Tokyo to Enoshima Transfer: Scenic Routes and Hidden Gems

Seeking a Coastal Getaway from Tokyo?

Sick of Tokyo’s hustle and bustle? Searching for a revitalizing escape combining tradition and beauty with sea breeze? Then you will adore Enoshima. Tucked along the Shonan coast, this little but lively island is among the top day-trip getaways from the metropolis. More than simply a trip, the transfer from Tokyo to Enoshima is a beautiful adventure strewn with historical sites, coastal atmosphere, and unexpected detours deserving every minute.

This guide will cover all you need to know about the Tokyo to Enoshima transfer—how to get there, what routes provide the best views, and how to maximize your travel time. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or a first-timer in Japan, I have some treasures along the way that will make your day trip memorable.

Pack a day bag, take your IC card, and prepare to swap island breezes and crashing waves for bright lights. Let’s get started.

Enoshima is located where? What motivates a visit there?

Before we discuss how to reach there, let us establish the stage. Connected to the mainland by a picturesque 600-meter bridge, Enoshima is a small island just off the coast of Kanagawa Prefecture. Depending on your path, it’s roughly 60 to 90 minutes from Tokyo, which makes it ideal for a relaxed overnight stay or a full-day excursion.

But why should you even think about the Tokyo to Enoshima transfer in the first place?

Imagine, then, lovely temples tucked away in rich vegetation, rocky coastal caves reverberating with ancient legends, a lively shopping street packed with grilled seafood, and lighthouse observation deck panoramic ocean views. Imagine now walking all that with the sound of waves crashing nearby and the chance of seeing Mount Fuji on a bright day. In short, that’s Enoshima.

Enoshima, however, is about the trip not only the goal. The Tokyo to Enoshima transfer can provide views of historic temples, charming coastal villages, and even the opportunity to board a retro-style train running along the sea depending on your mode of travel.

Keep reading if you enjoy slow travel, coastal views, or simply want to experience a different side of Japan devoid of skyscrapers and throngs. The journey will be great for you.

Best Ways to Get from Tokyo to Enoshima

There are several ways to make the Tokyo to Enoshima transfer, and each has its own perks. Whether you want speed, scenery, or budget-friendliness, there’s an option for you. Let’s break them down, so you can pick the route that suits your vibe best.

✅ Transport Comparison Chart

Mode of Transport	Travel Time	Cost (USD)	Comfort Level	Availability
Odakyu Romancecar	~65 mins	~$10	★★★★☆ (reserved seats, scenic)	Frequent (every 30–60 mins)
JR Shonan-Shinjuku + Enoden	~75–90 mins	~$8–10	★★★☆ (fun & scenic Enoden ride)	Frequent (every 15 mins)
JR Tokaido Line + Enoden	~75–90 mins	~$8–9	★★★☆ (good mix of speed & view)	High frequency
Highway Bus (Shinjuku-Enoshima)	~90–120 mins (traffic-prone)	~$12	★★★★☆ (comfortable seating)	Limited (few per day)
Driving (Car Rental)	~90 mins (no traffic)	~$40–60 (incl. toll/gas)	★★★☆☆ (flexible but traffic risk)	Available but parking is limited
Cycling (via coast)	3–4 hours	~$15–20 (rental)	★★☆☆☆ (adventurous, scenic)	Seasonal & weather-dependent

🚄 Option 1: Odakyu Romancecar (Fastest + Scenic)

If you’re looking for a comfortable ride that gets you straight to the beach, the Odakyu Romancecar is hard to beat. This limited express train runs from Shinjuku Station directly to Katase-Enoshima Station. The seats are spacious and reserved, so no standing, no jostling, just sit back and enjoy the coastal views.

The train even has large windows designed for sightseeing. It’s a perfect mix of convenience and beauty for your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer.

Travel Time: ~65 minutes
Fare: About $10 one way
Bonus: Some trains even offer drink/snack service
Tip: Try to sit on the left side for the best views of Sagami Bay!

🚉 Option 2: JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line + Enoden (Quirky and Charming)

This route is for the romantic and nostalgic traveler. Start your journey on the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku to Fujisawa Station. Then, hop on the Enoden Line—a small, retro train that rattles along the coast and through sleepy towns until it reaches Enoshima.

It’s not the fastest route, but it’s certainly the most atmospheric. The Enoden train even crosses streets like a tram and passes so close to houses, you’ll feel like you’re in a Studio Ghibli movie.

Travel Time: ~75–90 minutes
Fare: Around $9 total
Highlight: The ocean appears suddenly between houses as you near Enoshima—pure magic
Great for: Photographers, families, and train lovers

🚄 Option 3: JR Tokaido Line + Enoden (Flexible & Fast)

If you’re near Tokyo or Shinagawa Station, this is a great route. Take the JR Tokaido Line to Fujisawa, then switch to the Enoden Line. It’s a bit faster than the Shonan-Shinjuku Line, especially if you’re not starting from Shinjuku.

