Coast
🌸 Basic Information & Overview
Line Name: Odakyu Enoshima Line
Operator: Odakyu Electric Railway Co., Ltd.
Length: Approx. 27.4 km / Stations: 17 (Sagamiono–Katase-Enoshima)
Opened: 1929 (fully opened in 1934)
Main Transfer Stations: Sagamiono, Yamato, Fujisawa, Katase-Enoshima
Feature: A suburban line connecting city and resort areas — ideal for both commuting and leisure
Note: The section between Shinjuku and Sagamiono shares tracks with the Odawara Line, with multiple through services.
📜 History & Background
1929: Opened between Sagamiono and Fujisawa to enhance access to the Shonan coastal area.
1934: Extended to Katase-Enoshima, becoming a key route to seaside resorts.
During the Showa era, it grew as a popular tourist line; later, with suburban development, it became an important commuter route as well.
Even today, the Romancecar limited express remains one of the most beloved features of the line.
🚆 Line Structure & Features
・Sagamiono–Yamato: Dense suburban area with many express stops.
・Yamato–Fujisawa: Residential areas such as Shonandai and Chogo.
・Fujisawa–Katase-Enoshima: Seaside resort area bustling with visitors.
・Train Types: Local, Semi Express, Express, Rapid Express — convenient for different needs.
・Through Service: Romancecar limited express operates directly from Shinjuku to Katase-Enoshima (especially on weekends and holidays).
・Transfers: Fujisawa connects to JR Tokaido Line and Enoden, providing access to a variety of destinations.
🌟 Advantages (Merits)
✅ 1. Direct ride from Shinjuku to the Shonan Sea
Enjoy the best of both worlds — convenient urban commuting and easy weekend beach access.
✅ 2. Excellent suburban living environment
Yamato, Chuo-Rinkan, and Shonandai are popular commuter towns with good infrastructure, schools, and shopping.
✅ 3. Rich in sightseeing attractions
Fujisawa and Enoshima are famous destinations that also attract rental and vacation home demand.
✅ 4. Family-friendly environment
Chuo-Rinkan, Shonandai, and Zengyo offer excellent access to schools, parks, and family amenities.
⚠️ Disadvantages (Demerits)
❌ 1. Crowded during rush hours
Many direct trains to Shinjuku, but some sections can be congested during peak times.
❌ 2. Longer distances between stations in some areas
Particularly south of Fujisawa, where station spacing varies and convenience may differ.
❌ 3. Slightly affected by strong winds or typhoons
The Enoshima coastal area may experience service suspensions several times a year due to sea winds and salt damage.
🧺 Livability & Convenience
Transportation Access: ★★★★☆ / Direct service to Shinjuku; smooth commute (moderate crowding at times)
Shopping & Commerce: ★★★★☆ / Large shopping centers in Yamato, Shonandai, and Fujisawa
Education & Childcare: ★★★★☆ / Well-developed suburban facilities including schools and medical care
Nature & Scenery: ★★★★★ / Abundant nature — sea, parks, and greenery
Safety: ★★★☆☆ / Generally safe, though some stations are lively at night
🏠 Real Estate Perspective
💴 Average Rent (as of 2025)
Chuo-Rinkan: 1R・1K/¥70,000–85,000 / Family (2LDK+)/¥130,000–170,000 / Direct link to Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line / High popularity
Yamato: 1R・1K/¥65,000–80,000 / Family/¥110,000–150,000 / Excellent shopping / Convenient for Tokyo commuters
Shonandai: 1R・1K/¥65,000–75,000 / Family/¥110,000–140,000 / Academic district / Popular with families
Fujisawa: 1R・1K/¥70,000–90,000 / Family/¥120,000–170,000 / Balanced city with seaside access
Katase-Enoshima: 1R・1K/¥60,000–70,000 / Family/¥100,000–130,000 / Ideal for relaxed seaside living
🏘 Housing Trends
・Apartments and low-rise condominiums dominate around stations; Shonandai and Chuo-Rinkan have undergone redevelopment with newer high-rise buildings.
・The Enoshima area includes detached homes and vacation houses, catering to those seeking a resort lifestyle.
🎯 Ideal for People Who...
✅ Want both daily commuting and weekend leisure on one line
✅ Prefer a “just-right” distance between Tokyo and the suburbs
✅ Love the Shonan coast and are considering a second home
✅ Seek a comfortable environment for raising children with nature nearby
📌 Summary
The Odakyu Enoshima Line is a hybrid commuter-and-resort railway connecting central Tokyo and the Shonan seaside.
It balances urban convenience with natural beauty, offering excellent accessibility, livability, and scenic charm.
With the Romancecar express and well-planned stations, this line enables a lifestyle where you can truly enjoy both city and sea.