Hello! I'm Sakura Somei, your Castle Maiden guide for Odawara Castle. In this article, I'll walk you through the castle's history and introduce some wonderful sightseeing spots in the area. I hope you enjoy the tour! ♪
You can see the majestic silhouette of Odawara Castle as soon as you step off the train at Odawara Station. It has such a powerful presence—you can really feel how deeply this fortress is rooted in the life of the city!
Basic Information
Odawara Castle is believed to have been originally constructed in the mid-15th century by the Omori clan. However, its most legendary era began when Hojo Soun seized it during the Sengoku period, establishing it as the seat of the powerful Hojo clan.
Hojo Soun is a charismatic figure surrounded by historical mystery. While older legends portrayed him as a "rags-to-riches" rōnin who rose to become a powerful daimyo through sheer cunning, modern scholarship suggests he hailed from the prestigious Ise clan. Regardless of his origins, his visionary leadership laid the foundation for a century of regional prosperity.
For 100 years, Odawara served as the impregnable base for five generations of the Hojo. This era came to a dramatic head in 1590 during Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Siege of Odawara. After a grueling three-month standoff, the castle finally opened its gates, signaling the downfall of the Hojo and a major step toward Japan's unification.
Following the siege, the Okubo clan (vassals to the Tokugawa shogunate) took over as lords. The castle's long military history finally concluded with the Meiji Restoration, leading to its official decommissioning in 1870.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Built | Mid-15th century (Muromachi Period) |
| Founder | Omori Clan (Later expanded by Hojo Soun) |
| Key Events | 1590: Fall of the Hojo clan following Hideyoshi's Siege of Odawara |
| Main Lords | Hojo Soun, Hojo Ujimasa, and five generations of the Hojo clan |
| Key Structures | Outer Moat, Akagane Gate, Umadashi Gate, Castle Keep, Goyomai Kuruwa, etc. |
Odawara Castle is ranked #23 on Japan's Top 100 Castles list. It's truly famous as the stage for the massive siege that symbolized the beginning of the end for the Sengoku era! ♪
About the Castle
Odawara Castle is a premier example of a "hirayama-jyo" (hilltop castle), strategically built on the Odawara Plateau overlooking the vast Sagami Bay. Its location allowed the Hojo clan to monitor both maritime and inland routes, making it a vital nerve center for the Kanto region.
The castle's most awe-inspiring feature is the Sogamae—a massive, total perimeter defense line established by the Later Hojo clan. By enclosing the entire castle town within a single, continuous fortification, the perimeter stretched to a staggering 9 kilometers. This innovative "castle-city" design made Odawara one of the largest and most sophisticated fortresses in all of Japan.
Today, the site is a treasure trove of military architecture. Beyond the reconstructed Main Keep, visitors can explore the majestic Tokiwagi Gate, the Akagane (Copper) Gate, and the well-preserved outer moats. Details like the Hazama (loopholes for arrows and firearms) and the Umadashi (barbican-like defensive gates) allow you to vividly imagine the castle's ironclad defenses during the height of the Sengoku period.
Odawara Castle also goes by the names "Komine Castle" or "Kobayakawa Castle." It’s legendary for being an impregnable fortress—so strong that even the brilliant tactician Uesugi Kenshin couldn't break through its walls!
Walking Around Odawara Castle
The journey begins at the Outer Moat (Sotobori). The sight of the water-filled moat immediately transports you back to the era of the samurai. It's the perfect "prologue" to your castle visit.
Since I visited during cherry blossom season, the contrast between the delicate pink petals and the sturdy white castle walls was breathtaking. Many visitors were gathered around the moat to capture this iconic view. Seeing the castle from across the water really emphasizes its grand scale.
Entering the grounds, we arrived at the Ni-no-maru (Second Bailey) area. The vast Ni-no-maru Plaza on the left, lined with cherry trees, creates a serene atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
Odawara Castle is famous for its flora. Throughout the year, the grounds are painted with seasonal colors: plums, cherries, wisteria, irises, lotuses, and chrysanthemums. Don't miss the ancient Inumaki tree (over 520 years old) and the historic junipers—they are living witnesses to the castle's long history.
Sumiyoshi Bridge. This elegant red wooden bridge spans the moat, connecting the Umaya Kuruwa (Stables Bailey) to the Copper Gate. The surrounding area is open and spacious, offering great vantage points for photos.
