Though cherry blossom is almost coming to an end, Kamakura is gearing up for another surge in visitors this month for the annual spring festival at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine. The springtime Kamakura Matsuri happens on the second and third Sundays of April: head there on April 14 to watch a parade along the avenue running up to the shrine (11am start), followed in the afternoon by a dance performance of Shizuka no Mai, a reenactment of a well-known event from 12th century Japan (from 3pm).
On April 21, make your way to either the Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine or the Kamakura Daibutsuden Kotokuin grounds to enjoy an outdoor Nodate tea ceremony, taking place from 10 am to 3 pm. Known also as the Nogake or Fusube tea ceremony, this is an ancient practice usually held in spring or summer, emphasising hospitality in pleasant weather. The day also feature a programme of outdoor performances, so you'll have something to watch as you sip on freshly whisked matcha.