Complete Guide to Enoshima Shrine | History, Pilgrimage to the Three Great Benzaiten Shrines of Japan, Goshuin (Shrine Seals), and Access Information
Enoshima Shrine is a historic shrine located on Enoshima Island in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is considered one of Japan’s three great Benzaiten shrines. The entire island of Enoshima, floating in Sagami Bay, is an object of worship, and three shrines—Hetsumiya, Nakatsumiya, and Okutsumiya—are scattered throughout the island.
This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting Enoshima Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, highlights of the grounds, goshuin (shrine seals), amulets, pilgrimage routes, and access methods.
What is Enoshima Shrine?
Enoshima Shrine is a shrine that enshrines the Munakata Three Goddesses as its principal deities. Enoshima Shrine shares the same deity as Munakata Taisha Shrine in Fukuoka Prefecture and Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture, and has long been revered as the guardian deity of maritime transport, fishing, and transportation.
Its former rank was Prefectural Shrine, and it is currently designated as a Special Shrine by the Association of Shinto Shrines. The entire island of Enoshima is considered sacred ground, and because there are three shrines on the island, “Enoshima Shrine” is a collective name for Hetsumiya, Nakatsumiya, and Okutsumiya.
One of Japan’s Three Great Benzaiten Shrines
Enoshima Shrine is counted as one of Japan’s “Three Great Benzaiten Shrines,” alongside Chikubushima Shrine (Hogonji Temple) in Shiga Prefecture and Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture. Benzaiten is worshipped as the goddess who presides over music, performing arts, wealth, and wisdom, and Enoshima Shrine is particularly believed to bring blessings for increased wealth and improvement in artistic skills.
History of Enoshima Shrine
Founding and Origin
Enoshima Shrine is said to have been founded in the 13th year of Emperor Kinmei’s reign (552 AD). Formerly known as “Enoshima Myojin,” it has been revered as the god of the sea and water.
The island’s formation is associated with the legend of the celestial maiden and the five-headed dragon. According to legend, a five-headed dragon once lived in Fukasawa, Kamakura, tormenting the villagers. One day, Enoshima Island rose, and a celestial maiden descended. The dragon fell in love with the maiden, reformed, and became a protector of the village. This legend forms the core of the faith at Enoshima Shrine.
Development during the Kamakura Period
During the Kamakura period, the shrine flourished greatly, receiving the reverence of samurai families, including Minamoto no Yoritomo. In 1206, Minamoto no Sanetomo founded the Hetsumiya shrine to pray for the prosperity of the Kamakura shogunate. It is said that Minamoto no Yoritomo donated a stone torii gate in 1182, which still remains at the Okutsumiya shrine today.
Prosperity in the Edo Period
During the Edo period, with the spread of Benzaiten worship, pilgrimages to Enoshima Shrine became popular. “Enoshima pilgrimages” became fashionable among common people, and the shrine was bustling with many worshippers. The current Hetsumiya main hall was rebuilt in 1675 (Enpo 3) and preserves the architectural style of the Edo period.
After the Meiji Era
Due to the Meiji-era decree separating Shinto and Buddhism, Enoshima Shrine, which had previously been a syncretic blend of Shinto and Buddhism, separated from Buddhism and became an independent shrine. A major renovation was carried out in 1976 (Showa 51), resulting in its current appearance.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Enoshima Shrine enshrines the Munakata Three Goddesses, the three goddesses born when Amaterasu Omikami and Susanoo-no-Mikoto made a vow (ukei).
Deity enshrined at Hetsumiya Shrine: Tagitsuhime-no-Mikoto
Hetsumiya Shrine enshrines Tagitsuhime-no-Mikoto, the second daughter of the three goddesses. She is believed to grant protection for maritime travel, traffic safety, and business prosperity.
Deity enshrined at Nakatsumiya Shrine: Ichikishima-hime-no-Mikoto
Nakatsumiya Shrine enshrines Ichikishima-hime-no-Mikoto, the third daughter of the three goddesses. This deity is identified with Benzaiten and is believed to grant blessings for improvement in performing arts, attracting wealth, beauty, and matchmaking.
