Enoshima Island — Attraction in Fujisawa

Enoshima Review – A Picturesque Coastal Escape

Enoshima is a charming island off the Shonan coast in Kanagawa Prefecture, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and ocean views. Just a short train ride from Tokyo, it’s an ideal day trip for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Getting to Enoshima is simple. From Fujisawa Station, a quick train ride takes you to Enoshima Station, and from there, a scenic walk leads to the island. The approach is refreshing, with the sea breeze and views of the coastline immediately setting a relaxed tone for your visit.

Upon arriving, I was struck by the island’s mix of traditional charm and modern appeal. The main street is lined with quaint shops, restaurants, and cafés. I enjoyed wandering through local stores selling fresh seafood, crafts, and souvenirs. Many cafés offer ocean views, and it’s a great place to stop and relax with a cup of coffee while soaking in the coastal atmosphere.

One of the main highlights of Enoshima is the Enoshima Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten. The shrine is located atop the island’s hill, surrounded by lush greenery. The walk up to the shrine is an enjoyable experience, with stone steps and traditional lanterns lining the path. Reaching the top, I was rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the coastline, Kamakura in the distance, and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji. The sight was breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for photos or simply enjoying the beauty of the area.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Enoshima’s beaches are a major draw. The island is well-known for its surfing culture, and I saw many surfers riding the waves. The relaxed beach atmosphere adds to the island’s laid-back vibe, making it a great place to unwind or try surfing if you're so inclined. The sandy shores also offer opportunities for a peaceful walk along the water.

Another must-see is the Enoshima Aquarium, which features a variety of marine life from the local area. It’s an educational and fun stop for those interested in marine ecosystems, with interactive exhibits and a wide range of sea creatures. For nature lovers, the island also offers a beautiful coastline perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the seaside scenery.

Enoshima’s rich cultural history also adds to its charm. The island has been a place of worship for centuries, and many visitors come to explore its spiritual heritage. The Enoshima Shrine and other smaller shrines around the island contribute to a tranquil atmosphere that encourages reflection and connection with the past. The island’s legends, including those surrounding the goddess Benzaiten, add an intriguing layer to its appeal.

Overall, Enoshima is a hidden gem that offers the perfect mix of coastal beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re interested in visiting historical sites, relaxing on the beach, or simply enjoying the stunning views, Enoshima is a great destination for a peaceful escape from Tokyo. It’s a memorable day trip that showcases the natural beauty and rich history of...

I've never heard about this island until my cousins decided an impromptu trip to visit this island. Enoshima is a small island off the Shōnan coast of Japan’s Kanagawa Prefecture. Beautiful coastal view that will definitely take your breath away. You should also try travelling to Enoshima via Ofuna, using the Shonan Monorail, feels like you're travelling on a roller coaster.

Really scenic view, a few temples along the way and also a wishing well where you can toss coins for good fortune.

Unfortunately the caves were under construction/maintenance when we visited. However, if you travel all the way to the other end of the island, you will be rewarded with the most beautiful coastal view. Caution: LOTS OF STEPS!

Food wise: there is cafes and restaurants available on the island. I'd recommend trying their rice bowls, particularly shirasu (whitebait) ones. Apparently they are known for Tako(Octopus) Senbei, there was a huge line up for that.

Overall, an amazing experience. Something different from the city life of...

Although a small island, Enoshima is a very beautiful island with a lot to see and do. I spent an afternoon there, opting to be there when the sun sets.

There is no entrance fee to get on the island itself, however, they have a number of attractions where you will need to pay to enter. The main one being the Sea Candle which is their lighthouse observation tower.

Leading up to the island, just past the bridge, there is a small nakamise (store street) that sells food, drinks and souvenirs. This isnt your last stop as on the island itself are a number of restaurants, shops and vending machines.

Enoshima has a lot of stairs, and can be quite challenging. I initially hoped to walk the entire length of the island and hop on the ferry to be shuttled back to the start but when I got to the ferry pier, I discovered that the ferry wasn’t running that day for an unknown reason. I didn’t even have anyone to ask about it so I had to walk and climb all the way back! But the view I was rewarded with was...