Enoshima is On Fire Right Now! An Insider's Guide to March 2026's Hidden Gems and Latest Gourmet Spots, from "GARB" to the "Enoshima Aquarium"

It's been suddenly feeling more like spring lately, and when this season rolls around, you just can't help but want to see the ocean, right? Take it from a guy who's from Shonan: March in Enoshima is what you'd call the "quiet golden time" before the summer crowds. The big winter event, "Shonan no Houseki (Shonan's Jewel)," just ended last week on February 28th. The insane crowds around the Enoshima Sea Candle have finally died down, and we're getting our local pace back. But the great thing about this town is that the real sweet spot is often just after the big events wrap up.

Raise a Glass at "GARB" Right by the Gateway "Katase-Enoshima Station"

First up, access. When you get off at Odakyu Line's Katase-Enoshima Station, you're immediately in an area where the sea breeze feels amazing. On your walk from here towards Enoshima, the hot spot lately is the Italian restaurant "GARB Enoshima." It's located on the 2nd and 3rd floors of The Beach House. It's just a 2-minute walk from Katase-Enoshima Station, which is awesome – literally right in front of the station.

What makes this place so incredible is its location – every single table has an ocean view. The contrast of Enoshima and the sea, especially from the 3rd-floor terrace, really makes you feel like you're right in the heart of Shonan. Their wood-fired Margherita pizza is a standout with its fresh tomato sauce, and it pairs perfectly with a chilled sparkling wine this time of year. I'd recommend going around 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. If you time it for sunset, you can enjoy the moment when the sky and sea slowly change colours, almost as if you have the place to yourself. Definitely give that a try.

• GARB Enoshima Highlights
• Super convenient location (2-min walk from Katase-Enoshima Station)
• Blissful moments feeling the sea breeze on the rooftop terrace & rooftop BBQ
• Kids' space available during lunch, family-friendly

Experiences You Can Only Have at the "New Enoshima Aquarium"

Once you've grabbed a bite, head over to the neighbouring New Enoshima Aquarium (Enosui). The great thing about this place is that you never get bored, no matter how many years you visit. This month in particular is packed with events, offering ways to enjoy it that are unique to "today."

Today, March 7th (Saturday), is shaping up to be a special day. First up is the limited-time "Special Touch Pool Event." Kids are guaranteed to get excited because they can actually touch the tide pool creatures from the Enoshima coast that you don't usually get to handle. Also, something you can only see right now is the 4th installment of the "Enosui Sagami Bay Academic Tour." It's a premium tour where you get into the aquarium a little before opening, and the director, Dr. Sakiyama, or research fellows teach you about the creatures of Sagami Bay and share behind-the-scenes stories from the aquarium. After joining this, your perspective when you look at the main tank will be totally different – highly recommended.

And this month is the 5th-anniversary month for Enosui's official character, "Awatan." There's also an "Awatan Photo Session" today, giving you a chance to snap a picture of that adorable character. Awatan is a real local celebrity around here, and their merchandise sells really well.

Riding the Enoden to Secret, Laid-Back Spots

Now, after you've enjoyed Enoshima to the fullest, the way to get around is, of course, the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden). The Enoden isn't just a means of transport. The feeling of being rocked in that retro train car as it weaves through gaps in residential areas is an attraction in itself.

You especially can't miss Enoshima Station. The waiting room on the platform is like a mini railway museum, with the actual front end of a retired 300-series train prominently displayed. Even if you're not a train buff, snapping a photo here makes for a great travel memory. Oh, and you know those handmade little bird decorations on the fence in front of the station? Local grandmothers dress them up in handmade outfits depending on the season. Since it's March now, they're just changing from the Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival) style to their spring outfits. Being able to feel that kind of understated local warmth is what I love about this town.

The World of "Junko Enoshima" for Those in the Know

Speaking of which, have you ever heard younger folks say things like, "If you're going to Enoshima, you've gotta pay your respects to 'Junko'"? They're talking about Junko Enoshima, a character from the game 'Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc.' Because her last name is "Enoshima," quite a few fans come here almost as a pilgrimage to a real-life inspiration site.

Actually, some of the locations that inspired the game are in Kamakura and along the Enoden line, so it's fun to take the Enoden and head towards Yuigahama or Gokurakuji. It's funny how walking through the town feeling like you've stepped into the world of an anime or game can lead to totally different discoveries.

A Sophisticated Shonan Experience from Winter's End into Spring

Now that "Shonan no Houseki" is over, the Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden and the Sea Candle are perfect for relaxing under the calm daytime sun. On days when there aren't any events, you can even enter the paid areas for free, so just strolling around can be refreshing. Making a loop from Hetsumiya to Nakatsumiya and then to Okutsumiya shrines at Enoshima Shrine, and soaking in the view from 100 metres above sea level – that's a luxury you can really appreciate during this time of year.

For a little weekend breather, or to go feel the arrival of spring. Enoshima, a place that shows you a new face every time you visit, is now entering its most tranquil and enjoyable period. As a local, I can tell you that right now – when there are fewer people, the air is crisp, and you can leisurely savour both the gourmet food and the aquarium – is truly the best "recommended season."