When we think of autumn in Japan, we think of art, reading… and of course, sports!
With cooler, more comfortable weather, why not refresh both your body and mind by staying active in Kamakura, a city full of history and nature?
This time, we’ll introduce 5 recommended autumn activities in Kamakura, along with some must-visit food and café spots nearby.
1. Scenic Hiking: Autumn Foliage on the Tenen Hiking Trail
Highlights
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- Duration: approx. 2.5–3 hours
- Difficulty: Intermediate (trekking shoes and water bottle recommended)
- Best season for autumn leaves: mid-November to early December
This lush hiking trail stretches from Kencho-ji Temple through Tenen and ends at Zuisen-ji Temple. You can enjoy a refreshing walk among the autumn foliage, with crisp air and sweeping views. From the Katsugaken Observatory, you might even catch a stunning view of Mt. Fuji if the weather is clear.
Recommended stops
- Tree Garden (along the Great Buddha Hiking Trail) – A hidden terrace café in the mountains. Relax at outdoor seats and soak in Kamakura’s natural beauty after your hike.
Hours: 10:00–17:00 (seasonal variations) - Kisen-an Tea House at Jomyo-ji Temple
Address: 3-8-31 Jomyo-ji, Kamakura, Kanagawa (inside Jomyo-ji Temple grounds)
Access: 5–7 min walk from Zuisen-ji (end of the trail), or 2 min walk from “Jomyo-ji” bus stop
Hours: 10:00–16:30 (last entry 16:00, seasonal/weather changes possible)
Highlight: Experience matcha while gazing at a beautiful karesansui (Zen rock garden). Originally built between 1573–1591 and restored in 1991, this tea house offers matcha with a dry sweet (¥660) or fresh sweet (¥1,100). In autumn, the garden is painted with vibrant foliage—perfect relaxation after hiking.
2. Autumn Surfing: Ride the Waves at Yuigahama & Shichirigahama
Recommended schools
Kamakura’s beaches host many surf schools for beginners, most offering rentals so you can come empty-handed.
- OKUDA STYLE SURFING (Zaimokuza) – Lessons + board & wetsuit rental (up to ¥12,100). Small classes for安心.
- HONEY SURF CLUB (Zaimokuza Terrace) – Friendly instruction, lounge & shower facilities. Popular with women.
- WET LAND (Yuigahama) – Gentle intro to rules & etiquette. Beginner lessons from ¥6,000 (rental extra).
- Gremmie Surf Club (Yuigahama) – Small group lessons with rental included (from ¥7,000).
- Holiday SURF (Koshigoe) – Established for 40+ years. Beginner lessons available (from ¥5,700).
Why autumn is perfect
The sea is still warm, ideal with a wetsuit.
Less crowded than summer, offering calm waves and a relaxed atmosphere.
The crisp morning air and quiet ocean make for a truly special experience.
Nearby stops
- Pacific DRIVE-IN (Shichirigahama) – Drive-in style café by the sea, perfect for takeout.
- Good Mellows (Yuigahama) – A famous burger café with ocean views. Relax on the terrace at sunset in true Shonan style.
3. Cycling Along Route 134: Feel the Ocean Breeze
Highlights
- Distance: ~10km from Kamakura to Enoshima
- Plenty of scenic photo spots
- E-bike rentals available for easy hill climbs
Enjoy the sea breeze and endless coastal views as you cycle along one of Japan’s most picturesque routes.
Nearby stops
- Inamuragasaki Onsen – Outdoor baths with spectacular views, perfect after your ride.
- Kamakura Gelato – Handmade gelato with local ingredients for a sweet cooldown.
4. Trending Now: SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) at Zaimokuza Beach
Why try SUP?
- Beginners welcome with instructor support.
- Stunning ocean views from the water.
- A full-body workout that naturally builds balance and core strength.
Popular shops
Kamakura Hi-surf (Yuigahama/Sakanoshita, 5 min from Hase Station)
SUP school & rental with wetsuit/board/paddle
Facilities: hot showers, clubhouse, rooftop view of Kamakura Bay
Free photos/videos during lessons (with consent for SNS use)
Blue Peter Surf Club (Zaimokuza)
Terrace clubhouse with drinks available
Relaxed atmosphere with English-speaking instructors
Focus on comfort and safety for all participants
Nearby stops
- Zaimokuza Terrace – Popular beachside complex with pancakes & acai bowls.
- Sakanoshita Café (sacanosita) – Renovated 100-year-old house serving lemon pancakes in a nostalgic setting.
- paso by 27 COFFEE ROASTERS – A stylish café with hand-drip coffee (¥820~) and Basque cheesecake (¥650).
- THE CIRCUS – Light roast coffee & cheesecake near the beach, with terrace seating.
- Namimachi Bagel – Cozy old-house café serving handmade bagels, perfect for a quick snack.
5. Reset Body & Mind: Morning Yoga & Meditation in Nature
Highlights
Outdoor yoga events on the beach
Benefits: stress relief, improved posture, enhanced focus
Even beginners can join easily in the peaceful morning atmosphere
Nearby stop
- Sabo Kirara (Tea House Kirara) – Famous for chewy shiratama (rice flour dumplings). A sweet reward after yoga.
Final Thoughts: Autumn in Kamakura is Best Spent Outdoors
In this historic city, you can fully enjoy the season of sports by combining nature and activity: hiking, surfing, cycling, SUP, and yoga—all perfect for refreshing both body and spirit.
And after being active, don’t forget to indulge in local food, cafés, or hot springs to complete your Kamakura autumn experience.