Shonan Monorail - a white and black cable car going up a hill
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Shonan Monorail

Fujisawa, Japan

Experience Japan's unique 'flying train' on the Shonan Monorail, a suspended marvel offering thrilling rides and scenic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, smoother ride

CrowdLow
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Shonan Monorail - a white and black cable car going up a hill

Shonan Monorail

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, smoother ride

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Japan's unique 'flying train' on the Shonan Monorail, a suspended marvel offering thrilling rides and scenic views.

"It feels like riding a roller coaster, but it's a regular commuter train!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Ride the Front Car!

For the best 'roller coaster' feel and views, try to sit in the front car.

📸 Capture the Views

The unique perspective from the suspended train is perfect for photos and videos.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Suspended Journey

The Suspended Journey

Entire route from Ofuna to Shonan-Enoshima

Experience the thrill of a 'flying train' as it glides above the landscape, offering unique aerial views.

Curves and Inclines

Curves and Inclines

Various points along the route

Feel like you're on a roller coaster with the monorail's dramatic curves and steep inclines.

Views of Enoshima

Views of Enoshima

Approaching Shonan-Enoshima Station

Catch glimpses of the scenic island of Enoshima as you near your final destination.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Unique Ride

The Shonan Monorail offers a truly unique travel experience, often described as a 'flying train' or 'roller coaster.' It's a suspended monorail, meaning the train hangs below the track. This design provides thrilling curves and inclines, making the journey itself a major attraction. Plan your trip to include ample time to enjoy the ride and the views it offers.

Strategic Station Stops

The Shonan Monorail connects Ofuna Station to Shonan-Enoshima Station, passing through several key stops. While Ofuna is a major hub, Shonan-Enoshima is your gateway to the popular Enoshima island. Consider where you want to disembark based on your itinerary, as some stops offer unique perspectives or access to local attractions.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, smoother ride
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, scenic views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pov: first time using upside down monorail in Ofuna. #shonanmonorail #minorail #ofuna #kamakura #tokyo #japan
@memori.kosong
36.6K likes • 767.1K views

🎯 Ride the Front Car!

For the best 'roller coaster' feel and views, try to sit in the front car. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the Views

The unique perspective from the suspended train is perfect for photos and videos. TikTokInstagram

Check out this amazing upside down train in Japan, just an hour away from #Tokyo for the town of #Kamakura ! This is the #ShonanMonorail such a coll experience riding this! #japan #travel #train #japantrain #monorail #hangingtrain #upsidedowntrain
@adrianwidjy
7.7K likes • 288.2K views
@ananya.ray’s trip on the Shonan Monorail from Kamakura to Tokyo is a must-try experience! 💡 This hanging train glides above the streets, offering a fun and futuristic way to travel between these two iconic places. The Shonan Monorail is Japan’s longest suspended monorail, running for about 6.6 kilometers and giving passengers incredible views of the surrounding areas. Ever wanted to ride a trai...
tokyo.explores
42.9K likes • 2.2M views

➡️ Connect to Enoshima

Shonan-Enoshima Station is your stop for exploring the popular island. TikTokInstagram

🚝 Avoid Slam Dunk Crowds

If you're a Slam Dunk fan, consider this monorail as an alternative to crowded photo spots. TikTok

ℹ️ Ever Wondered why we need flying, upside down suspended mono-rail in Japan? 💁🏻‍♀️ The suspended monorail in Japan, like the Shonan Monorail, serves several important purposes that address both urban planning and transportation challenges: 1. Efficient Use of Limited Space Japan’s urban areas, are densely populated with limited. A suspended monorail operates above ground without requiring wid...
rotiandramen
87 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Ride the Front Car!

For the best 'roller coaster' feel and views, try to sit in the front car. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the Views

The unique perspective from the suspended train is perfect for photos and videos. TikTokInstagram

➡️ Connect to Enoshima

Shonan-Enoshima Station is your stop for exploring the popular island. TikTokInstagram

🚝 Avoid Slam Dunk Crowds

If you're a Slam Dunk fan, consider this monorail as an alternative to crowded photo spots. TikTok

✨ Futuristic Feel

Experience a unique and futuristic mode of transport that feels like a ride. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Shonan Monorail's unique 'flying train' experience, often comparing it to a roller coaster. The thrilling ride, scenic views, and futuristic feel make it a memorable part of any trip to Kamakura or Enoshima. Some note it's a separate ticket from JR, but the experience is well worth the cost.

What People Like

Unique 'flying train' sensation
Thrilling roller coaster ride
Scenic views

What People Dislike

Not covered by JR Pass

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Tokyo, take a JR train to Ofuna Station. Ofuna Station is the starting point for the Shonan Monorail, connecting you to Kamakura and Enoshima. TikTokInstagram

The primary starting station for the Shonan Monorail is Ofuna Station. It's a major hub where you can transfer from JR lines. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Shonan Monorail runs through Kamakura and connects to Shonan-Enoshima. You can board at Ofuna Station and enjoy the scenic route. TikTokInstagram

On clear days, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji from certain points along the Shonan Monorail route, especially near Shonan-Enoshima Station. Instagram

The entire Shonan Monorail line, from Ofuna to Shonan-Enoshima, takes approximately 14 minutes to complete. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary depending on your destination. A one-way trip from Ofuna to Shonan-Enoshima is generally affordable, making it a cost-effective way to travel. Check the official Shonan Monorail website for current fares. Reddit

No, the Shonan Monorail is not operated by JR and is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass. You will need to purchase a separate ticket for this line. Reddit

While specific day passes might not be widely advertised, purchasing individual tickets for your desired route is straightforward. For extensive travel in the area, consider regional passes that might include local transport. Reddit

Tickets can be purchased at the ticket machines located at each Shonan Monorail station, including Ofuna and Shonan-Enoshima. Reddit

The Shonan Monorail typically operates from early morning until late evening. It's advisable to check the official Shonan Monorail schedule for precise operating hours on your travel date. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Its suspended design offers a unique aerial perspective, making it feel like a 'flying train' or 'roller coaster.' The curves and inclines provide dynamic shots. TikTokInstagram

The front car offers the most unobstructed views and the best 'cab view' experience for photography and videography. TikTokInstagram

Yes, many describe the ride as thrilling due to its sharp curves and steep inclines, akin to a roller coaster. TikTokInstagram

While the entire ride offers great views, the approach to Shonan-Enoshima Station provides scenic vistas. Some also find the unique design itself photogenic. TikTok

Absolutely! Many travelers share videos of their Shonan Monorail journey, highlighting its unique 'flying' sensation and scenic route. TikTok+1

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