A Date with Youth in Kamakura

“Whoosh—” The Enoden slowly approaches, and the sea breeze carries the breath of youth right to my face. At that moment, I felt as if I had stepped into an anime. This is Kamakura, a seaside town full of stories, where every corner hides a beautiful moment that makes your heart race. 🚇【Transportation Guide】 The most convenient way to get here from Tokyo is to purchase the Odakyu Enoshima Pass. Round-trip from Shinjuku plus unlimited rides on the Enoden cost only 1,640 yen. You can buy it at the ticket machines in Shinjuku Station or at the Odakyu Travel Service Center. The retro Enoden leisurely weaves between the coastline and streets, with scenery along the way as beautiful as an unfolding painting. 📍【Must-Visit Spots】 Kamakura High School Station: A pilgrimage site for fans of "Slam Dunk"! Stand at the intersection, wait for the train to roar by, press the shutter, and capture a shot straight out of the passionate anime. If it’s crowded, walk 300 meters west to find a similar but less crowded spot for photos without waiting. Shichirigahama Beach: The sea and sky blend into one, and the sand is fine and soft. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance. Rent a surfboard and dive into the waves, or order a latte at a beach café and quietly watch the orange sunset spill over the sea—cozy and romantic. Enoshima Island: The island is rich with attractions. Walk along the shopping street to the Great Torii Gate, then visit Hetsunomiya, Nakatsunomiya, the observation deck, Okutsunomiya, and Chigogafuchi—each spot offers unique scenery. At dusk, enjoy the stunning sunset by the lighthouse, as if time itself slows down. Komachi Street: Kamakura’s famous shopping street, full of authentic local food and unique shops. Try the Daibutsu Taiyaki, crispy on the outside and sweet inside; matcha ice cream with rich tea aroma melting on your tongue; and various exquisite souvenirs perfect for gifts. Hasedera Temple: Every summer, thousands of hydrangeas bloom layer upon layer along the hillside, dreamy and enchanting. From the mountaintop viewing platform, you can overlook the entire Kamakura coast, where mountains and sea meet in breathtaking beauty. 🍱【Food Recommendations】 Bills: Located in Shichirigahama, this brunch spot faces the sea. Their signature pancakes are soft and sweet, melting like clouds in your mouth. Window seats offer sea views while you eat—be sure to book in advance. Kamakura Uomitei: Near the Enoshima observation deck, the raw whitebait rice bowl and three-color seafood rice bowl are must-tries. Fresh seafood paired with sticky rice and unbeatable sea views create a feast for both taste buds and eyes. Sabo Kirara: Handmade shiratama dango paired with matcha ice cream and red beans, sweet but not greasy, full of Japanese charm that instantly transports you into a Japanese drama scene. 💡【Helpful Tips】 ✅ Choose a sunny day to travel—the sea will be bluer, Mount Fuji clearer, and photos will look amazing. ✅ Wear comfortable shoes—Kamakura has many slopes and stone paths, but you won’t get tired even after walking all day. ✅ If you want to take photos at Kamakura High School Station, try to arrive before 10 a.m. when it’s less crowded and you won’t have to wait. ❌ Don’t bring too much luggage—lockers at Fujisawa Station are often in short supply. In Kamakura, time slows down so much, and every scene tells a story of youth and dreams. When I left, my steps slowed, filled with longing. This little town is like a poem hidden in my heart, waiting for the next reunion.