Odawara Area
Main sightseeing spots in Odawara
① Odawara Castle
② Ishigaki-yama Ichiyajyo Fort
③ Japanese Sake Brewery
④ Daiyu-zan Saijyo-ji Temple
⑤ Soga Plum Tree Farmland
⑥ Seto Yashiki
Each location
① Odawara Castle
Odawara Castle is a 10-minute walk from Odawara Station. The current castle tower was rebuilt in 1959 to mark the city’s 20th anniversary.
In the 16th century, the Hojo clan ruled the Kanto region from this castle for about 100 years. In 1590, however, Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s army of 180,000 soldiers surrounded Odawara, and the Hojo surrendered without a battle.
During the Edo period (1603–1867), the castle served as an important strategic post along the Old Tokaido Road.
Odawara Castle Ninja Museum (History Museum)
At the Odawara Castle Ninja Museum, you can experience the world of the ninja who are said to have supported the Hojo clan in the 16th century. It’s a fun, hands-on attraction for both adults and children.
② Ishigaki-yama Ichiyajyo Fort
On a hill surrounded by orange orchards, Toyotomi Hideyoshi built a fort in 1590 to lay siege to Odawara Castle. Today, its remaining stone walls are preserved as a historical park with sweeping views of Odawara, the castle, and Sagami Bay. Next to the fort, there is a pastry shop and café run by a renowned Japanese pastry chef.
③ Japanese Sake Brewery
Japanese sake is Japan’s most traditional alcoholic beverage and pairs beautifully not only with washoku—recognized by UNESCO in 2013—but also with many Western dishes. Its refined taste is the result of centuries of craftsmanship and constant innovation by breweries across Japan.
Several sake breweries operate in the Odawara area. An OHSGG guide can take you to one of them, where you can sample different varieties of locally made sake. When available, you may also tour the brewery interior while the guide explains the brewing process. (Advance reservation is required for the brewery tour.)
④ Daiyu-zan Saijyo-ji Temple
Daiyūzan Saijō-ji is a major Soto Zen temple with about 4,000 affiliated temples across Japan. Located on the outer slopes of the Hakone mountains, about 9 km northwest of Odawara Station, it is known for its serene approach lined with roughly 20,000 ancient cedar trees.
At the temple gate stands a statue of Tengu, a mythical guardian said to protect visitors and drive away evil spirits. From here, a 350-step ascent leads to the inner sanctuary, Okunoin.
Saijō-ji also offers the chance to experience zazen, the core practice of Zen Buddhism. In zazen, you sit cross-legged, relax your mind, and simply let thoughts come and go without clinging to them.
⑤ Soga Plum Tree Farmland
The Soga area, northeast of Odawara Station, is known for its extensive plum orchards used for making umeboshi (salted plums). Every February, the white and red blossoms come into full bloom, covering the area in vibrant color.
⑥ Seto Yashiki
Seto Yashiki is a 300-year-old thatched farmhouse once home to the local village leader. Donated to Kaisei Town and opened to the public in 2005, it offers a glimpse into rural life during the samurai era, with its traditional roof, wooden architecture, and old water wheel. Various seasonal events are held at the house and its grounds, including:
Hina Doll Exhibition (winter)
Hydrangea blooms (June)
Hands-on activities such as local cooking, crafts, and food fairs (some require advance reservation)
… and more.
