🏛 Basic Information & Overview
Line Name: Enoshima Electric Railway (commonly known as Enoden)
Operator: Enoshima Electric Railway Co., Ltd. (Odakyu Group)
Opened: 1902 (Meiji 35)
Distance: Approx. 10.0 km
Route: Fujisawa Station – Kamakura Station (Kanagawa Prefecture)
Stations: 15
Operation: Single-track line with passing loops / some sections share the road with cars
Main Attractions: Enoshima Island, Kamakura Kōkō-mae, Hase (Great Buddha), Inamuragasaki, Gokurakuji
IC Cards: Compatible with Suica / PASMO and other major IC cards (some stations use simple tap-on/tap-off gates)
📜 History & Background
・Opened in 1902 between Fujisawa and Katase, and fully extended to Kamakura by 1910.
・Developed as both a tourist and community railway linking the seaside and the ancient capital.
・Famous for running right beside people’s houses, creating a nostalgic and cinematic scene.
・Often featured in anime, films, and dramas—today, Enoden is widely recognized as a symbol of the Shonan coast.
🌟 Highlights (Merits)
✅ 1. Breathtaking Coastal Views
Enjoy ever-changing scenery—ocean, temples, pine trees, and narrow local streets.
The seascape from Kamakura Kōkō-mae Station is one of Japan’s most photographed spots 🌊
✅ 2. Easy Access to Major Attractions
Connects all of Shonan’s must-see destinations—Kamakura Great Buddha, Hasedera Temple, Enoshima, and Inamuragasaki—on one compact line.
Every stop has something worth exploring 🚶♀️
✅ 3. Compact and Convenient
The entire line is just 10 km, taking around 30 minutes end-to-end.
Perfect for a casual half-day trip or a relaxed weekend stroll 🚲
✅ 4. A True Local Lifeline
Beyond tourism, Enoden remains an essential commuting route for residents and students.
IC card access makes boarding quick and easy.
⚠️ Points to Note (Demerits)
❌ 1. Extremely Crowded During Peak Tourist Seasons
Expect packed trains during holidays, summer, and Golden Week—plan off-peak visits when possible.
❌ 2. Limited Service Frequency
Trains run roughly every 12 minutes during the day; passing waits on the single track can extend travel time slightly.
❌ 3. Narrow Stations and Uneven Access
Some older stations still have stairs or limited space—be cautious if traveling with strollers or large luggage.
🧺 Living Environment (Ease of Living)
Transportation: ★★★☆☆ – Transfers available at Fujisawa (JR / Odakyu) and Kamakura (JR Yokosuka Line)
Shopping: ★★★☆☆ – Major facilities near Fujisawa and Kamakura; smaller local shops elsewhere
Nature & Scenery: ★★★★★ – Mountains, ocean, and temples all within reach 🌅
Education & Childcare: ★★★★☆ – Calm residential setting with community-based schools
Safety: ★★★★★ – Peaceful, low-crime neighborhoods ideal for quiet living
🏠 Real Estate Overview (as of 2025)
💴 Average Rent (Single / Family)
Fujisawa: ¥70,000–¥90,000 / ¥130,000–¥180,000 – Excellent transport access with JR & Odakyu lines
Kamakura: ¥75,000–¥110,000 / ¥140,000–¥200,000 – Historic city with high property value
Shichirigahama: ¥70,000–¥90,000 / ¥120,000–¥170,000 – Popular seaside luxury residential area
Enoshima: ¥65,000–¥80,000 / ¥110,000–¥160,000 – Tourist area that’s still comfortable for residents
Hase–Gokurakuji: ¥60,000–¥75,000 / ¥100,000–¥140,000 – Quieter than central Kamakura, more affordable
🏘 Housing Trends & Atmosphere
・Kamakura–Hase–Inamuragasaki–Shichirigahama: Known for upscale homes and condominiums with scenic views.
・Around Enoshima: A balanced mix of local residences and shops, offering a lively yet homey feel.
・Overall: A rare area where tourism and everyday living coexist beautifully, creating pride of place for residents.
🚃 Access & Operation
Main Connections:
Fujisawa → JR Tokaido Line / Odakyu Line
Kamakura → JR Yokosuka Line / Shonan-Shinjuku Line
Schedule: About every 12 minutes during the day / fewer trains early morning and late night
Note: Tap your IC card when both boarding and exiting at simple IC gate stations.
🎯 Who Enoden Is Perfect For
✅ People drawn to Shonan’s ocean and Kamakura’s historic charm
✅ Those prioritizing lifestyle, relaxation, and nature over city commuting
✅ Weekend explorers who love walking, cafés, or surfing ☕🏄♂️
✅ Remote workers or second-home seekers
✅ Buyers looking for properties with strong value and regional brand appeal
📌 Summary
The Enoshima Electric Railway is more than a sightseeing line—it’s a gateway to everyday Shonan living, where ocean views, temples, and café culture blend seamlessly.
Despite single-track limits and tourist crowds, its 10-km of compact beauty and excellent connections make it ideal for both residents and visitors.
Every ride offers the feeling of turning the extraordinary into the everyday ✨