Enoshima
Enoshima is a small island located in Kanagawa Prefecture, about one hour away from Tokyo. This picturesque island is famous for its nature and the spectacular view of Mount Fuji that can be admired from there. The view of Mount Fuji is especially spectacular at sunset when the sun dips into the ocean and Fuji looms over the horizon.
The island is also famous for its temples and caves, including the famous Benten Cave, dedicated to the goddess of fortune. Enoshima is a popular destination for hikers and tourists, who like to stroll along the beach, enjoy the panoramic view of Mount Fuji and discover the island’s vibrant cultural life.
Aimaimyi, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
How to get to Enoshima
Japan Railways from Tokyo
From Tokyo there are several ways to get to Enoshima.
From Ikebukuro or Shinjuku take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line or from Tokyo take the Tokaido Main Line and get off at Fujisawa (50 minutes – 990 Yen), from here take the Enoden train (10 minutes – 220 Yen) or the Odakyu train to Katase-Enoshima (7 minutes – 170 Yen). Alternatively, get off at Ofuna (45 minutes – 950 Yen) and take the Shonan Monorail to Shonanenoshima (15 minutes – 320 Yen).
Trains to Fujisawa and Ofuna are covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
Odakyu Railways from Tokyo
From Shinjuku take the Odakyu train to Katase Enoshima (70 minutes – 650 Yen).
There is the Enoshima Kamakura Free Pass priced at 1640 Yen which includes the Shinjuku-Enoshima round trip and unlimited one-day use of the Enoden train and Odakyu trains in the Enoshima and Kamakura area.
Enoden from Kamakura
If you are in Kamakura you can take the Enoden train (25 minutes – 260 Yen).
There is a one-day Enoden ‘Noriokirun’ pass for 800 Yen that covers the route between Kamakura and Fujisawa.
What to do in Enoshima
Enoshima Shrine
The Enoshima shrine, located on the island of the same name in Kanagawa Prefecture in Japan, is a sacred place that attracts visitors from all over the world. Founded in the 6th century, the shrine is dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten, considered the goddess of luck and art. Visitors can immerse themselves in Japanese spirituality through the shrine’s beautiful torii, statues and rituals. The panoramic view of the ocean and the possibility of admiring Mount Fuji from the top of the island make Enoshima a fascinating place that is crowded with tourists.
Geographer at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
Official website  |
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| 8:30-16:30 | |
| No closing days | |
| Free (150 Yen to see the Benten statue) |
Samuel Cocking Garden
Samuel Cocking’s garden in Enoshima is an oasis of tranquillity and beauty located on the island of the same name in Japan. This wonderful garden, created in 1880, offers visitors a wide variety of exotic plants and colourful flowers. With its scenic paths and viewing terraces, the garden offers a breathtaking view of the ocean and the surrounding coastline. It is the ideal place for a pleasant walk in nature and to find peace and relaxation.
Aimaimyi, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
|
| 9:00-20:00 Last entry 30 minutes before closing time |
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| No closing days | |
| 200 Yen (garden) 500 Yen (garden and observation tower) |
Iwaya Caves
The Iwaya caves in Enoshima are a fascinating natural attraction located on the island in Japan. These thousand-year-old caves, formed from volcanic rocks, offer a unique adventure to visitors. Exploring these caves, one can admire stalactites and stalagmites, as well as ancient shrines carved into the rock. The local guide reveals stories and legends surrounding the caves, adding a touch of mystery to the experience.
For any closures, please consult the official Facebook page at this address.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| 9:00-18:00 (until 16:00 from mid-October to February) | |
| No closing days (tranne quando c’è brutto tempo) | |
| 500 Yen |
Enoshima Daishi Temple
The Enoshima Daishi Temple is a sacred place located on the island of Enoshima in Japan. Founded in the 18th century, this Buddhist temple attracts many worshippers and tourists in search of spirituality and tranquillity. Inside the temple, visitors can admire beautiful works of art, from statues of Buddhist deities to traditional paintings. During religious festivals, the temple comes alive with colour and sound, and visitors can participate in rituals and prayers. The Enoshima Daishi Temple is a place of peace and devotion, offering a deep spiritual connection to the Japanese Buddhist tradition.
Miyuki Meinaka, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official page |
|
| 9:00-18:00 | |
| No closing days | |
| Free |
Enoshima Island Spa
Enoshima Island Spa is a refined wellness oasis located on Japan’s Enoshima Island. This luxurious spa offers a variety of treatments and services for relaxation and body care. With over 20 types of baths, including open-air baths overlooking the ocean, sauna and traditional Japanese thermal baths, guests can rejuvenate and relax completely. The spa also offers massage and beauty treatments that combine ancient Japanese techniques with modern innovation. Enoshima Island Spa is the ideal place to indulge in wellness and tranquillity in an enchanting setting.
IMPORTANT: Tattoos are not allowed
English: Abasaa日本語: あばさー, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| Official website |
|
| 10:00-22:00 (March to November) 11:00-21:00 (December to February) Last admission 1 hour before closing |
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| No closing days | |
| 1700 to 3000 Yen (varies according to season) |
Love Bell
The love bell in Enoshima is a romantic place where couples can participate in ancient traditions. Here, wishes are written on an Ema tablet and hung near the bell. Couples then ring the bell together, hoping to seal their love and ensure a happy future.
Shirasudon (Shirasu Donburi)
Shirasudon, or Shirasu Donburi, is a delicious Japanese dish that originated in the Enoshima region. It consists of a bowl of hot rice covered with generous portions of shirasu, small white fish freshly caught from the surrounding sea. The delicate and slightly salty flavour of the fish blends perfectly with the rice, creating a harmonious balance of flavours. Shirasudon is often served with special sauces, seaweed and fresh seasonings to further enrich the dish. Loved by locals and tourists alike, Shirasudon is a must for lovers of Japanese cuisine and a delicacy not to be missed during a visit to Enoshima.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Enoshima Aquarium
The Enoshima Aquarium is an ocean wonder located on the island of Enoshima in Japan. This modern aquarium houses a variety of marine species, from tropical fish to luminous jellyfish. The shows and attractions offer an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. You can admire the colourful splendour of the corals, see adorable penguins in action and even touch starfish in an interactive touch tank. The Enoshima Aquarium is a perfect place to discover the incredible beauty and biodiversity of the marine world, offering an unforgettable experience for all sea lovers.
Miyuki Meinaka, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
Official website  |
|
| 9:00-17:00 (from 10:00 from December to February) | |
| Some days closed irregularly for inspections. See Official website | |
| 2800 Yen | |
| The aquarium is located near the Katase Enoshima station of the Odakyu |
Ryukoji Temple
The Ryukoji Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located on the island of Enoshima in Japan. Built in the 13th century, the temple offers visitors an atmosphere of tranquillity and spirituality. Inside the complex, statues of Buddhist deities and beautiful Zen gardens invite meditation and contemplation. The Ryukoji temple is a place of faith and devotion, where visitors can immerse themselves in the deep spirituality of ancient Japanese culture and enjoy the inner peace that only a Buddhist temple can offer.
Urashimataro, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Practical information
| View location on Google Maps | |
| 9:00-16:00 | |
| 5 minutes’ walk north-east of Enoden Enoshima Station |