Kamakura is where the first samurai government was established in Japan. For 150 years from 1180 onwards, Kamakura became the center of Japan in all aspects of politics, diplomacy, and culture. Urban development took advantage of the terrain surrounded by mountains and sea, which made it suitable for defense. Kamakura is still encircled by lush greenery today, and is a town where many items of historical heritage co-exist alongside residents’ everyday lives. (Photograph provided by Kamakura City Tourist Association)

Kamakura Municipality