🌸 Overview
Line Name: Shonan Monorail Enoshima Line
Operating Company: Shonan Monorail Co., Ltd. (part of Michinori Holdings)
Opening Year: 1970 (Ofuna–Nishi-Kamakura) / 1971 (full line opened)
Line Length: Approx. 6.6 km
Number of Stations: 8 (Ofuna – Shonan-Enoshima)
System Type: Suspended monorail (SAFEGE system by Mitsubishi)
Major Connections: JR Tokaido, Yokosuka, and Negishi Lines at Ofuna / Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) at Shonan-Enoshima
📜 History & Background
・Planned in the 1960s as Japan’s first full-scale urban suspended monorail to meet growing tourism and residential needs.
・Opened in 1970 (Ofuna–Nishi-Kamakura), extended to Shonan-Enoshima in 1971 (6.6 km total).
・Quickly became a local lifeline balancing tourism and daily commuting.
・Today, the “Monorail in the Sky” carries both residents and visitors, covering the entire route in just 14–15 minutes.
🌟 Highlights / Advantages
✅ 1. Direct Link Between Ofuna and Enoshima
Travel from Ofuna to Enoshima in about 14–15 minutes without worrying about traffic jams — ideal for weekend getaways or daily errands.
✅ 2. Amazing Views
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view unique to suspended trains — the section between Nishi-Kamakura and Shonan-Enoshima offers stunning coastal scenery 🌊
✅ 3. A Reliable Local Commuter Line
Connects key residential areas in Kamakura and Fujisawa cities, serving commuters, students, and families alike. Perfect for hilly terrain.
✅ 4. Weather-Resistant and Traffic-Free
Running on elevated tracks, it stays punctual even during heavy rain or road congestion.
⚠️ Drawbacks / Points to Note
❌ 1. Slightly Higher Fare
Full route (Ofuna–Shonan-Enoshima) costs ￥320 (as of October 2025). Future fare revisions are being considered.
❌ 2. Limited Through Connections
Directly connects to JR and Enoden lines, but no subway or Tokyo-bound through services — you’ll need to transfer at Ofuna for Yokohama or Tokyo.
❌ 3. Moderate Service Frequency
Trains run roughly every 10 minutes during the day. Expect short waits outside peak hours.
🧺 Livability — Life Along the Line
🚉 Access: ★★★☆☆ Convenient within Shonan area / Transfers required for Tokyo center
🛍️ Shopping: ★★★★☆ Easy access to Ofuna and Fujisawa shopping hubs
🌿 Nature: ★★★★★ Sea, mountains, and rivers nearby — a refreshing landscape every day
👨👩👧👦 Childcare: ★★★★☆ Rich in schools and parks within Kamakura and Fujisawa
🕊️ Safety: ★★★★☆ Quiet residential areas / tourist zones get busy on weekends
🏠 Real Estate Perspective (2025)
💴 Average Rents (1R / 1K | Family 2LDK –)
Ofuna: ￥75,000–￥90,000 / ￥120,000–￥160,000 – Excellent JR connections and vibrant shopping district
Fujimicho: ￥65,000–￥75,000 / ￥100,000–￥130,000 – Peaceful and convenient residential area
Nishi-Kamakura: ￥60,000–￥70,000 / ￥90,000–￥120,000 – Hillside housing popular with families
Shonan-Enoshima: ￥65,000–￥80,000 / ￥100,000–￥140,000 – Near tourist spots yet quiet to live in
🏘 Housing Trends
・ Nishi-Kamakura, Shonan-Fukasawa, Kataseyama – Serene hillside neighborhoods with spacious homes.
・ Shonan-Enoshima – Tourist area with a good mix of rental and condominium options.
・ A bit farther from stations → more detached houses with parking and larger lots.
🚉 Access Summary
Main Terminal: Ofuna / Terminus: Shonan-Enoshima / Travel Time: approx. 14–15 min / Connections: JR Tokaido・Yokosuka・Negishi @ Ofuna / Enoden @ Shonan-Enoshima
🎯 Recommended For
✅ Families who want to live close to nature in the Shonan area 🌿
✅ People who commute or study around Ofuna but prefer a quieter home base
✅ Those who often visit Enoshima or Kamakura for weekend leisure 🚤
✅ Anyone seeking a peaceful, relaxed lifestyle with solid urban access
📌 Summary
The Shonan Monorail is a unique “sky route” offering a blend of scenic views, commuter convenience, and Shonan charm.
Running between Ofuna and Enoshima in just 15 minutes, it serves both residents and tourists alike.
Although fares and transfers can be minor concerns, its balance of comfort, nature, and coastal living makes it a truly appealing choice for everyday life in Shonan ✨