In the Stables Bailey, I stopped by the Ni-no-maru Tourist Information Center. It’s well-stocked with pamphlets and exhibits, including an autograph from the creator of the popular samurai manga Sengoku Gonbei!
Inside the Tokiwagi Gate, you’ll find the SAMURAI Museum. This is a must-visit spot where you can see authentic armor and swords up close. They even offer armor-trial experiences! While I didn't have time to suit up this time, I’m definitely putting it on my "next time" list. It’s fascinating to see how my perception changed from being scared of armor as a kid to finding it incredibly cool now.
For families, there is also a NINJA Museum nearby, featuring interactive trials and exhibits specifically designed for children to enjoy the world of stealth.
The Akagane-mon (Copper Gate). This massive "Masugata" (square enclosure) style gate served as the primary entrance to the Honmaru. Reconstructed to its Edo-period glory, the gate and its accompanying stone walls are the epitome of Japanese castle architecture—powerful, imposing, and meticulously crafted.
The Honmaru (Main Bailey) is an open plaza featuring shops and plenty of space to relax. Standing tall as the city's ultimate icon, the Main Keep rises 27.2 meters from the stone base—making it the 7th tallest reconstructed keep in Japan.
The weather was perfect, and the crowds were clearly enjoying the scenery. The pairing of cherry blossoms and the white tower is truly a classic Japanese experience that left me in awe.
The interior of the keep has been beautifully renovated into a modern museum. It houses a wide variety of artifacts ranging from the history of the Hojo clan to the Marishiten statue, which was enshrined at the top during the Edo period to protect the fortress.
Did you see the "Kodomo Yuenchi" amusement park within the grounds? There’s even a miniature train and mini-cars that kids can ride right in the middle of the castle history!
Exploring the Surrounding Area
After immersing yourself in the history of the castle, it's time to explore the vibrant streets of Odawara and indulge in its legendary seafood!
First, keep an eye out for the Statue of Kinjiro Ninomiya (Sontoku Ninomiya). You'll find it right outside Odawara Station. He is a celebrated historical figure in Japan, famous for his thirst for knowledge—represented by the iconic image of him reading a book while carrying heavy firewood on his back. It's a classic photo spot for anyone visiting the city!
Right next to the castle grounds is the Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine, dedicated to Sontoku Ninomiya as the deity of education and diligence. The presence of both the statue and this shrine highlights just how deeply his legacy is woven into the fabric of Odawara.
The shrine offers a peaceful atmosphere amidst the trees. If you have some extra time during your castle stroll, it’s well worth a quick visit to pay your respects.
For shopping and panoramic views, head to the Fishery Station TOTOCO Odawara. It’s a stylish "roadside station" where the first floor is packed with local seafood products and souvenirs. If you’re looking for gifts to take home, this is your one-stop shop.
The upper floors house restaurants with open-air terrace seating overlooking the ocean. Their signature "mountain-high" seafood bowls are as visually stunning as they are delicious, drawing massive crowds every day!
For a more traditional sit-down meal, I visited Warabe Naogyodo, located near the Odawara Fishing Port. While the port area is overflowing with tempting eateries, this spot is a local legend.
Pro Tip: This place is incredibly popular. Be sure to arrive early and write your name on the waiting list at the entrance before the doors open. If you arrive exactly at opening time, you’ll likely face a long wait!
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Warabe Naogyodo |
| Price | Sashimi Set: Approx. 1,600 yen (as of 2024) |
| Location | 2-1-30 Honcho, Odawara City, Kanagawa |
| Access | 10-min walk from Odawara Station / 5-min walk from Odawara Castle |
| Hours | 11:30–14:00 (Lunch) / 17:30–21:00 (Dinner) |
| Holidays | Tuesdays (Subject to occasional closures) |
| Highlights | Enjoy fresh Sagami Bay seafood in a modern Japanese setting. Famous for its "Golden Aji-fry" (fried horse mackerel). |
I originally had my heart set on their famous "Golden Aji-fry," but the Daily Special was so enticing that I couldn't resist. Luckily, the Daily Set included a piece of the aji-fry too! The volume was impressive—fresh sashimi, perfectly fried fish, and a massive portion of simmered fish (nizakana) that was almost too big to finish.
Traveler's Note: The standard rice portion is a bit small compared to the generous amount of fish, so if you're a big eater, I highly recommend ordering a "large" (omori) rice!
