In this blog, I will list down Enoshima – Kamakura things to do list for you to enjoy and maximize your vacation. Traveling to Japan should not be as expensive as you might think, that is why I’ll be sharing some tips and discount passes that will help you budget your money and time.
I highly suggest you buy Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass offered by Odakyu Line. It provides a one-day round trip via train from Shinjuku station to Fujisawa station, unlimited ride on Enoden Line plus discounts from selected shops and restaurants.
1. Kamakurakoko-mae
One of the opening scenes from the hit anime “Slamdunk” was inspired on this spot. You better visit this place if you are a Sakuragi and Shohoku team fan. It’s just a few steps away from Kamakurakoko-mae station via Enoden line.
Enoden Line connects Fujisawa station to Kamakura Station and it is unlimited ride if you purchase the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass.
2. Hasedera Temple
Entrance fee- 400 Yen
Location: 6 min walk from Hase Station
The temple, which is renowned for its historical significance and calm beauty, looks out over the city and the ocean and provides breath-taking panoramic view.
3. Kotoku-in Temple
Entrance fee- 200 Yen
Location: 6 min walk from Hase Station
The famed “Daibutsu” statue of the Great Buddha is housed in the Kotoku-in Temple in Kamakura, Japan. It is one of the most significant monuments of Japanese Buddhist art and history, standing 13.35 meters tall and dating back to the 13th century.
The beautiful setting of the temple creates a tranquil ambiance that improves the spiritual experience of visitors. The Great Buddha was once kept in a sizable hall, but over the years, storms have destroyed that building, leaving the Great Buddha outside and vulnerable to the elements. Numerous tourists and pilgrims come to the temple complex to see the majestic Big Buddha, which draws many visitors. The complex also provides an insight into Japan’s ancient history.
4. Komachi Dori Street
Enoshima – Kamakura things to do won’t be perfect without visiting the last station of Enoshima Electric railway (Enoden-line).
A pleasant and lively street called Komachi-Dori is just five minutes walk from Enoshima Electric Railway Kamakura Station and just a few steps from JR Kamakura Station. It was given the name Ono no Komachi after the well-known poet and is renowned for its funky vibe, distinct shops, and mouthwatering street cuisine.
You may explore a range of Japanese handicrafts, and regional specialties by wandering down this pedestrian street. For both locals and visitors, Komachi-dori is a must-visit location because it provides a genuine look into Kamakura culture.
5. Tsurugaoka Hachiman-Gu Temple
Entrance Fee – Free
The significant Shinto shrine Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is renowned for both its historical importance and its exquisite architectural details. The temple, which was established in the latter half of the 12th century, honors Hachiman, the deity of soldiers and samurai.
Visitors are greeted at the entry by the shrine’s distinctive red torii gate, which takes them along a lovely path to the main hall. Visitors may get a taste of traditional Japanese culture by attending rituals and performances held year-round on the expansive grounds’ big wooden stage. The hilltop location of the temple provides sweeping views of Kamakura and the ocean, resulting in a peaceful and lovely environment for worship and reflection.
6. Hokokuji Temple
Location: 16 minutes walk from Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Temple
Entrance Fee: 200 yen
Entrance Fee with tea: 700 yen
Opening Hours: 9:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Hokokuji Temple, a gem located in the heart of Kamakura, Japan, is celebrated not only for its rich history but also for its captivating garden and mesmerizing bamboo forest. Dating back to the 14th century, the temple offers visitors a serene escape into Zen Buddhism and natural beauty.
The meticulously maintained garden features lush foliage, serene ponds, and meticulously raked gravel patterns, embodying the principles of harmony and simplicity.
However, the highlight is undoubtedly the enchanting bamboo forest, where towering emerald stalks create an awe-inspiring atmosphere, allowing visitors to find peace and tranquility amidst the rustling leaves.
Hokokuji Temple’s garden and bamboo forest stand as a testament to Japan’s profound connection between spirituality and nature.
If you miss visiting the bamboo forest in Kyoto, Hokokuji Temple’s Bamboo forest is the right place for you.
7. Enoshima Island
Location – 10 minutes walk from Enoshima Station (Enoden Line)
– 20 minutes walk from koshigoe Station (Enoden Line)
Escar – 1000 yen
Escar is an escalator ride going to Sea Candle and Samuel cocking Garden.
Starting from Kamakura station, we made a brief halt at Koshigoe station. Observing that it was already 5:00 PM, we opted to take a leisurely stroll towards Enoshima Island. The timing was impeccable, as it allowed us to bask in the enchanting sunset that graces Enoshima Island.
Notably, this island has been prominently showcased in the popular anime series (Netflix) “SlamDunk,” specifically in Episode 7 of Season 2.
The magnificent island of Enoshima, which is close to Kamakura, is well-known for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and picturesque landscapes. This little island, which can be reached via a bridge, boasts a distinctive mix of Shinto temples, verdant gardens, and stunning night view.
A prominent religious landmark that draws both pilgrims and visitors is Enoshima Shrine, which honors the goddess Benzaiten.
The Sea Candle is an iconic lighthouse and observation tower located on Enoshima Island, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the Pacific Ocean. This towering structure allows visitors to ascend and enjoy stunning vistas during the day or revel in the captivating illuminated scenery at night.
Summary: Enoshima - Kamakura things to do
- Kamakurakoko-mae – Real-life SlamDunk opening scene.
- Hasedera Temple – Wooden figure of Kannon- the Goddess of compassion.
- Kotoku-in Temple – Kamakura’s iconic Great Buddha.
- Komachi Dori Street – lively street of Kamakura just few minutes walk from JR Kamakura station.
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu- Temple – renowned for its historical importance and architectural details.
- Hokokuji Temple – A temple that is similar to the bamboo forest in Kyoto
- Enoshima – A little island, which can be reached via bridge. A must-visit when you go to Kamakura.
If you have any suggestions or concerns about my “Enoshima Kamakura things to do list”. You may comment down below.
