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In summer Enoshima is a hive of activity, from hikers, day trippers and those wanting a laid back break from city life there are a number of reasons why this coastal town has become a popular destination. However a large portion of the visiting guests are here for one main reason, and that’s the beaches that are on the mainland opposite Enoshima Island. Thanks to its close proximity from Tokyo (a bit over an hour by train) and even closer proximity to Yokohama (about 40 minutes) it’s the perfectly convenient beach getaway for those needing to escape during the sweltering summer months.
![The Beaches of Enoshima]()
The Beaches of Enoshima
The jewel in the crown of this collection of beaches is arguably Katase Beach, which includes Higashihama Beach to its east and Nishihama Beach to the west. It’s not commonly known, but actually Katase Higashihama Beach has a rich and culturally diverse history as being one of the first western style swimming beaches in Japan, a title which can be traced back to the city’s time in the Meiji Era. Nishihama Beach is a watersports lover's paradise and was where surfing and beach volleyball were first enjoyed in Japan.
![The Beaches of Enoshima]()
The Beaches of Enoshima
Thanks to its location shielded by Enoshima Island, the wide and shallow coast of Katase Higashihama has incredibly calm waves, making it great for paddling, and the perfect spot for not so confident swimmers and families with young children. While bobbing around in the calm water, have a good look around the area because on a clear sunny day you can actually see the neighboring Mount Fuji and even the Izu Peninsula! If you’re there in April and September, and you’re particularly lucky you might even witness the “Fuji Diamond“ a stunning natural phenomenon when the setting sun aligns with the peak of Mt. Fuji, making the mountain shine bright like a diamond.
![The Beaches of Enoshima]()
The Beaches of Enoshima
During July and August this beach is awash with sunbathing tourists and visitors from the city, so do be wary that if you’re planning on visiting during this time don’t expect to be able to avoid the crowds. That said, it’s this popularity that gives Katase Higashihama it infectious and unique party atmosphere. Home to this party atmosphere are the beach houses, which line the back of the shores. Open for just a few fleeting weeks in July and August, the houses provide respite and offer a number of facilities for the area’s many guests. Here you can eat, take a rest, drop off your belongings, and even take a shower.
![The Beaches of Enoshima]()
The Beaches of Enoshima
Getting to the main beach area from Kamakura is relatively easy. From Kamakura station take the Enoshima Dentetsu Line heading to Enoshima and hop off at Koshigoe Station. The trip takes around 20 minutes and costs 260 yen each way. From this stop you the walk directly to the water takes about 10 minutes. From Tokyo you can ride the Shonan-Shinjuku Line heading to Odawara then switch at Fujisawa station to the Odakyu-Enoshima Line heading to Katase-Enoshima. That journey will take a bit over an hour and costs 1,130 yen each way.
![The Beaches of Enoshima]()
The Beaches of Enoshima
Kotoku-in Temple & Enoshima One Day Tour from Tokyo
¥7,229
Update date：2024/04/20
173 ON THE ISLAND enoshima private villa 江の島仲見世通り徒歩3分にある1日1組限定の貸切別荘
Enoshima 1-7-3 Kamakura
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