Wakamiya Oji and Dankazura Kamakura
An elevated, tree-lined walkway leading to a shrine, famous for its stunning cherry blossoms and romantic evening illuminations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak cherry blossom season
Wakamiya Oji and Dankazura Kamakura
Best Time
Peak cherry blossom season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An elevated, tree-lined walkway leading to a shrine, famous for its stunning cherry blossoms and romantic evening illuminations.
"A romantic, cozy, and beautiful street within the roads, feeling strongly of Japanese atmosphere."
🌸 Catch the Cherry Blossoms
Visit late March/early April for the full 'Hanami' experience under blooming cherry trees.
🚶♀️ Easy & Shaded Walk
Enjoy the gentle incline and cool breeze on this well-maintained, elevated walkway. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dankazura Cherry Blossom Tunnel
Elevated walkway
A breathtaking tunnel of cherry blossoms creating a romantic, Japanese atmosphere during spring.
Wakamiya Oji Approach
Walkway leading to shrine
A beautifully maintained, shaded, and slightly inclined path offering a serene approach.
Nighttime Illumination
Dankazura walkway
Experience the magical glow of illuminated cherry trees after dark for a romantic ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Cherry Blossoms
Accessibility and Stroll Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best way to spend a half-day in Kamakura?
🌸 Catch the Cherry Blossoms
Visit late March/early April for the full 'Hanami' experience under blooming cherry trees.
🚶♀️ Easy & Shaded Walk
Enjoy the gentle incline and cool breeze on this well-maintained, elevated walkway. :athletic_shoe:
Itinerary check. Osaka, Kyoto, Takayama, Kamakura, and Tokyo in 16 days.
✨ Romantic Evening Stroll
The walkway is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. :sparkles:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning photos, especially during cherry blossom season or at night. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🌸 Catch the Cherry Blossoms
Visit late March/early April for the full 'Hanami' experience under blooming cherry trees.
🚶♀️ Easy & Shaded Walk
Enjoy the gentle incline and cool breeze on this well-maintained, elevated walkway. :athletic_shoe:
✨ Romantic Evening Stroll
The walkway is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. :sparkles:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Capture stunning photos, especially during cherry blossom season or at night. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Dankazura for its well-maintained, shaded, and gently inclined walkway, offering a pleasant and safe stroll. It's particularly lauded during cherry blossom season for its stunning 'Hanami' atmosphere and romantic evening illuminations. Some note the area can get crowded during peak bloom.
"Well maintained walk way. Easy to get to from Kanagawa train station. Shaded and nice breeze. Slight incline and very easy to walk."
Damien Smith
"Even in the summer it's a really pleasant shaded walk. It's elevated and surrounded by trees, so it's very safe. Very cool approach to the temple."
Grant Minagawa
"Buds of cherry almost made it to bloom when I last visited Dankazura a few weeks back and now I would believe it’s a full Hanami and the entire atmosphere and picture must have been totally amazing. Lovely path to walk under the long stretches of cherry blossom trees and this season has been so wonderful when people from all walks of life gathered here for one purpose."
Reiko H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wakamiya Oji and Dankazura are easily accessible from Kamakura Station. You can take a pleasant walk, which takes about 15-20 minutes, or a short bus ride. The walkway itself is a prominent feature along the main road, making it hard to miss.
While there might be limited street parking, it's generally recommended to use public transportation. The nearest train station is Kamakura Station, and from there, it's a walk or short bus ride. Parking can be challenging in this popular area.
Yes, Dankazura is an elevated walkway situated in the middle of the main road, offering a unique approach. It's designed to be a distinct pathway separate from vehicle traffic.
Dankazura is quite prominent as it's a long, elevated walkway in the middle of a main road leading towards a shrine. It's a distinctive feature that's hard to miss once you're in the vicinity of the shrine area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking on the Dankazura elevated walkway is free of charge. It's a public space designed for strolling and enjoying the scenery. :ticket:
Dankazura is accessible at all hours, as it's an outdoor walkway. However, for the best experience, consider visiting during daylight for the greenery or in the evening when it's illuminated. :clock1:
The shrine at the end of Dankazura, Wakamiya Oji Shrine, is generally free to enter and explore its grounds. Some inner areas or specific rituals might have associated fees, but the main approach and shrine area are accessible.
To avoid the largest crowds, try visiting on a weekday morning, especially outside of peak cherry blossom season. Early mornings are generally quieter.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire length of Dankazura is photogenic, especially when lined with cherry blossoms. Capture shots looking down the walkway, framing the shrine at the end, or focusing on the trees. The nighttime illumination also offers unique photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is generally restricted in and around shrines and public spaces in Japan to ensure safety and respect. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For vibrant colors and natural light, daytime is excellent, particularly during cherry blossom season. For a more dramatic and romantic feel, the evening illumination is ideal. Golden hour before sunset can also offer beautiful light. :sunriseovermountains:
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Professional photography or commercial shoots may require permits.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Dankazura offers a romantic, cozy, and beautiful atmosphere, feeling strongly of Japanese tradition. It's a pleasant, shaded, and safe walk with a gentle incline, providing a refreshing experience.
Absolutely. The walkway is well-maintained, shaded, and has a slight incline, making it perfect for a leisurely and comfortable stroll. It's a very easy walk.
You'll see a long, elevated walkway lined with trees, predominantly cherry trees that are spectacular in spring. It leads to the Wakamiya Oji Shrine, offering a scenic and unique approach.
Yes, even in the summer, Dankazura is a pleasant shaded walk. The trees provide ample shade, and there's often a nice breeze, making it a comfortable experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid larger crowds. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the walk itself is an enjoyable activity, and the nearby shrine offers a cultural element. Pack snacks and water, and enjoy a peaceful walk leading to a significant landmark.
💖 Couples and Romantic Getaways
Plan an evening visit to experience the enchanting illumination, or time your visit for the cherry blossom season for an unforgettable romantic backdrop. The gentle incline and well-maintained path ensure a comfortable walk, allowing couples to focus on each other and the beautiful surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Renovation of Dankazura
This thoughtful redevelopment has created a unique and picturesque approach to the shrine. The walkway itself is designed for comfort and aesthetics, offering a shaded and gentle incline. It's a testament to how urban planning can enhance natural beauty and visitor experience over time, turning a potential loss into a celebrated feature. The result is a 'splendid long term idea' that now allows people to enjoy the blossoms at full bloom.
Experiencing Dankazura During Cherry Blossom Season
Visitors can expect a vibrant scene with people picnicking, strolling, and taking photos. The sheer density of the cherry blossoms overhead creates an immersive experience, making it feel like you're walking through a floral wonderland. The romantic ambiance is amplified, especially during the evening when the trees are illuminated, casting a soft glow on the blossoms and the pathway. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Kamakura during spring.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit