Odawara Castle

Must Do Experiences

• Climb to the top floor of the castle keep to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Odawara city, Sagami Bay, and the distant Hakone mountains.

• Explore the Tokiwagi Gate and the adjacent Samurai Museum to see authentic armour, swords, and historical artefacts from the Hojo clan era.

• Stroll through the expansive castle grounds, walking along the impressive stone walls, moats, and beautifully maintained gardens that surround the main tower.

Hidden Gems

• Seek out the Ninomaru Historical Museum located just outside the main castle grounds, which houses rare local historical documents and traditional crafts often overlooked by rushed tourists.

• Look for the hidden stone carvings and original Edo-period masonry integrated into the reconstructed walls, offering a tangible connection to the castle's 15th-century origins.

• Visit the castle grounds early in the morning before the gates officially open to the inner keep to capture serene, crowd-free photos of the majestic white tower reflecting in the moat.

What Makes it Special

• It stands as a rare example of a fully reconstructed five-tiered, six-story castle keep in the Kanto region, offering an authentic architectural experience.

• The seamless e-ticket entry system allows you to bypass long ticketing queues and head straight to the validation gate for a hassle-free visit.

• Its strategic hilltop location not only provides incredible defensive history but also rewards modern visitors with unmatched 360-degree views of the city and ocean.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is during the spring months of late March to early April when the castle grounds are transformed into a breathtaking cherry blossom wonderland. For the best lighting and fewer crowds, aim to arrive right at the 09:00 opening time on a weekday morning. Autumn is also highly recommended, as the surrounding moats and gardens are framed by vibrant red and gold foliage.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Position yourself near the Umadashi Gate or across the main moat to capture the full majesty of the white castle tower framed by the sky and surrounding trees.

• Visit during the golden hour just before sunset for warm, dramatic lighting that highlights the castle's architectural details, though note the keep closes at 16:30 so exterior shots are best for late afternoon.

• Flash photography and the use of tripods are generally restricted inside the castle keep to protect the delicate historical artefacts and ensure smooth foot traffic.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When exploring the indoor museum exhibits and the castle keep, maintain a quiet and respectful demeanour, as these spaces honour Japan's rich samurai heritage. It is customary to bow slightly when entering and exiting the shrine areas located within the broader castle park. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so simply offer a polite thank you to the staff and guides.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Odawara Castle Cherry Blossom Festival in early April features spectacular evening illuminations, food stalls, and traditional performances around the moat.

• The Odawara Hojo Festival in May celebrates the legacy of the Hojo clan with grand samurai parades, matchlock gun demonstrations, and historical reenactments.

• During the winter months, the castle grounds are often decorated with beautiful light-ups and seasonal floral displays, creating a magical evening atmosphere.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Exercise caution when climbing the steep, narrow wooden staircases inside the castle keep, and always use the handrails provided.

• Be mindful of uneven stone pathways and mossy areas around the moats and outer walls, especially after rainfall when surfaces can become slippery.

• Keep a close eye on young children near the moats and elevated stone walls, as there are limited protective railings in certain historical sections of the grounds.