Enoshima Island
Sacred Island Where Ocean Meets Mt. Fuji
Enoshima has been a sacred site for over 1,000 years, dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music, eloquence, and good fortune. According to legend, Benzaiten emerged from the sea to subdue a five-headed dragon terrorizing the area, and the island itself rose from the ocean at her command. The island's three shrines - collectively known as Enoshima Shrine - were established in the 6th century and became an important pilgrimage site during the Edo period.
During the Edo period (1603-1868), Enoshima became a popular seaside resort and pilgrimage destination for common people from Edo (Tokyo). The island appeared in numerous woodblock prints by famous ukiyo-e artists. Following the Meiji Restoration, Enoshima further developed as a beach resort, and in 1963, a 600-meter bridge was built to replace the original causeway, making access easier regardless of tides.
The island gained international attention when it hosted sailing events for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, and again for the 2020 Olympics. Today, Enoshima seamlessly blends its ancient sacred heritage with modern tourism, offering everything from historic shrines and dramatic sea caves to beach activities, seafood restaurants, and spectacular viewpoints. On clear days, Mt. Fuji dominates the western skyline across Sagami Bay, creating one of Japan's most iconic views.
Key Highlights
- Three shrines dedicated to Benzaiten goddess
- Sea Candle observation tower with 360° views
- Iwaya Caves with Buddhist statues and natural formations
- Spectacular Mt. Fuji views across Sagami Bay
- Beautiful gardens and coastal walking paths
- Beach culture and fresh seafood restaurants
Access Information
Location
Enoshima, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-0036, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Enoshima Station (Odakyu Enoshima Line)
- • Shonan-Enoshima Station (Enoden Line)
- • Enoshima Station (Shonan Monorail)
Opening Hours
Island: 24 hours | Enoshima Shrine: 8:30-17:00 | Sea Candle: 9:00-20:00 (varies seasonally) | Iwaya Caves: 9:00-17:00
Admission Fee
Island entry: Free | Enopass (1-day pass): ¥1,000 (includes escalators, Sea Candle, Samuel Cocking Garden, Iwaya Caves) | Individual sites: ¥200-500
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Shinjuku)
Odakyu Romance Car or Express directly to Enoshima Station
60 minutes
From Kamakura
Enoden Line to Shonan-Enoshima Station (scenic coastal route)
25 minutes
From Yokohama
JR to Ofuna, transfer to Shonan Monorail to Enoshima
45 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Enopass Offers Best Value
The Enopass (¥1,000) includes escalators to the top, Samuel Cocking Garden, Sea Candle observation tower, and Iwaya Caves. Buying individually costs ¥1,370. The escalators save significant climbing (worth it on hot days). Purchase at the entrance or major attractions.
Allow 3-4 Hours Minimum
Exploring Enoshima properly requires 3-4 hours: climb to the shrines (30 min), visit Sea Candle and gardens (45 min), walk to Iwaya Caves (30 min each way plus exploration), enjoy lunch with ocean views. Budget a half-day or combine with Kamakura for a full day.
Clear Days for Mt. Fuji Views
Mt. Fuji is only visible on clear days, most reliably in winter months (November-March). Check weather forecasts and webcams before visiting if Mt. Fuji viewing is a priority. Even without Fuji, the ocean and coastal views are spectacular, especially at sunset.
Try Shirasu and Fresh Seafood
Enoshima is famous for shirasu (whitebait) - try it raw (nama-shirasu, seasonal), boiled, or in rice bowls. The steep approach streets are lined with seafood restaurants offering ocean views. Reservations recommended on weekends. Budget ¥1,500-3,000 for lunch with shirasu specialties.
Walk the Entire Island Perimeter
Beyond the main shrines and attractions, walk the coastal paths around the island's southern shore to reach the Iwaya Caves and rocky viewpoints. The 30-minute walk offers dramatic ocean vistas, tide pools, and photo opportunities away from the crowds of the main approach.
Best Photo Spots
Sea Candle observation tower at sunset with Mt. Fuji, the red torii gate with the bridge and mainland behind, views from the shrine terraces looking toward Kamakura, and the dramatic rocky coastline near Iwaya Caves. The lighthouse illumination after dark is also photogenic.