Deity enshrined at Okutsumiya Shrine: Tagirihime-no-Mikoto
Okutsumiya Shrine enshrines Tagirihime-no-Mikoto, the eldest daughter of the three goddesses. She is believed to grant blessings for maritime safety, abundant catches, and the fulfillment of wishes. Located at the innermost part of Enoshima Island, it is the most sacred place.
Overall Divine Virtues
Enoshima Shrine as a whole is believed to offer the following divine virtues:
- Maritime safety and traffic safety
- Prosperity in fishing and agriculture
- Business success and increased wealth
- Improvement in performing arts and music
- Matchmaking and successful relationships
- Academic success
- Good fortune and protection from evil
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
While the entire island of Enoshima can be considered the grounds of Enoshima Shrine, here are some of the main highlights.
Hetsumiya Shrine
This is the shrine closest to the entrance of Enoshima, and the first shrine you should visit.
Zuishinmon Gate
This vermilion-lacquered gate serves as the gateway to Enoshima and was rebuilt in 2011. It features a magnificent structure reminiscent of Ryugu-jo (the Dragon Palace).
Hetsumiya Main Hall
This shrine was rebuilt in 1675 (Enpo 3) and renovated in 1976 (Showa 51). It showcases the beautiful Gongen-zukuri architectural style.
Hōanden (Eight-Armed Benzaiten & Myōon Benzaiten)
The Hōanden, located within the Hetsumiya grounds, houses the “Eight-Armed Benzaiten,” one of Japan’s three great Benzaiten statues, and the “Myōon Benzaiten,” known as the “Naked Benzaiten.” Admission is 200 yen for adults, 100 yen for junior and senior high school students, and 50 yen for elementary school students.
Zeniarai Hakuryūō (Money-Washing White Dragon King)
This money-washing area originates from the legend of the celestial maiden and the five-headed dragon. It is believed that washing money here will improve one’s financial luck, attracting many worshippers.
Nakatsumiya
This shrine is located halfway up the mountain, accessed by climbing the stairs from Hetsumiya.
Vermilion Shrine
The shrine is characterized by its vibrant vermilion paintwork and was rebuilt in 1821. Located in the heart of Enoshima, it offers magnificent views.
Suikinkutsu (Water Harp Cave)
Within the shrine grounds is a suikinkutsu, where you can enjoy the beautiful sound of dripping water.
Okutsumiya Shrine
This shrine is located at the innermost part of Enoshima, facing the sea.
Ceiling Painting of the “Eight-Directional Staring Turtle”
The ceiling of the worship hall, newly built in 1976, features a painting of the “Eight-Directional Staring Turtle,” based on a sketch by the Edo period painter Sakai Hōitsu. It’s a mysterious painting where it seems as if the turtle’s eyes are meeting yours no matter which direction you view it from.
Wadatsumi-no-miya Shrine
Near Okutsumiya Shrine is Wadatsumi-no-miya Shrine, which enshrines the dragon god from the legend of the five-headed dragon. Popular as a power spot for romantic fulfillment and good fortune in relationships.
Stone Torii Gate Donated by Minamoto no Yoritomo
A stone torii gate, said to have been donated by Minamoto no Yoritomo in 1182 (Yōwa 2), still exists.
Other Highlights
Enoshima Iwaya Caves
A sea cave located at the innermost part of Enoshima, it has long been a place of worship. It is said that Kobo Daishi and Nichiren Shonin also practiced asceticism here.
Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden and Observation Lighthouse (Sea Candle)
A botanical garden and observation lighthouse located beyond Nakatsu-gu Shrine, it is a symbol of Enoshima. From the observation deck, you can enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Sagami Bay.
Pilgrimage Route and Model Course
Basic Pilgrimage Route
We introduce a route for efficiently visiting the three shrines of Enoshima Shrine.
- Enoshima Entrance (Benten Bridge) – Approximately 10 minutes on foot to Enoshima
- Bronze Torii Gate – The official entrance to Enoshima
- Vermilion Torii Gate – The beginning of the approach to the shrine
- Zuishin Gate – The entrance to Enoshima Shrine
- Hetsunomiya – Worship at the first shrine (Time required: 20-30 minutes)
- Nakatsunomiya – Worship by climbing the stairs (Time required: 15-20 minutes)
- Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden (Optional)
- Okutsunomiya – Worship at the innermost shrine (Time required: 15-20 minutes)
- Ryugu – Worship for success in love
- Enoshima Iwaya Caves (Optional)
The estimated time required is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for visiting only the three shrines, and 3 to 4 hours if you include the caves and observation deck.