Another fantastic option near the port is Meshiya Yamaya, specializing in gorgeous seafood bowls. It’s just a short walk from the station's East Exit.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Meshiya Yamaya |
| Price | Seafood Bowl: Approx. 1,380 yen (as of 2024) |
| Location | 2-7-2 Sakaecho, Odawara City, Kanagawa |
| Access | 6-min walk from Odawara Station East Exit |
| Hours | 11:00–15:00 (Lunch) / 17:00–21:00 (Dinner) |
| Holidays | Wednesdays |
| Highlights | Famous for its bowls topped with fresh catches directly from the local port. Expect a line during peak lunch hours! |
The star here is the bowl featuring fresh Shirasu (whitebait) and an array of sashimi. It was incredibly fresh, hearty, and satisfying. Just like Warabe Naogyodo, this place is almost always busy, so be prepared to queue for your seafood fix!
Both Warabe Naogyodo and Meshiya Yamaya are right by the port. Eating that much fresh fish made me so happy—I was in seafood heaven! ☆
Top 100 Castles Stamp & Access Info
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Stamp Location | Inside the Main Keep (Tenshukaku) |
| Hours | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) |
| Closed | 2nd Wednesday of Dec, Dec 31 – Jan 1 |
| Phone | 042-620-7265 |
| Admission Fee | Adults: 510 yen / Elementary & Junior High students: 200 yen |
| Note | There is only one official stamp location, situated inside the keep. |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 6-1 Jonai, Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture |
| By Train | Approx. 10-min walk from JR or Odakyu "Odawara Station." |
| By Bus | Sightseeing route buses are available from the station front. |
| Parking | Several municipal and private paid parking lots nearby (Expect congestion around the keep during holidays). |
| Phone | 0465-23-1373 (Odawara Castle General Management Office) |
| Visit Time | 30–45 mins for a quick look; 1 hour or more to explore the keep and Honmaru ruins thoroughly. |
The castle grounds are mostly flat, so any attire is fine. However, there are stairs throughout the site and especially inside the keep itself. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes that can handle a bit of climbing!
Summary
Odawara Castle is more than just a historical monument; it is a masterpiece of the Sengoku period. As the legendary seat of the Hojo clan, its impressive reconstructions—from the towering Main Keep and the massive Akagane Gate to the tranquil outer moats—offer a profound sense of the architectural prowess that once defied all attackers.
Beyond the history, the castle is incredibly versatile. With interactive experiences like ninja and samurai trials and a vibrant calendar of seasonal events, it’s a destination that satisfies both the serious history buff and families looking for a fun day out.
What truly stands out is how deeply the Hojo legacy remains woven into modern Odawara. The local pride in the Hojo clan, fostered by their century-long fair and prosperous rule, is still visible in the city's festivals and community spirit today. It's rare to find a place where 500-year-old history feels so current.
Combined with the unique local food culture and the charming historical sites scattered throughout the castle town, Odawara is a perfect day-trip or weekend getaway. Whether you’re here for the "gourmet hunt" or a stroll through time, Odawara Castle never fails to impress.
Exploring Odawara Castle was so much fun! What was everyone’s favorite part?
The ocean view from the top of the keep was top-tier! I absolutely love high vantage points where you can see the horizon. It's refreshing!
The Kamaboko (fish cake) factory tour was a surprise hit! I didn't realize Odawara was so famous for it. Freshly made kamaboko is so yummy ☆
The stroll through the town was lovely, but the cherry blossoms in full bloom really stole the show for me. That weeping cherry tree at the entrance was absolutely unforgettable.
Coming at this time of year was definitely the right choice! ♪ The nearby castles on the list are No. 22 Hachioji Castle and No. 24 Takeda Shrine (Takeda-shi Yakata). If you have time, be sure to visit them as well! ♪
▼ Explore Castles in Kanto & Koshinetsu
Kanto Area
14. Mito Castle ／
15. Ashikaga Residence ／
16. Minowa Castle ／
17. Kanayama Castle ／
18. Hachigata Castle ／
19. Kawagoe Castle ／
20. Sakura Castle ／
21. Edo Castle ／
22. Hachioji Castle ／
23. Odawara Castle ／
Koshinetsu Area
24. Takeda Residence ／
25. Kofu Castle ／
26. Matsushiro Castle ／
27. Ueda Castle ／
28. Komoro Castle ／
29. Matsumoto Castle ／
30. Takato Castle ／
31. Shibata Castle ／
32. Kasugayama Castle