Illumination Events and Festivals
Winter illuminations (November-February) light up the Sea Candle and gardens spectacularly. Summer beach culture peaks in July-August with festivals, fireworks, and beach houses. The Enoshima Tenno Festival in July features portable shrines and is one of the area's major events.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Even with escalators (Enopass holders), Enoshima involves significant walking on uneven paths, stairs, and slopes. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. Avoid high heels. The island can be hot in summer - bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. The sea breeze provides some relief.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Enoshima Island?
Most visitors spend 3-4 hours minimum to properly explore the island. This includes climbing to the shrines (30 minutes), visiting Sea Candle and gardens (45 minutes), walking to Iwaya Caves (30 minutes each way plus exploration), and enjoying a seafood lunch. Budget a half-day or combine with Kamakura for a full day trip.
Is Enoshima crowded on weekends?
Yes, weekends and holidays can get very crowded, especially during summer beach season (July-August) and illumination events (November-February). Weekday mornings are significantly quieter. Arrive early (before 10am) on weekends to beat the crowds, particularly on the narrow approach streets and at popular restaurants.
Can I swim at Enoshima beaches?
Yes, swimming is permitted at the beaches surrounding Enoshima during summer (typically July-August). Beach houses operate during this period offering showers, lockers, and equipment rentals. Water quality is monitored regularly. Outside summer months, swimming is not recommended due to lack of lifeguards and facilities.
What are the Iwaya Caves and are they worth visiting?
The Iwaya Caves are natural sea caves on the island's southern tip featuring Buddhist statues, dragon legends, and atmospheric lighting. They're included in the Enopass and take 30-40 minutes to explore. Worth visiting for the unique underground experience and coastal scenery on the walk there, though can feel commercialized.
Should I buy the Enopass or pay separately?
The Enopass (1,000 yen) is highly recommended if you plan to visit multiple attractions. It includes escalators, Sea Candle, Samuel Cocking Garden, and Iwaya Caves - buying separately costs 1,370 yen. The escalators alone are worth it on hot days or if you have mobility concerns, saving you steep climbs.
Is the Enoshima Aquarium on the island?
No, Enoshima Aquarium (Shin-Enoshima Aquarium) is located on the mainland side just before the bridge, not on the island itself. It's a separate attraction with separate admission (around 2,500 yen for adults). It's famous for jellyfish displays and can be combined with an island visit in the same day.
Is Enoshima wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Accessibility is limited. The main approach has many stairs, though Enopass holders can use escalators to reach the shrine level. However, paths to Iwaya Caves involve uneven terrain and steps. Wheelchair users should focus on the lower shrine areas accessible by escalator. Strollers are challenging - baby carriers recommended.
Is Enoshima good for children?
Yes, children generally enjoy Enoshima. The island offers beaches for playing, caves to explore, observation tower views, gardens with seasonal flowers, and plenty of seafood restaurants. The walk around the island provides adventure without being too strenuous. Summer beach season is especially popular with families.
Can I easily combine Enoshima with Kamakura?
Absolutely. Enoshima and Kamakura are only 25 minutes apart via the scenic Enoden Line. Most visitors combine both in one day - spend morning in Kamakura visiting temples, then afternoon at Enoshima for ocean views and seafood. The Enoden Line itself is a charming coastal ride worth experiencing.
Are there luggage storage facilities on Enoshima?
Yes, coin lockers are available at Enoshima Station, Shonan-Enoshima Station, and near the island entrance bridge. Sizes range from small to large (300-700 yen). The island involves significant walking and stairs, so storing large luggage is highly recommended for comfortable exploration.
Is Enoshima worth visiting on a rainy day?
Enoshima can still be enjoyable in light rain - the caves, Sea Candle observation tower, and covered shrine areas provide shelter. However, the main appeal is outdoor scenery and ocean views which are diminished in poor weather. Mt. Fuji won't be visible. Consider visiting on a clearer day if possible.
Are there restrooms and facilities on the island?
