What other travelers are saying about Enoshima Sea Candle
I was there on a week day, please consider this when planning the visit. I assume there is significantly more demand during weekends.
This tower is an absolute highlight of my Enoshima visit. I like high places, but this tower is more special. The elevator offers a good view already when bringing you up. At the top an excellent view and sitting possibilities await. One can also see the birds of prey flying around the island and follow them visually.
The walk down was also a joy, but note that it is actually closed, so one needs to use the elevator to come down. In my case the door was open and since I can't read Japanese I went down the stairs only to discover a locked door at the bottom.
Nice views overlooking the city and Mt. Fuji on a clear day. Grounds leading to the top were well-tended.
P.s. The walk up isn't too bad, but if you aren't feeling it then just pay for the elevator. Do note that the elevator is only one-way so you'll still have to go down by the stairs.
Rather cloudy when we went but nice views of nearby buildings and beautiful sunset. Saw a tiny glimpse of Mount Fuji haha. There is a floor that has glass windows and the floor above which has an outdoor area with some seating.
Beautiful view of the ocean and Mt. Fuji on clear days. The area is well maintained with a nice atmosphere. No long wait to enter, you go up by elevator and can walk down the stairs if you like. Definitely worth a visit.
The Enoshima Sea Candle is a must-visit if you’re in the area — especially at night. The illuminated tower becomes the centerpiece of a stunning light show that feels both peaceful and surreal. The view from the top offers a sweeping 360-degree panorama of the coastline, and on clear days you can even spot Mt. Fuji in the distance.
Do note that access to the Sea Candle itself requires a separate ticket from the main Enoshima area. It’s well worth it, though, especially if you’re timing your visit for the evening light display. The wind at the top can be quite strong, so bring a jacket or dress warmly — especially in colder months.
If you have extra time, make sure to stop by the Enoshima Aquarium below the island. It’s a surprisingly well-curated experience with engaging exhibits, including deep-sea creatures and jellyfish displays. Pairing the aquarium with a walk up to the Sea Candle makes for a great half-day adventure. Overall, the Sea Candle is one of those experiences that combines nature, design, and atmosphere in a way that leaves a lasting impression.
The Enoshima Sea Candle is a distinctive lighthouse and observation tower located on Enoshima Island in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. Standing at 59.8 meters tall (with an observation deck at 41.75 meters), it's one of the island's most iconic landmarks. The tower was originally built in 2003 to replace an older lighthouse and serves both as a functional lighthouse and a popular tourist attraction offering panoramic views of Sagami Bay, Mount Fuji (on clear days), and the surrounding coastline.
The tower earned its nickname "Sea Candle" due to its candle-like silhouette and the beautiful illuminations that light it up after dark. The observation tower is elegantly designed to resemble a candle flame, and when illuminated at night, it glows warmly against the sea and sky, creating a romantic atmosphere. The lighting displays change seasonally, making it a popular spot for evening visits and special occasions.
From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding area. On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji to the west, the Izu Peninsula, the Boso Peninsula, and even Tokyo's skyline in the distance. The deck offers stunning views of Sagami Bay, the beaches of Shonan, and the picturesque Enoshima Island itself. Sunset views are particularly popular, as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean.
To reach the Sea Candle, visitors first need to get to Enoshima Island via the bridge connecting it to the mainland. From Enoshima Station (accessible via the Odakyu, Enoden, or Shonan Monorail lines), it's about a 15-20 minute walk across the bridge and through the island's charming streets. The tower is located in the Samuel Cocking Garden, a botanical garden near the island's summit. Visitors can either climb the stairs or take escalators partway up the island to reach the garden entrance.
Yes, there is an admission fee to enter both the Samuel Cocking Garden and ascend the Sea Candle observation tower. Combination tickets are available that include access to both the garden and the tower. The operating hours vary by season but generally run from around 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM (last admission is typically 20 minutes before closing). The tower may stay open later during special events or illumination periods. It's advisable to check the official website for current admission prices and hours before visiting.