Using the Escalator (Paid Escalator)
Enoshima has a paid escalator called “Enoshima Escalator” (4 sections in total), which allows you to easily travel from Hetsumiya to the vicinity of Nakatsumiya. The fare is 360 yen for adults and 180 yen for children. It is recommended for those who are not confident in their physical strength or who want to save time.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Amulets
Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
At Enoshima Shrine, you can receive a Goshuin at each of the three shrines: Hetsumiya, Nakatsumiya, and Okutsumiya. Each costs 300 yen. Collecting all three Goshuin will be a memorable souvenir of your visit to Enoshima Shrine.
At Hetsumiya Shrine, you can receive the “Enoshima Shrine” goshuin (seal) and the “Benzaiten” goshuin. At Nakatsumiya Shrine, you can receive the “Nakatsumiya” goshuin, and at Okutsumiya Shrine, you can receive the “Okutsumiya” goshuin.
Popular Amulets
Enoshima Shrine offers a variety of amulets, but the following are particularly popular:
- Greedy Beauty Amulet – Three blessings: beauty, wealth, and good relationships
- Happiness Wallet Amulet – An amulet for increased wealth
- Matchmaking Amulet – An amulet for successful relationships
- Artistic Skill Improvement Amulet – An amulet for improvement in performing arts and music
- Traffic Safety Amulet – For safe travel on land and sea
Prayer and Worship Information
Prayers
Enoshima Shrine offers various prayers. Applications are accepted at the Hetsumiya Shrine office.
- Reception Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (May vary depending on the season)
- Offering Fee: 5,000 yen and up
- Main Prayers: Family safety, business prosperity, traffic safety, protection from evil, matchmaking, safe childbirth, etc.
Visiting Hours
- Shrine Grounds: Open all day (Limited lighting at night)
- Shrine Office/Gift Shop: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (May vary depending on the season)
- Sacred Hall: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission Fee
Entry to the shrine grounds is free. However, the following are subject to a fee:
- Hōanden (Eight-Armed Benzaiten & Myōon Benzaiten): Adults 200 yen, Junior/Senior High School Students 100 yen, Elementary School Students 50 yen
- Enoshima Iwaya Caves: Adults 500 yen, Elementary/Junior High School Students 200 yen
- Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden: Adults 200 yen, Children 100 yen
- Enoshima Sea Candle (Observation Lighthouse): Adults 300 yen, Children 150 yen
Access Methods
Access by Train
There are three nearest stations to Enoshima Shrine:
Odakyu Enoshima Line “Katase-Enoshima Station”
- Approximately 1 hour from Shinjuku
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from the station to the Enoshima entrance
- The station closest to Enoshima
Enoshima Electric Railway “Enoshima Station”
- Approximately 25 minutes from Kamakura Station
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from the station to the Enoshima entrance
Shonan Monorail “Shonan Enoshima Station”
- Approximately 14 minutes from Ofuna Station
- Approximately 17 minutes on foot from the station to the Enoshima entrance
Access by Car
- Approximately 40 minutes from Yokohama Shindo/Totsuka Toll Gate
- Approximately 40 minutes from Tomei Expressway/Atsugi IC
- Approximately 10 minutes from Shin-Shonan Bypass/Chigasaki Kaigan IC
There are several parking lots on Enoshima Island, but they can get crowded on weekends and during peak tourist seasons, so we recommend using public transportation.
Access by Bus
From Fujisawa Station South Exit, take the Enoden Bus bound for “Enoshima” for approximately 20 minutes and get off at the last stop.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Around Enoshima Island
- Shin-Enoshima Aquarium – A popular aquarium located directly across from Enoshima Island
- Katase Beach – A beach bustling with swimmers in the summer
- Enoshima Yacht Harbor – The sailing venue for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics
Towards Kamakura
- Kamakura Daibutsu (Kotoku-in Temple) – Approximately 30 minutes by Enoden train
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine – A representative shrine of Kamakura
- Hase-dera Temple – An ancient temple famous for its hydrangeas
Fujisawa City
- Yugyo-ji Temple (Shojoko-ji Temple) – An ancient temple that is the head temple of the Jishu sect
- Shirahata Shrine – A shrine dedicated to Minamoto no Yoshitsune
Annual Events
Enoshima Shrine holds various festivals throughout the year.
