Enoshima Winter Illumination: the Jewel of Shonan 2022-2023

One of the Best Winter Illuminations in Japan: Enoshima “Jewel of Shonan”

The Jewel of Shonan

Enoshima (江の島) is an island off the coast of Shonan area in Kanagawa Prefecture, and connected with the mainland by the bridge. It’s situated only less than 10 km west of Kamakura City.

Enoshima is one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Tokyo as it offers a variety of tourist attractions including a shopping street, shrine, observation tower, caves and the astonishing view of the ocean and surrounding areas. When the visibility is good, an amazing view of Mt Fuji can also be appreciated. On the mainland, there is a popular Enoshima Beach which is filled with crowds and beach huts during summer.

Enoshima is a popular place to visit through the year, especially, many people visit there during summer as it’s a popular beach destination. However, one of the most recommended time to visit is at night in winter when the spectacular winter illumination, the Jewel of Shonan is held annually on the island.

The Jewel of Shonan (Shonan no Hoseki, 湘南の宝石) is a long-running illumination event since 1999. It’s counted as one of three greatest winter illuminations in Kanto Region along with Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture and Sagamiko Illumillion in Kanagawa Prefecture.

The Jewel of Shonan features romantic and colourful illuminations at several locations at Enoshima Island including the 60m tall symbolic observation tower, Enoshima Sea Candle and the surroundings at Samuel Cocking Garden. The design of the illumination is renewed in recent years, and a bigger number of lights are displayed comparing to the past. Over 70,000 of Swarovski crystal beads are also displayed at the Shonan Chandelier area.

There is a large tulip garden at the Samuel Cocking Garden, and with the mild climate of Shonan area, over 20,000 tulips bloom even during the winter season, usually from late December to late January. After dark, the tulip garden is also lit up by lights.

The view of colourful illuminations and the pleasant scenery of Enoshima at winter night is literally like jewels! If you are planning to visit Enoshima this winter, make sure to stay till evening to enjoy one of the most amazing winter illuminations in Japan!


-Enoshima Illumination Jewel of Shonan 2022-2023

Date: 23 November 2022 to 28 February 2023

Map (Enoshima): http://bit.ly/2WmaLzD

Venue: Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden and Enoshima Sea Candle

-Samuel Cocking Garden and Enoshima Sea Candle

Opening Hours: 9:00~20:00

Entrance Fee: 500 yen (+500 yen for observation tower)


For more information about winter illuminations in Japan, please check out these articles, too!

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