Summer in Enoshima 2023: Mystical Shrine Light-ups and 1,000 Lanterns

Summer Light-ups in Enoshima

Enoshima, the island offshore Kamakura, just south of Tokyo, is hosting a summer illumination event from July 15 to August 31!

Enoshima Shrine will be lit-up with digital art displays of its legendary tale known as Enoshima Engi. According to legend, a five-headed dragon once terrorized Enoshima and its citizens for over a thousand years but it changed heart after falling in love with the elegant goddess Benzaiten who governs the arts.

At the same time, Enoshima Lanterns 2023 will light up the paths across the island with 1,000 lanterns, transforming the entire area into a summer festival.

Enoshima Shrine: Picture Scroll of Light

"Picture Scroll of Light" is the title of the illumination held at Enoshima Shrine. This special light-up that uses projection mapping was created by VELVETA DESIGN, a unit that has produced many other grand illuminations through the years.

At the Zuishinmon Gate of Enoshima Shrine, you'll be able to see five different shimmering displays of lights and pictures showcasing scenes from the famous tale of Enoshima Engi: the five-headed dragon flying above strong crashing waves, golden koi fish swimming in a brilliant sea of colorful fireworks, and other traditional Japanese motifs.

Follow a magical pathway of blue firefly-like illuminations up toward Enoshima’s enchanting shrine! As you stroll under the warm lights in the precincts, you'll hear the gentle sound of wind chimes inviting you to venture further beyond the tree archway.

At the top of the stairs, you will be greeted by the Hetsumiya Shrine, a hall where visitors offer prayers for good fortune in love and marriage. The projections in this area have romantic themes with intertwined flowers representing tight bonds and celestial maidens floating across the shrine’s exterior.

Enoshima Lanterns 2023

The pathways around Enoshima Seacandle will be illuminated with 1,000 lanterns! From the Iwaya Cave to Kamegaoka Square the Higashimachi district, the entire townscape will be transformed by the soft light of the lanterns.

There are several facilities around the island offering refreshments and treats that are ideal as souvenirs. Visit TODAI KITCHEN DELI & TEA for dining and desserts, 21days SOUVENIR(S) ENOSHIMA for lovely local crafts, and UMIYAMA DO for delicious sweets.

New events may be added at the last minute so please check the official website of Enoshima Seacandle for details.

Enoshima: Picture Scroll of Light and Enoshima Lanterns 2023

Venues: Enoshima Shrine (Picture Scroll of Light), Enoshima Island (Enoshima Lantern 2023)
Location: Kanagawa, Enoshima, Fujisawa, 2-3-8
Dates: July 15 - August 31, 2023
Hours:
Picture Scroll of Light: 18:00 - 20:30 (weekends and holidays 18:00 - 21:00)
Enoshima Lanterns 2023:
- Enoshima Shrine, Oiwayado Street, Kamegaoka Square 18:00 - 20:30
- Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden, Enoshima Sea Candle 18:00 - 20:30 (last entry 20:00) *weekends and holidays and August 11 - 16: 18:00 - 21:00 (last entry 20:30)
- Enoshima Iwaya Cave 9:00 - 18:00 (last entry)

Enoshima Lanterns 2023 official website: https://enoshima-seacandle.com/ (Japanese)

Information and photo source: PR Times

Written by Kate_T