Explore Odawara Castle Samurai Seaside and Traditional Crafts

For our first destination, step back in time and admire the impressive Odawara castle. This iconic landmark is what Odawara is most famous for, and with it now being the closest castle to Tokyo, it is a must to experience during your trip! Your guide will tell you all about the history of Odawara, its castle and how it shaped local history. Climb to the top of the castle tower, and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views from the observation deck!

The Samurai Museum. Learn all about the Samurai who once governed Odawara and their culture. You will see impressive Samurai armour on display and have the opportunity to try armour (and kimono) on as part of your tour where you can take fun photos outside!

Odawara’s port is a great place to try the freshest fish and seafood Odawara has to offer! The fish and seafood available changes throughout the seasons, so it is an exciting chance to see what seasonal produce is on offer. As this is an active port, you are able to get up close to see the local fishermen in action slicing and dicing Sashimi or catching fish! Your guide will show you around the port and harbour where you can sample foods at your leisure. You can also enjoy your lunch break here to rest, eat and have a relaxing drink in any of the nearby restaurants with views of the sea. The views here are lovely, and there is even a Lighthouse here shaped like a giant Lantern!

We will visit a local craft centre where you can try your hand at traditional Odawara Chochin Lantern making and Yosegi wooden coaster making! This unique opportunity will allow you to learn all about the traditional and local art of these crafts which have shaped the culture of both Odawara and Kanagawa prefecture. Assisted by the friendly staff, this is a fantastic way to feel closer to Japanese heritage and culture, all in the cosy and welcoming setting of the centre. The Chochin Lantern and Yosegi coaster wooden experience will last approximately 90 minutes. You will take both items you make home with you as great souvenirs of your time in Odawara. You can choose the design you want for your Lantern, and it is collapsable so will fold away nicely in luggage! The centre also has a cafe where you can enjoy drinks and snacks.

For our final destination, we will explore Odawara Minaka, a newly built shopping and restaurant complex built in the style of the Edo period to evoke nostalgia and to provide a sense of how old Japan once looked! Here, we will enjoy a relaxing foot bath experience at the top of an observatory to relax after our day of exploring. The views from here are spectacular, where you can see all of Odawara, the Castle and sea. Foot baths are a traditional part of Japanese culture, and the water in these foot baths comes from nearby Hakone and its famous hot springs. If you have felt unsure about trying Onsen (Hot Springs) during your trip, then foot baths are a great alternative! This is the perfect way to conclude our day before we head back on the train to Shinjuku.