Kamakura Daibutsu & Enoshima Day Trip - A Perfect Blend of History and Ocean Views
Kamakura and Enoshima are one of the most popular day trip routes near Tokyo. You can feel the historical atmosphere of the Kamakura Shogunate period and enjoy the beautiful ocean views and delicious food in Enoshima. This day trip starts with the majestic Kamakura Daibutsu, then takes the nostalgic Enoden to Enoshima to enjoy the sea breeze, food, and shrine visits.
📍 First Stop: Kamakura Daibutsu - Witness the Giant Buddha of History
Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo for about an hour to Kamakura Station, transfer to Enoden to Hase Station, and walk about 10 minutes to reach Kotoku-in, where the famous Kamakura Daibutsu is enshrined.
This bronze Buddha stands 13.35 meters tall and has a history of over 750 years. It is the second-largest Buddha statue in Japan, after the Great Buddha of Todai-ji in Nara. The Buddha's eyes are slightly closed, and its expression is serene. Whether viewed up close or from a distance, it exudes a sense of tranquility and solemnity.
Originally, this Buddha was covered by a large hall, but due to multiple natural disasters, only the open-air statue we see today remains. Interestingly, visitors can enter the interior of the statue to see its internal structure. Although the space is small, it allows for a close-up appreciation of the ancient craftsmanship.
🚃 Second Stop: Take the Enoden Along the Coast to Enoshima
Take the Enoden from Hase Station to Enoshima. The scenery along the way is very soothing, especially the section near Kamakura High School Station, where the railway line runs close to the coastline, offering views of the blue Sagami Bay. This station attracts many anime fans as it is featured in the opening scene of the anime **Slam Dunk**.
⛩️ Third Stop: Enoshima Shrine - Climb Enoshima and Enjoy the Unbeatable Ocean View
After arriving at Enoshima Station, walk about 15 minutes to enter Enoshima. This small island is home to the historic Enoshima Shrine, which primarily enshrines Benzaiten, the goddess of the sea and love. It is said that praying for love here is particularly effective.
The path to the shrine involves climbing many steps, but if you prefer not to walk too much, you can take the Enoshima Escalator (for a fee). Inside the shrine, you can buy various amulets, such as love amulets and fortune amulets, which are especially popular among young visitors.
From the high points of Enoshima, you can overlook the entire Sagami Bay. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance, offering a spectacular view.
🍡 Fourth Stop: Enoshima Food Tour
On Nakamise Street in Enoshima, you can find many local delicacies. The most recommended are:
• Shirasu Don (Whitebait Rice Bowl) - A local specialty of Enoshima, fresh and sweet in taste, a must-try for seafood lovers.
• Octopus Crackers - Whole octopus pressed into ultra-thin crackers, crispy and fragrant, a representative street food of Enoshima.
• Matcha Soft Serve - Made with the famous Kamakura matcha, rich in tea flavor, and particularly charming when paired with the salty sea breeze.
🌊 Fifth Stop: Enoshima Observation Deck & Cave Exploration
After eating, you can head to the Sea Candle, the highest point on Enoshima. From here, you can overlook the entire Shonan coast with a wide view. Especially at sunset, the entire sea is dyed orange, romantic and enchanting.
Next, you can visit the Enoshima Iwaya Caves, natural caves formed by sea erosion. It is said to be a sacred place for ancient ascetics. The dim lighting and candlelight inside give a sense of traveling through time.
💞 Recommended Reason: A Perfect Journey of History and Ocean Views
This Kamakura & Enoshima day trip combines the historical culture of Kamakura Daibutsu, the nostalgic charm of Enoden along the coast, and the delicious food and magnificent ocean views of Enoshima. In just one day, you can experience the perfect blend of Japanese tradition and natural beauty.
Whether you want a historical tour or simply want to enjoy the sea breeze and food, this route is worth a visit. If time permits, you can stay longer in Enoshima to enjoy the illuminated Enoshima Shrine and the lights of the Shonan coast at night, ending the trip on a romantic note.