Yes, public restrooms are located near the entrance bridge, at various points along the approach, near the shrines, and at the Sea Candle area. Most are free and reasonably well-maintained. Restaurants and cafes also have facilities for customers. Bring tissue as some may occasionally run out.
What seafood dishes should I try at Enoshima?
Enoshima is famous for shirasu (whitebait) served raw (nama-shirasu, available March-December except summer), boiled, or in rice bowls. Also try sazae (turban shell), fresh seafood donburi, grilled fish, and octopus crackers (tako-senbei). Budget 1,500-3,000 yen for a seafood lunch with ocean views.
Do restaurants on Enoshima have English menus?
Most restaurants have picture menus which help significantly. English menus are available at some larger establishments but not universal. Staff rarely speak English fluently. Using translation apps or pointing to pictures works well. The specialty shirasu dishes are easy to identify and order.
What's the best season to visit Enoshima?
Winter (November-March) offers the best Mt. Fuji visibility and spectacular illuminations. Summer (July-August) is ideal for beach activities but very crowded. Spring and autumn provide pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Each season has appeal - winter for views and lights, summer for beaches and festivals.
What should I absolutely not miss on Enoshima?
Don't miss the Sea Candle observation tower views (especially at sunset), the scenic coastal walk to Iwaya Caves offering dramatic ocean vistas away from crowds, and trying fresh shirasu at one of the oceanview restaurants. If visiting in winter, the illumination events are spectacular and shouldn't be missed.
Where are the best photo spots on Enoshima?
Top photo spots include Sea Candle observation tower (sunset with Mt. Fuji), the red torii gate with bridge and mainland behind, shrine terraces overlooking Kamakura coast, rocky coastline near Iwaya Caves with crashing waves, and the illuminated Sea Candle at night during winter events.
Should I take the stairs or escalators to the top?
The Enopass escalators save significant effort, especially in summer heat or for those with mobility concerns. However, the stairs offer charm with small shops and street food along the way. If fit and it's not too hot, consider stairs up and escalators down, or vice versa to experience both.
Can I see sunset and Mt. Fuji from Enoshima?
Yes, Enoshima is famous for sunset views. Mt. Fuji appears to the west across Sagami Bay, most visible November-March on clear days. The Sea Candle observation tower offers the best sunset vantage point. Check weather forecasts and arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset for optimal viewing and photography.
Is there a dress code or religious etiquette at Enoshima Shrine?
No strict dress code, but modest clothing is respectful when visiting the shrine buildings. Remove shoes when entering certain shrine areas (slippers usually provided). Bow before entering torii gates. Photography is generally allowed but be respectful. The island overall is casual - beachwear is fine for the coastal areas.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Engaku-ji Temple
One of Kamakura's most important Zen temples, founded in 1282, featuring National Treasure buildings, tranquil Zen gardens, and serving as the second-ranked of Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples.
Enoshima Aquarium
A modern seaside aquarium featuring massive ocean tanks, jellyfish displays, dolphin and sea lion shows, and stunning views of Mount Fuji across Sagami Bay.
Hakone Onsen
A renowned hot spring resort area nestled in the mountains southwest of Tokyo, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji, volcanic valleys, and traditional Japanese inns.
Great Buddha of Kamakura
A monumental bronze Buddha statue standing 13.35 meters tall, sitting peacefully in the open air at Kotoku-in Temple for over 750 years, one of Japan's most iconic images.
Hasedera Temple (Kamakura)
A scenic hillside temple famous for its massive wooden Kannon statue, thousands of jizo statues, and seasonal flowers with ocean views over Kamakura's coastline.
Kawasaki Daishi Heiken-ji
One of Japan's most important Buddhist temples, famous for yakuyoke blessings to ward off bad luck and drawing over 3 million New Year visitors annually.
Sankeien Garden
A stunning 175,000 square meter traditional Japanese garden featuring historic buildings relocated from across Japan, seasonal flowers, ponds, and peaceful walking paths away from Yokohama's urban center.
Yokohama Chinatown
Japan's largest Chinatown with over 600 shops and restaurants packed into vibrant streets, featuring authentic Chinese cuisine, colorful gates, temples, and festivals year-round.