New Enoshima Electric train to roll in crowded Kamakura

by JUNJI MURAKAMI/ Staff Writer
February 15, 2026

Enoshima Electric Railway Co. shows off its new train and employee uniforms on Jan. 16 in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture. (Junji Murakami photo

KAMAKURA, Kanagawa Prefecture--Enoshima Electric Railway Co. unveiled its first new train model in 20 years, a two-car 700 series that will begin service along the coast of Kanagawa Prefecture in fiscal 2026.

Carrying on the railway’s tradition, the 700 series features green-painted bodywork. Its cab car has a large, sloping windshield as well as sharply shaped headlights.

“My hope is that passengers will be able to fully enjoy their rides with us,” said Satoshi Kuroda, president of Enoshima Electric Railway, headquartered in Fujisawa, Kanagawa Prefecture. “Our emphasis lies in the significance of the train becoming one with the scenery.”

Reporters were allowed to view the new train at the Gokurakuji rolling stock depot in Kamakura, also in Kanagawa Prefecture, on Jan. 16.

The 700 series is estimated to consume 49 percent less electricity than the conventional model, thanks to the introduction of an energy-efficient power unit and other features.

The train interior has been changed in response to resident complaints about overtourism, particularly concerning about onboard congestion around Kamakurakokomae Station.

The new train’s bench seats with magnificent views on the ocean side have been redesigned to face each other. This will free up standing space for other passengers.

The 700 series is also equipped with security cameras and telephone-type emergency call systems. And in-car information displays are available in English, Korean and Chinese.

The railroad company also introduced new uniforms for staff.

The Enoshima Electric Railway has 15 stations along its 10-kilometer track between Fujisawa and Kamakura.

Its ridership, excluding passengers with commuter passes, reached a record high of 13.74 million in fiscal 2024.