Chai & Matcha Diaries

If you’re in Tokyo and looking for a refreshing seaside escape, Enoshima is the perfect destination. Just an hour away, this charming island offers beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, historical shrines, caves, and even a local craft beer scene! Here’s everything you need to know for a perfect day trip.

Getting to Enoshima from Tokyo 🚆

There are multiple ways to reach Enoshima, each offering a different experience.

1️⃣ JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line or Tokaido Line → Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden)

• Route: Take the JR train from Shinjuku or Tokyo Station to Fujisawa Station (about 50 min).
• Transfer: At Fujisawa, switch to the charming Enoden Line—a retro-style electric train that runs along the coast.
• Stop: Get off at Enoshima Station.

🚋 Bonus: My favourite! The Enoden train gives you a nostalgic ride through small towns and right next to the ocean!

2️⃣ Odakyu Line (Cheapest Option) 🚄

• Route: Take the Odakyu Line Romancecar or a local train from Shinjuku Station to Katase-Enoshima Station (about 70 min).
• Fare: Local train ~¥640, Romancecar ~¥1,250 (faster & more comfortable).

3️⃣ Yokosuka Line → Monorail (Most Unique!) 🚝

• Route: Take the JR Yokosuka Line to Ofuna Station, then transfer to the Shonan Monorail to Shonan-Enoshima Station.
• Highlight: The monorail is a suspended train, hanging from an overhead track—feels like a mini roller coaster ride!

Enoshima Beach & Sunset Views 🌅

Once you arrive, the first stop is Enoshima Beach!

🏖️ Kugenuma Beach & Katase Higashihama Beach – Perfect for relaxing, watching surfers, or grabbing some beachside snacks.
🌊 Sunset Spot: Stay until evening to see Mount Fuji in the distance—on clear days, it’s an unforgettable view.

🌞 Best Season: Summer is lively with swimmers & festivals, but autumn offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunsets.

Enoshima Candle Observatory: Two Ways to Reach It 🔥

One of the most iconic spots on the island is the Samuel Cocking Garden & Enoshima Sea Candle—a lighthouse-style observatory with 360-degree panoramic views.

Two Ways to Get There:

1️⃣ Lazy Route: Escalator (Enoshima Escar) 🚶‍♂️

• A shortcut using a series of escalators (¥360 one-way, ¥700 round trip).
• Saves energy if you’re planning to explore more afterward!

2️⃣ Scenic Route: Walking Path & Stairs ⛰️

• A bit of a workout, but offers hidden views and small shrines along the way.
• Great for those who enjoy wandering through nature.

Exploring Enoshima Shrine ⛩️

Enoshima Shrine is one of Japan’s top Benzaiten shrines, dedicated to the goddess of music, arts, and prosperity.

🛤️ How to reach:

• From the beach area, follow the main shopping street (Benten Nakamise) until you reach the red torii gate.
• Walk up the stone steps or use the Escar escalator for an easier climb.

🎵 Fun Fact: People pray here for success in music and the arts—musicians often visit to receive blessings!

Enoshima Iwaya Caves: A Hidden Gem of the Island 🕯️

One of the most mysterious and historically significant places in Enoshima is the Iwaya Caves, located on the far end of the island. These naturally formed caves have been worshiped for centuries and are said to have been a meditation spot for monks and samurai.

Why Visit the Iwaya Caves?

🔹 Candle-lit pathways create a mystical atmosphere.
🔹 Legends say the famous dragon of Enoshima lived here!
🔹 Buddhist statues and inscriptions are found deep inside.
🔹 Echoes of the ocean waves add to the eerie but peaceful vibe.

📍 How to get there? Walk past the Sea Candle and follow the trail leading downhill towards the cliffs. There’s a small entrance fee (~¥500).

Enoshima Beer & Local Delicacies 🍺🐙

After all that walking, it’s time to relax with some local Enoshima beer and delicious seafood!

🍺 Enoshima Beer – A refreshing craft beer brewed locally, perfect for pairing with seafood.
🐙 Tako Senbei (Octopus Crackers) – A must-try! Thin, crispy crackers made by pressing a whole octopus into them.
🐡 Shirasu Don (Whitebait Rice Bowl) – Freshly caught baby sardines served over rice—Enoshima’s specialty!

🌊 Many beachside cafes serve these dishes with a view of the ocean—perfect for a relaxing break!

✨ Enoshima has something for everyone! Whether you’re into history, food, adventure, or just want a peaceful sunset by the sea, this island is the perfect escape from Tokyo’s fast-paced life.

So next time you’re in Japan, take a break from the city and enjoy a day trip to Enoshima—you won’t regret it! 🌊🏝️🌅