This route offers a practical and scenic option for the Tokyo to Enoshima transfer, and it’s very straightforward for JR Pass holders too.

Travel Time: 75–90 minutes
Fare: Around $8–9
Tip: If you have a Japan Rail Pass, the JR portion is covered!
Good for: Tourists staying in Tokyo Station or Shinagawa area

🚌 Option 4: Highway Bus (Comfortable but Traffic-Prone)

If you don’t mind a little unpredictability, you can take a highway bus from Shinjuku directly to Enoshima. The seats are comfy, and it’s a good choice if you want to avoid transfers. But be warned—traffic can be brutal, especially on weekends.

Travel Time: 90–120 minutes depending on traffic
Fare: Around $12
Tip: Buses are less frequent, so check the schedule in advance
Not ideal for: Tight itineraries or peak travel times

🚗 Option 5: Driving or Rental Car (Only for the Brave)

Thinking of renting a car? It’s doable, but unless you really want the freedom of your own wheels, it’s not the most efficient. Parking near Enoshima can be a nightmare, and coastal roads get packed on weekends.

Travel Time: ~90 minutes if traffic is light
Cost: $40–$60 (including tolls and fuel)
Warning: Not recommended on holidays or summer weekends
Pro: You can explore Zushi, Hayama, or even drive up to Hakone after!

🚲 Option 6: Cycling from Kamakura or Fujisawa (For the Adventurous)

Feeling sporty? Rent a bike in Kamakura or Fujisawa and cycle to Enoshima along the coastline. It’s about 7–10 km, mostly flat, with stunning views of the ocean. The route is especially popular in spring and fall when the weather is just right.

Travel Time: 45–60 mins from Kamakura
Cost: $10–$20 for a day rental
Gear: Sunblock, water, and a sense of adventure
Note: Not for rainy days!

Scenic Routes Worth Taking

When planning your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer, don’t just think of it as a way to get from point A to point B. Think of it as part of the adventure! There are a few routes that turn your transfer into a mini sightseeing experience on their own. These are my favorite scenic routes that let you soak in the coast, history, and charm of the region.

🚃 The Enoden Line: A Ride Through Time and Beauty

If you’ve never taken the Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway), this is your chance. The train runs between Fujisawa and Kamakura and is more than just a way to travel—it’s a moving postcard. The 10 km journey winds along narrow tracks that cut through sleepy neighborhoods, temple paths, and even right beside the sea.

What makes this route so magical during your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer is how suddenly the ocean appears. One minute you’re passing little local shops, and the next you’re staring at the sparkling Sagami Bay. You can even spot surfers riding waves at Shichirigahama Beach or catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji if the skies are kind.

Stops to watch for: Gokurakuji (old-school vibes), Hase (Great Buddha), and Kamakura Koko Mae (the iconic Slam Dunk crossing!)
Best seat: Sit on the left side when heading toward Enoshima for ocean views

Trust me, this is not just a train ride—it’s a highlight of the day.

🚴 Bayside Cycling: Coastal Freedom on Two Wheels

If you’re a fan of leisurely cycling, there’s a beautiful coastal path between Kamakura and Enoshima that’s perfect for a half-day ride. Once your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer gets you into the Kamakura area, rent a bike near the station and head toward Yuigahama Beach, then follow the coast west.

The path is mostly flat and dotted with cafes, scenic lookouts, and even little shrines tucked between the houses. The salty breeze, views of Enoshima ahead, and the freedom to stop wherever you like make this one of the most underrated routes.

Time needed: 45–60 minutes cycling
Where to rent: Kamakura Station, or Fujisawa for the reverse route
Tip: Wear sunglasses and bring sunscreen—the coast is sunny and open

This route is a perfect way to make your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer double as a laid-back beach adventure.

🚶 Romancecar Arrival + Walk to the Island

For a romantic and relaxed entrance into Enoshima, take the Odakyu Romancecar to Katase-Enoshima Station. The station itself looks like a pastel-painted dragon palace—super photogenic! From there, it’s a scenic 10-minute walk across the bridge to Enoshima Island.

The best part? The view as you walk. With boats bobbing in the marina, Mount Fuji sometimes peeking in the distance, and seabirds overhead, this stretch alone makes your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer a story worth telling.

Bonus tip: Time your walk for late afternoon so you can enjoy golden hour from the island’s viewpoints
Snack idea: Grab a soft-serve or grilled squid on the way—it’s a seaside ritual!

