Guide to Transport from Tokyo to Kamakura for Hatsumode
Hatsumode is the first shrine visit of the year in Japan. Many people travel from Tokyo to Kamakura for this special tradition. Finding the right transport from Tokyo to Kamakura for Hatsumode is very important. This guide helps you plan your 2026 trip easily and quickly.
JR Train Routes from Tokyo to Kamakura
The JR Yokosuka Line is the most direct route to the city. It starts at Tokyo Station and stops at Shinagawa Station. You do not need to change trains on this line. This makes it a very stress-free option for many travelers. It is perfect for families traveling with children during the holidays.
The Shonan-Shinjuku Line is another great JR option for visitors. It connects Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ebisu directly to Kamakura Station. This route takes roughly 60 minutes from central Tokyo. Be sure to check the train's final destination before boarding. Only trains bound for Zushi or Kurihama go to Kamakura.
A one-way ticket on JR trains costs about 950 yen. Green Cars are available on these trains for extra comfort. They offer more space for a small additional fee. You can buy a Green Car ticket on the platform. This is a good idea during the busy New Year period.
Most JR trains arrive at Kamakura Station or Kita-Kamakura Station. Kita-Kamakura is better if you want to visit Engakuji first. Kamakura Station is closer to the famous Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Both stations will be very busy during the first week of January. Plan for extra time to navigate the platforms safely.
Odakyu Line and Budget Travel Options
The Odakyu Line offers the Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass for visitors. This pass is very popular for budget-friendly day trips. It covers the round trip from Shinjuku to Fujisawa Station. It also includes unlimited rides on the famous Enoden train line. You can buy this pass at Shinjuku Station kiosks.
The Enoden train is a charming local railway in Kamakura. It runs between Fujisawa and Kamakura along the scenic coast. The views of the ocean are beautiful in the winter sun. However, the Enoden can be extremely crowded during Kamakura New Year shrine visits. You might have to wait for several trains to pass.
Using the Odakyu route takes about 90 minutes in total. It is slower than the direct JR lines from Tokyo. However, it is much cheaper for budget-conscious travelers. It allows you to see more of the Shonan coastline. This is ideal if you want to visit Enoshima too.
The pass costs about 1,640 yen for a full day. This is a great deal for those visiting multiple sites. Make sure to keep your physical ticket safe during travel. You will need it to enter and exit the gates. Digital versions may also be available on your smartphone in 2026.
2026 Transport from Tokyo to Kamakura for Hatsumode
Trains in Japan often run all night on New Year's Eve. This helps people reach their chosen shrines for midnight prayers. Check the 2026 schedules for the JR Yokosuka Line carefully. Services may be less frequent after 2:00 AM. Plan your return trip before the morning rush starts.
Extra trains are usually added for the first three days of January. These days are known as the Sanganichi period in Japan. Transport from Tokyo to Kamakura for Hatsumode will be at peak capacity. Expect trains to be very full throughout the entire day. Traveling very early in the morning is often the best choice.
Station staff will be present to manage the large crowds. Follow their instructions to ensure a safe journey for everyone. Some station exits might be closed to control the flow. Look for temporary signs in English to guide your way. You can also check the Kamakura City Tourism Association website for updates.
Using an IC card like Suica or Pasmo is highly recommended. This saves you from waiting in long ticket machine lines. Make sure your card has at least 3,000 yen charged. This will cover your round trip and local travel. You can refill your card at any major Tokyo station.
Navigating Kamakura During the New Year
Kamakura gets very crowded during the first week of January. Walking is often faster than taking a local bus. Most popular shrines are near Kamakura or Kita-Kamakura stations. You can reach Tsurugaoka Hachimangu in ten minutes by foot. This allows you to see the festive street stalls.
The Enoden line is a great way to see the best shrines for New Year in Kamakura. However, boarding can take a long time during Hatsumode. Stations like Hase and Kamakura-koko-mae will have long queues. Consider walking between stations if the weather is pleasant. The walk along the coast is very refreshing.
Local buses might face delays due to heavy road traffic. Many roads near the shrines are closed to private cars. This makes the city much safer for pedestrians to explore. Wear comfortable walking shoes for your entire day out. You will likely walk several kilometers between different temple sites.
Station lockers are often full by mid-morning during the holidays. It is best to leave large bags at your Tokyo hotel. Travel light to move through the crowds more easily. Small backpacks are better than large suitcases for this trip. This will make your train journey much more comfortable.
Tips for a Smooth Hatsumode Journey
Timing is everything when visiting Kamakura for the New Year. Arriving before 9:00 AM helps you beat the largest crowds. Most people arrive around noon for their shrine visits. Late evening visits after 6:00 PM are also a good option. The shrines look beautiful when they are lit up at night.
Check our Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Hatsumode 2026 crowd guide for more tips. This shrine is the busiest spot in the entire city. Knowing which gate to use can save you much time. Be prepared to wait in line for an hour or more. Patience is part of the New Year experience in Japan.
Winter in Kamakura can be quite cold and windy. Temperatures often hover around 5°C (41°F) during the day. Dress in warm layers and use heat packs (kairo). You can buy these at any convenience store in Tokyo. They will keep your hands and pockets warm while waiting.
Many shops and restaurants in Kamakura stay open for visitors. You can find many Kamakura winter events 2026 happening nearby. Try some traditional street food like grilled mochi or amazake. These warm snacks are perfect for a cold winter day. They add to the festive atmosphere of the New Year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest transport from Tokyo to Kamakura for Hatsumode?
The fastest transport is the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station. It takes about 55 minutes and costs 950 yen. This line is direct and requires no transfers. It is the most efficient way to reach the shrines quickly.
Do trains run all night on New Year's Eve in 2026?
Yes, major lines like the JR Yokosuka Line usually run all night. They provide special services for people attending midnight shrine visits. Check the official 2026 schedules in late December for exact times. Frequency is lower during the early morning hours.
Is the Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass worth it for Hatsumode?
The pass is worth it if you plan multiple stops. It is great for visiting both Enoshima and Kamakura shrines. However, the Enoden line can be very crowded during this time. For a direct trip, the JR line is often better.
Choosing the right transport from Tokyo to Kamakura for Hatsumode ensures a great start to 2026. Use the JR Yokosuka Line for speed or Odakyu for budget. Remember to dress warmly and arrive early to avoid the largest crowds. Enjoy your first shrine visit of the year in beautiful Kamakura.