A leisurely stroll around Enoshima on a sunny autumn day.
November 2024 Seasonal up date
A slightly cool late morning on a holiday. I decided to head to Enoshima with my dog for the first time in a while.
Summers in Japan are too hot for dogs, so most days, my furry companion stayed home while I went out. But now, the perfect season for outings together has finally arrived.
Driving along Route 134, with the endless blue sea stretching beside us and the salty sea breeze filling the air, I was reminded of why I moved here in the first place—this breathtaking scenery.
Once we entered Enoshima and parked the car, it was time for a stroll and some food tasting along the way. Climbing the stairs leisurely and reaching the hilltop to take in the spectacular view from above felt like a rejuvenating escape for both body and mind.
A stop at Enoshima Shrine for our customary visit was, of course, a must. Stepping away from the busy everyday grind to wander with my dog was a much-needed change of pace. And even without a dog, this is a highly recommended course for anyone looking for a refreshing escape.
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Parking and Restroom Information for Enoshima
Public parking lots with large capacities are recommended for Enoshima. On weekdays outside the summer season, parking rates are quite reasonable at 300–400 yen per hour.
The parking lots are located along the bridge extending to Enoshima from Route 134. Turning left and heading farther down the road gives the impression of slightly lower rates the further you go.
After parking your car, it’s a good idea to use the restroom first for a smoother experience later. This way, you won’t feel obliged to enter a café or restaurant just to use their facilities.
While there are public restrooms available at Seitenjima Park, it’s also recommended to stop by the Yacht House. You can browse marine goods or shop for drinks while taking advantage of the clean restrooms inside. (Since these restrooms are part of the facility, please avoid using them for that purpose alone. Be sure to observe proper etiquette!)
You can also purchase beverages and other items here, making it a convenient stop.
Enoshima Benzaiten Nakamise Street
Let’s start from the main entrance at the center. Right next door, “Enoshima Kaizaku” offers a great spot to enjoy grilled shellfish like turban shells and clams, paired with a cold beer. However, that’s more suited for those who didn’t drive here, so today I’ll continue up the slope instead.
Along the way, you’ll encounter the timeless scenery of Enoshima, with souvenir shops, seafood restaurants, and long-established ryokan inns lining both sides of the path. There are also narrow side streets that make it fun to wander and explore. As you go further, you’ll find small coves and picturesque spots, occasionally crossing paths with a calico cat—adding a sense of adventure and charm to the journey.
Enoshima Shrine
The deities enshrined at Enoshima Shrine are three goddesses, sisters, who are also gods of water. For women who love marine sports, Benzaiten, the goddess enshrined here, is believed to offer blessings and protection. This shrine, located on a high point of Enoshima Island, is also famous as a power spot.
I quickly make my way to the shrine and draw an omikuji (fortune slip). The contents of the fortune were so on point that I couldn’t help but slip it into my wallet, planning to revisit it and read it from time to time. “Do omikuji tend to have messages that anyone can relate to?” I ask my companion. “No way, it’s not like that!” we chat as we walk.
Il Chianti Cafe
Today, I had a light meal at an Italian café located at the top of Enoshima. There’s a sheltered area at the entrance where you can dine with your dog at a table, protected from the rain and wind.
Although there’s a beautiful terrace with an amazing view at the back of the café, dogs are not allowed, which was a bit disappointing.
The tables are large, making it convenient for those with a Golden Retriever. We ordered a soft shell crab burger and pizza. The drinks were so large that I couldn’t finish them all!
Enoshima Cocking Garden had no entrance fee.
Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden is a park centered around a spacious garden. It features the Enoshima Sea Candle (a lookout tower), a café, shops, and often hosts events, making it a popular spot. The garden is well-maintained and beautiful, and the café and shops inside are stylish. However, dogs are not allowed unless they are carried or placed in a cage. Since I have a large dog, I leave him with my companions and enjoy the stroll on my own. You can also take the escalator, called the “Escar,” which is conveniently located along the uphill path on the island, for a quick and easy trip.
How to Ride the Escalator (Esuka)
The escalator (Esuka) is divided into three sections, from the red torii gate of Enoshima Shrine to the entrance of the Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden. In the first section, you can conveniently pay all fees and purchase tickets.
Today, I enjoyed a relaxing time with my beloved dog in Enoshima. It was wonderful to stroll along the walkways while taking in the beautiful coastal views, and visit cafes that were pet-friendly, allowing us to enjoy a day out together. Along the way, I indulged in local street foods like octopus senbei and manju, which are unique to Enoshima. My dog was thrilled to get some treats too.
It was also enjoyable to have small encounters with both locals and tourists, who approached us because of our dog. Enoshima is a great place to spend a peaceful time with your furry friend. I look forward to returning with my dog to discover more of Enoshima’s charm as the seasons change.
Also, check out the article about a drive around the Miura Peninsula, accessible from Tokyo in about an hour, titled “TAKING A DRIVE AROUND MIURA PENINSULA WITH MY DOG. ENJOYING DELICIOUS FOOD AND A LEISURELY COURSE.“
