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Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoshima Electric Railway) - Overview (History, Features, and Attractions)
Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoshima Electric Railway) is a private railway line similar to a streetcar that connects Fujisawa City and Kamakura City in Kanagawa Prefecture. It is a local line stretching approximately 10km between Fujisawa Station and Kamakura Station. Since opening in 1902 (Meiji 35), it has been a popular local means of transportation as well as a popular tourist route. The line is lined with a mix of coastlines, ancient shrines and temples, residential areas, and shopping streets, and its major appeal is that "the ride itself is a sightseeing experience," with its retro trains, slow speeds running through residential areas, and seaside scenery. Another feature is the many photogenic spots, including the small station buildings, railroad crossings, and the adorable faces on the front of the trains.
Highlights
- The view of Shonan Coast from Kamakura High School (Kamakura High School Station) - the view of the sandy beach and Enoshima from the train window is popular. It is also famous as a setting for anime and photography.
- Enoshima area — Enoshima Benten (Enoshima Shrine), Sea Candle (lighthouse), caves, and beach walks are all within easy reach of the station.
- Hase (Hase Station) area - Walking distance to Hasedera Temple's gardens and Kannon statue, as well as the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kotokuin Temple).
- Gokurakuji, Inamuragasaki, Shichirigahama — Relaxed residential areas and coastal scenery. Many sunset spots.
- Old station building and railroad crossing scenery - the sight of a train running right next to a narrow road, exuding a sense of everyday life, is unique to the Enoshima Electric Railway.
- Retro and charming trains - Most trains are small, with two cars, and the interiors are also cozy, making it easy to feel like you're on a journey.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Starting point and ending point: A route connecting Fujisawa Station (Fujisawa City) and Kamakura Station (Kamakura City).
- Main transfer points: Fujisawa Station connects to the JR Tokaido Line and Odakyu Line, and Kamakura Station connects to the JR Yokosuka Line. Convenient as a base for sightseeing.
- Examples of the nearest stations from each tourist destination: Enoshima (Enoshima Station/Shonan Beach), Hase (Hase Station), Kamakura High School (Kamakura High School Station), Gokurakuji (Gokurakuji Station), etc.
- Fares and tickets: Fares are calculated by section. One-day passes (Enoden One-Day Pass) are available, making it convenient for sightseeing and getting off at other stations along the way. IC cards such as Suica and Pasmo can also be used.
- Journey time (reference): The entire Enoshima Electric Railway line takes approximately 35 minutes, including stops (varies depending on traffic conditions).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Ride the entire Enoshima Electric Railway line: Approximately 35 minutes one way (approximately 1 hour round trip).
- Stroll around Enoshima + sightseeing around the main station: Half a day to a full day (Enoshima, observation deck, Iwaya Cave, restaurant tours, etc.).
- If you are visiting Kamakura's temples and shrines (Hasedera Temple, Great Buddha, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, etc.): Half a day to a full day (visiting the temples and shrines + eating and shopping on Komachi Street).
- If you want to take a leisurely tour: We recommend taking the Enoshima Electric Railway and getting off at multiple stations to explore the area, which will take about 1 to 1.5 days.
Nearby spots
- Enoshima (Enoshima) — Cross over to the main island via Benten Bridge and enjoy the observation deck, Iwaya Cave, and seafood restaurants.
- Hasedera Temple (Hase) — Seasonal flowers and easy access to the Great Buddha.
- Kotoku-in Temple (Kamakura Great Buddha) — Visiting the Great Buddha is a staple of Kamakura sightseeing.
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and Komachi-dori Street (Kamakura) — Perfect for worship, eating, and souvenir hunting.
- Shichirigahama and Enoshima Aquarium (accessible by car or on foot) — Popular during the beach season and with families.
- Gokurakuji and Inamuragasaki area — Recommended for leisurely strolls and sunset views.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets crowded on weekends, public holidays, summer vacation, cherry blossom viewing, and the New Year holidays. The ticket gates and areas in front of the main stations in Enoshima and Kamakura tend to get particularly crowded, so make sure you allow plenty of time.
- Photography etiquette: At popular photo spots (such as the railroad crossing in front of Kamakura High School), be careful not to disturb passersby or local residents. Never take photos on the tracks or in dangerous locations.
- Train etiquette: The carriages are small and can get crowded, so please refrain from bringing large luggage and be considerate of others when getting on and off. Don't forget to consider priority seats.
- Weather and season: The beach is very crowded with beachgoers in the summer, and service may be suspended or delayed during typhoon season or bad weather. In the winter, the sea breeze is cold, so please dress warmly.
- Line characteristics: There are many sections of the line that cross residential roads, so be careful of pedestrians and cyclists. Be sure to check your surroundings at railroad crossings and narrow sidewalks.
- Barrier-free access: Some stations are not fully accessible. If you are using a wheelchair or stroller, we recommend checking station information in advance.
The Enoshima Electric Railway is a line where the act of travel itself is enjoyable. Make sure you take your time and enjoy the sea, temples, shrines, and local cuisine.
