Odawara is located in Western Kanagawa Prefecture, it is about a 35 minutes train ride from Tokyo Station by Shinkansen (bullet train). The area is surrounded by Mt. Hakone, Sagami Bay of the Pacific Ocean, and it has a mild climate. The city serves a role as the gateway to Mt. Fuji, and Hakone and Izu which are Japan’s leading onsen (hot springs) area.
Odawara prospered as a castle town from Sengoku period to Edo period, and is rich in history and culture. Odawara Castle, a landmark of the city was built in the 15th century, and has a key role in Japan’s history as the home of Hojo clan in the Sengoku period, and as home of the Okubo clan in the Edo period. After 1870, majority of the buildings were dismantled, and the remaining structures were destroyed by the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. The current Odawara Castle was rebuilt in 1960 based on its appearance in the Edo period, and the surrounding buildings are gradually being restored to their original appearance.
Odawara is also known as a base for the Fuma Ninja clan, who were active in the Sengoku period. Many Samurai and Ninja legends remain in Odawara. You can experience these cultures at SAMURAI-Kan where Katana, Yoroi (Japanese armor) are exhibited, or at NINJA-Kan you can learn about Ninja culture and experience ninjutsu such as shuriken throwing.
In Odawara, where the sea, mountains, rivers, and villages are all in one place, you can see traditional Japanese scenery of the four seasons, and enjoy Japanese cuisine in each season. At fishing ports and fish markets, you can enjoy fresh fish. In addition, there are local specialties such as kamaboko (fish cake), himono (dried fish), umeboshi (pickled plum), and Japanese sweets. Odawara’s food culture is very vibrant thanks to the abundance of ingredients and the careful work of craftsmen.
Japanese traditional crafts such as Sikki (Lacquerware craft), Yosegi-zaiku (Marquetry craft), Imono (Casting craft) and Chochin (Paper lantern) are produced in Odawara. Their tradition and skills have been passed down to this day.
In Odawara, seasonal festivals and other events are held every month at various locations. We sincerely hope that you will visit Odawara and experience Japanese culture and traditions.
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