Enoshima’s Famous Train Changes Its Schedule, Confusing Residents

The schedule on Japan’s famous “Enoden” train is changing for the first time in 71 years — and residents aren’t thrilled about it.

By Jay Allen

With tourism in Japan back in full swing, more people are flocking to scenic Kamakura than ever. So why is the area’s most famous train running fewer trips? Here’s why the train’s operator says running on a slower schedule will help reduce congestion — and why the residents aren’t happy about it.

More tourists, more problems

A consistent theme in Japan’s news coverage this year is the return of tourism. Domestic tourism started recovering slowly last year. This year’s Golden Week ushered in a return to pre-2020 levels of in-country reverie.

Last October, Japan officially ended lockdown restrictions and resumed issuing tourist visas. The result has been an influx of foreign tourism, with inbound arrivals from some countries exceeding 2019 totals.

But tourism is a double-edged sword. It’s a big boon for businesses both large and small. Many of Japan’s older shops (老舗; shinise) specializing in traditional crafts and food faired poorly during lockdown. In 2022, some…