If you're planning a day trip from Tokyo that offers a perfect mix of seaside charm, cultural discoveries, and breathtaking views, Enoshima Island is a must visit destination! Just an hour from the city by train, Enoshima transports you to a world of natural beauty, rich history, and coastal vibes (if slighly over-run by tourists). Whether you're an adventure seeker, a foodie, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle of Tokyo, Enoshima has something for everyone.
Enoshima Attractions: Tourist Spots Aplenty
While everyone enjoys different things, Enoshima Island has plenty of tourists spots to enjoy and for this reason makes it an ideal tourist destination if you are running out of things to do in Tokyo. Pick your favourites and make your own Enoshima itinerary using our list of the top spots on Enoshima Island:
- Enoshima Iwaya Caves and coastal walk
- Dragon Bell Of Love
- Temples and Shrines
- Samuel Cocking Garden
- Enoshima Sea Candle
- Benten Nakamise - Enoshima shopping street
Getting to Enoshima Island
The journey itself is part of the fun! Catch a Tokyo to Enoshima train from:
- Shinjuku (Odakyu Line) to Katase-Enoshima Station; or
- from Shibuya station to Fujisawa station (Shonan-Shinjuku Line) then take Enoden Line to Enoshima (stop EN06)
and in no time, you’ll find yourself at the foot of the iconic Enoshima bridge. Walking across this long causeway is a treat, with stunning views of the sparkling Sagami Bay and, on clear days, Mount Fuji standing majestically in the distance. Be sure to snap a few photos here - it’s one of the best spots for Enoshima sunset views and perfect for Instagram!
Monorail fun: Shonan Monorail
For a unique and scenic journey, consider taking the Shonan Monorail to reach Enoshima Island on one leg of your day trip. This elevated monorail leaves from Ofuna Station (see how to get to Ofuna Station below) and offers stunning views as it glides over towns, rivers, and lush landscapes. The ride is smooth and a fun experience in itself, making your Enoshima travel even more memorable. Once you arrive at Shonan-Enoshima Station, you’ll be just a short walk from the famous Enoshima bridge, ready to start your island adventure!
Ofuna Station: There are multiple different ways to get to the connecting Ofuna Station from Tokyo so check out what is easiest for you from:
- JR Tokaido Main Line (JR East railway network)
- JR Yokosuka Line (JR East railway network)
- Keihin-Tohoku Line (which continues into the Negishi Line)
Our suggestion: If you don't think you'll be visiting this area again we suggest taking the Shonan Monorail (from Ofuna) to get to Katase-Enoshima and returning via the Enoden Line (get on at Enoshima Station, stop EN06) and exit stop EN15 (Kamakura) then switch to JR Yokosuka Line back to Tokyo.
Once you step onto Enoshima Island, the fun really begins. The island is famous for its lush greenery and impressive shrines, including the Enoshima Shrine complex. Climb the lantern-lined paths, pass through beautiful torii gates, and admire intricate carvings at each shrine. The peaceful atmosphere and friendly cats that often lounge around add to the charm. It’s one of the top Enoshima attractions for those interested in culture and history.
Iwaya caves
For those seeking adventure, the Enoshima Iwaya caves are a must-visit. These ancient sea caves, carved by waves over centuries, are filled with history and natural beauty. Bring a flashlight and explore the mysterious passageways, where legends of dragons and deities linger.
The Iwaya Caves at Enoshima Island hold deep cultural and spiritual significance, dating back over a thousand years. These naturally formed sea caves were long considered sacred by local fishermen and religious practitioners. Inside, you’ll find ancient statues, lanterns, and altars dedicated to Buddhist and Shinto deities, particularly the goddess Benzaiten, who is revered as a protector of the sea and bringer of fortune.
Many believe that visiting the Iwaya Caves brings blessings of safety, prosperity, and spiritual purification. This connection to both nature and spirituality adds a unique depth to the Enoshima travel experience. This unique Enoshima sightseeing spot offers a cool escape on warm days and a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past. Sadly we visited on a wet and rainy day but it didn't stop us!