Hidden Gems Along the Way

Now that we’ve covered the best routes, let’s talk about what makes the Tokyo to Enoshima transfer really special: the hidden gems. These are the places that aren’t always on the tourist radar but can turn your trip from good to unforgettable.

🌿 Zuisenji Temple (Kamakura)

Most people visiting Kamakura head straight for the Great Buddha. But if you’re doing the Tokyo to Enoshima transfer via Kamakura, take a little detour to Zuisenji. This Zen temple is tucked in the mountains and surrounded by a rock garden designed by a famous monk.

It’s quiet, serene, and rarely crowded. The path there is a mini hike, so wear comfy shoes, but the payoff is worth it.

Entry fee: Around $2
When to go: Morning is best for light and calm

🎍 Hokokuji Bamboo Grove

Another peaceful spot, Hokokuji is often called “Kamakura’s little Arashiyama.” If you’re heading to Enoshima via Kamakura, swing by this elegant bamboo forest. It’s smaller than Kyoto’s, but far less crowded—and there’s a charming tea house inside the grove.

Entry fee: $2–3
Pro tip: Order matcha tea and sit in silence for a few minutes—it’s pure magic

🏖️ Shichirigahama Beach

While Enoshima has its own beaches, this one’s a favorite of locals. On the Tokyo to Enoshima transfer via the Enoden line, get off at Shichirigahama Station and walk a few minutes to the shore. It’s a surfer’s hangout and a great place to catch the sunset.

Bring: A drink and something to sit on
Look for: Mt. Fuji in the distance as the sun goes down

😺 Enoshima’s Feline Residents

Did you know Enoshima is home to dozens of free-roaming cats? They’re not shy, and many are used to people snapping photos. You’ll find them lounging on shrine steps, napping under trees, or sneaking between food stalls.

If you’re a cat lover, your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer just became ten times better.

🐚 Iwaya Cave

Once you reach Enoshima, head all the way to the back of the island to find the Iwaya Caves. These lava-formed tunnels have been sacred for centuries and offer a cool, slightly eerie walk lit by candles and filled with legends.

Admission: ~$5
Tip: Watch your head—ceilings are low!

☕ Local Cafés with a View

Want to rest your feet and take in the ocean? Head to cafés like Enoshima Terrace or Lon Café. They offer panoramic views and chill vibes, perfect for digesting your adventure (and maybe a slice of cheesecake too).

Your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer isn’t complete without a coffee break overlooking the sea.

Ideal Visiting Time

The best thing about organizing your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer is that it is a year-round location; yet, the experience varies with the seasons. Here is when to go depending on your goal:

Spring (March–May) Especially in Kamakura, cherry blossoms bloom along the path. Crowds are reasonable and the weather is pleasant. A wonderful time for outdoor shrines and walking.
Summer (June–Aug.) The season for beaches is in full swing! Expect Enoshima to become active with festivals, fireworks, and swimmers. If you enjoy the beach-town buzz, this is your moment.
Fall (September–November) Some would say this is the ideal moment for the Tokyo to Enoshima transfer. The crisp, clear air is ideal for seeing Mt. Fuji; the foliage gives the temples colour.
Winter (December–February) Less people and more clear skies. Though chilly, Enoshima’s seaside views and lighting activities create a wonderful winter getaway.

Tips for a Fun and Smooth Tokyo to Enoshima Transfer

A bit of planning can help your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer be smooth and stress-free no matter how you decide to travel. Here are my best useful advice to enable you to enjoy the trip without any hitches.

✅ Opt for a Rechargeable IC Card—Suica or Pasmo

Skip purchasing individual tickets at every station; instead, save time. A Suica or Pasmo card simplifies your transfer from Tokyo to Enoshima. These cards operate on the Enoden line, private railways like Odakyu, and JR lines. You can purchase and top up these cards at any significant station. They also function for vending machines, buses, and even convenience stores!

📱 Plan Your Route Using Navitime or Google Maps

Though signage in Tokyo and Enoshima is mostly bilingual, having Google Maps or the Navitime Japan Travel app on hand helps with real-time train schedules, platform changes, and transfers. This is particularly useful if you’re traveling between JR and private lines during your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer.

Wi-Fi advice: Use SIM data or grab a pocket Wi-Fi to remain connected.

💴 Bring Some Cash

Although Japan is growing more card-friendly, many of the tiny restaurants and souvenir stores in Enoshima still just accept cash. Usually, entry to Iwaya Caves, the Sea Candle, and temples is in yen.

How much to bring: Food, admission, and minor purchases should be covered by about 3,000 to 5,000 yen ($20–35 USD)
For overseas cards: Use Japan Post or 7-Eleven ATMs.

