Lovers in Enoshima
Posted in Feature, Japan, Travel on June 2nd, 2009 by jessleeEnoshima is a small island that sits at the mouth of the Katase River, and is just south of Fujisawa City. This island is the center of Shonan, a resort area along the coast of Sagami Bay known for its scenic beauty. From the island, you can see a very nice view of Mt. Fuji.
Enoshima is also the favorite place for lovers. There is an interesting story behind this.
Once upon a time, a bad dragon with five heads settled in the bottomless swamp among the mountains of Fukasawa, Kamakura and tormented the people. They called the place “Koshigoe”, and feared the dragon, because he would steal their children.
For many days, dense clouds enveloped on the sea in front of “Koshigoe”. For a short time, heaven and earth quaked violently. After that, a heavenly maiden appeared sudenly, the clouds cleared and an island appeared. This island is known today as Enoshima.
The dragon fell in love with her, and he proposed to her. But she refused him because of the bad things he did. Afterwards, he mended his ways and then was able to get married to her.
Today, the heavenly maiden is worshiped as Benzaiten in Enoshima. The dragon with five heads is worshiped as Ryukomyojin in Koshigoe Kamakura City.
A bell has been placed here in memory of this legend by Fujisawa Tourist Association. To keep the legend alive, couples who wish to express their undying love for each other can have their names printed onto a plate which will be permanently attached to the bell’s structure.
(Story from the Fujisawa Tourist Association)
You can visit Enoshima – Wikitravel to know how to get there.
