What Is the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass?
The Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass is an Odakyu Railways pass designed for a convenient day trip from Tokyo to Kamakura and Enoshima. It includes:
- Round-trip train tickets between Shinjuku Station (central Tokyo) and Fujisawa Station (gateway to the area).
- Unlimited rides on the Enoshima Line and Enoden Line, which connect popular attractions like the Great Buddha of Kamakura, Komachi-dori shopping street, and Enoshima Island.
Kamakura, a former capital of Japan, is now a charming coastal city known for its many temples and beaches. Meanwhile, Enoshima Island captivates visitors with its seaside vibe and stunning views.
Suggested Itinerary for a Day Trip
Here’s an optimized weekday itinerary (to avoid weekend crowds):
Morning
- 9:10 AM: Depart Shinjuku Station (OE01) on the Rapid Express train to Fujisawa Station (OE13). Travel time: ~1 hour.
- 10:15 AM: Take the Enoden Line from Fujisawa Station (EN1) to Kamakura Station (EN15). Travel time: ~30 minutes.
- 11:00 AM: Stroll along Komachi-dori, a lively shopping street, and visit the stunning Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at one of Kamakura’s many restaurants.
Afternoon
- 1:00 PM: Take a JR train from Kamakura Station to Kita-Kamakura Station (1 stop). Explore Jōchi-ji Temple, then hike to Sasuke Inari Shrine and Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine before reaching the iconic Great Buddha of Kamakura. This route takes about 2.5 hours, including visits.
- 3:30 PM: From Hase Station (EN13), ride the Enoden Line to Enoshima Station (EN06). Travel time: ~20 minutes.
- 4:00 PM: Discover Enoshima Island. Walk to the Sea Candle lighthouse observatory and admire the sunset from the island’s heights.
Evening
- 6:00 PM: Return to Katase-Enoshima Station (EO16) and take the Odakyu Enoshima Line back to Fujisawa.
- 6:12 PM: From Fujisawa, board the Rapid Express train to Shinjuku Station.
- 7:10 PM: Arrive in Shinjuku.
Alternatively, dine at a seaside restaurant in Enoshima before heading back to Tokyo.
Is the Pass Worth It?
Let’s break down the costs for the suggested itinerary:
| Shinjuku → Fujisawa | 610 yen |
| Fujisawa → Kamakura (Enoden Line) | 310 yen |
| Hase → Enoshima (Enoden Line) | 260 yen |
| Fujisawa → Shinjuku | 650 yen |
| Total without pass | 1,980 yen |
At 1,640 yen, the Freepass saves 340 yen and simplifies travel with its QR code system.
What About Using JR Lines?
A similar route using JR trains and the Enoden Line costs about 2,630 yen. Unless you have a JR Pass, the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass is the more affordable option.
Additional Perks of the Freepass
The pass includes discounts at various Kamakura and Enoshima attractions:
- 10% off admission to the Sea Candle observatory on Enoshima Island.
- 10% off entry to the Iwaya Caves in Enoshima.
- 5% off at select partner restaurants and cafés.
Check the Odakyu official website for a full list of benefits.
How to Buy and Use the Freepass?
The Freepass is available exclusively via the Odakyu Mobile App (for Android and iOS). Here’s how it works:
- Purchase the pass up to a month in advance.
- Activate it and scan the QR code at train station gates.
- No reservatios are required, except for the Limited Express Romance Car (details below).
Types of Odakyu Trains
Odakyu Line trains between Shinjuku and Fujisawa include:
- Local: Stops at every station; very slow.
- Semi-Express: Stops at about half of the stations.
- Express: Faster with limited stops.
- Rapid Express: The fastest without extra fees—ideal for saving time.
- Limited Express/Romance Car: The most comfortable option, requiring a reservation and a 750-yen supplement.
