Enoshima
江の島
Things to Do in and Around Enoshima
Enoshima is an island facing Sagami Bay in the Pacific Ocean and is one of Kanagawa Prefecture’s major sightseeing destinations. In recent years, it has attracted not only domestic tourists but also many international visitors, making it a lively and popular travel spot.
Because Enoshima is located along Sagami Bay in the Pacific Ocean, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the open sea stretching across the horizon. The island is also known as a spiritual “power spot” believed to bring good luck. In addition to its atmospheric shopping streets that offer a glimpse of traditional Japanese townscapes, you can also spot various animals that make the island their home as you walk along the paths.
Its convenient access from major urban areas such as Tokyo and locations within Kanagawa Prefecture is another reason for its popularity.
Where is Enoshima?
Enoshima is an island located in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, with excellent access being about an hour from major tourist destinations such as Tokyo Station and Yokohama's downtown area.
Historically known as a place for training and worship, its history is still told by the shrines scattered throughout the island.
Furthermore, Enoshima offers natural attractions not found in central Tokyo, such as the sea, caves, and lush trees. On a clear day, you can enjoy the scenic view of Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
Although the land area is relatively small compared to other tourist spots, it has the advantage of being easy to tour around.
Getting Around
The nearest station to Enoshima is Odakyu Enoshima Line Katase-Enoshima Station. Other nearby stations include Enoshima Electric Railway Enoshima Station and Shonan Monorail Enoshima Line Shonan-Enoshima Station.
If you are traveling from JR Tokyo Station, take the JR Tokaido Main Line train bound for Odawara and get off at Fujisawa Station. Then transfer to the Odakyu Enoshima Line heading to Katase-Enoshima Station for the shortest and easiest route.
From Yokohama Chinatown, a tourist spot in Kanagawa Prefecture, take the JR Keihin-Tohoku/Negishi Line train bound for Ofuna from JR Ishikawacho Station and get off at Ofuna Station. Then transfer to the Shonan Monorail heading to Enoshima and get off at Shonan-Enoshima Station.
From Kamakura, you can reach Enoshima Station directly from Enoshima Electric Railway Kamakura Station without any transfers.
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About Enoshima
Eshima Shrine
The Eshima Shrine is a collective term for the Hetsunomiya, Nakatsunomiya, and Okutsunomiya located on Enoshima Island. Built in 1206, Eshima Shrine is a power spot known for bringing good fortune in work, money, and love, attracting many tourists.
Shin Enoshima Suizokukan / New Enoshima Aquarium
At the New Enoshima Aquarium, located right by Sagami Bay near Enoshima, you can experience a large tank with about 20,000 fish, dolphin shows, and feeding experiences with capybaras and penguins. The aquarium also features cafes and bars where you can enjoy meals and drinks.
Enoshima Benzaiten Shopping Street
From the torii gate at the entrance of Enoshima to the torii of Eshima Shrine, there are many shops offering street food, inns, and souvenir shops. Local specialties include octopus crackers, Meoto Manju, and shirasu (whitebait).
Enoshima Iwaya Caves
The Enoshima Iwaya consists of two caves, the First Iwaya and the Second Iwaya, formed by rock walls. Inside the caves, you can explore with a candle, viewing stone Buddhas and the birthplace of Eshima Shrine.
Bentenmaru Boat
The Bentenmaru is a sightseeing boat that runs from Benten Bridge to Chigogafuchi. On clear days, you can enjoy a refreshing view of Mount Fuji.
A lot of Cats in Enoshima
Enoshima Island was once home to over several hundred stray cats, which were considered one of its well-known features. In recent years, out of animal welfare concerns, efforts such as rescue programs have been made to reduce the stray cat population, and their numbers are gradually declining. However, you can still catch a glimpse of their charming figures from time to time, so please keep an eye out when you visit Enoshima.
*Please note: Feeding wild animals is prohibited. We also ask that you be considerate of the local residents.