Thinking about moving to Enoshima? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Enoshima.
Enoshima, a small island off the coast of Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, is a place of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It’s a popular tourist destination, known for its shrines, caves, and the iconic Enoshima Sea Candle lighthouse. But what is it like to actually live in Enoshima? Like any place, living in Enoshima has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into the details.
Pros of Living in Enoshima
One of the biggest advantages of living in Enoshima is its natural beauty. The island is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and the views of the ocean are simply breathtaking. The Enoshima Sea Candle, a lighthouse with an observation deck, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the majestic Mount Fuji on clear days. Living in Enoshima means having these views right at your doorstep.
Enoshima is also rich in cultural heritage. The island is home to several shrines, including the Enoshima Shrine, which is dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music and entertainment. The island’s history is deeply intertwined with Japanese mythology, and living here means being surrounded by this rich cultural tapestry every day.
Despite being a small island, Enoshima has a vibrant food scene. The island is famous for its shirasu, or whitebait, a type of small fish that is often served raw. There are numerous restaurants and food stalls offering a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Living in Enoshima means having access to this delicious food all the time.
Enoshima is also a great place for outdoor activities. The island’s beaches are popular for swimming and surfing, and there are several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. The Enoshima Yacht Harbor is a popular spot for sailing, and it was one of the venues for the sailing events of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
Finally, living in Enoshima means being part of a close-knit community. The island has a population of just over 6,000 people, and it’s common for neighbors to know each other. There are several community events throughout the year, such as the Enoshima Tenno Festival, which brings the whole community together.
Cons of Living in Enoshima, Japan
While there are many advantages to living in Enoshima, there are also some downsides. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of certain amenities. As a small island, Enoshima doesn’t have the same range of shops and services that you would find in a larger city. For example, there are no large supermarkets or department stores on the island, so residents often have to travel to the mainland for shopping.
Another challenge of living in Enoshima is the influx of tourists, especially during the summer months. The island’s beaches, shrines, and other attractions draw large crowds, which can make the island feel crowded and noisy. This can also lead to increased traffic and difficulty finding parking.
The cost of living in Enoshima is also higher than in many other parts of Japan. This is partly due to the island’s popularity as a tourist destination, which drives up the prices of goods and services. The cost of housing is also higher, with properties on the island commanding premium prices.
While Enoshima’s small size and close-knit community can be a plus, it can also feel limiting. There are fewer opportunities for employment and education on the island, and residents may feel isolated from the rest of the world. This can be particularly challenging for younger people, who may need to travel to the mainland for school or work.
Finally, living on an island comes with certain risks. Enoshima is susceptible to typhoons and other severe weather events, and the island’s infrastructure may not be as robust as in larger cities. In the event of a natural disaster, residents may be cut off from the mainland and emergency services.
