Enoshima Lanterns is a summer light event that aims to promote the local area and showcase the beauty and charm of Enoshima Island.

The event is based on the legend of Enoshima Engi, which tells the story of how Enoshima Island was born. According to the legend, the goddess Benzaiten descended from heaven. The wicked five-headed dragon Gozuryu witnessed Benzaiten's arrival and instantly fell in love with her. He proposed marriage but she insisted that he help the people of Koshigoe. Gozuryu agreed and dedicated himself to protecting the area. Recognizing his good intentions, Benzaiten and Gozuryu jointly safeguarded Koshigoe, leading to its prosperity.

The event features lanterns that depict scenes from this legend, as well as other motifs that evoke the summer season, such as goldfish, morning glories, and fireworks.

Inspired by the legend of Enoshima Engi, Enoshima Lanterns returns in 2026 with "Hikari no Emaki" (Picture Scroll of Light), an immersive lighting installation produced by VELVETA DESIGN. The display transforms the island into a glowing landscape that blends traditional culture with contemporary light art.

At Zuishinmon Gate, newly designed kiri-e (paper-cut) light projections create a shimmering Sea of Light, accompanied by ambient sound that welcomes visitors to the island.

Continuing up the illuminated stone steps, visitors arrive at Hetsunomiya, where handcrafted shell wind chimes sway beneath reed screens, filling the shrine grounds with gentle seaside sounds.

At the summit, Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden features Tenku no Akari (Lights of the Sky), where giant translucent lanterns catch the evening breeze and cast colorful light across the garden beneath the Enoshima Sea Candle.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the Enoshima Lanterns, along with everything else the island has to offer, depending on your schedule and budget. If you're short on time, arrive just before the illuminations begin to enjoy the event after dark. If you have a full day to spare, however, it's worth exploring more of Enoshima, from its historic shrines and scenic viewpoints to local shops and eateries.

Arrive in the late afternoon and begin at Enoshima Iwaya, and take in the stunning coastal scenery before sunset. As evening falls, make your way up to Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden to experience the illuminated installations. Then stroll back down through the shrine grounds through the glowing lanterns and wind chimes, and end your visit at Enoshima Sea Candle observatory for panoramic views of the island and coastline.

The easiest way to Enoshima from Tokyo is by train. From Shinjuku Station, take the Odakyu Line to Katase-Enoshima Station, which takes about 65–75 minutes on a direct train. Regular trains cost around 650 yen one way, while the limited express Romancecar offers reserved seating for an additional surcharge and takes around 60–65 minutes. From Katase-Enoshima Station, it's about a 10-minute walk across the bridge to Enoshima Island.

Enoshima Lanterns 2026 will be held from August 1 to September 23, 2026. This year's event has been extended from previous runs, giving visitors more opportunities to enjoy the illuminated island through the Silver Week holiday period. The event takes place throughout Enoshima Island, including Enoshima Shrine, Nakamise Street, Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden, the Enoshima Sea Candle, and Enoshima Iwaya.

Enoshima Lanterns 2026 offers a unique way to experience Enoshima after dark, combining mythology, shrines, scenery, and contemporary light art. Whether you're interested in Japanese history and folklore or simply looking for a relaxing summer evening near Tokyo, the illuminated island is the perfect memorable seasonal escape.

Don’t miss this chance to see Enoshima Island in a different light!


Source: PR Times