Enoshima Shrine
A spiritual island complex with three ancient shrines, offering breathtaking coastal views and a vibrant cultural experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Enoshima Shrine
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A spiritual island complex with three ancient shrines, offering breathtaking coastal views and a vibrant cultural experience.
"Peaceful, amazing views and just a great happy and spiritual place."
🚶♀️ Skip the Escar Sometimes
The climb isn't too long and offers great viewpoints. Save money and enjoy the journey!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views from the Sea Candle and Samuel Cocking Garden are incredible at sunset.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Enoshima Shrine Complex
Enoshima Island
Explore three ancient shrines, vibrant shops, and enjoy breathtaking ocean views. A spiritual and scenic journey.
Samuel Cocking Garden
Enoshima Island
A majestic garden offering stunning vistas, especially beautiful during sunset. A peaceful escape.
Enoshima Sea Candle
Enoshima Island
Iconic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the island, coast, and on clear days, Mt. Fuji.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Enoshima Shrine
Getting to Enoshima Shrine
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Skip the Escar Sometimes
The climb isn't too long and offers great viewpoints. Save money and enjoy the journey!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views from the Sea Candle and Samuel Cocking Garden are incredible at sunset.
🐉 Dragon Omamori
Look for the unique dragon omamori (amulets) and other cultural souvenirs.
✨ Winter Illuminations
Enoshima Sea Candle hosts spectacular winter light-ups annually.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Skip the Escar Sometimes
The climb isn't too long and offers great viewpoints. Save money and enjoy the journey!
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views from the Sea Candle and Samuel Cocking Garden are incredible at sunset.
🐉 Dragon Omamori
Look for the unique dragon omamori (amulets) and other cultural souvenirs.
✨ Winter Illuminations
Enoshima Sea Candle hosts spectacular winter light-ups annually.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths and stairs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Enoshima Shrine for its peaceful atmosphere, stunning ocean views, and vibrant cultural experience. The walk through the shops and red gates is a highlight, and the Sea Candle offers spectacular panoramas, especially at sunset. Some find it a typical shrine, but most recommend it for its beauty and spiritual vibe.
"It is a typical shrine as others. If you have spare time to kamakura, can spend an hour or two. Take the escar to the top."
Simon Wong
"Peaceful, amazing views and just a great happy and spiritual place. Can be some annoying tourists talking their annoying photos but apart from that it is highly recommended to visit."
Damien Smith
"Enoshima Shrine – Hetsunomiya is a peaceful and beautiful spot on Enoshima Island. The walk up through the vibrant shops and red gates is really fun and colorful. The shrine itself is calm with lovely traditional architecture and a nice spiritual vibe. It’s a great place to take a break and enjoy some quiet time after exploring the busy island. Easy to reach from the station, and definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!"
giftzy_nana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tokyo, take a train to Fujisawa Station, then transfer to the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden) to Enoshima Station. The journey typically takes about an hour. +1
While there are parking lots near the island, it's often easier and more convenient to use public transportation due to potential traffic and limited parking.
You can walk to explore the island, or use the 'Escar' (escalator) system to ascend to the higher shrine areas.
It's possible but ambitious. Many visitors find it rushed. Consider focusing on one or dedicating a full day to both if you want to see everything.
Yes, you can take the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station directly to Katase-Enoshima Station, which is a convenient starting point for exploring the island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main shrine grounds is generally free. However, specific attractions like the Samuel Cocking Garden and the Sea Candle require separate admission fees.
The shrine itself is typically open from early morning until late afternoon. Specific attraction hours may vary, so it's best to check their individual schedules.
Yes, there are often various passes available that can offer savings if you plan to visit multiple attractions like the Sea Candle, Samuel Cocking Garden, and Iwaya Caves.
While the shrine itself is free, expect to pay for attractions like the Sea Candle (around ¥800 for evening entry) and the Samuel Cocking Garden.
For some attractions, purchasing tickets online might be possible, especially during peak seasons. It's advisable to check the official websites for the most up-to-date information.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant red gates leading up to the shrine, the panoramic views from the Sea Candle, and the serene Samuel Cocking Garden offer excellent photo opportunities. +1
On clear days, Mt. Fuji is visible from various points on Enoshima Island, especially from higher elevations like the Sea Candle.
Generally, photography is allowed in most areas, but it's always good practice to be respectful and avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. The 'golden hour' can make the coastal scenery and shrine architecture particularly stunning.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around sensitive cultural sites and public areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Enoshima offers a variety of local seafood dishes, ramen, and street food. Many restaurants line the path leading up to the shrine.
While seafood is prominent, some restaurants may offer vegetarian options like vegetable tempura or soba noodles. It's advisable to inquire directly.
Look for stalls selling local specialties like 'shirasu-don' (whitebait rice bowl) and sweet treats.
Yes, several cafes and restaurants on Enoshima Island offer stunning ocean views, perfect for a relaxing break.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas, but it's important to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as food options can be a bit pricier. The walk up to the shrines can be tiring, so pace yourselves and take breaks. The overall atmosphere is lively and engaging, making it a memorable outing for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some attractions like the Sea Candle have fees, prioritize those that offer the best value for your budget. Many visitors find the views and the general atmosphere of the island to be rewarding even without paying for every single attraction.
💑 Couples
Consider a relaxed dinner at one of the island's restaurants with ocean views. The charming streets and the spiritual ambiance of the shrines create a unique and memorable experience for couples looking for a picturesque getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Enoshima Shrine's Spiritual Heart
As you ascend, you'll encounter Nakatsumiya and further up, Okutsumiya. The architecture is a beautiful blend of traditional Japanese styles, with intricate carvings and serene courtyards. Many visitors find the atmosphere to be peaceful and spiritual, offering a welcome respite from the bustling city life. The shrine is also known for its unique dragon motifs and the sale of dragon omamori (amulets), which are popular souvenirs.
Beyond the spiritual aspect, the shrine complex offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline and, on clear days, the majestic Mt. Fuji. The journey through the shrines is as much about the scenic beauty and cultural immersion as it is about the religious experience.
The Enchanting Enoshima Sea Candle and Gardens
Adjacent to the Sea Candle is the Samuel Cocking Garden, a beautifully maintained botanical garden that was once the site of a Western-style villa. Even in winter, the garden is described as majestic, showcasing a variety of flora throughout the seasons. It provides a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll and offers further opportunities to appreciate the island's natural beauty and coastal charm.
Visiting the Sea Candle and the Samuel Cocking Garden, especially around sunset, is highly recommended. The 'golden hour' light casts a magical glow over the landscape, creating a truly memorable experience. Evening tickets for the Sea Candle are often available at a slightly reduced price and offer a different perspective with the possibility of seeing winter illuminations.
Enoshima's Coastal Charm and Activities
For those interested in marine life, the Enoshima Aquarium is a major attraction, showcasing a diverse array of aquatic species and engaging exhibits.
Exploring the island involves a mix of walking, climbing stairs, and utilizing the 'Escar' system. The journey itself, from the charming train ride on the Enoden line to the discovery of hidden spots, contributes to the overall appeal of Enoshima as a day trip destination from Tokyo.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit