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If you’re looking for a truly immersive way to experience Japan’s cultural and natural beauty, an upcoming Enoshima monitor tour hosted by the Japanese Traditional Culture Association offers a rare opportunity to explore this coastal gem’s history and hidden wonders. Perfect for those in Japan looking for deeper cultural connections, the two-day journey set for select dates from late December 2024 to January 2025 includes hands-on agricultural experiences, captivating storytelling, traditional performances, and more.

A Blend of Nature, Legends, and Japanese Traditions in Enoshima

Starting in Fujisawa, participants will embark on a thoughtfully curated experience. Your journey begins with a taste of Japan’s local farming culture through vegetable harvesting at the Fujisawa Hokubu Farm followed by a delicious lunch (subject to change on tours starting 14th January on onwards).

You’ll then travel to Enoshima and participate in a special ceremony at Enoshima Shrine. This includes a prayer service and a guided tour along a course inspired by these myths, providing insightful and lively commentary by popular rickshaw driver and renowned storyteller Tsutomu Sato.

The adventure continues with a guided tour of the island’s famous Iwaya Caves, which are rich in history and lore. Carved naturally by ocean waves over centuries, these caves were once places of worship of Benten, the goddess of music and fortune, and they house statues and altars dedicated to the island’s guardian spirits. 

During this tour, you’ll hear fascinating tales at Enoshima Shrine from a guide who brings Enoshima’s legends to life in a storytelling session—a rare opportunity to glimpse into Japan’s spiritual and mythical past. We also recommend visiting Samuel Cocking Garden, where “The Jewel of Shonan” illumination sets the scene for a breathtaking pre-dinner stroll.

Enchanting Evenings at Iwamotoro

Your evening will be spent at the Iwamotoro Inn, known for its unique Roman-style cave baths—a feature that perfectly balances relaxation with history. 

Then, settle in for a banquet featuring an exquisite array of traditional Japanese dishes paired with local sake. The night concludes with live performances of traditional Japanese instruments, such as the shamisen and shakuhachi, adding an immersive musical experience to this exceptional evening.

Farewells and Free Time

On the second day, after a delightful breakfast, you will say goodbye to your new friends. After the tour finishes, you’ll have free time to explore or take an optional tour of Enoden to Kamakura or Enoshima Aquarium. 

Value and Convenience

For approximately half the usual cost (70,000 yen), this tour offers a deep dive into Japanese culture and local life for a modest 35,000 yen—a price made possible by support from the Japanese Traditional Culture Association. The cost covers transportation, accommodation, meals, and all activities, ensuring a hassle-free journey that lets you focus on the experience.

Don’t Miss This Unique Cultural Experience

The Enoshima monitor tour is a chance to experience Japanese traditions, breathtaking coastal views, and spiritual legends all in one package. With only a few tours available, spaces are limited. Don’t miss this chance to experience an unforgettable journey through Enoshima’s natural and cultural heritage.

The tour dates available are: 

• 1st Tour: December 10th (Tue) – 11th (Wed)
• 2nd Tour: December 17th (Tue) – 18th (Wed)
• 3rd Tour: January 14th (Tue) – 15th (Wed)
• 4th Tour: January 21st (Tue) – 22nd (Wed)
• 5th Tour: January 28th (Tue) – 29th (Wed) 

For more details and registration, visit here.

Enoshima Monitor Tour Timetable

Day 1

• 9:00 Meet at Fujisawa Station South Exit (OPA) and board the chartered bus
• 9:45~ Vegetable harvesting at the Fujisawa Hokubu Farm
• 11:00~ Lunch at a restaurant *Changes planned on the 5th tour
• 12:00~ Travel to Enoshima by bus
• 12:30~ Prayer ceremony and history session at Enoshima Shrine
• 14:00~ Enoshima guided tour, including Iwaya Caves. A stroll through Samuel Cocking Garden to see “The Jewel of Shonan” illuminations are also recommended
• 16:30~ Enoshima Iwamotoro check-in. Then enjoy a relaxing bath.
  Experience a traditional Japanese banquet with sake pairing and live Japanese music

Day 2

• 8:00~ Breakfast
• 10:00~ Tour concludes
  *The tour on 10~11 December will finish at 12:00 as the shrine prayer is on the second day.
  After the tour finishes, you are free to explore at your leisure or take an optional tour Enoden to Kamakura or Enoshima Aquarium.

※Included in the tour price – Guide fee, lunch and parking fees – Entrance fee, accommodation, lecture fee and bus fare.

※This tour is supported by the Fujisawa City Tourism Section, the Fujisawa City Tourism Association and the Fujisawa Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Enoshima Monitor Tour Reservations

Scan the QR code below or follow this link to choose your preferred date and register for the monitor tour. There are only 15 spots available for each date so don’t miss your change and sign up now!

Image credits: Enoshima Shrine, Fujisawa Tourist Association.

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