4 DaysJapanCultureFood
Odawara
Your 4-day travel guide
Spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for foliage
Odawara•4D•Couple
Odawara, Japan
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:Couple
Castles, Hot Springs, and Samurai Heritage
Odawara feels like stepping into a living history book where samurai once walked, but with the added bonus of steaming hot springs and some of the tastiest seafood you'll find near Tokyo. You'll hear the gentle clack of geta sandals on stone paths near the castle, smell the salty breeze mixed with the earthy aroma of miso soup simmering in small restaurants, and discover a city that moves at a refreshingly relaxed pace compared to its giant neighbor. What makes this trip special is exploring a beautifully reconstructed feudal castle, soaking in traditional onsen baths with mountain views, and tasting fresh kamaboko fish cakes that locals have perfected over centuries. Get ready to trade skyscrapers for castle towers and discover why this coastal city has been a favorite retreat for centuries.
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1
Castle Town Heritage and Local Flavors
Day 1 of your journey
Start your day at Odawara Castle, a beautifully reconstructed fortress that was once the stronghold of the powerful Hojo clan during Japan's feudal era. The main keep houses a museum with samurai armor, weapons, and historical displays about the castle's strategic importance. Climb to the top floor for panoramic views of the city and Sagami Bay. The surrounding park features stone walls, gates, and a moat that give you a sense of the castle's original scale. Plan about 2 hours to explore thoroughly, and visit early to avoid crowds.
Odawara Castle
Why Visit
This is one of Japan's most significant reconstructed castles, offering authentic insight into samurai-era fortifications and regional history. The museum collections are well-curated, and the views from the top are genuinely impressive. For couples interested in culture, it provides a romantic backdrop of traditional architecture and gardens that feel like stepping back in time.
Address: Jonai, Odawara, Kanagawa 250-0014. Visit the small Tokiwagi Gate nearby, which is original from the Edo period and less crowded than the main castle entrance. The castle grounds are particularly lovely during cherry blossom season in early April.
2
Hot Springs and Coastal Culture
Day 2 of your journey
3
Free Day and Hakone Excursion
Day 3 of your journey
4
Local Exploration and Departure
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Odawara Station is your transportation hub, with frequent trains to Tokyo (35-50 minutes), Yokohama, and Hakone. The Shinkansen stops here, making it easily accessible.
Purchase an IC card like Suica or Pasmo for convenient payment on trains and buses. These can be bought at Odawara Station.
While some places accept credit cards, carry cash for smaller restaurants, markets, and traditional shops that may not.
Odawara is very safe, but standard travel precautions apply. The tourist areas are well-lit and populated.
Basic Japanese phrases are appreciated. Many signs have English, and station staff usually speak some English.
Public toilets are generally clean and available at stations, parks, and major attractions. Some may require small coins.
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Good service is expected and included in prices.
Remove shoes when entering traditional tatami rooms, some restaurants, and ryokan. Look for shoe racks or slippers provided.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) offers mild weather and cherry blossoms at Odawara Castle in early April, making it particularly beautiful. Autumn (October to November) has comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, though the coast provides some relief. Winter (December to February) is cool but rarely sees snow, and hot springs are especially appealing then. Avoid Golden Week (late April to early May) and Obon (mid-August) when domestic travel peaks and accommodations book up.
Local Insights & Tips
Odawara maintains a proud local identity as a historic castle town rather than just a Tokyo suburb. People here move at a slower pace and take genuine pride in their kamaboko tradition and samurai heritage. When visiting temples or traditional sites, modest dress is appreciated. Public baths and hot springs have strict etiquette: wash thoroughly before entering the bath, don't wear swimsuits in traditional areas (small towels are used for modesty), and keep towels out of the water. The city has fewer foreign tourists than nearby Hakone, so you'll experience more authentic interactions. Locals are generally helpful if approached politely.