Enoshima and Kamakura: A Quieter Seaside Escape

When ambitious travelers dream of their journey to Japan, their thoughts are often filled with the neon glow of Tokyo, the serene temples and shrines of Kyoto, and the powdery slopes of Hokkaido. But tucked away just one hour from the bustling city life of Tokyo lies Enoshima (江ノ島) and Kamakura (鎌倉), hidden seaside getaways just waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s lying under umbrellas on sandy beaches, climbing a sky-high tower for a bird’s-eye-view of Mt. Fuji and the serene Japanese coastline, professing your love atop an island mountain peak, or stealing away to historical Buddhist temples, this area should definitely be every traveler’s bucket-list destination.

Enoshima Beaches

Enoshima and Kamakura boast some of the most pristine beaches that Japan has to offer. Perfect for travelers who prefer self-paced itineraries, the area offers plenty of opportunities for those hoping to take a break from bustling city life during their vacation. 

The Shonan coast, stretching between Enoshima and Kamakura, is often called Japan’s Côte d'Azur, and for good reason. Its sandy shores, framed by rolling waves and lined with stylish beach clubs, offer a relaxed atmosphere ideal for those looking to bask in luxury and comfort.

Zaimokuza and Yuigahama are among some of Japan’s finest, with beautiful waves that attract surfers, windsailers, and paddleboarders hoping to catch the perfect wave. It’s ideal for families looking to spend some quality time relaxing in a calm yet luxurious seaside atmosphere. The two beaches together cover approximately one kilometer of the Japanese coastline, providing plenty of space for travelers to lay out beach towels or umbrellas and enjoy the beautiful Pacific Ocean.

Enoshima Sea Candle

Those looking for a unique view of Japan should look no further than the Enoshima Sea Candle. Bursting up from the luscious green treeline of Enoshima Island, this 60-meter-tall observation deck towers above the surrounding nature and offers a full panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and Shonan coastline. Step inside the central lift to the top outdoor deck to be greeted by the cooling sea breeze and unparalleled views of nearby beaches, coastline restaurants and cafes, and, on the clearest days, even a rare glimpse of Mt. Fuji in the distance stands above the lush landscape, painting a picturesque view that only visitors to Enoshima will be fortunate enough to experience. 

Encircling the Enoshima Sea Candle lies the Samuel Cocking Garden, which houses a breathtaking display of plants and flowers. Established in 1882 by Irish trader Samuel Cocking, who purchased the 10,000 square meters of land in 1880 and transformed it into a lush garden with a wide variety of South Pacific plants as well as a rotating assortment of seasonal flowers that can be enjoyed year-round.

In the evenings, the garden and observation tower become a dreamy spectacle as the island glitters with a range of different illuminations, from a winter wonderland between November and February to a summer lantern display in July and August. Celebrated as one of the grandest illumination displays in Japan, this is a must-see location for any traveler hoping to experience dazzling light displays while still enjoying the relaxing atmosphere that Enoshima is known for.

Dragon’s Love Bell

Shrouded in myth and legend, The Dragon’s Love Bell lies atop Enoshima at the edge of the treeline overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Dragon’s Love Bell draws its history from an ancient romantic island legend telling of a ferocious five-headed dragon who once terrorized the island. However, one day, a heavenly maiden named Benzaiten appeared from the heavens before him, and he immediately fell in love. Inspired by his love for her, the dragon changed for good and now watches over his maiden, who is enshrined in Enoshima Benzaiten.

Now, couples seeking a romantic escape can take a break from the bustling activities below and journey to this hidden island getaway and ring the bell, built in honor of the famous dragon legend, which is said to bring eternal love for anyone who rings it. Visitors can also bring their own padlocks to lock on the surrounding fence as a personal symbol of their own enduring love and affection.

The short hike itself to the bell offers couples the perfect opportunity to escape from the outside world. Surrounded by lush green forestry and captivating views of the tranquil Pacific Ocean, couples are sure to find that the journey to the top of the island will invigorate their connection.

The Great Buddha of Kamakura

Just a short, scenic train ride away from Enoshima Station, tucked away in the small seaside city of Kamakura, lies Kotoku-in Temple. Stepping inside this serene temple is a journey into the spiritual side of Japan. The temple itself belongs to Jodo-shu, a branch of Japanese Pure Land Buddhism which celebrates the liberation of all beings, and houses The Great Buddha of Kamakura, also known as the Kamakura Daibutsu, one of Japan’s largest Buddha statues. Standing over 11 meters tall, it is the second-tallest bronze statue in Japan and sits outdoors, surrounded by the natural beauty of Japan’s four seasons.

In the spring, the cherry blossom trees on the temple grounds bloom a vibrant pink, providing the perfect opportunity to experience a quintessentially Japanese view inside Kotoku-in Temple. When fall comes, a tranquil display of natural wonder overtakes the temple grounds as the Japanese maple leaves paint the landscape in beautiful reds and oranges.

Visitors hoping to experience this unique, spiritual side of Japan or those who appreciate art and wish to witness this enduring 13th-century statue should journey to Kotoku-in to see the Great Buddha of Kamakura.

While Tokyo is an amazing city for anyone hoping to explore Japan, those searching for quieter, unexplored hidden gems should be sure to make the short journey from Tokyo to visit Enoshima and Kamakura. With stunning beaches, panoramic ocean views, romantic myths and legends, and quiet temple grounds, these seaside locations are calling out to every traveler hoping to experience the more relaxing atmosphere that Japan has to offer.