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You asked and we delivered. We are beyond excited to be able to finally announce Japan as our 8th Boundless Life destination!

Kamakura, Japan launches in January 2026! Get ready for a Boundless Life experience of samurai-era history and traditional Japanese culture and zen. We are getting ready to bring you the best family living and learning experience to an authentic laid-back city by the sea.

Slow-travel Japan – this is for families who want a unique glimpse of life in Japan. Just an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura is conveniently located. You’ll find yourself exploring the local highlights midweek and taking day trips to destinations such as Mt Fuji over weekends.  

Boundless Life Kamakura is all about community, culture, nature, and learning. Families will feel at home among the welcoming community, the nature trails and temples. Engage in local traditions such as tea ceremonies and taiko drumming, and let the children learn and live in one of Japan’s safest, most inspiring settings.

“Kamakura was a dream - now it’s a destination. Rich culture, safe for little explorers, and nature for days. We’re so excited to open the door to living in Japan for more families.” 🌿🌊 ⛩️ – Elodie Ferchaud – Co-founder from Boundless Life

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Konnichiwa, Kamakura – A Samurai City by the Sea

Nestled on Japan’s Shonan coastline just south of Tokyo, Kamakura perfectly blends ancient and modern, mountains and ocean. Once the political center of Japan in the 13th century, this charming city wears its samurai-era history proudly – from the moment you arrive, you’re walking in the footsteps of shoguns and samurai.

It’s an exciting seaside community buzzing with surfers, artisans, monks, and families all enjoying the slower pace of life by the beach. Think of it as the Kyoto of Eastern Japan with a splash of surf-town cool. One minute you might be wandering through a Zen temple garden, and the next you’re sipping a mango smoothie at a beachfront café – that’s the magic of Kamakura.

Why Kamakura for Boundless Families? Simply put, it offers the best of all worlds. It’s close enough to Tokyo (an hour by train) for convenience, yet worlds away in atmosphere – safe, clean, and brimming with cultural experiences at every turn.

Kamakura embodies Japanese hospitality and safety in a family-friendly package. From its welcoming locals and efficient infrastructure to the uplifting sense of community pride, Kamakura makes it easy for families to plug into with confidence and ease.

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Kamakura’s Unique Appeal

Rich Samurai History

This was the seat of the Kamakura shogunate from 1185 to 1333. Explore Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, founded by shogun Minamoto no Yoritomo, where colorful seasonal festivals bring samurai traditions to life.

Don’t miss the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a 44-foot bronze statue cast in 1252 that has calmly watched over the city for centuries. Fun fact: The Great Buddha once sat inside a grand hall that was washed away by a 15th-century tsunami, and it’s been open-air ever since.

Tranquil Temples & Shrines

With over 100 temples and shrines, families can find their own favorite peaceful spot. Whether it’s ringing the giant bronze bell at Kenchoji (Kamakura’s oldest Zen temple) or wandering the lantern-lined paths of Hasedera Temple at sunset.

Many temples welcome children to participate – your children will likely try a short Zen meditation at Engakuji, or leave a small ema (wish plaque) at a shrine for good luck.

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Beautiful Beaches & Outdoor Fun

Yuigahama and Zaimokuza beaches offer safe, sandy fun for all ages – from sandcastle building and seashell hunting with toddlers to surfing lessons for teens. The surf culture here is strong and welcoming.

Framed by lush green hills on one side and the ocean on the other, Kamakura’s natural setting is stunning – and full of nature trails perfect for family hikes. Take a walk on the Daibutsu Trail, a forest path that connects several temples and rewards you with bird’s-eye views of the city and ocean. Or hike up to Genjiyama Park for a picnic under the cherry blossoms or fall foliage.

Cultural Festivals & Community Vibe

One of the joys of living in Kamakura is how the community comes together to celebrate its heritage. Throughout the year, there’s always something happening – and Boundless Life families will have a front-row seat.

In April, the city’s Kamakura Matsuri (festival) sweeps through town with parades and performances, including the elegant “Shizuka no Mai” dance at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu.

Summer brings fireworks over the ocean, lively night markets, and bon odori dance events where you and your children can join locals in a joyous circle dance under the summer sky.

Come September, you’ll witness yabusame – thrilling horseback archery – as archers in samurai dress gallop and shoot arrows at targets during the shrine’s annual festival.

And as the year winds down, Kamakura’s winter charm shines: the streets light up with holiday illuminations, and neighbors exchange New Year greetings.

On January 1st, join thousands of families for hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, to pray for health and happiness.

Through every season, Kamakura’s tight-knit, artistic community extends a warm welcome – expect to find markets with friendly vendors, neighborhood events and kids playing together in temple courtyards after school.

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Living the Boundless Life in Kamakura – What to Expect

Living the Boundless Life in Kamakura means joining a warm neighborhood and community. We will host potlucks, sushi nights, language exchanges, and outings that help you feel at home fast.

As always, our Education Center turns the city into a classroom: samurai history on the steps of Jufukuji, tide-pool science at Inamuragasaki, brush calligraphy and everyday Japanese with local mentors.

Nature is daily life here. Expect forest runs, paddle boarding in the bay, Great Buddha Trail hikes, coastal bike rides and beach eco hunts. Culture goes deep too. Learn the tea ceremony, join a neighborhood matsuri, try pottery and taiko, taste ramen, roll sushi, and snack on sakura mochi in spring or yaki imo in autumn.

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A Message From Eri in Kamakura

Our GM, Eri Tsutsumi, is on the ground in Kamakura preparing for the first cohort and partnering with local coordinators to line up hands-on experiences. Below she shared a message for families preparing their visit for January -

“It is perfect to start the New Year in Japan because it’s the biggest event for Japanese people. A lot of traditional events are happening at shrines and temples and you can get a special protection (Omamori) for your family at shrines.”

What is she busy with this month? She explains that she is currently “working with many activity coordinators to arrange local experiences like traditional pottery, surfing, and Kendo!”

And what experiences does she think children will love in Kamakura? “Enoshima Aquarium is a perfect gateway spot for kids who love sea creatures! You can spend a whole day there with shows and learning about sea creatures in the area.”

We look forward to hearing more from Eri and to seeing the activities and experiences that our first cohort of families will explore!

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Join the Adventure – Kamakura is Calling!

We are thrilled to invite you to be part of Boundless Life’s Kamakura experience. This destination is so much more than a dot on a map – it’s an opportunity for your family to embrace one of the world’s most fascinating cultures.

Ready to say “Yes!” to Kamakura? Whether you’re a Boundless Life veteran or a family just starting to explore the idea of living abroad, Kamakura will capture your imagination and steal your heart.

And Kamakura is ready to welcome you with open arms and a polite bow, of course! Come join us in our newest Boundless Life community and discover the magic of Japan – together, we’ll write the next exciting chapter in your family’s journey. Are you in? 🎎🌅🌸

Book a Call!

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