Located just 1.5 hours by train southwest of Tokyo, Enoshima (江の島, meaning “island of the bay”) is a charming destination perfect for a relaxing afternoon escape.
Nestled at the mouth of the Katase River in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, this small island blends rich history, spiritual legends, and breathtaking views.
What is the History of Enoshima?
Enoshima is deeply tied to the goddess Benzaiten (弁財天), the Japanese deity of music, arts, beauty and wisdom.
According to a legend from 552 AD, Benzaiten caused the island to rise from the sea to defeat a five-headed dragon terrorizing the region. Captivated by her beauty, the dragon fell in love with her. Benzaiten agreed to marry him on the condition that he abandon his wicked ways, which he did. This mythical tale was recorded in "Enoshima Engi", a chronicle written in 1047 by the Buddhist monk Kôkei.
During the Meiji Era in 1880, the island underwent a major transformation. British merchant Samuel Cocking purchased much of the land, establishing botanical gardens and one of Japan’s first power plants. Today, the Samuel Cocking Gardens remain a key attraction at the heart of the island.
Things to Do on Enoshima Island
Enoshima offers a mix of spiritual, historical, and scenic experiences, including stunning views of Mount Fuji and magical sunsets. Here are the highlights of a visit to the island:
1. Benten Bridge
The 389-meter-long Benten Bridge connects Enoshima to the mainland. Built in 1964 for the Tokyo Olympics, it replaced the need for boats or waiting for low tide to access the island.
2. Bronze Torii Gate and Nakamise Street
At the island's entrance stands a bronze torii gate, erected in 1821 during the Edo Period, marking the gateway to Enoshima Shrine. The names of donors are engraved on its pillars.
Beyond the gate lies Nakamise Street, a lively thoroughfare lined with traditional shops and local delicacies like Mefu Manju (sweet buns) and octopus rice crackers.
3. Enoshima Shrine (Enoshima Jinja)
Founded in 552 by Emperor Kinmei, this sacred complex stretches from the island’s red torii gate to its summit. Its highlights include:
- Zuishinmon Gate (1986): Inspired by Ryûgû-jô, the undersea palace of the dragon god.
- Hetsunomiya (1206): Near the entrance of the shrine.
- Nakatsunomiya (853): Midway up the island, housing treasures linked to Benzaiten.
- Okutsunomiya (date unknown): The mysterious shrine at the summit, surrounded by relics of the dragon legend.
4. Dragon Palace and Love Bell
At the summit, you’ll find the Dragon Palace (Wadatsuminomiya), built in 1994 to honor the five-headed dragon. A dramatic dragon statue holding a pearl welcomes visitors.
Nearby, couples flock to the Dragon Love Bell (Ryuren no Kane), where they secure padlocks as symbols of eternal love, mirroring the dragon's devotion to Benzaiten.
5. Iwaya Caves
These sacred seaside caves, eroded by the ocean, are tied to Benzaiten’s legend and include two chambers:
- The first cave (152 meters): Features ancient Buddhist statues.
- The second cave: Houses an impressive statue of the dragon god.
Exploring the caves by candlelight is a unique experience. Entry costs 500 yen (~3.20 €), with a 10% discount available for Kamakura-Enoshima Freepass holders.
6. Sea Candle Lighthouse and Samuel Cocking Garden
Located in the Samuel Cocking Gardens, the Sea Candle Lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of Sagami Bay and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. Admission is 500 yen (~3.20 €) with discounts for Kamakura-Enoshima Freepass holders.
To return to the island entrance, you can walk or take a boat departing from the island’s eastern side.
How to Get to Enoshima?
Enoshima is easily accessible from Tokyo, with multiple convenient options:
1. Odakyu Line
From Shinjuku Station, take the Odakyu Line to Katase-Enoshima Station (about 1.5 hours). Spend the morning exploring nearby Kamakura, home to the Great Buddha before heading to Enoshima in the afternoon.
For unlimited travel between Kamakura, Enoshima, and Fujisawa, consider the Kamakura-Enoshima Freepass offered by Odakyu.
2. JR Pass
With a JR Pass, take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku to Fujisawa Station. From there, board the Enoden Line (not covered by JR Pass), which follows the scenic coastline to Enoshima.
Alternatively, stop at Ofuna Station and take the Shonan Monorail (not covered by JR Pass) to Shonan-Enoshima Station. This suspended rail journey offers a unique perspective of the region.