As a bonus to get to the Iwaya Caves requires an extensive and beautiful coastal walk. While we visited on an overcast and rainy day I can equally imagine it being beautiful here when the sun is out.
With the Iwaya Caves doubling as both a cave experience as well as short coastal walk you really must visit the Iwaya Caves if you've bothered to make it to Enoshima Island. It makes even greater sense when you consider that the majority of the coast of Enoshima Island is inaccessible to pedestrians. View the handy pocket map to see what I mean.
Enoshima Sea Candle
The Enoshima Sea Candle is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see attraction for visitors. This towering lighthouse, also known as the Enoshima Lighthouse Observation Tower, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Sagami Bay and, on clear days, even the majestic Mount Fuji in the distance.
Inside the Enoshima Sea Candle, visitors can take an elevator or climb the spiral staircase to reach the observation platform. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with a stunning 360-degree view of Enoshima Island, the coastline, and the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean. The Sea Candle is especially magical at night, when it lights up in vibrant colors, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for couples. No trip to Enoshima Island is complete without a visit to this remarkable structure, which has become a beloved symbol of the island’s beauty and coastal spirit.
On clear days, you’ll spot Mount Fuji and the shimmering bay, making this one of the top Enoshima travel experiences.
Whether you visit during the day or catch the stunning sunset from the observation deck, the Sea Candle offers a picture-perfect moment for any Enoshima itinerary.
Samuel Cocking Garden
One of the best spots to relax (when the weather obliges) is the Samuel Cocking Garden, a peaceful oasis filled with exotic plants and seasonal flowers. The Samuel Cocking Garden surrounds the Sea Candle and is filled with seasonal flowers and lush greenery and makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.
If you’re visiting in the afternoon, stick around for the Enoshima sunset views. The golden light paints the sky and sea in breathtaking colors, creating a romantic and tranquil atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to end your day, whether you’re visiting with friends, a partner, or even solo. The sunsets in Enoshima are especially sought out by the Japanese locals.
As a completist traveller I wasn't going to give up on the opportunity to visit Samuel Cocking Garden. However, to be honest it wasn't the greatest experience (although I'm pretty sure the dreary weather was a major influencing factor).
Anyway, for garden lovers it's worth a visit and if they have a light show on I'd say definitely come here in the evening as there is something magical about light displays. Equally, if you are here on a lovely sunny and hot day then that is going to make the Samuel Cocking Garden a lot more enjoyable.
The Bell of the Dragon's Love
The Bell of the Dragon’s Love, known in Japanese as Ryuren no Kane (龍恋の鐘), is a romantic and culturally significant landmark perched atop Lover’s Hill on Enoshima Island. This bell is deeply rooted in local folklore, particularly the legend of a five-headed dragon and a celestial maiden named Benzaiten.
The story narrates that the dragon, once a tyrant demanding sacrifices from the locals, fell in love with Benzaiten when she descended from the heavens to bring peace to the area. In an effort to win her affection, the dragon vowed to change his ways and ultimately succeeded in marrying her.
For a tourist the Bell of the Dragon’s Love makes for a perfect selfie spot and a nice memory of your visit to the island. For the romanticist in you, be organised, bring your own lock, permanent marker and surprise your loved one and leave your own personal message of love!
Temples and Shrines
Enoshima Island is renowned not only for its scenic beauty but also for its rich spiritual heritage, showcased through its many temples and shrines. The most famous among them is the Enoshima Shrine, a complex of three separate shrines dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten, the deity of fortune, music, and water. This shrine complex dates back over 1,500 years and is deeply connected to the island’s legend of Benzaiten descending from the heavens. Visitors can explore Hetsumiya (the main shrine), Nakatsumiya (middle shrine), and Okutsumiya (deep shrine), each offering a unique atmosphere and stunning architectural details.
The path to the shrines is an adventure in itself, with lantern-lined staircases, vibrant torii gates, and intricate carvings adding a touch of mystique to your journey. At the entrance, visitors often stop to wash their hands at the purification fountain, a traditional ritual that symbolizes cleansing of body and spirit. The shrines’ peaceful ambiance may long since be gone (it's kind of over-run with tourists), but combined with the island’s lush greenery and ocean views it is still quite a beautiful place.
