Odawara Castle
A majestic reconstructed samurai castle offering historical exhibits and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Odawara Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic reconstructed samurai castle offering historical exhibits and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
"Odawara Castle is a beautiful, peaceful spot with some of the most breathtaking views from the very top."
🎯 Bundle Up for Views
The top of the castle offers stunning views, but it can be windy! Dress in layers. :cloud:
🎟️ Affordable Entry
The castle grounds are free, and entry to the keep is very affordable (around ¥500). :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Castle Keep (Tenshu)
Main structure
Climb to the top for panoramic views of Odawara city, Sagami Bay, and Mount Fuji on clear days.
Castle Grounds and Moat
Surrounding area
Explore the well-maintained grounds, admire the stone walls, and enjoy the serene moat filled with koi.
Seasonal Blooms
Castle park
Famous for cherry blossoms in spring and hydrangeas in early summer, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Hojo Clan History Exhibits
Inside the castle keep
Discover artifacts and learn about the powerful Hojo clan and the castle's role in Japan's samurai history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Getting There & Around
Consider purchasing a bundled ticket if you plan to visit the nearby Samurai Museum for a deeper dive into history.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bundle Up for Views
The top of the castle offers stunning views, but it can be windy! Dress in layers. :cloud:
🎟️ Affordable Entry
The castle grounds are free, and entry to the keep is very affordable (around ¥500). :ticket:
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture the castle against seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms or hydrangeas for postcard-worthy shots.
🚶 Easy Access from Station
It's a pleasant 10-minute walk from Odawara Station, making it super convenient.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bundle Up for Views
The top of the castle offers stunning views, but it can be windy! Dress in layers. :cloud:
🎟️ Affordable Entry
The castle grounds are free, and entry to the keep is very affordable (around ¥500). :ticket:
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture the castle against seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms or hydrangeas for postcard-worthy shots.
🚶 Easy Access from Station
It's a pleasant 10-minute walk from Odawara Station, making it super convenient.
💳 Payment Options
The castle accepts cash, Visa, and PayPay. Snack vendors outside are often cash-only. :credit_card:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Odawara Castle is praised for its historical significance, beautiful reconstruction, and stunning panoramic views from the keep. Visitors appreciate the affordable entry, clear English signage, and the serene atmosphere, making it a worthwhile and peaceful cultural experience. Some note it's a reconstruction, but the historical artifacts and context are highly valued.
"Odawara Castle is a beautiful and historically rich site located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.
The castle is a reconstruction of the original fortress that once served as the stronghold of the Hojo clan, one of the most powerful samurai families during the Sengoku period. Its elegant white walls and multiple tiers stand proudly above the city, offering a striking view from afar.
Visitors can explore the castle grounds, which are spacious and well-kept, with traditional gates, stone walls, and a surrounding moat that add to the atmosphere. Inside the main keep, the museum provides detailed exhibits on samurai culture, weapons, and the history of the region. The climb to the top floor rewards you with panoramic views of Odawara city, Sagami Bay, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day.
The park around the castle is especially famous for cherry blossoms in spring, drawing many visitors for hanami. Seasonal flowers and cultural events make it a lively place throughout the year. Overall, Odawara Castle combines history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a worthwhile stop for travelers exploring the area."
Paul Parent
"Very interesting, and the scenery from up top was great! Lots of signage, the English translations were clear, and the translate app took care of the rest. Nice gift shop, including the staff. I was very surprised to learn that it's a postwar reconstruction. And I think the previous building was 19th century anyway. But the usage of and artifacts found at the site go back to 1400s at least."
Lisa R
"Odawara Castle is a beautiful, peaceful spot with some of the most breathtaking views from the very top. Once you're up there, you can take in wide views of the land and the sea—it’s honestly stunning and absolutely worth the climb.
The atmosphere is calm and not overly crowded, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable compared to some of the busier castles. You can get a bundled ticket that includes entrance to both the castle and the nearby Samurai Museum, which is a great option if you’re interested in diving deeper into the history.
Inside, many of the historical displays have English translations, which was helpful for navigating and learning more about the site. As for payment, they accept cash, Visa, and PayPay, which is convenient.
Just outside the castle grounds, you’ll find some snack vendors selling shaved ice and other quick bites note that these are cash only. There are also several vending machines and quiet little spots with benches where you can sit, rest, and take in the view of the castle and its surroundings.
Overall, it’s a calm, scenic, and culturally rich experience. Definitely worth adding to your itinerary."
Marissa G. W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Odawara Castle is easily accessible from Tokyo. The fastest way is via the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Odawara Station, which takes about 30 minutes.
Yes, Odawara Castle is very conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Odawara Station.
Absolutely! Odawara Castle is a perfect day trip destination from Tokyo due to its relatively short travel time via Shinkansen.
