7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Kamakura

Kamakura, is a haven for digital nomads who cherish the blend of coastal beauty, historical richness, and a laid-back lifestyle. While the city itself offers plenty to explore, the weekends are a perfect time to venture out and discover the surrounding areas. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's a weekend getaway for every taste. Here are seven destinations that promise to enrich your experience as a digital nomad living in Kamakura.

Hakone

Hakone is a top choice for those seeking a mix of nature, art, and relaxation. Famous for its hot springs, stunning views of Mount Fuji, and the Hakone Open Air Museum, it's a place where you can unwind and find inspiration. Take a cruise on Lake Ashi or ride the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking scenery. The area is also rich in history, with the Hakone Shrine and the old Tokaido road.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Hakone from Kamakura is by train. Take the JR Yokosuka Line to Ofuna and transfer to the JR Tokaido Line to Odawara, then switch to the Hakone Tozan Railway.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to try a kaiseki meal, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner, which often features local and seasonal ingredients.

Where to Stay: Hakone has numerous ryokans (traditional inns) with onsen (hot springs). Hakone Ginyu offers private open-air baths with stunning views.

Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, visit the Bakery & Table Hakone, where you can enjoy fresh bread and pastries with a view of Lake Ashi.

Enoshima

Enoshima is a small seaside island that boasts a rich history and a relaxed beach atmosphere. It's perfect for a day of exploring the Enoshima Shrine, strolling through the Samuel Cocking Garden, or visiting the Iwaya Caves. The Enoshima Sea Candle lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Mount Fuji on clear days.

How to Get There: Enoshima is easily accessible by train. Take the Enoden Line from Kamakura to Enoshima Station, which takes about 25 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit the Enoshima Aquarium to learn about the local marine life and watch the impressive dolphin show.

Where to Stay: Stay at the Enoshima Guest House 134 for a cozy and affordable accommodation option.

Where to Eat: Tobiccho Honten is famous for its fresh seafood dishes, especially the shirasu-don (whitebait bowl).

Nikko

Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a cultural treasure trove with lavishly decorated shrines and temples set amidst stunning natural scenery. The Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, is a must-see for its intricate wood carvings and gold leaf decorations. The area also offers beautiful hiking trails, such as those around Lake Chuzenji and the Kegon Falls.

How to Get There: To get to Nikko from Kamakura, take the JR Yokosuka Line to Tokyo and transfer to the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya, then switch to the JR Nikko Line.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting during autumn, the fall foliage in Nikko is considered one of the best in Japan.

Where to Stay: Nikko Kanaya Hotel is the oldest resort hotel in Japan, offering a blend of history and comfort.

Where to Eat: Hippari Dako is a cozy spot known for its yuba (tofu skin) dishes, a local specialty.

Yokohama

Yokohama, Japan's second-largest city, is just a short trip from Kamakura and offers a vibrant urban atmosphere with a beautiful harbor setting. Visit the iconic Yokohama Chinatown, the largest in Japan, or explore the futuristic Minato Mirai district with its museums, shops, and the Landmark Tower. The Cup Noodles Museum and the Yokohama Ramen Museum are also fun for food enthusiasts.

How to Get There: Yokohama is easily reached by train. Take the JR Yokosuka Line directly from Kamakura to Yokohama Station.

Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely walk at the Yamashita Park along the waterfront for a great view of the city skyline.

Where to Stay: The Yokohama Royal Park Hotel in the Landmark Tower offers luxurious accommodations with stunning city and bay views.

Where to Eat: For a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine, head to Manchinro Honten in Chinatown, known for its dim sum and Peking duck.

Mount Takao

Mount Takao is a serene escape from the city, offering lush forests, mountain trails, and a spiritual atmosphere with its historic Yakuoin Temple. It's a popular spot for hiking, with various trails that cater to different fitness levels. The cable car and chair lift provide easier access to the summit, which offers views of Mount Fuji on clear days.

How to Get There: From Kamakura, take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Shinjuku Station, then transfer to the Keio Line to Takaosanguchi Station.

Travel Tip: Visit during the autumn to witness the stunning fall colors, or in spring to see the cherry blossoms.

Where to Stay: There are no hotels on Mount Takao itself, but you can find accommodations in nearby Hachioji City, such as the Keio Plaza Hotel Hachioji.

Where to Eat: Try the tororo soba, buckwheat noodles with grated yam, at one of the mountain's traditional restaurants like Takaosan Jyaran.

Kawagoe

Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo," is a charming town that transports you back to the Edo period with its well-preserved Kurazukuri (clay-walled warehouse-style) buildings and historic bell tower. Stroll through the old town, visit the Kawagoe Castle Honmaru Palace, and enjoy the local sweet potato snacks and sake breweries.

How to Get There: To reach Kawagoe from Kamakura, take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Shinjuku, then transfer to the JR Saikyo Line to Kawagoe Station.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit on the 28th of the month, when the town hosts a lively flea market around the Naritasan Kawagoe Betsuin Temple.

Where to Stay: Ryokan Matsumuraya offers traditional Japanese accommodation in the heart of Kawagoe.

Where to Eat: Sample traditional Japanese sweets at Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley), a street lined with quaint candy shops.

Hayama

Hayama is a lesser-known coastal town with a relaxed vibe, beautiful beaches, and a view of Mount Fuji across the bay. It's a great spot for water activities like sailing and windsurfing or simply enjoying a quiet beach day. The town also has a rich cultural scene, with art galleries and the Hayama Imperial Villa.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Hayama from Kamakura is by car or bus, as there is no direct train line. The bus ride from Zushi Station takes about 20 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit the Morito Shrine and its torii gate, which stands uniquely in the sea, making for a picturesque scene especially at sunset.

Where to Stay: Scapes The Suite is a luxury hotel that offers stunning ocean views and a private beach experience.

Where to Eat: The popular Hayama Asahiya offers delicious grilled seafood and has a terrace with an ocean view.