When samurai rulers fortified their coastal stronghold in Kamakura, they hand-carved narrow passes called kiridōshi through the surrounding ridges to strictly control access to the city. Known collectively as the Kamakura Nanakuchi, these seven historic entryways allowed defenders to bottle up invaders while connecting the capital to the rest of Japan. Today, hikers can explore these evocative, moss-covered ravines where ancient chisel marks are still visible in the cliff walls beneath dense forest canopies. Wandering these secluded trails offers an unforgettable glimpse into medieval military engineering hidden right in nature's embrace.
- Samurai History
- Scenic Walks
- Historic Trails
- Military History
- Mountains
- Nature
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