Enoshima Shrine (江島神社)
What is Enoshima Shrine?｜A Sacred Island Shrine Born from Japanese Mythology
Enoshima Shrine is the spiritual heart of Enoshima Island, a popular destination along the Shonan Coast. Revered for centuries as a protector of the sea and a goddess of the arts, it was once known as “Enoshima Myojin” and today is more widely associated with “Benzaiten,” the deity of music, eloquence, beauty, and wealth.
The shrine enshrines three sister goddesses from ancient Japanese mythology—Tagiri-hime, Ichikishima-hime, and Tagitsu-hime—born from a sacred ritual called ukei, a divine oath between Amaterasu and Susanoo.
During the Edo period, Enoshima became a major pilgrimage destination. Even now, the island continues to attract those seeking spiritual energy, inspiration, and serenity by the sea.
What to See?｜Three Shrines, Benzaiten Statues & Mythical Symbols
Enoshima Shrine is made up of three separate shrines scattered across the island:
- Hetsunomiya (Lower Shrine): Enshrines Tagitsu-hime, near the island entrance
- Nakatsunomiya (Middle Shrine): Enshrines Ichikishima-hime, known for its vivid vermilion architecture
- Okutsunomiya (Upper Shrine): Enshrines Tagiri-hime, deep within the island, peaceful and solemn
At Hetsunomiya lies the octagonal Hoanden Hall, which houses three unique statues of Benzaiten:
- Eight-armed Benzaiten: representing abundance and divine power
- Naked Benzaiten: symbolizing feminine beauty and fertility
- Myoon Benzaiten: guardian of music, eloquence, and the arts
The hall also displays statues of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the Fifteen Attendants, and a royal plaque (chokugaku) gifted by Emperor Go-Uda—testaments to the shrine’s prestige through the ages.
Spiritual Blessings｜Goddess of the Arts, Fortune & Love
Worshippers visit Enoshima Shrine to seek blessings in a wide range of areas, from artistic success and eloquence to prosperity, business luck, romance, and academic achievement.
The shrine is especially beloved by women and creatives who feel a deep connection with Benzaiten as a goddess of inspiration, performance, and charm.
Local Eats & Experiences｜Seafood Snacks and Scenic Walks
Enoshima’s main approach street is a treasure trove of coastal eats—don’t miss the fresh shirasu (whitebait) bowls, grilled shellfish, octopus crackers, and other local street foods. Eating while climbing the scenic stone steps adds to the charm of your island pilgrimage.
For easier access, the “Escar” escalator (small fee) can take you partway up the island, making the journey accessible to all. Along the way, you’ll find observation decks and cafés with panoramic views of the Shonan coast and Mt. Fuji on clear days.
Omikuji, Goshuin & Unique Traditions
Omikuji (fortune slips) and goshuin (shrine stamps) are available at each of the three shrines. A visitor favorite is the Benzaiten Omikuji, available at the Hoanden Hall, which offers fortunes related to creativity, love, wealth, and career.
The shrine’s crest—a triple-scale crest inside opposing waves—is rooted in a legend where Hōjō Tokimasa received the symbol in a vision from Benzaiten during a retreat in Enoshima’s sea cave.
Access & Morning Tips from Toshi’s Place｜A Scenic Seaside Journey
From Katase-Enoshima Station (Odakyu Line), it’s a 15-minute walk to the shrine entrance. From Enoshima Station (Enoden Line), it takes around 20 minutes.
If you’re staying at Toshi’s Place in Kamakura, hop on the Enoden Line and enjoy a scenic ride along the coastline. You can start after a relaxed breakfast—thanks to your kitchen-equipped, no-checkout-pressure setup—and still arrive during the peaceful morning hours.
General Access: Open year-round for shrine visits
Hoanden Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (may vary by season)
Best Times to Visit｜Four Seasons of Sea & Spirituality
Spring offers cherry blossoms and fresh sea breezes; summer brings festive energy and ocean views; autumn bathes the island in vibrant foliage; and winter, on clear days, reveals breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
Guests at Toshi’s Place can take their time in the morning, catch a mid-morning Enoden train, and enjoy the spiritual calm before the crowds arrive. A perfect blend of seaside charm and ancient tradition.
Nearby Highlights｜Love, Legends, and the Sea
- Enoshima Iwaya Caves: Said to be the site of Tokimasa’s vision, full of coastal mystery
- Ryuren no Kane (Lovers’ Bell): A romantic site where couples ring a bell and fasten locks to a fence as a vow of love
- Enoshima Sea Candle (Observation Tower): Offers panoramic views of Enoshima, Shonan, and Mt. Fuji—especially magical at sunset
Combine these with your shrine visit to create a full-day journey of history, romance, and nature.
Who Should Visit?｜For Artists, Romantics, and Spiritual Explorers
- Creatives seeking inspiration or performance success under Benzaiten’s guidance
- Couples wishing for love, marriage, or lasting connection
- Travelers who love mythology, nature, and sea views
- Toshi’s Place guests looking for a peaceful yet rich half- or full-day adventure
Final Thoughts｜An Island Where Legend, Nature & Art Converge
Enoshima Shrine is more than a beautiful coastal shrine—it’s a living story of divine feminine energy, artistic blessings, and oceanic peace. The shrine’s mythology and the island’s scenic paths offer a spiritually nourishing experience.
From Toshi’s Place, your flexible, self-paced stay makes it easy to plan a morning visit—enjoy a seaside train ride, a spiritual climb, and a soulful escape. Don’t miss this Shonan power spot where history, nature, and prayer harmonize.