The Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden), which runs through the Kamakura and Shonan areas, is the perfect way to get around and see the beautiful scenery and historical sites. This article introduces the charms of Enoden, recommended sightseeing spots, model courses, transportation information, and more for foreigners living in Japan.


1. About Enoden

Overview of Enoden

Enoden is a streetcar line that connects Fujisawa City and Kamakura City in Kanagawa Prefecture, with a total length of 10 km. It opened in 1902 and has a history of over 100 years.

Charms of Enoden

The most appealing aspect of Enoden is its beautiful scenery. From the train windows, you can enjoy various sights such as the sea, mountains, and rural landscapes. The retro atmosphere of the trains is also popular.

Convenient Services for Foreign Tourists

Enoden offers multilingual websites and pamphlets for foreign tourists. They also sell discount tickets such as the “Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass.”

2. Recommended Sightseeing Spots

Kamakura Area

  • Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: A symbolic presence in Kamakura. It is a shrine built by Minamoto no Yoritomo and is designated as an important cultural property of the country.
  • Kotoku-in (Great Buddha): A 13-meter-tall Amida Nyorai statue, also known as the Great Buddha of Kamakura.
  • Hokokuji Temple (Bamboo Forest): A Zen temple with a beautiful bamboo forest. You can spend a quiet time while enjoying matcha.
  • Meigetsuin Temple (Hydrangea): A temple known for its hydrangeas. In June, the grounds are covered with hydrangea flowers.

Shonan Area

  • Enoshima Island: A small island floating on the Shonan coast. The entire island is a tourist spot where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and fresh seafood.
  • Kamakura Koko-mae Station (Slam Dunk Stage): A railroad crossing that appears in the opening of the popular anime “Slam Dunk.” Many fans visit this spot for pilgrimage.
  • Shichirigahama Beach: One of the best surfing spots on the Shonan coast. It is also known for its beautiful sunsets.
  • Inamuragasaki Cape: A symbolic cape in Kamakura. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful scenery.

3. Model Courses

One-Day Course: Enjoying Kamakura to the Fullest

  • Morning: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kotoku-in (Great Buddha)
  • Afternoon: Hokokuji Temple (Bamboo Forest), Meigetsuin Temple (Hydrangea)
  • Evening: Enjoy the sunset at Yuigahama Beach

One-Day Course: Enjoying the Shonan Sea

  • Morning: Sightseeing in Enoshima Island
  • Afternoon: Kamakura Koko-mae Station, surfing at Shichirigahama Beach
  • Evening: Enjoy the sunset at Inamuragasaki Cape

Two-Day Course: Visiting Kamakura and Shonan Extravagantly

  • Day 1: Sightseeing in the Kamakura area (above one-day course)
  • Day 2: Sightseeing in the Shonan area (above one-day course)

4. Transportation Information

How to Ride Enoden

Riding Enoden is easy. Buy a ticket at the station’s ticket machine, go through the ticket gate, and head to the platform. When the train arrives, get on and get off at your desired station.

Enoden Fares

Enoden fares vary depending on the distance. It costs from 190 yen to 310 yen per adult.

Enoden Timetable

You can check the Enoden timetable at the station platform or on the website.

Transportation in the Kamakura and Shonan AreasIn the Kamakura and Shonan areas, there are other means of transportation such as buses and taxis besides the Enoden Line.

Discount Tickets

If you use the “Enoshima-Kamakura Free Pass”, you can ride Enoden and buses as much as you like, and you can also get discounts at tourist facilities.

5. Other Information

Precautions

  • Enoden is very crowded on weekends and holidays. Please allow plenty of time for your trip.
  • Smoking is prohibited on Enoden trains.
  • Please take your trash home with you.

Recommended Restaurants and Souvenir Shops

There are many delicious restaurants and souvenir shops in the Kamakura and Shonan areas. Please try to find your favorite.

Seasonal Event Information

Various events are held in the Kamakura and Shonan areas throughout the year. It is also recommended to check in advance and participate.

Conclusion

Enoden is the perfect way to sightsee in the Kamakura and Shonan areas. Please create wonderful memories while visiting the beautiful scenery and historical sites.