Golden Week at Enoshima

Crowds of people enjoying a festive atmosphere

Cathy Cawood Jun 28, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>There are many kite-hawks flying over the beach near Enoshima</p>

<p>Small gate overlooking a red torii</p>

<p>Restaurants and food stalls selling delicious seafood abounded</p>

<p>Ema - wooden plaques with requests to Shinto gods written on them</p>

<p>This lovers' padlock on a fence reminds me of the Pont des Arts Bridge in Paris</p>

<p>Dragon statue surrounded by purple banners</p>

<p>Looking down on rocks at the back of the island  </p>

<p>Entrances to the caves (there is an entry fee)</p>

<p>Engraved stone overlooking the sea</p>

I usually hate crowded places, but sometimes a place is so good that you can enjoy it in spite of the crowds. Enoshima is a place like that. The small island linked to the mainland by a bridge is a great place to fish off the wharf, swim in the rock pools in summer, or explore the island's many paths. There is an interesting story linked to the island, about a troublesome dragon that reformed because he fell in love with a beautiful goddess. Apparently couples now pray for good relationships on Enoshima because of this myth.

Cathy Cawood @cathy.cawood

I came to Japan in 2003 to teach English. I lived in Shiga prefecture for 1 year, and it still holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Kyoto for 9 years, then moved to Machida, Tokyo in 2014 after meeting my Japanese partner. I love to take photos, and my Japan in Pictures Facebook page ha...