Enoshima Island, Tokyo - Sunset casts golden light over the ocean.
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Enoshima Island Tokyo

4.5
·249 reviews·Fujisawa, Japan

A charming island escape from Tokyo, offering shrines, caves, and breathtaking ocean views, especially at sunset.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Enoshima Island, Tokyo - Sunset casts golden light over the ocean.

Enoshima Island Tokyo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming island escape from Tokyo, offering shrines, caves, and breathtaking ocean views, especially at sunset.

4.5
(249 reviews)

"Enoshima is a breathtaking day trip from Tokyo, straight out of an anime!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Get the Enoshima-Kamakura Pass

Save on transport with this pass for unlimited rides on Odakyu Railway lines.

🚶‍♀️ Prepare for Stairs!

Lots of walking and inclines. Consider the Escar or ferry if needed.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Enoshima Shrine

Enoshima Shrine

Enoshima Island

Explore the main shrine complex, a spiritual heart of the island with beautiful architecture and ocean views.

Enoshima Sea Candle

Enoshima Sea Candle

Summit of Enoshima Island

Ascend this observation tower for panoramic views of the coastline, Mount Fuji on clear days, and the surrounding islands.

Iwaya Caves

Iwaya Caves

Western tip of Enoshima Island

Discover these sea caves, once used by monks, with unique rock formations and a mystical atmosphere.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds on Enoshima

Enoshima can get packed, especially on weekends. Redditors suggest arriving early, ideally before 9 AM, to enjoy the island's charm with fewer people. Consider visiting on a weekday if possible for a more relaxed experience. Reddit+1

Getting Around Enoshima

While Enoshima is walkable, be prepared for stairs and inclines. For easier access, look into the Enoshima Escar (escalator) or the ferry service that connects different parts of the island. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon/Sunset
Why
Beautiful golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

PRO TIP: Get the Enoshima-Kamakura freepass via Odakyu Railway to get unlimited rides on the trains before u go! #tokyo #japan #tokyovlog #japanvlog #tokyodaytrip #kamakura #enoshima #japantrip #jap...
@sophieeleung
112.3K likes • 1.3M views

🎯 Get the Enoshima-Kamakura Pass

Save on transport with this pass for unlimited rides on Odakyu Railway lines. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Prepare for Stairs!

Lots of walking and inclines. Consider the Escar or ferry if needed. Reddit

🏝キレイ🌅✨💖 #kamakura #enoshima #kanagawa #japan
@70davislita
101.8K likes • 682.3K views
reddit.com

Prepare yourself for Enoshima

🌅 Sunset Views are Worth It

Enoshima offers stunning sunset vistas, especially with Mount Fuji in the background. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Reddit

reddit.com

Enoshima & Kamakura day trip itinerary. Too much for one day?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Get the Enoshima-Kamakura Pass

Save on transport with this pass for unlimited rides on Odakyu Railway lines. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Prepare for Stairs!

Lots of walking and inclines. Consider the Escar or ferry if needed. Reddit

🌅 Sunset Views are Worth It

Enoshima offers stunning sunset vistas, especially with Mount Fuji in the background. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Reddit

⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds

Arrive before 9 AM for a more serene experience. Reddit+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(249 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Enoshima's stunning coastal scenery, especially the views from the Sea Candle and the sunset. The island's shrines and caves offer a unique cultural and natural experience. However, some find the island can get extremely crowded, and the numerous stairs can be tiring for some.

"Nice island to visit. Suggest to go early and after visiting, seeing the sites and work your hunger, you arrive in time to try all the street food or restaurants the Enoshima proposes.
I also early morning and on a beautiful day, more chances to see Mount Fuji like we did"

Tumata Garbutt

"A beautiful small island with beautiful sunset. Good food, good scenery. Since it is near from Tokyo, this is a good 1-day trip alternative for your vacation in Japan"

Eva Leevin

"Sadly the weather wasn't amazing, but that didn't ruin this small but beautiful island. I haven't fully explored it, but that only means there's a reason to come back when the sun is shining."

