Top Odawara Art & Culture

Discover the history and stories of the samurai and ninja at Odawara Castle on this exploration and experience into Japanese culture and history. Odawara Castle is the centerpiece for this walking tour that will include historic insight, local goods, craft shops, and much more. This castle was the grounds for some of Japan's most famous samurai and ruled over a large part of central Japan during the Sengoku Period of Japanese history. The city of Odawara still has many connections to the traditions and culture of the time of the samurai. Learn about the history of the samurai, architecture of Japanese castle, and all about the mysterious ninja. A short stop by a local shrine is also included as we explore this historic city on foot. Odawara is conveniently located just south of Tokyo, nestled between the shores of the Pacific Ocean and mountains of Hakone.

Explore the History of Odawara Castle: A 3-Hour Guided Tour Join us for a 3-hour guided tour of Odawara Castle, where history and culture come to life! The tour starts with a warm greeting at Odawara Station, followed by a stroll through the historic castle town. You'll spend about 90 minutes exploring the main keep (Honmaru) and turrets (Yagura), learning about the Sengoku period and the samurai who once lived here. Your guide will share captivating stories of the castle's past and its role in Japanese history. For a fun twist, you'll have the chance to wear traditional samurai jackets and pose for photos with a fan. The tour wraps up with a relaxing visit to a cozy café, where you can enjoy a traditional cup of matcha tea, experiencing a bit of Japanese tea culture. Perfect for history lovers, samurai fans, and anyone curious about Odawara Castle’s unique blend of the past and present!

・We will introduce the charms of Hakone's nature (the formation of volcanoes and the beauty of seasonal plants) through hiking. ・We will use private cars to provide a flexible guided tour throughout the entire trip. ・We will provide careful and courteous support to multiple guests (two couples).

Kamakura is such a compact city that you can see the whole area within a day. One of the representative sight-seeing spots is Big Image of Buddha in Kotokuin temple. From there, you can travel almost all the famous temples for six hours. Many historical sites are covered in public transportation services. On the way to Hachimangu, we can enjoy shopping on KOMACHI street. While walking through the street, we can feel something different from the western culture. In this area, there are many valuable temples and shrines within a walk. So, we can visit many historical temples and shrines such as so-called hydrangea temple and bamboo grove temple. All these temples are located in calm environment, so you will feel like being in KAMAKURA ZEN Buddhism style. About 1 hour from JR Kita Kamakura station, we will visit the 2nd largest city YOKOHAMA. This time, we will stop over at China town in ISHIKAWA cho in Yokohama. We can enjoy a variety of Chinese cuisines for reasonable prices.

One of the reasons why the Golden Globe-winning "SHOGUN" became a huge hit is its dedication to Japanese beauty and culture, and its uncompromising attitude. Since Washoku (Japanese cuisine) was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage on December 4, 2013, its popularity has skyrocketed. Odawara lacquerware, a traditional craft made in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, was designated as a "Traditional Craft" by the Minister of International Trade and Industry (now the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry) in May 1984. Create your own unique patterned Japanese tableware and continue to feel the world and culture of Washoku even after returning home!

Embark on a breathtaking journey through Hakone, where nature and serenity converge. With convenient departure options from Shinjuku (Tokyo), Odawara, Gora, or Hakone-Yumoto, your adventure begins with a scenic ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway, followed by a cable car and ropeway offering panoramic views of majestic mountains and volcanic landscapes. As you ascend, witness the dramatic sight of steam rising from volcanic vents and immerse yourself in the beauty of Hakone’s mountainous terrain. Upon reaching Lake Ashi, board a tranquil sightseeing boat to glide across the water, soaking in stunning vistas framed by the towering presence of Mt. Fuji. Guided by an expert, this unforgettable experience invites you to explore one of Japan’s most iconic scenic destinations, blending natural beauty with cultural depth—perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Hike a section of the ancient forest-clad Tokaido Highway that links Tokyo with former capitals Kyoto and Osaka. Experience Amazake Chaya, one of the few remaining of hundreds of teahouses that lined the old Tokaido, Cedar Avenue with towering 400 year-old Japanese cedar patrolling both sides of the trail, and stunning views of Mt Fuji (weather permitting) from Yamanaka Castle Ruins, and more. Hakone Hachiri has been declared a Japan Heritage Area. Allow our guide to immerse you in the history, culture, and natural heritage of this ancient route.

Engage with the tranquil art of Japanese calligraphy within a historic temple in Odawara, just a short train ride from Tokyo. Guided by a Zen priest, this experience offers a unique opportunity to create your own personalized scroll while immersing yourself in the meditative process of ink grinding and brush strokes. All materials are provided, and you'll don a traditional samue for a complete cultural experience. Choose a kanji character that resonates with you, crafting a lasting keepsake infused with the essence of Zen and Japanese aesthetics.

- Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch around Odawara Fishing Port. - Try your hand at crafting traditional Kamaboko (fish cake) at the Suzihiro Kamaboko Museum. - Stroll through Odawara Castle grounds, learning about local history and the "Ichien Yugo" (harmony & sustainability) philosophy. - Relax at Ninomiya Shrine with a serene matcha tea/Coffee break at Cafe. - Experience the unique citrus juice tap and sample local treats at Castle Town Market.

Explore Odawara Castle, the stronghold of the powerful Hojo clan, with a professional guide and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Sengoku era. Known for its formidable defenses, this castle withstood numerous attacks from famous warlords. From the top of the main keep, enjoy panoramic views of Odawara and, on clear days, see as far as the Boso Peninsula across Tokyo Bay. Experience the ambitions of the Hojo clan and step back in time to the heart of Japan's turbulent history.