Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is the most important shrine and the cultural center of Kamakura. It is one of the most popular shrines in Japan with more than 18 million visitors a year. It was founded in 1063 by Minamoto no Yoriyoshi, head of the Genji samurai family, upon receiving the divine spirit of Iwashimizu Hachimangu in Kyoto. The current shrine which is a typical example of Edo shrine architecture, was moved to its present location in 1180 by his descendant, Minamoto-no-Yoritomo, founder and first shogun the Kamakura government.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is 10-15 minutes walk from the JR Kamakura station (the station is about 55min travel from Tokyo Station, JR Yokosuka line).
Photos: Junko Nagata © Japanbyweb.com
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