:Enoshima Retreat Private Walking Tour in Benzaiten and Iwaya
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enoshima is a small island where the sea, shrines, and legends sit close together—an ideal place to reset your pace. Crossing Benten Bridge feels like stepping through a boundary from everyday life into a more sacred, reflective space. This experience is designed as a retreat-style walk, prioritizing spacious timing, gentle guidance, and moments to simply look out at the ocean and breathe.
We explore Enoshima through the story of Benzaiten and the Dragon—framed not as a “battle,” but as a narrative of acceptance and harmony. After a relaxed island stroll and lunch, we follow the coastal path while introducing Enoshima’s history as a place of training and pilgrimage. At Enoshima Iwaya Caves (seasonal and weather-dependent), you’ll experience a symbolic passage through darkness to light—often described in Japanese spirituality as a “rebirth” moment—before finishing with quiet ocean time and a sunset closing at a scenic viewpoint.
Available options
:Enoshima Retreat Private Walking Tour in Benzaiten and Iwaya
What's included
Public Transportation fee
Admission Fee
Hotel Pickup
National Licensed English Speaking Guide. Please let us know if you prefer any other languages.
Detailed itinerary
1
We begin by walking across Benten Bridge, the long approach that connects the mainland to Enoshima. This bridge becomes our symbolic “threshold”, a conscious shift from everyday pace into a more reflective space.
As we cross, we’ll slow down, take in the sea air, and set a simple intention for the day (no pressure, just a gentle mental reset). The bridge itself is nearly 389 meters long, which gives a natural buffer to leave the city behind.
2
At Eshima Shrine, we explore Enoshima’s spiritual identity through story rather than “just facts.” The shrine is associated with the Munakata goddesses and Benzaiten—often linked to water, arts, music, and prosperity.
Here, we introduce the Dragon and Benzaiten legend through the theme you designed:
The “dragon” as raw nature and inner intensity (instinct, anger, fear)
Benzaiten as acceptance, harmony, and integration
Instead of a hero-versus-monster narrative, we frame it as an invitation to “include and integrate” what we usually fight.
We choose ocean-view points to stop, breathe, and enjoy the scenery.
Then we take a relaxed lunch featuring local flavors (paid individually). In the retreat framing, the meal is not just “fuel” but part of cleansing and replenishment.
Optional add-on (by request): Matcha experience
If you choose to include it, we’ll position matcha as a mindful ritual—slowing the hands and senses, not simply “trying matcha.”
3
At Enoshima Iwaya Caves, the retreat becomes tactile and unforgettable. Inside, the atmosphere changes—cooler air, dim light, stone walls, and a sense of moving through the earth.
We interpret the cave as a symbolic womb passage: in many Japanese spiritual contexts, passing through darkness and emerging into light can represent “dying once and being reborn.”
When we step back outside, we pause deliberately to feel the contrast—light, ocean wind, and wide sky—and let guests absorb that “birth moment” in their own way (silence is welcome).
We end with a sunset closing at a hilltop or seaside location, depending on the day’s conditions.
Important operational note: Iwaya is weather/sea-condition dependent and may close during high waves or typhoons; hours can also vary seasonally. If it’s closed, we’ll shift the time into shrine stories, viewpoints, cafés, and reflective pauses on the island instead.
What's not included
Lunch
Personal Expenses
Souvenirs
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The itinerary might be changed due to weather condition or other reasons.
We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.
If you are interested in kimono rental or hair styling at a Japanese salon, please let us know your request after making your reservation.
Meeting point
The guide will be waiting for you with your name sign.
Please inform about your pick up details in advance.
Important notes
Please show the ticket to the guide when you meet.
About Kamakura
Kamakura is a historic city known as the ancient capital of Japan, rich in Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and traditional architecture. Its coastal location and scenic beauty make it a popular destination for both cultural and nature lovers.
Top Attractions
Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine
A significant Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Hachiman, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
Home to a massive bronze statue of Amida Buddha, one of Kamakura's most iconic landmarks.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Komachi-dori
A bustling street filled with traditional shops, restaurants, and souvenir stalls.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore
Hasedera Temple
A beautiful temple complex with stunning ocean views and a history dating back to the 8th century.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Zeniarai Benten Shrine
A unique shrine where visitors can wash money for good fortune, located in a serene forested area.
Religious
30-60 minutes
Free (donations appreciated)
Kamakura Beach
A popular beach for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, offering beautiful ocean views.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (rentals available)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Shirasu Don
A bowl of rice topped with fresh whitebait, a local delicacy.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish
Kamaboko
Fish cakes with various shapes and flavors, often served as a snack or part of a larger meal.
Snack
Contains fish
Houtou
A hearty vegetable and noodle soup, often made with local produce.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Matcha Sweets
Traditional sweets made with matcha (green tea), a specialty of the region.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the surrounding hills
Beach activities
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Scenic walks
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional crafts workshops
Swimming
Surfing
Best Time to Visit
April (cherry blossom season), November (autumn foliage)
These periods offer the most pleasant weather and stunning natural scenery, attracting large crowds of tourists.
15-25°C (April), 10-20°C (November)
59-77°F (April), 50-68°F (November)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (GMT+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kamakura is a very safe destination with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
- • Be cautious of your surroundings at night, especially in less touristy areas.
Getting there
By air
- Haneda Airport • 50 km from Kamakura
- Narita Airport • 100 km from Kamakura
By train
Kamakura Station
By bus
Kamakura Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The JR Yokosuka Line connects Kamakura to Tokyo and Yokohama, while the Enoden Line offers a scenic route along the coast.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Komachi-dori
Hase
Yuigahama
Zaimokuza
Day trips
Enoshima Island
10 km from Kamakura • Half day
A small island known for its scenic views, shrines, and caves, offering a mix of nature and culture.
Yokohama
30 km from Kamakura • Full day
A major city with a rich history, known for its Chinatown, museums, and waterfront attractions.
Hakone
50 km from Kamakura • Full day or overnight
A scenic onsen (hot spring) town known for its views of Mount Fuji, traditional ryokan (inns), and hot springs.
Festivals
Kamakura Festival • April (specific dates vary)
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Reitaisai • September 14-15
Great Buddha Festival • December (specific dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Great Buddha early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Explore the Enoden Line for a scenic and historic tram ride along the coast.
- Try local specialties like shirasu (whitebait) and kamaboko (fish cakes).
- Combine a visit to Kamakura with a day trip to nearby Enoshima or Hakone.
- Carry cash for small purchases and local markets, as not all places accept cards.
$266
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