The area around Odawara Castle is very walkable from the station. For exploring further afield, local buses and trains are available. The proximity to Hayakawa Port and other sites also makes it a good base for regional exploration.
Yes, the area around Odawara Station offers many food options and shops. You can also find attractions like Minaka Odawara for rooftop views and foot baths, and Kamaboko Dori for local treats.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The castle grounds are free to explore. Entry to the main castle keep (Tenshu) is very affordable, typically around ¥500. Bundled tickets that include the nearby Samurai Museum are also available and offer great value if you're interested in samurai history.
Odawara Castle is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry usually around 4:30 PM. It's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially during holidays or special events.
For general entry to the castle keep, advance booking is usually not required, especially on weekdays. However, during peak seasons or special events, it might be advisable to check if advance tickets are recommended or available.
Inside the castle, they accept cash, Visa, and PayPay. Be aware that snack vendors outside the grounds are often cash-only.
Yes, bundled tickets are often available that can include entry to the castle and the nearby Samurai Museum, offering a more comprehensive historical experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside the castle keep, you'll find exhibits detailing the history of the Hojo clan, samurai culture, weapons, and artifacts. Each floor offers different displays, and videos explain the castle's significance.
The top floor features a terrace with panoramic views.
Yes, the views from the top of Odawara Castle are breathtaking. You can see Odawara city, Sagami Bay, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day. The surrounding park also offers lovely scenery.
Yes, Odawara Castle is a great destination for families. The grounds are spacious, and the climb to the top is manageable for most children. The historical exhibits can also be engaging.
Some visitors have mentioned the possibility of trying on samurai armor or kimonos for an immersive experience. It's best to inquire on-site about availability and any associated costs.
The Hojo Godai Festival is an annual event held in May around Odawara Castle, celebrating the Hojo clan's history with parades, samurai reenactments, and cultural displays. It's a vibrant event that brings the past to life.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle itself, especially with seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms
Photography is generally allowed inside the castle keep, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas. Flash photography might be prohibited to protect artifacts.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and fewer crowds. Golden hour can be particularly magical for capturing the castle's architecture.
Consider capturing the castle with its reflection in the moat, or framing it with the seasonal flowers. The contrast between the historic castle and modern elements like vending machines can also create interesting shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and public parks to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by local authorities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing a bundled ticket that includes the Samurai Museum for an even more immersive experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for the slower JR Ueno Tokyo Line instead of the Shinkansen can also reduce transportation costs from Tokyo.
Many of the surrounding attractions, like exploring Kamaboko Dori or enjoying the views from Minaka Odawara, are also free or low-cost, allowing for a rich experience without breaking the bank.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 or hydrangeas, provides stunning compositions. The moat and surrounding park offer picturesque angles, and the panoramic views from the top of the keep are a must-capture.Aim for early mornings or late afternoons for the best light. The contrast between the historic castle and elements like the koi-filled moat or the distant Mount Fuji can create unique and memorable shots. Remember to check for any restrictions on flash photography inside the museum.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Samurai History
This powerful clan controlled a significant portion of the Kanto region from this strategic location. The castle's reconstruction aims to preserve this rich heritage, offering visitors a tangible connection to the samurai way of life.Inside the castle keep, now a museum, you can explore exhibits showcasing samurai armor, weaponry, and artifacts that paint a vivid picture of life during that era.
Beyond the castle walls, events like the Hojo Godai Festival held annually in May bring history to life with parades, reenactments, and traditional performances.
Seasonal Beauty: Flowers and Views
+1 The sight of the elegant white castle framed by delicate pink blossoms is truly iconic.+2As spring gives way to summer, the park transforms with the vibrant colors of hydrangeas.
These lush blooms add a different kind of charm to the castle grounds, creating a picturesque scene that attracts photographers and nature lovers alike. The combination of the historic architecture and the vibrant floral displays makes Odawara Castle a photographer's paradise throughout much of the year.+1Beyond the seasonal flowers, the panoramic views from the top of the castle keep are a major draw.
Convenient Access and Local Flavors
The station itself is a major hub, served by the Shinkansen, which connects it to Tokyo in approximately 30 minutes. This ease of access makes it a popular choice for day-trippers looking to escape the city bustle without a long journey.Beyond the castle, the area around Odawara Station offers a taste of local life and cuisine. Visitors can explore Kamaboko Dori to sample famous fish cakes,
and the station area itself boasts numerous food options and shops. These nearby attractions complement the castle visit, offering a well-rounded experience of the Odawara region.For those looking to venture slightly further, the proximity to Hayakawa Port offers fresh seafood, and nearby historical sites like Ishigakiyama Castle provide additional exploration opportunities.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit