Only a short train ride west of Kamakura, Enoshima (]̓) is a pleasantly touristy island just off the coast but connected by bridge with the mainland. The island offers a variety of attractions, including a shrine, park, observation tower and caves. Views of Mount Fuji can be enjoyed on days with good visibility.

Enoshima is divided into a yacht harbor and a forested hill which can only be explored on foot (and paid escalators) and contains most of the sights. Several shrine buildings, collectively known as Enoshima Shrine, are found around the island and are dedicated to Benten, a popular goddess of good fortune, wealth, music and knowledge. Benten is believed to have created Enoshima before subduing a five headed dragon that was terrorizing the area.

An interesting aquarium and some of the closest beaches to Tokyo are located on the mainland just off Enoshima. The beaches on both sides of the island become very crowded with sun bathers and swimmers during July and August, while the long stretches of beach that continue to Chigasaki in the west and Kamakura in the east are popular for surfing.

Visitors to Enoshima should consider purchasing the Enoshima 1-Day combination ticket, which includes admission to the island's main attractions (garden, observation tower, caves) and use of the escalators for 1100 yen (or 1500 yen if visiting the Samuel Cocking Garden after 5pm). The ticket can be purchased at tourist information desks or the escalator ticket office.

On Enoshima Island

  • Enoshima Shrine
    Hours: 8:30 to 16:30
    Closed: No closing days
    Admission: Free (200 yen to see the Benten statue)
  • Samuel Cocking Garden and Sea Candle
    Hours: 9:00 to 20:00 (entry until 19:30)
    Closed: No closing days
    Admission: 500 yen (garden; free before 5pm), 500 yen (Sea Candle)
  • Iwaya Caves
    Hours: typically 9:00 to 17:00
    Closed: No closing days (except when the weather is very bad)
    Admission: 500 yen
  • Enoshima Daishi
    Hours: 9:00 to 17:30
    Closed: No closing days
    Admission: Free
  • Enoshima Island Spa
    Hours: 7:00 to 21:00 (entry until 20:00)
    Closed: No closing days
    Admission: 1700-2200 yen (onsen only); 3000-4000 yen (all areas)
    No-tattoo policy enforced
  • Love Bell
  • Southern coast
  • Shirasudon (shirasu donburi)

On the mainland near Enoshima

  • Enoshima Aquarium
    Hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (from 10:00 from Dec to Feb)
    Admission ends one hour before closing
    Closed: Small number of irregular closing days
    Admission: 2800 yen
  • Ryukoji Temple
  • Beaches

Getting there and around

Enoshima is served by three train and monorail lines, each of which has its separate station: Enoden (Enoshima Station), Odakyu Railway (Katase Enoshima Station near the aquarium) and the Shonan Monorail (Shonan Enoshima Station near Ryukoji Temple).

From Tokyo by Odakyu Railway

Take an express or rapid express train from Shinjuku bound for Fujisawa and transfer to a local train to Katase Enoshima, the terminal station. The entire one way trip takes 65-75 minutes and costs 650 yen. There are connections every 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, Romance Car limited express trains run directly between Shinjuku and Katase Enoshima (60 minutes, 1400 yen, or 1350 yen if using an e-ticket) every one or two hours on weekends and holidays.

Odakyu Railway also offers the Enoshima Kamakura Free Pass, which includes a round trip ticket between Shinjuku and Fujisawa and unlimited use of Enoden trains between Fujisawa and Kamakura and Odakyu trains between Fujisawa and Enoshima. The pass is valid for one day and costs 1640 yen. It is a good value if you also visit Kamakura, but it does not pay off if you visit Enoshima alone.

From Tokyo by Japan Railways (JR)

Take the JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo Station or the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku Station to Fujisawa Station (45-50 minutes, 1040 yen) and transfer to either the Enoden (10 minutes, 220 yen) or Odakyu Railway (7 minutes, 170 yen) for Enoshima. Alternatively, get off at Ofuna (40-45 minutes, 820 yen) and transfer to the Shonan Monorail for an exciting ride to Enoshima (15 minutes, 320 yen, stand or sit at the front of the car for interesting views).

From Kamakura

The one way trip between Kamakura and Enoshima by Enoden train takes 25 minutes and costs 260 yen. There are trains about every ten minutes.

Hotels around Kamakura

Top rated in Kamakura
Budget:
    • HOTEL AO KAMAKURA
      Luxury

      Comfortable Accommodations

      Hotel Ao Kamakura in Kamakura offers rooms with sea views, air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a tea and coffee maker, refrigerator, and TV.

      Dining Experience

      Guests can enjoy Japanese cuisine at the on-site restaurant, offering lunch and dinner. The terrace provides a relaxing outdoor dining area.

      Convenient Facilities

      The hotel features a terrace, restaurant, free WiFi in public areas, and a 24-hour front desk. Additional services include a lift, daily housekeeping, room service, and luggage storage.

      Prime Location

      Located a few steps from Koshigoe Beach, the hotel is 43 km from Tokyo Haneda Airport. Guests appreciate the scenic views, comfortable rooms, and easy beach access.
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    • Hotel Metropolitan Kamakura
      Luxury

      Comfortable Accommodations

      Hotel Metropolitan Kamakura in Kamakura offers spacious rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and city views. Each room includes a work desk, wardrobe, and free toiletries.

      Dining Experience

      Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and dine at the family-friendly restaurant serving Japanese and European cuisines. The restaurant offers lunch and dinner in a welcoming ambience.

      Convenient Facilities

      The hotel provides free WiFi, a lift, 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, full-day security, and luggage storage. Paid on-site private parking is available.

      Prime Location

      Yuigahama Beach is a 15-minute walk away, and Tokyo Haneda Airport is 40 km distant. Public transport options nearby enhance the guest experience.
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    • CASA Kamakura Espresso&BED
      Budget-friendly

      Comfortable Accommodations

      CASA Kamakura Espresso&BED in Kamakura offers adults-only rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and parquet floors. Each room includes a tea and coffee maker, bidet, hairdryer, refrigerator, free toiletries, shower, slippers, and a parquet floor.

      Essential Facilities

      Guests enjoy free WiFi, private check-in and check-out services, full-day security, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include a ground-floor unit with a quiet street view and a private bathroom.

      Prime Location

      Yuigahama Beach is a 6-minute walk away, and Tokyo Haneda Airport is 42 km from the property. The host is highly rated for their friendly service and convenient location.
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    • WeBase KAMAKURA
      Luxury
      WeBase Kamakura is a resort hotel in the ancient capital of Kamakura, one minute from the Shonan sea and one hour from the city. WeBase Kamakura is a 3 minutes walk from Yuigahama Station and there are many tourist attractions within walking distance, such as the Kamakura Great Buddha, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and Kamakura Komachi Street. There are 8 sophisticated guest room types with high ceilings and a total of 22 guest rooms. Free Wi-Fi is available. We offer a breakfast course that includes cider, a choice of three types of galettes, an amuse-bouche with plenty of Kamakura vegetables, and soup. Enjoy a luxurious breakfast that starts with cider and freshly baked galette, grilled right in front of you. There is a large communal bath with a sauna which offers a self l?yly style sauna. At our on-site restaurant, "Restaurant Co," we provide a fusion of teppanyaki and Italian cuisine that allows you to enjoy the seasonal flavors of local Kamakura with all your senses. Savor modern Italian cuisine incorporating teppanyaki techniques, along with wine pairings. There is also a kids' menu for children of elementary school age and younger.
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    • KAMAKURA Hotel
      Luxury

      Comfortable Accommodations

      KAMAKURA Hotel in Kamakura offers 4-star comfort with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a tea and coffee maker, refrigerator, and free toiletries.

      Essential Facilities

      Guests enjoy a bar and free WiFi, a lift, 24-hour front desk, concierge service, daily housekeeping, and luggage storage. Additional features include a terrace, balcony, and work desk.

      Dining Experience

      The hotel provides an Asian breakfast, highly praised by guests.

      Prime Location

      Yuigahama Beach is a 16-minute walk away, Tokyo Haneda Airport is 40 km distant, and public transport options are nearby.
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    • KIYAZA RESORT Kamakura
      Budget-friendly

      Comfortable Accommodations

      KIYAZA RESORT Kamakura in Kamakura offers family rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and garden views. Each room includes a balcony, sofa bed, and work desk.

      Leisure Facilities

      Guests can relax on the sun terrace, enjoy the seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and take advantage of free WiFi throughout the property. Additional amenities include a lounge, pool with a view, and outdoor dining area.

      Convenient Location

      Located a 2-minute walk from Zaimokuza Beach, the guest house is 41 km from Tokyo Haneda Airport. Nearby attractions include Kamakura Museum and Kamakura Shrine.

      Guest Services

      The property staff provide excellent service support, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
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    • Guest House Kamakura Zen-ji
      Budget-friendly

      Beachfront Location

      Guest House Kamakura Zen-ji in Kamakura offers direct beachfront access and a serene garden. Yuigahama Beach is just a 3-minute walk away, providing easy seaside relaxation.

      Comfortable Accommodations

      The guest house features adults-only rooms with air-conditioning, bidet, and tatami floors. Each room includes a work desk, refrigerator, and soundproofing for a comfortable stay.

      Guest Amenities

      Guests enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a lounge, and yoga classes. Additional facilities include a shared bathroom, dressing room, and private entrance.

      Local Attractions

      Nearby attractions include Kamakura Museum, Hase Temple, and Kamakura Golf Club. Tokyo Haneda Airport is 43 km away, offering convenient travel options.
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    • BIRD HOTEL
      Mid-range

      Comfortable Accommodations

      BIRD HOTEL in Kamakura offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, balconies, and garden views. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi.

      Dining and Leisure

      Guests can enjoy a sun terrace, garden, restaurant, and bar. The restaurant serves American cuisine with vegetarian options in traditional, modern, and romantic settings. Breakfast includes local specialities, warm dishes, juice, and fruits.

      Convenient Amenities

      The hotel provides a public bath, coffee shop, outdoor seating area, full-day security, bicycle parking, room service, and luggage storage. Paid on-site private parking is available. h2>Prime Location Yuigahama Beach is a 2-minute walk away. Tokyo Haneda Airport is 42 km from the hotel.
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    • Tosei Hotel Cocone Kamakura
      Mid-range

      Comfortable Accommodations

      Tosei Hotel Cocone Kamakura in Kamakura offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and free WiFi. Each room includes a bath, bidet, hairdryer, yukata, free toiletries, slippers, TV, and electric kettle.

      Dining and Amenities

      Guests can enjoy American and Asian breakfasts at guests. The hotel features a restaurant, public bath, hot tub, 24-hour front desk, full-day security, and luggage storage. Paid off-site private parking is available.

      Prime Location

      Located a 12-minute walk from Yuigahama Beach, the hotel is 41 km from Tokyo Haneda Airport. Nearby attractions include Kamakura Museum and Kamakura Shrine. Guests appreciate the convenient location, excellent staff, and nearby public transport options.
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    • guesthouse SHIBAFU
      Budget-friendly

      Comfortable Accommodations

      Guesthouse SHIBAFU in Kamakura offers comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and garden views. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free toiletries.

      Exceptional Facilities

      Guests can relax on the sun terrace or in the garden. The property features a bar, lounge, and outdoor seating area. Free WiFi is available throughout the guest house.

      Convenient Location

      Yuigahama Beach is a 6-minute walk away, and Tokyo Haneda Airport is 42 km from the property. Highly rated for its convenient location and excellent service.
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Experiences around Kamakura