KAMAKURA

To understand Japan, it is essential to acknowledge the values instilled by Shintoism and Buddhism over the centuries, along with the external influences on the Japanese population.

We explored beyond Tokyo by visiting Kamakura, a coastal town an hour to the south. Our Context guide, Fabien, a French expatriate, took us on this journey. Kamakura is a charming town, renowned for its remarkable 13.35-meter-tall bronze Buddha at Kotoku-in, which was constructed in 1252.

We proceeded to the Hase Temple (also called Hasedera), established in 721 AD. This Buddhist temple is renowned for its stunning gardens and an eleven-headed Bodhisattva. Throughout the gardens, you'll find hundreds of mini-Buddha statues, which offer a means to support the temple and aid in the path to enlightenment.

Kamakura if a nice day trip to visit, take in the waves, shrines, temples and enjoy the window shopping.