How to Ride the Enoden Train: Tickets, Passes, and Best Photo Spots

Overview

The Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) is a charming, retro local train that is essential for exploring the Kamakura and Enoshima areas. This 2026 up-to-date guide covers everything international travelers need to know to ride it smoothly, including tap-to-pay options, the 1-day pass, and crucial etiquette for the most popular photo spots.

1. Fares and 3 Ways to Pay

Enoden fares depend on the distance traveled, ranging from ¥200 to ¥310 for adults. There are three ways to pay:

① Credit Card Tap-to-Pay (Contactless) ※Highly Recommended!

You can use your contactless credit card or smartphone to pass through the gates at all Enoden stations.

• Supported Brands: Visa, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, Discover

• How to use: Simply tap your card or phone on the dedicated blue reader at the ticket gates for 1 second when entering and exiting.

• Important Note: One card/device cannot be used for multiple people simultaneously (1 card required per adult). Only adult fares apply; child fares are not supported via contactless tap.

② Transit IC Cards (Suica, PASMO, etc.)

Major Japanese transit IC cards are fully accepted.

• Supported Cards: Suica, PASMO, Kitaca, manaca, TOICA, PiTaPa, ICOCA, Hayakaken, nimoca, SUGOCA

• How to use: Tap your card on the reader at the gate. If your balance is below the minimum fare (¥200), the gate will error, so please top-up at the ticket vending machine beforehand.

③ Paper Tickets

You can purchase traditional paper tickets at the automatic vending machines inside the station using cash.

2. Is the 1-Day Pass "Noriorikun" Worth It?

If you plan on hopping on and off the train multiple times in one day, the Enoden 1-Day Pass "Noriorikun" is by far your best option.

• Price: Adults ¥800 / Children ¥400

• Where to Buy: Available at automatic ticket vending machines (cash/etc.) or as a digital ticket via smartphone apps like "EMot" (where you scan a QR code at the gates).

• The Breakeven Point: A round-trip from Kamakura Station to Enoshima Station costs ¥620 (¥310 each way). If you hop off just once along the way—such as at Hase Station for the Great Buddha—the pass pays for itself. It also grants discounts at about 40 local cafes and attractions along the line.

3. Best Photo Spots & Crucial Etiquette

While the Enoden offers stunning views, it is also a vital commuter line for locals. Following proper etiquette is highly emphasized.

📸 The "Slam Dunk" Crossing (Kamakurakoko-mae Station)

This world-famous spot is the anime holy grail featured in the opening theme of SLAM DUNK.

• ⚠️ Crucial Rules: This is a highly active public road with heavy traffic. Stopping in the middle of the street to take photos or stepping onto the train tracks is strictly prohibited. This is also a quiet residential area, so please refrain from making loud noises.

📸 Ocean Views from Shichirigahama

The stretch between Inamuragasaki Station and Kamakurakoko-mae Station runs right along the beautiful Pacific Ocean.

• Local Insider Tips for the Best Seats: When traveling from Kamakura toward Fujisawa, the ocean is on the left side of the train. However, because Japanese trains use long bench-style seating (longitudinal seats), sitting on the left side means the window is right behind you, making it hard to see the view.

  • If the train is empty: Sit on the right-side seats! You will face the windows directly, giving you a perfect, unobstructed view of the ocean and the silhouette of Mt. Fuji on a clear day.

  • If the train is crowded: Sitting on the right side risks having your view blocked by passengers standing in front of you. In this case, it is best to stand near the left-side doors or windows to secure your view.

📸 Goryo Shrine (Train & Hydrangeas)

Located near Hase Station, this unique shrine features an Enoden train passing right in front of its main torii gate. It is incredibly beautiful during the hydrangea season in June.

• ⚠️ Crucial Rules: Setting up tripods inside the shrine grounds facing the tracks or standing where you block the train's path is strictly forbidden. Please show respect to the sacred grounds while enjoying your walk.

4. Summary

With the introduction of credit card tap-to-pay, riding the Enoden has become easier than ever for international visitors. If you want to explore beachside cafes and historic temples at your own pace, grab the "Noriorikun" pass, keep these local seating tips in mind, and enjoy a safe, polite, and scenic ride through Kamakura!