Enoshima Island: A Great Escape from Tokyo!

If you’re dreaming of a quick getaway from Tokyo, why not hop over to Enoshima? This charming little island is just about an hour away. It feels like stepping into a totally different world, where the ocean sparkles, the breeze is fresh, and stories from long ago still linger.

Famous for its stunning coastline, powerful waves, and peaceful vibes, Enoshima has become a favorite stop for both locals and travelers. Ready to see what makes this island so cherished?

Where is Enoshima?

Just off the coast of Fujisawa City in Kanagawa Prefecture, there’s a cute little island called Enoshima. The island sits right at the mouth of the Katase River and is surrounded by the sparkling waters of Sagami Bay. It’s connected to the mainland by a long bridge. It’s also one of the closest beach spots to Tokyo and Yokohama.

A long time ago, people believed that a powerful goddess named Benzaiten made Enoshima rise from the sea! She’s the goddess of music and good fortune, and the whole island is like a magical gift from her. In the Edo period (1603-1868), kabuki (traditional Japanese theatre) actors and artists loved coming here. The island is part beach, part forest! Enoshima’s beaches are full of people swimming, surfing, and soaking up the sun in the summer. But anytime is a good time to visit.

Enoshima Shrine

This is not just one shrine but three: Hetsumiya, Nakatsumiya, and Okutsumiya, scattered around the island like hidden treasures. In 552, these shrines were built to honor powerful goddesses who watch over the sea, water, fortune, and even the arts! Many people come here to pray for luck, talent, and good things in life.

You’ll pass through a bright red torii gate and walk up pretty stone steps when you visit. Along the way are cool shops, tasty snacks, and beautiful ocean views. One of the most exciting spots is a little pond where people wash their money! They believe your wishes might come true if you wash your coins and offer them to the shrine.

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Enoshima Aquarium

Enoshima Aquarium, also called Enosui, is a fun and fantastic place by the beach in Fujisawa City. This incredible aquarium opened in 1954 and was renewed as the New Enoshima Aquarium in 2004. Since then, it has been one of the popular spots for sea lovers, families, and kids.

Inside the aquarium, there’s so much to see! You can watch dolphins and sea lions jump and spin at the Dolphin Show Stadium, with the ocean and Mt. Fuji in the background. The big Sagami Bay Tank is home to thousands of fish, including shiny anchovies and funny-looking rays. In the Jellyfish Fantasy Hall, glowing jellyfish float in stunning tanks.

Furthermore, there are also kawaii penguins waddling around and seals relaxing in their pools. You might even meet a sea turtle swimming slowly by. There’s a special science area where you can learn about baby fish like shirasu, and even touch some sea creatures in the learning corner. Don’t forget to stop by the cafe for fun snacks like turtle-shaped melon bread and try the local favorite dish, shirasu-don (rice bowl dish featuring shirasu).

Samuel Cocking Garden

This charming garden was started over 140 years ago by a British merchant named Samuel Cocking who loved tropical plants. He built a big greenhouse and planted flowers from all over the world. Even though the original greenhouse was destroyed in a massive earthquake, the garden was rebuilt.

This garden is like a lovely mix of Japanese and European styles. You’ll find camellias, hibiscus, roses, and even rare plants from tropical islands. In winter, about 10,000 tulips bloom, and they light them up at night. There’s also a fun International Friendship Corner to learn about sister cities from different countries, like Miami Beach and Windsor. 

The highlight of the garden is the Enoshima Sea Candle. A tall lighthouse and observation tower lets you see all around and spot cool places far away. The Sea Candle even lights up at night with solar power, gently glowing and adding a peaceful sparkle to the garden.

Lovers’ Hill

At the top of Enoshima Island, there’s a sweet and tranquil spot called Lovers’ Hill. The hill has a breathtaking view of the ocean and the big blue sky. It’s a peaceful place to walk, relax, and enjoy the fresh air.

At Lovers’ Hill, couples can ring the Dragon Love Bell together. People believe that if two people ring it simultaneously, their love will last forever! All around the bell, you’ll see fences filled with colorful padlocks. Couples write their names on the locks and clip them to the fence to show their love. You can even buy a lock from a shop nearby and leave your special message.

Iwaya Caves

These sea-carved caves are tucked away at the island’s far end, facing the sparkling ocean. Long ago, powerful waves slowly shaped these two deep caves: one is 152 meters(499 feet) long, and the other is 56 meters (184 feet) long. You can climb stairs through gardens and temples or ride an escalator. Famous monks and powerful samurai, such as Kobo Daishi and Minamoto no Yoritomo, once came here to pray.

The caves are packed with legends and secrets! It is said that almost 1,500 years ago, an oracle told the emperor to build a shrine inside one of these caves. Inside the caves, you’ll see statues of dragons, goddesses, and even a candle-lit tunnel where brave visitors can explore. Some believe the deepest tunnel leads to Mt. Fuji’s ice cave! 

One of the coolest parts is the dragon statue in the second cave. If you clap your hands, lights flash and thunder rumbles. Besides, numerous special light-up events in winter make the caves glow like magic.

Why should I check out these spots on Enoshima Island?

Enoshima is a small island where nature, legends, and history blend gently and meaningfully. The tranquil shrines, lively sea creatures, glowing caves, and flower-filled gardens all offer different moods and experiences. Some places help you feel calm and thoughtful, while others bring a quiet joy or spark your curiosity. Which place in Enoshima would you want to visit the most? Let us know in the comments!