Enoshima Winter Illumination: the Jewel of Shonan 2023-2024

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.

Moreover, if the weather condition is good, you can enjoy colourful lights with the view of the ocean and Mt Fuji on the background around sunset time. Enjoy the spectacular illumination at the Jewel of Shonan, blending into the nature and scenery of Shonan area!

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 2023-2024

Date: 23 November 2023 to 29 February 2024

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

Venue: Several locations on Enoshima Island (main venue is around Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden and Enoshima Sea Candle)

-Samuel Cocking Garden and Enoshima Sea Candle

Opening Hours: 9:00~20:00

Light-up Hours: 17:00~20:00 (~21:00 on weekend)

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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"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