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Enoshima is one of the most popular island getaways for Tokyoites. It’s easily accessible for a day trip, plus the island offers a good mix of seafood, temples, fresh greenery and sea views. From early August through late September 2026, you might want to stay on a little longer after sunset, as Enoshima is hosting a free projection mapping event inspired by the little island’s folk tale Enoshima Engi.
Called Enoshima Lanterns, this annual digital light show starts at the island’s Zuishinmon Gate, where it depicts a scene from Enoshima Engi, illustrating a mythical love story between an evil five-headed dragon and a beautiful goddess. Make sure to watch the entire scene until the end to see a summer sunset over the sea unfold in gold and blue.
The staircase leading up to Enoshima Shrine, which is dedicated to the aforementioned goddess, is lit up with blue, purple and yellow lights.
At the shrine grounds, the projection mapping show evokes an image of a summer twilight, where the celestial maiden enjoys the evening coolness with seashell wind chimes and reed screen shades. Furthermore, the shrine grounds, as well as the upper area surrounding the Samuel Cocking Garden and the Enoshima Sea Candle lighthouse, are decked out with traditional lanterns depicting scenes from Enoshima Engi.
New for this year, the entrance space inside Samuel Cocking Garden features a massive lantern installation made up of translucent purple and blue panels.
The projection mapping attractions around Enoshima Shrine are free, but you’ll have to buy a ticket to enter the Samuel Cocking Garden, which is home to the Enoshima Sea Candle.
Entry is free during the day, but it'll set you back ¥500 (primary school students ¥250) after 5pm. Plus, there’s an extra ¥800 (¥400) fee if you want to go up the Sea Candle for the observation deck. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the venue. Do note that online tickets are bundled with the escalator ride.
Enoshima Lanterns happens daily between 6pm and 8.30pm from August 1 to September 23 (until 9pm on Saturday, Sunday & holidays between August 10 to August 14). Visit the website for more information.
The article was published on August 1 2022 and updated on July 10 2026.
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