Wendy L.
Yelp
A definite must see is Daibatsu (The Great Buddha) at Kotoku-in Temple in Kamakura.
The drive toward the temple and through Kamakura was windy but it was nice to see the surrounding neighborhood and the housing out here. My party and I drove out here on a Sunday afternoon and it wasn't as crowded as I expected. In fact, I think we arrived after the crowd of tourists left because we were able to secure a parking spot just walking distance from the entrance.
The parking lot had a restroom building so we decided to use it before going in the temple because it was conveniently right by us.
Let me tell you... as soon as I opened the toilet stall door, the first thing I noticed was the SQUAT TOILET! I literally let out an audible, "OH, H*LL NO!" Pretty loudly too! It was a mix of shock, fright and brattiness coming out of that phrase! Haha
Back to the temple...
Before you enter, there's a small garden on the side and two lion sculptures across from the ticket sales counter. You will need to purchase tickets for minimal price to enter the temple.
There's a well where you would cleanse yourself. I'm not even sure if I did it correctly but I just observed other people and did whatever they did. Just don't drink the water (there are signs that tell you not to).
If you keep walking, you'll see a lot of trees. Because I arrived during the beginning of Cherry Blossom (Hanami) season, we saw some blooms in white petals and in different hues of pink. It was nice to be able to get some photos of them at their early blooms.
Now, keep walking until you see the steps that lead up toward the statue, Amitābha Nyorai (Amida for short), who is known to be a celestial deity in Buddhism.
There are a lot of people taking pictures and or marveling at the massive statue who aren't paying attention so just be careful as you climb up the steps. They do have ramps that lead up to the statue so if you have anyone in a stroller, walker, or wheelchair, just know that they will be accommodated. And it's not even a far walk at all.
They have offerings displayed before the statue such as fruits and incense. And there are seats to the right of the statue if you want to rest.
You can easily spend an hour here and move on. There are no food or drink vendors inside this temple, however, there are a bunch of souvenir shops, restaurants, and street vendors just outside the temple. Just follow the crowd and walk the strip and you'll find something you'll like, such as kimono shops, knives and swords, ramen shops, Tako Senbei (Crispy Octopus Cracker), ice cream, and other treats.
Overall, it's a good place to check out The Great Buddha. The grounds are small and easy to navigate through. And it's very clean and well-maintained. Definitely worth a stop.