Enoshima is a small island, about 4 km long, at the mouth of the Katase River in the Sagami Bay, and is connected by a 600 m long bridge. It is situated right next to Kamakura, which makes it a popular destination for those visiting Kamakura. It is lively from spring to fall, and in the wintertime, you will find the island peaceful and quiet.
What to Do on Enoshima
You can easily spend around 3 hours walking around Enoshima, so plan accordingly. Expect some uphill walks as well, but there is an escalator on the island to save you some walking. It is a bit expensive to use though, and it doesn’t cover the whole island.
There are 3 larger shrines and 1 large temple on the island that are all worth a visit. The island itself is said to have been created by goddess Benzaiten, who is the goddess of everything that streams including money, music, and knowledge. Of course, she has a dedicated shrine on Enoshima aptly called the Enoshima Shrine, which consists of the 3 shrines mentioned above.
Enoshima’s natural environment is also one of its main attractions, the rugged coastlines are very beautiful and you can enter some of the caves on the island. It is also covered in lush greenery, and of course, there is a beach nearby. During the summer, many young people visit the area and there are firework displays.
There is also a lighthouse from which you can see a phenomenal view of the area including Mt. Fuji on a clear day. If you want to enjoy the view of Mt. Fuji from the comfort of a hot spring, Enoshima Onsen is a must-do. Especially if you come during winter, it is incredibly relaxing to soak in the hot water with the cold air on your face and a view of the ocean and Mt. Fuji.
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