Enoshima is one of the prettiest areas in Japan. A beautiful island with ancient history set next to the picturesque Shonan beaches - it's no wonder that there's a tall tower to give you the best view of the region.
The "Enoshima Sea Candle" is the tower / observation deck / lighthouse that has become perhaps the landmark symbol for the area itself. The nearly 60-meter tower sits atop the highest point on the island, offering full, 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding areas, which include Enoshima itself, the many beaches in the area, and the sea. Visitors on clear days will also be treated to some of the best, most beautiful views of Mt. Fuji anywhere.
The tower has two levels: an outdoor observation deck on the top, and an indoor level just below it. The indoor level has binoculars and displays about the history and geography of the area. The outdoor area puts you at the top of the world for a fresh view of the surroundings with the sea wind in your face. Note that in bad weather, the outdoor level will be closed but tower entrance still costs the same amount. There is an elevator to take you up and down, and there are also a spiraling set of stairs which looked daunting, but were actually a lot of fun to climb (down), as they provided great views the whole time. The Sea Candle lights up beautifully at nighttime, making it a picturesque part of the island. In addition to being a sightseeing spot, the tower also has several practical purposes. It serves as a major telecom tower in the area, and is also a functioning lighthouse with a rotating beacon at night. Lights from the tower can be seen from 46 kilometers away.
The Sea Candle is located in the Samuel Cocking Garden on the island of Enoshima. The Garden is a pretty place to walk, full of intricate flowers, trees, and bushes, with wooden paths weaving in an out. It was constructed by Samuel Cocking, a British merchant who came to Japan in the mid-1800's and was among the first foreigners to do so. Cocking's story is an interesting one, and the botanical garden he left behind is a treat to explore.
Entering the Sea Candle requires buying a combo ticket for it and the Cocking Garden. The cost is ¥500 for adults (¥200 for the garden + ¥300 for the Sea Candle), and ¥250 for children (¥100 for the garden + ¥150 for the Sea Candle). Its hours are primarily 9:00a.m. - 8:00 p.m., but they change slightly from season to season. Last entrance is permitted 30 minutes before closing time.
The Sea Candle is on Enoshima island. It's about a 25-minute walk from Katase-Enoshima Station on the Odakyu Line. Much of the walk is up and down stairs, which can be tricky for some people. There are escalators to avoid walking up some of the stairs, but you must pay to use them.
