Odawara Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Odawara with our detailed travel guide complete with must-see attractions, activities, accommodation options, and more.


Introduction to Odawara

Odawara is a charming city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, in the Kanto Region of Japan. Known for its rich cultural history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, Odawara is an excellent destination for travelers looking to experience the best of both worlds.

List of Places to Visit in Odawara

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Odawara Castle: A famous landmark that represents the history and culture of Odawara.
  • Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History: Exhibits about the geology, ecosystems, and natural history of the region.
  • Ishigakiyama Castle Historical Park: An impressive historical monument with reconstructed castle ruins and a panoramic view of the city.
  • Hakone Checkpoint Museum: A museum that showcases the role of the Hakone Checkpoint during the Edo Period.

Natural Attractions of Odawara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hakone Hot Springs: Famous hot springs known for their healing powers and beautiful mountainous surroundings.
  • Odawara Flower Garden: A scenic park featuring a variety of flowers and plants, including cherry blossoms and azaleas.
  • Odawara Fishing Port: A bustling port where travelers can experience the local fishing industry and try freshly caught seafood.
  • Odawara Kokian: A beautiful Japanese garden with traditional architecture and a serene atmosphere.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Odawara

  • Hakone Ekiden Walking Course: A scenic hiking trail that passes through Matsuda Town and Odawara Castle.
  • The Hiking Trail of the Genkai Peninsula: A popular hiking trail with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Izu Peninsula.
  • Odawara Riverside Cycling Course: A cycling course that follows the Sakawa River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Odawara: Activities and Tours

  • Tasting Local Sake: Odawara is famous for its sake, and travelers can enjoy tasting a variety of sake at local breweries.
  • Local Street Food Tours: Sample traditional street food, including grilled seafood and takoyaki, from local vendors.
  • Seaside Cruises: Take a scenic cruise along the coast to explore the local marine life and enjoy beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

Week-Long Itinerary for Odawara

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Odawara Castle and the surrounding area
Day 2 Relax at the Hakone Hot Springs
Day 3 Visit the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History
Day 4 Take a seaside cruise and sample local seafood
Day 5 Hike the Genkai Peninsula Trail
Day 6 Go sake tasting at local breweries
Day 7 Explore the Odawara Flower Garden and Odawara Kokian

Food and Drink Scene of Odawara

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kamaboko: Steamed fish cake made from white fish, typically served as an appetizer or snack.
  • Odawara Cheese Curry: A unique combination of local cheese and Japanese curry.
  • Ieyasu-don: A traditional Japanese rice bowl topped with shrimp tempura and egg, named after the famous warlord, Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Local Beverages

  • Odawara Sake: A variety of locally brewed sake with distinct flavors and aromas.
  • Green Tea: Famous for its rich and earthy flavors, green tea is grown in abundance in the surrounding countryside.

Where to Stay in Odawara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hakone Yumoto: A popular hot spring resort area with numerous accommodation options, including luxury ryokans and budget-friendly hostels.
  • Odawara Station Area: A convenient location for travelers looking to explore the city on foot, with many budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses.
  • Ishigakiyama: A peaceful and secluded area with stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains, featuring a variety of accommodation types, including luxury villas and traditional ryokans.

What to Buy in Odawara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Odawara Sake: The perfect gift for sake lovers, with a variety of unique flavors and packaging options.
  • Kamaboko: Makes an excellent gift, and is available in a variety of flavors and shapes, including fish, flowers, and animals.
  • Green Tea: A popular gift item, with many options available, including powdered tea and tea sets.

Local Culture and Customs of Odawara

Odawara has a rich cultural heritage, and travelers can experience traditional Japanese culture and customs through various events and festivals throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Odawara

The best time to visit Odawara is during the spring (March – May) or autumn (September – November) when the temperature is mild, and the tourist crowds are low. Sakura season is especially beautiful in the city, with cherry blossoms blooming all around.

Do’s and Don’ts of Odawara

Do:

  • Try local street food.
  • Visit Odawara Castle.
  • Experience the local hot springs.

Don’t:

  • Wear shoes inside traditional Japanese inns or homes.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public areas.
  • Fail to properly dispose of garbage.

Safety and Health

Safety in Odawara

Odawara is a very safe city, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. Travelers should be aware of natural hazards, such as typhoons and earthquakes, which can occur throughout the year.

Health in Odawara

Odawara has excellent health care facilities, and travelers should have no trouble finding medical assistance if needed. It is recommended to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Getting to Odawara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Odawara

The nearest major airports to Odawara are Tokyo Haneda International Airport and Narita International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Odawara

Travelers can take a bus from Tokyo to Odawara, with regular departures from various locations throughout the city.

Other Options

Traveling by train is the most convenient option for getting to Odawara, with frequent shinkansen (bullet train) services available from Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and other major cities.

How to Get Around in Odawara

The best way to see the sights of Odawara is by foot, with many attractions located within walking distance of the city center. Travelers can also use local buses or taxis to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Odawara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Hakone: famous hot springs and scenic views
  • Kamakura: famous for its beautiful temples and beaches
  • Enoshima: beautiful beaches and recreational activities

Conclusion

Odawara is a hidden gem of Japan, with a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to experience the best of Japanese culture and cuisine, Odawara has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the magic of Odawara!

Odawara Station Odawara Station Odawara Castle Odawara Castle Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History Example of Kamaboko shop (Suzuhiro) Example of Kamaboko shop (Suzuhiro)