KCP Winter Term Students Visit Kamakura

Kamakura (鎌倉市) is a city about 50 kilometers south of Tokyo.  It was the seat of the Shogunate and the Regency during the Kamakura Period (1185–1333). It is surrounded by Sagami Bay on the south, and hills on all other sides, which provided Kamakura with natural fortification and made it a formidable stronghold. Before modern civilization brought about roads and tunnels connecting it to other cities, Kamakura could only be reached by land through artificial passes. The seven main passes were called Kamakura’s Seven Entrances.

KCP students often visit Kamakura during culture classes. It has several ancient historic sites that illuminate Japanese culture and beliefs as seen in Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. One example is the Sugimoto-dera, founded in the year 734 according to temple records. Another is the Kōtoku-in temple with its enormous outdoor bronze statue of Amida Buddha, one of Japan’s most famous icons. The city is also home to the Five Great Zen Temples, the “Kamakura Gozan.”

Students Pose with the Great Buddha statue at Kamakura| KCP Flickr

Kamakura has several festivals and events throughout the year to celebrate the heritage of the city and its people. A visit to Kamakura is truly an eye opening experience!

At the Kamakura bamboo forest | KCP Flickr

Last weekend, Tanaka-san and Kato-sensei, English support class teachers at KCP, led the winter term students to experience Kamakura for the U.S. culture class trip. It was surely an unforgettable visit for everyone.

Getting ready for the Kamakura Trip | KCP Flickr

 KCP Winter Term students take a break with some snacks | KCP Flickr