kamakura offers a gentle and reassuring place to begin the year anew.