- January 1st-3rd – New Year’s visit (extremely crowded)
- Early April – Hatsumi Festival
- Early May – Grand Festival
- Mid-July – Tenno Festival
- October – Annual Festival
The Hatsumi Festival, in particular, is a popular day for worshippers as it is the festival day of Benzaiten.
Points to note and manners when visiting Enoshima Shrine
Attire
Enoshima has many stairs, so comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. Women, in particular, should avoid high heels.
Time Required
Allow 2-3 hours to leisurely visit all three shrines. Including the caves and observation deck, you will need about half a day.
Peak Seasons
The following periods are particularly crowded:
- The first three days of the New Year
- Golden Week
- Summer holidays (especially weekends)
- Autumn foliage season
If you wish to avoid crowds, visiting on weekday mornings or during winter (mid-January onwards) is recommended.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but there are areas where photography is restricted, such as during prayers or inside the main hall. Please follow the instructions.
Cultural Assets of Enoshima Shrine
Enoshima Shrine and its surrounding area possess numerous valuable cultural assets.
Fujisawa City Designated Cultural Properties
- Hetsumiya Shrine – Built in Enpo 3 (1675)
- Eight-Armed Benzaiten Statue – Believed to be a work from the Kamakura period
- Stone Torii Gate Donated by Minamoto no Yoritomo – Inscribed with the date Yowa 2 (1182)
Other Important Cultural Properties
- Myoon Benzaiten Statue – Famous as a naked Benzaiten
- Eight-Directional Gazing Turtle – Ceiling painting based on a sketch by Sakai Hoitsu
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to visit all three shrines of Enoshima Shrine?
It’s not mandatory, but since each of the three shrines enshrines a different deity and has different divine virtues, it is recommended to visit all three if possible. Visiting all three is considered a complete pilgrimage and is believed to bring greater blessings.
Can I visit on a rainy day?
You can visit, but Enoshima has many stairs, and they can become slippery in rainy weather, so caution is advised. Please bring an umbrella and non-slip shoes.
Are pets allowed to visit?
Small dogs and other pets are allowed on the shrine grounds if they are on a leash. However, they are not allowed inside the main shrine building or the sanctuary. Please be considerate of others during crowded times.
Are Goshuincho (stamp books) sold?
You can purchase original Enoshima Shrine Goshuincho at the Hetsumiya shrine office. Several designs are available, including one featuring Benzaiten.
Is it possible to visit in a wheelchair?
Due to the many stairs on Enoshima Island, wheelchair access is difficult. However, using the Enoshima Escalator (a paid escalator) makes it relatively easy to access the area from Hetsumiya to near Nakatsumiya. We recommend inquiring in advance for details.
Summary
Enoshima Shrine is a shrine on Enoshima Island in Sagami Bay, boasting a history of over 1400 years and considered one of Japan’s three great Benzaiten shrines. Enoshima Shrine consists of three shrines: Hetsumiya, Nakatsumiya, and Okutsumiya, each dedicated to one of the three Munakata goddesses.
It offers a variety of divine blessings, including maritime safety, traffic safety, business prosperity, increased wealth, artistic improvement, and matchmaking, attracting many worshippers throughout the year. The entire island is considered part of the shrine grounds, allowing visitors to enjoy the island’s nature, scenery, and surrounding tourist attractions in addition to their worship.
With easy access from Tokyo and Yokohama, it’s perfect for a day trip. Why not refresh your mind and body at Enoshima Shrine, where history, nature, and faith are intertwined?
Basic Information
- Address: 2-3-8 Enoshima, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture 251-0036
- Phone: 0466-22-4020
- Official Website: http://enoshimajinja.or.jp/
- Visiting Hours: All day (Shrine office: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM)
- Admission Fee: Free (Some facilities require a fee)
- Access: 15-minute walk from Katase-Enoshima Station on the Odakyu Line, 20-minute walk from Enoshima Station on the Enoden Line, 23-minute walk from Shonan-Enoshima Station on the Shonan Monorail
