Sponsored by Fujisawa City Tourism Association
Only 60 minutes from the capital of Japan, Enoshima island is a charming seaside resort for Tokyoites.
Katase Beach, which includes Higashihama Beach to the east and Nishihama Beach to the west, is one of Japan’s most popular beaches. It is also famous for it’s numerous beach activities such as surfing or sailing for all year around.
Two Beaches in Enoshima: Higashihama Beach and Nishihama Beach
Enoshima is the easiest destination from Tokyo which offers great beaches. There are mainly two beaches, one for families and the other is the more trendy; intended for younger people to visit.
On Enoshima Island, you can find the Higashihama beach on the right, it is one of the most historical beaches in Japan. On the other side, Nishihama Beach is always crowded, and is where surfing and beach volleyball were practiced for the first time in Japan.
From these beaches, which are both a part of Katase Beach, when the sky is clear and you are lucky you can admire Mount Fuji and even the Izu Peninsula. In April and September, you might have a chance to witness the “Fuji Diamond“(the famous sunset at the summit of Mount Fuji which makes for an impressive view).
During summer, these beaches are particularly lively thanks to the strong presence of restaurants and beach houses all along the shore.
Beach Houses; Japanese Beach Culture
Everyone would think that the beaches are like beaches in any other country in terms of organization, but no. During the summer season in Japan, you can find a unique atmosphere along the beaches, especially brought on by the beach houses which line the shores!
These are temporary houses open for only a few weeks in July and August, whatever the weather. They allow visitors, surfers and swimmers and beach goers, to have a rest there, to leave their luggage, to eat, and to take a shower. The beach houses are very typical for Japanese beaches!
The beach houses are very varied and each has their own specificities. While all of them cover the four main functions mentioned above, they offer special ambiances according to the establishments. They can also, for example, offer you parasol , deck chairs, or nautical equipment (masks, snorkels, surfboards …) for rental.
In any case, beach houses are essential to the Japanese since they provide the space for people to recharge in the extremely hot and humid weather in summer.
Tokyo Plymics 2020: Enoshima is Ready to Host the Yacht Games!
You probably know that Tokyo will host the next Olympic in 2020? But did you know that the yacht competitions will take place in Enoshima?
Yes, the Enoshima harbor, created at the time of the former Tokyo Olympics in 1964, will host the sailing again!
The Yacht Club House , founded in 2014, will allow the public to watch the yacht races. Why not go there to support your favorite player?
Continue Our Walk to Enoshima Aquarium
While you’re in the area, why not take the opportunity to visit the Shin-Enoshima Aquarium, which is the first modern aquarium created in Japan? Opened in 1954, it is particularly known for the jellyfish exhibition and research initiated in 1973.
In the aquarium, you can also admire “Sagami Bay” with 8,000 sardines swimming in majestic rows or “beach of sea turtles” where you can observe three species of sea turtles.
The admission for the aquarium is 2,100 yen (for adults), 1,500 yen ( for high school student) , 1,000 yen ( for elementary and junior high school student.) It is open from 10 am to 5 pm and they will extend schedules for ‘Night Wonder Aquarium’ by December 25.
The official Enoshima aquarium website is also available in English if you wish to refer to more information.
General Information
For more information, do not hesitate to visit the official website of Fujisawa City Tourist Association in English !
You can also go directly to the tourist center, which is one minute away from Odakyu Line Katase Enoshima station, it is open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm and they will be happy to provide you with information and, if necessary, Wifi information as well.
Translated by: Aika Ikeda
