Enoshima is Heating Up Right Now! A Local's Ultimate Guide for March 2026: From Hidden Gems and the Latest Gourmet Spot "GARB" to the New Enoshima Aquarium
It's suddenly starting to feel like spring, and this kind of weather always makes you want to see the sea, doesn't it? As a local lad from Shonan, let me tell you, March in Enoshima is what you'd call the "quiet golden time" before the summer crowds descend. The big winter event, "Shonan no Houseki (Shonan's Jewel)," just finished on February 28th last week. The maddening crowds around the Enoshima Sea Candle have eased off, and things are finally getting back to a local pace. But the great thing about this town is that the period right after these events end is actually the best time to visit.
The Gateway to Enoshima is a Buzz: A Toast at "GARB" near "Katase-Enoshima Station"
First up, access. When you step out of Odakyu Line's Katase-Enoshima Station, you're immediately in an area where the sea breeze feels fantastic. As you walk towards Enoshima from here, the hot spot right now 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 brilliantly convenient.
What's so amazing about this place? The location offers ocean views from every single seat. Looking out from the 3rd-floor terrace, the contrast between Enoshima and the sea really makes you feel like you're in the heart of Shonan. Their wood-fired Margherita pizza is a standout, with the freshness of the tomato sauce really shining through, and it pairs perfectly with a chilled glass of sparkling wine this time of year. I'd recommend aiming for around 4 to 5 PM. If you time it for sunset, you can enjoy the moment when the sky and sea slowly change colour, often feeling like you have the place to yourself – definitely give that a try.
- GARB Enoshima Highlights
- Incredibly convenient location (2 mins from Katase-Enoshima Station)
- Blissful moments feeling the sea breeze on the rooftop terrace & for rooftop BBQ
- Kids' space available during lunchtime, making it family-friendly
Unique Experiences You Can Only Have at the Evolved Classic, the "New Enoshima Aquarium"
After filling your stomach, head over to the neighbouring New Enoshima Aquarium (Eno-sui). The great thing about this place is that you never get tired of it, no matter how many years you visit. This month, especially, is packed with events, offering ways to enjoy it that are unique to "today."
In fact, today, March 7th (Saturday), looks like it'll be a special day. First up is the limited-time "Special Touch Tank Event." You can actually touch the tide pool creatures of Enoshima that you don't usually get to handle – guaranteed to excite the kids. And what you can only see right now is the 4th instalment of the "Eno-sui Sagami Bay Academic Tour." It's a premium tour where you get in a bit early before the public opening, and Director Sakiyama or research fellows give you lectures about the creatures of Sagami Bay and behind-the-scenes stories from the aquarium. After joining this, the way you see the main tank completely changes, so it's seriously recommended.
Plus, this month marks the 5th anniversary month of Eno-sui's official character, "Awatan." Today, there's also an "Awatan Photo Session" event, a chance to snap a picture of that adorable character. Awatan is a proper local celebrity around here, and the merchandise sells really well.
Riding the Enoden to Discover Hidden Gems Known Only to Locals
Alright, once you've enjoyed Enoshima to the fullest, the mode of transport is, of course, the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden). The Enoden is more than just a way to get around. Rocking along in those retro carriages, weaving through the gaps in residential areas – that experience itself is an attraction.
Enoshima Station is a particular must-see. The waiting room on the platform is like a small railway museum, featuring a bold display of the actual front section of a retired 300-series train. Even if you're not a train buff, snapping a photo here makes for a great travel memory. And hey, have you noticed the handmade little bird ornaments on the fence in front of the station? Local grandmothers dress them in handmade outfits according to the season. Right now, in March, they're changing from their Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival) outfits to their spring ones. Being able to feel that kind of unassuming "local warmth" is what I love about this town.
The World of "Junko Enoshima": A Niche Interest with a Following
Come to think of it, have you ever heard young folks say things like, "If you're going to Enoshima, you have to pay your respects to 'Enoshima'"? They're talking about the character Junko Enoshima from the game 'Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc'. Her surname is "Enoshima," so quite a few fans come here as a kind of pilgrimage to the setting.
In fact, since places around Kamakura and along the Enoden line are said to be inspirations for the game's settings, it's interesting to hop on 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 different discoveries.
Shonan for Adults: From the End of Winter into Spring
Now that "Shonan no Houseki" is over, places like the Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden and the Sea Candle are perfect for relaxing slowly in the gentle daytime sunshine. The paid areas are even free to enter on days without events, so just taking a stroll can be refreshing. Circling around the Enoshima Shrine from Hetsunomiya through Nakatsunomiya to Okutsunomiya, and snatching a private moment with the view from 100 metres above sea level – that's a luxury you can only really enjoy this time of year.
For a little weekend breather, or to go and feel the arrival of spring. Enoshima, which shows you a new face every time you visit, is now entering its most peaceful and enjoyable period. Speaking as a local, right now, with fewer people, crisp, clear air, and the chance to savour both the food and the aquarium at a leisurely pace – this is what I'd call the absolute "best season" to visit.