Obon Holiday Day Trip from Tokyo to Enoshima - Aug 2025 【121】
August in Enoshima
Recently, I went on a day trip from Tokyo to Enoshima. Taking the Odakyu Limited Express Romancecar from Shinjuku gets you to Katase-Enoshima Station in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The seats are comfortable and the view from the train is enjoyable, so you can feel like you’re already on a mini getaway during the journey. Its convenient access makes it a perfect spot for a fulfilling day trip.
Exploring Enoshima
After leaving the station, I first crossed the Enoshima Benten Bridge onto the island. The sea breeze was refreshing, and the scent of the ocean and sound of the waves were soothing. Just walking across the bridge heightened the travel mood, and I found myself wanting to stop and take photos. On the island, there is Nakamise Street, where you can find Enoshima specialties like takosenbei from “Kinokuniya Honten” and handmade manju from “Inoue Sohonten,” which whet your appetite. Around the Enoshima Island Spa, there were many souvenir shops and cafes, so I enjoyed shopping while strolling.
Enoshima Shrine and Viewpoints
At the center of Enoshima is Enoshima Shrine, consisting of Hetsunomiya, Nakatsunomiya, and Okutsunomiya, and is famous as a shrine for matchmaking and performing arts. Climbing the stairs can be challenging, but the Escar (paid escalator) makes it easier. After visiting the shrine, I continued to Samuel Cocking Garden and the observation lighthouse (Sea Candle). The garden’s flowers provide seasonal colors throughout the year, and the observation deck offers panoramic views of Sagami Bay, Mount Fuji, and the Shonan coastline. At sunset, the sky turns orange, creating an absolutely stunning view.
Fun by the Sea
In the afternoon, I ventured further to visit the Enoshima Iwaya Caves. Divided into the First and Second Caves, they are illuminated, and walking inside with a candle gave a slight sense of adventure. After exiting the caves, I sat at nearby Chigogafuchi, enjoying the powerful waves and horizon in a relaxed manner. Drinking iced coffee in the sea breeze was especially delightful. During the summer, you can also see people enjoying rockpool play and fishing, creating a lively atmosphere.
Gourmet Experiences
Enoshima is famous for fresh shirasu, but on this day they were out of stock everywhere. Instead, I enjoyed an Enoshima Donburi with turban shell and abalone cooked with eggs.
Enoshima also has many famous desserts, such as pudding and pancakes, so I recommend trying them if you have time. I had a brown sugar warabi-mochi drink.
For dinner, I went to Tobiccho Honten, enjoying huge clams and turban shells. Everything was fresh and delicious.
Nighttime Light-Up Information
During summer vacation, Samuel Cocking Garden and the observation lighthouse (Sea Candle) in Enoshima are illuminated at night. You can enjoy a magical atmosphere different from daytime, and the lights on the sea are very romantic. Even on a day trip, staying until night allows you to experience both the daytime and nighttime charms of Enoshima.
Summary
Enoshima is a perfect destination for a mini trip from the city. It offers nature, gourmet food, history, and breathtaking views all in a compact area. The food variety is especially impressive, from seafood dishes centered on shirasu donburi to a wide range of desserts. From the bustling Nakamise Street and the stunning views from the lighthouse to the serene seaside at sunset, you can experience a lot in a short time. While a day trip is enough to enjoy it fully, next time I would like to stay overnight to enjoy the nighttime illumination and hot springs. It’s highly recommended for a weekend refresh or a short trip with friends.
