Guide
Odawara Castle is a historic flatland-mountain castle (hirayama-jiro) located in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, dating back to the Sengoku and Edo periods. Once the formidable stronghold of the Hojo clan, the site is now a designated National Historic Site. The surrounding Odawara Castle Park offers a beautiful environment where visitors can enjoy the historical ruins alongside well-maintained greenery.
This location served as the strategic center for the Hojo clan during the Senguku (Warring States) period. Later, it became the seat of the Odawara Domain during the Edo period. As a National Historic Site, the castle grounds are vital for understanding the evolution of Japanese castle architecture and defensive systems.
The main highlights include the impressive castle structure, the main keep (Tenshu), and the various facilities within the castle park. The site features specialized attractions such as the SAMURAI Museum and the NINJA Museum, which bring history to life. Additionally, the defensive ruins, historical gates, and traditional bridges provide a deep look into the architectural ingenuity of the era.
Odawara Castle Park offers stunning seasonal transformations. The spring season (March to May) is particularly beautiful, and the autumn season (September to November) provides breathtaking colors. For the best experience, visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic views from the castle tower and the intricate details of the surrounding fortifications.
Visitors can climb the castle tower for a view of the region or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park. To deepen your understanding, you can explore the SAMURAI and NINJA museums or use the official digital exhibition guide app. Utilizing these digital resources and official video content allows for a much more immersive and educational experience regarding Japanese history.
The castle is a central part of the Odawara sightseeing route. The park is dotted with historical gates, bridges, and open plazas, allowing visitors to walk through the layout of the original fortification and understand the strategic placement of the castle structures.
Since the castle grounds and park are quite extensive, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to visit the castle tower or specific facilities, please check the official information in advance. For large groups of 30 or more, advanced reservations via phone or the web form are required. For groups of fewer than 30 people, please purchase your tickets directly at the ticket booth on the day of your visit.