Tim P.

What People Like

Beautiful ocean views
Scenic sunset spots
Unique island atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be very crowded
Lots of stairs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular way to reach Enoshima from Tokyo is via the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station to Katase-Enoshima Station. This journey takes about 80-90 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the JR Tokaido Line to Fujisawa Station and then transfer to the Odakyu Enoshima Line. Many travelers recommend the Enoshima-Kamakura freepass for convenient travel on the Odakyu Railway. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Enoshima is a fantastic day trip from Tokyo, offering a blend of shrines, natural beauty, and coastal charm. It's often paired with a visit to nearby Kamakura for a full day of exploration. TikTokReddit

The Enoden Line (a charming local train) connects Kamakura and Enoshima, offering scenic coastal views along the way. The journey is short and picturesque. Reddit

While you can drive to the mainland near Enoshima, parking on the island itself is limited. It's generally recommended to use public transportation due to potential traffic and parking challenges. Reddit

The Odakyu Line from Shinjuku to Katase-Enoshima Station typically takes around 80 to 90 minutes, making it a convenient option for a day trip. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Enoshima Island itself is free to enter. However, there are various attractions on the island, such as the Sea Candle, caves, and gardens, that require separate admission fees. Reddit

The Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass, often available through Odakyu Railway, offers unlimited rides on specific train lines and buses in the area, making it a cost-effective option for exploring both Enoshima and Kamakura. TikTok

Yes, walking around the island, visiting the main Enoshima Shrine complex, and enjoying the coastal views are all free activities. Reddit

Attraction hours can vary, but generally, most sites on Enoshima are open from around 9 AM to 5 PM. It's advisable to check the specific opening times for each attraction you plan to visit, as some may close earlier. Reddit

The main grounds of Enoshima Shrine are free to access. However, some of the sub-shrines or specific areas within the shrine complex might have small entrance fees. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Enoshima offers a variety of activities including visiting the Enoshima Shrine, exploring the Iwaya Caves, enjoying the views from the Sea Candle, relaxing in the Samuel Cocking Garden, and experiencing the island's unique atmosphere. TikTok

Enoshima Island is walkable, but it involves many stairs and inclines. For easier access, you can utilize the Enoshima Escar (escalator system) or a ferry service that connects different points on the island. Reddit

Great photo opportunities include the views from the Sea Candle, the torii gates of Enoshima Shrine, the coastal scenery, and the charming streets of the island. Sunset shots are particularly popular. TikTokReddit

Enoshima can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Visiting on a weekday or arriving early in the morning is recommended to avoid the largest crowds. Reddit+1

The Enoshima Sea Candle is an observation tower located at the summit of the island, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding ocean, coastline, and on clear days, Mount Fuji. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Enoshima offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries serving local snacks like shirasu-don (whitebait rice bowls) to restaurants with seafood specialties and international cuisine. Reddit

Yes, the area around Katase-Enoshima Station and the approach to the island are lined with numerous restaurants and cafes offering various dining experiences. Reddit

Shirasu-don is a popular local dish consisting of freshly caught whitebait served over a bowl of rice. It's a must-try when visiting the Shonan coast. Reddit

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer other options. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff about vegetarian choices, which may include vegetable tempura or noodle dishes. Reddit

Yes, there are many charming cafes scattered across Enoshima Island, perfect for enjoying a coffee, tea, or a sweet treat while taking in the views. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography on Enoshima. Weekday mornings also provide opportunities for crowd-free shots. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for expansive coastal views, and a telephoto lens can help capture distant Mount Fuji. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in many popular tourist areas in Japan, including Enoshima, to ensure safety and respect for visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. TikTok

Don't miss the views from the Sea Candle, the approach to Enoshima Shrine with its torii gates, the rocky coastline, and the picturesque streets. Capturing the sunset over the ocean is a highlight. TikTok