👟 Put on Some Decent Walking Shoes

You will thank yourself later. The transfer from Tokyo to Enoshima comprises not just the journey but also much walking upon arrival. Built on a hill with lots of stairs and slopes, Enoshima Island calls for sneakers or comfortable sandals instead of luxury shoes.

Packing suggestion: If you intend to stroll along the sand or unwind in a beach café, foldable slippers.

🧴 Prepare for Changing Weather

Coastal weather can shift rapidly. It could be cloudy over the island and bright in Tokyo, or the other way around. Keep a lightweight raincoat or foldable umbrella in your bag just in case for a smooth Tokyo to Enoshima transfer.

Spring and Summer: Sunglasses and sunscreen are absolutely required.
Winter: A beanie and gloves will improve your seaside stroll.

📸 Remember Your Phone with Storage or Camera!

Though it may seem clear, the Tokyo to Enoshima transfer has so many beautiful moments—sunsets, temples, street food, seaside trains—you’ll need lots of memory space. Especially during golden hour from the Sea Candle or the bridge, Enoshima is ideal for Instagram-worthy images.

Sample Day Trip Itinerary from Tokyo to Enoshima

Not sure how to plan your day? Here’s a tried-and-true itinerary that makes the most of your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer, including sightseeing, food, and relaxation. You can adjust the times based on your pace, but this works great for a full day trip.

🕗 8:00 AM – Depart Tokyo (Shinjuku or Tokyo Station)

Catch the Romancecar or a JR line depending on your preferred route. Make sure to grab a coffee and snack for the journey—it’s about an hour of scenic travel.

🕘 9:30 AM – Arrive at Kamakura or Fujisawa (Optional Stop)

If you’re taking the Enoden, you can stop at Kamakura for a short walk around Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine or even visit the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in.

Optional activity: Rent a bike here for the coastal route to Enoshima
Time needed: 1 hour for quick sightseeing, 2 hours for a proper look

🕚 11:00 AM – Board the Enoden to Enoshima

This retro train ride is a highlight of your Tokyo to Enoshima transfer. Sit back, enjoy the coastal views, and don’t forget to snap a few pictures at Kamakura Koko Mae Station—famous from anime and dramas.

🕦 11:30 AM – Arrive at Katase-Enoshima Station and Walk Across the Bridge

Take in the view of the marina, the iconic bridge, and Enoshima rising in the distance. Stop for a soft-serve cone or grilled squid at one of the street vendors.

🕛 12:00 PM – Explore Enoshima Shrine Complex

Climb the steps to visit the different shrines dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music and fortune. The pathway is scenic, lined with lanterns, and occasionally blessed with cat sightings.

Optional: Use the Enoshima Escar (escalator) to save energy on the way up

🕐 1:00 PM – Lunch with a View

Head to Enoshima Terrace, Café Madu, or one of the seafood restaurants near the peak for a relaxing lunch with a sea view.

What to try: Shirasu-don (rice bowl with baby sardines), grilled shellfish, or fresh sashimi
Tip: Some cafés have rooftops for incredible panoramic shots

🕑 2:00 PM – Visit Enoshima Sea Candle and Samuel Cocking Garden

The lighthouse observation deck offers stunning views of the coastline and Mt. Fuji (on a clear day). The garden below is peaceful and perfect for a stroll.

🕒 3:30 PM – Walk to the Iwaya Caves

The path along the cliffs is beautiful, and the caves themselves are filled with stories of monks, dragons, and sea gods. Candle-lit paths add a mystical touch.

🕓 4:30 PM – Sunset at the Island Bridge or Shichirigahama Beach

Make your way back across the bridge and catch golden hour from the shoreline. If you’re lucky, Mt. Fuji might peek through the clouds one last time.

🕠 5:30 PM – Head Back to Tokyo

Hop on the Enoden or walk back to Katase-Enoshima Station. From there, return via JR, Romancecar, or highway bus depending on your route. The Tokyo to Enoshima transfer back is peaceful and relaxing after a day of coastal adventure.

More Than Just a Transfer—It’s a Full Coastal Escape

The Tokyo to Enoshima transfer isn’t just a way to get from one place to another—it’s a scenic, culture-rich experience all its own. Whether you’re taking the retro Enoden, gliding in the Romancecar, or pedaling along the coast, every step of the journey is filled with small joys and big views.

From hidden temples and bamboo groves to beachside cafés and feline friends, Enoshima offers a refreshing escape from Tokyo’s urban sprawl. Add in the gentle sea breeze, the sound of waves, and a hint of spiritual mystery, and it becomes clear—this trip is more than a day out. It’s a story you’ll carry home.

So next time you’re in Tokyo, don’t just stay in the city. Make the Tokyo to Enoshima transfer, explore the coast, and discover a whole new side of Japan.