This is still a spiritual site as you'll notice from the many Japanese who still visit and pray here. However, due to the crowds it no longer seems a great spot for contemplation unless you arrived at very early hours in the day and I mean pre-8AM in the morning and maybe even earlier!
In addition to Enoshima Shrine, you’ll also find several smaller yet equally fascinating temples and sacred sites scattered across the island. One such spot is the small but beautiful Hoanden Hall, which houses a statue of the goddess Benzaiten and offers a quieter, more intimate experience compared to the larger shrines.
Each shrine and temple on Enoshima Island reflects a harmonious balance between nature and faith, showcasing Japan’s unique approach to spirituality. Whether you’re visiting to admire the historic architecture, participate in a traditional prayer ritual, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings, Enoshima’s temples and shrines offer a rich and memorable cultural experience.
Hungry? Enoshima food and dining are highlights of the trip. Grab a bite at one of the many seaside cafes or street vendors offering freshly grilled seafood, crispy tempura, and the famous Enoshima-don - a rice bowl topped with shirasu (tiny whitebait fish).
Don’t forget to try the Enoshima soft-serve ice cream, often served with local sea salt or matcha flavors for a refreshing twist and other unusual food delights while you are here. This culinary experience is a must for any Enoshima itinerary!
Trying food you can't or never have at home is one of the top reasons for overseas travel and when will you visit Enoshima Island next?
Benten Nakamise
For shopaholics and souvenir hunters, Enoshima’s shopping street, Benten Nakamise, is filled with cute shops offering everything from handmade crafts and quirky snacks to traditional Japanese sweets. It’s the ideal spot to pick up a memento of your day trip or a thoughtful gift for someone back home. It's also a fun way to end your day at the island!
Benten Nakamise Street is the vibrant heart of Enoshima Island, welcoming visitors with its lively atmosphere and unique blend of traditional and modern shops. This bustling shopping street stretches from the island’s entrance to the base of the Enoshima Shrine, making it an unavoiadable stop on any Enoshima travel itinerary.
As you can tell it can get packed here - even on a horrible day for weather. A bit of patience is required here as it gets so packed. We suggest avoiding visiting Enoshima Island on a weekend if you are crowd weary. Yes, crowds are the bain of tourists and locals alike.
Lined with souvenir stores, cafes, and food stalls, Benten Nakamise is the perfect place to pick up local gifts and snacks, adding a fun and authentic touch to your day trip from Tokyo.
History: The street is named after Benzaiten, the goddess of fortune and water, who is enshrined at the nearby Enoshima Shrine. Many shops here sell items related to Benzaiten, including charms, amulets, and statues that represent good luck and prosperity.
Handy Pocket Maps
We've attached a link to two handy pocket maps of Enoshima Island including all the walking trails and main tourists sights.
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that we do not maintain this map and it may contain outdated information. Use at your discretion:
Maps:
- Link to Enoshima Island pdf map
- Link to Enoshima Island pdf map and tourist sights and descriptions.
Tip
Kamakura is a huge travel and tourist destination literally right next door to Enoshima Island. Do NOT be tempted to try and visit both places in a single day. There is just too much to see and you'd actually have to run between stops if you were genuinely visiting all the best stops of both destinations.
You need to take your time to enjoy both spots. Due to the crowds and popularity of both spots trying to rush will just diminish your enjoyment.
Conclusion
So next time you’re in Tokyo and looking for a quick getaway, remember Enoshima Island. It’s the perfect destination for a day trip that delivers stunning sights, cultural gems, delicious food, and a laid back vibe (excluding the weekends). Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat adventure, Enoshima will leave you with memories to treasure - and plenty of reasons to come back for more Enoshima sightseeing fun!
Also, unlike some of the suggested day trips from Tokyo, Enoshima Island is genuinely feasible (as the travel times are not too excessive). Some day trips I've read up online are 1 1/2 hours one way so at least 3 hours return. While doable these kind of day trips are stretching it.
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