Absolutely! Modern smartphones are capable of taking excellent photos. Focus on composition, lighting, and using features like panorama mode for stunning shots. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Enoshima offers a fun-filled day for families. The island's attractions, like the Enoshima Sea Candle with its panoramic views, and the Iwaya Caves, can spark children's imaginations. For easier navigation with little ones, consider utilizing the Enoshima Escar to avoid excessive climbing. Reddit Packing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, and there are plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic with a view. The beach area near the island also provides opportunities for some seaside fun if the weather is suitable. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Enoshima can be enjoyed on a budget by focusing on its free attractions. The island itself is free to enter, and exploring the Enoshima Shrine complex and enjoying the coastal scenery costs nothing. Reddit Opting for public transport like the Odakyu Line and utilizing the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass can significantly reduce travel expenses. TikTok Instead of dining at sit-down restaurants, consider purchasing local snacks or bento boxes from convenience stores or local markets for a more economical meal. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Enoshima is a photographer's paradise, especially during the golden hour. The Sea Candle offers incredible panoramic shots, and the Enoshima Shrine provides iconic framing opportunities. Don't miss the rugged beauty of the coastline near the Iwaya Caves. TikTok Consider bringing a versatile lens to capture both wide landscapes and detailed shots. Remember to check for any drone regulations before flying. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Enoshima: Getting Around

Enoshima Island is a popular destination, and while it's a joy to explore on foot, be prepared for a significant amount of walking and numerous stairs. For those seeking a more relaxed ascent, the Enoshima Escar is a series of escalators that transport visitors up the island's slopes, offering a convenient way to reach the higher attractions without strenuous climbing. Reddit Additionally, a ferry service operates, connecting different points on the island, which can be a pleasant and scenic alternative to walking, especially for reaching the Iwaya Caves. Reddit

When planning your route, consider your stamina and preferences. Many visitors opt to walk from the train station to the island, enjoying the coastal scenery along the way. Reddit However, once on the island, the Escar can save considerable energy, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights. Remember to wear comfortable shoes regardless of your chosen method of transport, as exploring the various shrines, gardens, and viewpoints will still involve a good amount of walking. Reddit

The Allure of Enoshima's Views

Enoshima is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, offering a unique blend of coastal beauty and distant mountain panoramas. The Enoshima Sea Candle, an observation tower at the island's summit, provides unparalleled 360-degree views. From here, you can gaze out at the vast Pacific Ocean, the picturesque Shonan coastline, and on exceptionally clear days, the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji. TikTok

Beyond the Sea Candle, numerous vantage points across the island offer stunning photographic opportunities. The approach to the Enoshima Shrine itself, with its vibrant torii gates framing the sea, is a classic shot. Exploring the western tip of the island leads to the Iwaya Caves, where the rugged coastline provides dramatic views. TikTok Many visitors find that the island's charm is amplified during the golden hour, with the soft light of sunrise and sunset casting a magical glow over the landscape, making it an ideal time for photography. Reddit

Planning Your Enoshima Itinerary

Many visitors combine a trip to Enoshima with a visit to nearby Kamakura, creating a full day of exploration. Redditors often discuss the best order for visiting these two locations. Some prefer to start in Kamakura early in the morning to beat the crowds at its temples and shrines, then head to Enoshima in the afternoon and evening to enjoy its sunset views. Reddit Others suggest visiting Enoshima first, especially if they are concerned about the island becoming overly crowded due to its narrow paths. Reddit

Regardless of the order, it's crucial to be aware of closing times, as many attractions in both areas can shut down by 4:30 PM. Reddit A common itinerary involves arriving at Enoshima around 8:30 AM, exploring its main sights, and then moving on to Kamakura. Reddit However, some find this pace a bit exhausting, so it's important to tailor the itinerary to your energy levels and interests. Reddit Consider purchasing the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass to simplify transportation between the two destinations and other local lines. TikTok

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