Things to do in Kamakura in December

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Overview

December is a good time to visit Kamakura. The weather is usually moderately chilly with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 40—54°F (4—12°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Kamakura during this time. Some of our top recommendations: take a day trip to see the snow monkeys in Jigokudani Monkey Park, take a stroll through the Enoshima Illumination, try traditional Japanese hot pot at a local restaurant, and more!

Kamakura has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your December trip to Kamakura. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to December. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Kamakura in December. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout December, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Kamakura in December

Top experiences in December
Take a day trip to see the snow monkeys in Jigokudani Monkey Park
Just a short train ride from Kamakura, Jigokudani Monkey Park is home to a troop of Japanese macaques that are known for their love of hot springs. In December, you can see these adorable snow monkeys soaking in the warm waters, surrounded by a snowy winter wonderland.
Take a stroll through the Enoshima Illumination
During December, the Enoshima Island is beautifully illuminated with colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere. It's the perfect way to enjoy the festive season and take in the stunning views of the island and surrounding ocean.
Try traditional Japanese hot pot at a local restaurant
In December, the weather in Kamakura can be quite chilly, making it the perfect time to warm up with a steaming hot pot meal. Whether it's sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, or nabe, you'll find plenty of delicious options to choose from.
Go on a hiking adventure in the Kamakura countryside
December is a great time to explore the natural beauty of Kamakura, with its lush greenery and scenic trails. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Participate in a traditional tea ceremony at a local tea house
Embrace the tranquility of the season by taking part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. It's a unique and peaceful experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Kamakura.
Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura during the annual illumination event
In December, the Great Buddha of Kamakura is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a stunning and serene atmosphere. It's a beautiful way to experience this iconic landmark in a new and enchanting light.
Go ice skating at the Kamakura Ice Arena
Embrace the winter season by hitting the ice at the Kamakura Ice Arena. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skater, it's a fun and festive activity for all ages.
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Holidays in Kamakura in December
December
  • Christmas (December 25)
  • December 31 Bank Holiday (December 31)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Kamakura in December

Temperatures on an average day in Kamakura in December

The average temperature in Kamakura in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 54°F (12°C) to a low of 40°F (4°C). Some would describe it as moderately chilly with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Kamakura, August, has days with highs of 86°F (30°C) and lows of 75°F (24°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 49°F (9°C) and lows of 36°F (2°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Kamakura in December based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in December
54°F
highs
40°F
lows

General weather summary

Moderately chilly with a gentle breeze
Feels like
22%
Chance of rain
0.097 in
Amount
14.3 mph
Wind speed
65%
Humidity
9.8 hrs
Daylight length
6:41 AM
Sunrise
4:31 PM
Sunset
67%
Cloud cover
Jacket
What to wear
What to wear in December
With an average high of 54°F (12°C) and a low of 40°F (4°C), it generally feels moderately chilly with a gentle breeze. With that in mind, most people would dress in something warm like a jacket
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Best attractions for Kamakura in December

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Kamakura has to offer for travelers in December, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Kamakura that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Kamakura for December.
Kotoku-in
1. Kotoku-in
4.3
(23038)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Tranquil temple known for a monumental, outdoor bronze statue of the Buddha in the seated position.
Kamakura Hasedera
2. Kamakura Hasedera
4.4
(12842)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Buddhist temple & gardens dating from the 8th century, with a huge wooden statue of the god Kannon.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
3. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
4.4
(24585)
Shinto shrine
Sights & Landmarks
Shinto shrine established in 11th century, built in 1828 in the traditional Edo architectural style.
Enoshima Electric Railway
4. Enoshima Electric Railway
Transportation
Mass Transportation Systems
A Happy Pancake
5. A Happy Pancake
3.9
(433)
Pancake restaurant
Sights & Landmarks
Hokokuji Bamboo Forest
6. Hokokuji Bamboo Forest
4.4
(515)
Garden
Sights & Landmarks
Kencho-ji
7. Kencho-ji
4.4
(3890)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Large Zen temple complex in a serene setting featuring gardens & a trail with views of Mt. Fuji.
Engaku-ji
8. Engaku-ji
4.4
(3788)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Zen Buddhist complex, founded in 1282, with gates, temples, a giant bell & a relic of the Buddha.
Zeniarai Benten Shrine
9. Zeniarai Benten Shrine
4.3
(6269)
Shinto shrine
Sights & Landmarks
Cozy, 11th-century Shinto shrine with a spring for ritual money-washing believed to increase wealth.
Meigetsu-in
10. Meigetsu-in
4.3
(4189)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Founded in 1159, this Rinzai Zen temple features a large round window & hydrangeas on the grounds.
Daibutsu Hiking Trail
11. Daibutsu Hiking Trail
4.4
(81)
Hiking area
Outdoor Activities
Kamakura Seaside Park
12. Kamakura Seaside Park
4.1
(764)
Park
Nature & Parks
Large beachfront lawn & playground with swings, climbing bars & slides, plus a vintage tram car.
Kamakurakōkō-Mae Station
13. Kamakurakōkō-Mae Station
4.4
(1009)
Train station
Sights & Landmarks
Tokei-ji
14. Tokei-ji
4.2
(1235)
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Tranquil Buddhist temple, nunnery & women's refuge, founded in 1285, in a lush garden setting.
Shichirigahama
15. Shichirigahama
4.6
(84)
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Sand beach & sunset spot offering panoramas of Mount Fuji & Enoshima island, plus waves for surfing.
Sasuke Inari Shrine
16. Sasuke Inari Shrine
4.4
(1769)
Shinto shrine
Sights & Landmarks
Peaceful, small Shinto shrine overlooking a bygone hidden village steeped in traditional folklore.

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