Seasonal Events
Four Seasons in Odawara & Hakone
① Spring
Cherry blossom
Cherry blossoms reach full bloom in Odawara from late March to early April.
In Hakone, several varieties bloom later than in Odawara, allowing you to enjoy the cherry blossoms until late April. Various events are held during the cherry blossom season.
Odawara Hojo Godai Festival
The Odawara Hojo Godai Festival, held on May 3rd each year, celebrates the Hojo samurai family, who ruled the Kanto region from Odawara in the 16th century. About 2,000 participants — including costumed samurai warriors and marching bands — parade through the city, attracting many visitors every year.
② Summer
Hakone Lake Festival
The Hakone Lake Festival is held on July 31st. It is the first event in the series of summer rituals of Hakone and Kuzuryu Shrines. Fireworks launched over Lake Ashi are truly spectacular.
Daimonji-yaki
Daimonji-yaki, which began in 1921, is a ceremonial Bon festival held on the night of August 16 each year. A bonfire in the shape of the kanji character “dai” is lit on the mountainside, comforting and sending off the spirits of ancestors.
③ Autumn
Hakone Daimyo Gyoretsu
Hakone Daimyo Gyoretsu is held every year on November 3. It is a reenactment of the daimyo procession from the Edo period (1603–1867), with a highlight being the parade of participants in samurai costumes.
*Daimyo: Feudal lords who governed regional domains.
*Daimyo Gyoretsu: The grand procession of a daimyo traveling between his domain and Edo (Tokyo).
Autumn Leaves
Autumn colors in Hakone begin in November. The mix of red and yellow leaves makes the mountain scenery even more beautiful.
④ Winter
Plum trees
Japanese plum trees are in full bloom from late January through February, bringing an early hint of spring. Plum blossom festivals are held in both Odawara and Yugawara.
Traditional Japanese New Year Events
During the New Year period, visitors can experience a variety of traditional Japanese customs. People visit shrines and temples for Hatsumōde, the first prayer of the year, to wish for good health, happiness, and success.
