Raitei

Though it's a bit inconveniently located, this is the absolute winner for a meal in Kamakura. Visiting Raitei is as much fun as visiting the city's temples and shrines. The restaurant is situated in the hills on the edge of Kamakura, surrounded by verdant countryside, and the wonder is that it serves inexpensive soba (Japanese noodles) and obento lunchboxes, as well as priestly kaiseki feasts. Take the stone steps on the right to the back entry, where you'll be given an English-language menu with such offerings as noodles with chicken, various obento, and kaiseki. The pottery used here comes from the restaurant's own kiln, and you'll sit on rough-hewn wood stools or on tatami. If you make a reservation in advance for kaiseki, you'll dine upstairs in your own private room in a refined traditional setting with great views. The house, once owned by a wealthy landowner, was moved to this site in 1929.

When you've finished your meal, be sure to walk the path looping through the garden past a bamboo grove, Buddhist stone images, and a miniature shrine. The stroll takes about 20 minutes, unless you stop for a beer at the refreshment house, which has outdoor seating and a view of the countryside.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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