Tokyo Escape

After a few days in the metropolis it can be nice to escape. A perfect day trip is the Kamakura area an hour’s drive or train ride south west of Tokyo. The series of 5 or 6 beaches lining the coast from this point are refreshing after the heat and intensity of the city. From Kamakura take a ten-minute train ride to the town of Hase. This little village is famous for its temples, most famously the Hasedera Temple dating back to 686. Also notable here is the giant Amida Buddha at the Kotoku-in Temple, built in 1252 and really quite lovely - don’t miss it. Take a walk to Yuigahama Beach. There are many great little cafes looking over the water. I fell in love with Daisy’s Café on the main promenade.