1. Transportation Guide
Getting to Enoshima Electric Railway Station
After arriving at Fujisawa Station, head to the second floor, cross the footbridge, and follow the signs to reach the Enoshima Electric Railway Station.
Ticket Information
Since there are discount passes for foreign visitors covering both Kamakura and Hakone, it’s recommended to purchase a three-day pass.
• Price: 6,500 yen (UnionPay cards accepted).
How to Purchase:
1. Book online and collect the tickets at the service counter.
2. Queue at the service counter and buy directly.
The service counter is located on the first floor of the Odakyu Department Store at Shinjuku Station. Staff will assist you in choosing the right pass and train schedule. They speak Chinese, so communication won’t be an issue.
Hakone Tip: It’s worth upgrading to the Romancecar, which offers reserved seats and high-speed service, similar to bullet trains.
Kamakura Tip: No need for upgrades as the ride is short. Regular trains suffice, with open seating available.
Important Tips:
• Service hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM. To maximize your travel time, purchase or collect tickets a day in advance.
• Avoid rush hours and set off early to secure seats on the train.
Travel Instructions:
1. Depart from Shinjuku Station to Fujisawa Station. Note that Japan’s trains have different types like express and limited express, with specific schedules.
2. At Fujisawa Station, head to the second floor, cross the footbridge, and follow signs to Enoshima Electric Railway Station.
3. Show your pass to the staff to enter the station.
The pass covers round-trip tickets from Shinjuku to Fujisawa and unlimited rides on the Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) for one day.
For those without the discount pass:
You can purchase a one-day Enoden pass at Fujisawa Station for 600 yen.
2. Sightseeing Guide
Iconic Photo Spot – Kamakura High School Front & Shichirigahama
For many 80s and 90s kids, the setting of this anime is nostalgic. Many visitors come to Kamakura just to snap a photo of the train crossing that blends reality with fiction.
Tips:
• Avoid crowds by visiting early or after 4 PM.
• If it’s still crowded, consider walking from Shichirigahama Station toward Kamakura High School Front. Along the way, there are smaller, quieter intersections perfect for photos.
Photo Props:
A clear umbrella (available at convenience stores) works great in both sunny and rainy weather.
Shichirigahama Beach:
If the weather is warm and sunny, don’t miss a stroll along the beach. Sunset walks here are especially picturesque. The area also has numerous unique restaurants, making it a great spot for dinner.
Hydrangeas in Bloom – Meigetsu-in Temple
Kamakura has many temples, such as Hase-dera, Meigetsu-in, Gokuraku-ji, and Engaku-ji, each with its own charm. If you don’t have a particular preference, choose just one to save time and money.
Meigetsu-in is famous for its courtyard filled with hydrangeas, making it a fantastic photo spot.
• Admission: 300 yen.
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Tip: Visit in the morning or around midday for a more leisurely experience.
Food Streets and Shrines – Kamakura Station
Kamakura Station is the busiest stop along the Enoden line, featuring food streets and Komachi-dori, which leads to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
Best time to visit: Noon.
• The food options are plentiful. For a quick and affordable meal, head to the street food stalls. However, keep in mind that eating while walking is not customary in Japan.
At the end of Komachi-dori, you’ll find Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, which is free to enter.
• The shrine grounds have food stalls, offering a festive vibe reminiscent of temple fairs in anime.
• Don’t miss the fortune-telling experience (100 yen per try). If you draw a bad fortune, tie it to the racks nearby to ward off misfortune.
The Most Beautiful Station – Enoshima Station
Enoshima Station is close to Fujisawa but is best visited in the evening when the lighthouse and surrounding area are beautifully illuminated.
Walking Route:
From Enoshima Station, pass through the shopping district, cross the bridge, and follow the coastline to the base of the lighthouse. The walk takes about 25-30 minutes.
Alternative Plan:
If you’re not up for the walk or aren’t particularly interested in the lighthouse, enjoy the charm of the shopping streets and then head back. Compared to Tokyo’s fast-paced vibe, Kamakura offers a slower, more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely day.