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  2. Odawara

Discover Odawara

About Odawara, Japan

Odawara is a city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, situated along the coast of Sagami Bay. With a population of approximately 190,000, it serves as a historical and cultural gateway to the Hakone region. Known for its well-preserved samurai-era architecture, Odawara offers travelers an opportunity to explore its rich heritage alongside modern attractions.

Main Points of Interest in Odawara
  • Odawara Castle: A reconstructed samurai castle offering panoramic views and historical exhibits.
  • Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine: Dedicated to Ninomiya Sontoku, a notable local agrarian philosopher.
  • Odawara Flower Garden: Features a wide variety of seasonal blooms and a greenhouse with tropical plants.
  • Kamaboko Street: Renowned for traditional Japanese fish cakes, offering tasting experiences.
  • Enoura Observatory: An art and architecture space with stunning views of Sagami Bay.
Climate and Best Times to Visit Odawara

Odawara experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), accompanied by pleasant weather and blooming flowers.

Budget and Travel Costs in Odawara

Odawara is relatively affordable compared to larger Japanese cities. Prices are estimates and subject to change (approx. 110 JPY to 1 USD).

  • Accommodation:
    • Budget Hotel: $50 - $90 USD (5,500 - 10,000 JPY) per night.
    • Mid-range Hotel: $100 - $150 USD (11,000 - 16,500 JPY) per night.
  • Food & Drink:
    • Local Eatery Meal: $7 - $15 USD (770 - 1,650 JPY).
    • Dinner at a Mid-range Restaurant: $20 - $40 USD (2,200 - 4,400 JPY).
  • Activities:
    • Entry to Odawara Castle: $3 USD (330 JPY).
    • Enoura Observatory Admission: $15 USD (1,650 JPY).
Transportation To and From Odawara

Odawara is a key transportation hub, providing convenient access to the Hakone region and beyond.

  • Railway: Odawara Station is served by the Tokaido Shinkansen, offering rapid connections to Tokyo (about 35 minutes) and Kyoto (approximately 2 hours).
  • Local Trains: The Odakyu Line connects Odawara with Shinjuku in Tokyo in about 1.5 hours.
  • Highways: The Tomei Expressway facilitates road travel to major cities like Yokohama and Nagoya.
  • Nearby Airports: Haneda Airport is the nearest major airport, approximately 90 minutes by train or car.

Top Odawara Routes by Transport Type

Bus from Odawara

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
2
2
20:20
23:56
7h32m
$45.98
1
3
20:20
23:56
7h23m
$45.98
1
1
23:56
23:56
6h23m
$45.98
1
1
23:59
23:59
5h36m
$64.79

Train from Odawara

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
30
09:10
18:10
0h10m
$44.82
3
326
06:20
22:56
1h14m
$16.46
1
4
10:01
14:01
1h49m
$23.39
1
194
06:17
22:45
1h36m
$21.71
1
111
06:17
21:04
1h50m
$73.22
1
57
06:17
20:35
2h34m
$93.95
1
93
07:05
22:45
0h28m
$36.67
3
223
07:05
23:22
0h7m
$7.65
1
4
11:34
16:49
0h38m
$13.02
1
4
10:01
14:01
0h12m
$7.06
1
4
10:01
14:01
1h31m
$20.54
1
4
11:34
16:49
0h46m
$14.19
1
4
06:20
08:02
0h27m
$25.92
1
3
06:17
06:17
2h56m
$99.78
1
133
06:33
22:56
0h26m
$20.09
1
2
06:17
06:17
2h10m
$86.30

Bus to Odawara

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
4
21:55
22:35
7h43m
$40.62
2
3
22:58
23:45
8h10m
$40.62
1
1
23:40
23:40
4h10m
$20.31
1
1
23:15
23:15
6h23m
$55.34
1
1
23:25
23:25
5h25m
$32.40

Train to Odawara

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
3
314
06:21
22:48
1h15m
$16.46
2
12
09:52
15:08
1h41m
$23.39
2
18
09:37
22:36
0h31m
$9.33
1
106
06:22
22:29
1h28m
$40.04
1
105
06:45
21:39
1h50m
$73.22
1
57
08:10
20:59
2h38m
$93.95
2
194
06:35
22:21
0h28m
$18.98
2
388
06:17
22:41
0h16m
$7.65
1
84
07:15
21:18
1h29m
$63.95
1
126
06:28
22:55
0h26m
$20.09
1
4
09:16
13:16
0h45m
$14.19
1
4
09:24
13:24
0h37m
$13.02
1
4
11:17
16:32
0h17m
$7.06
1
8
10:25
15:27
1h21m
$40.30
1
112
06:17
22:33
0h15m
$33.50
1
18
18:50
22:48
0h21m
$25.92
1
24
07:54
18:54
3h20m
$79.82

Popular Questions

Is Odawara worth it?

Odawara is a worthwhile destination, particularly for those interested in history and culture. The city is home to the historic Odawara Castle, which offers insights into Japan's feudal past. The castle grounds include a museum and a beautiful garden, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Transportation: Odawara is conveniently accessible via the JR Tokaido Shinkansen, making it an easy day trip from Tokyo or Yokohama. Local buses and trains are available for getting around the city.

Dining: Odawara's coastal location means fresh seafood is popular. Local specialties include kamaboko (fish cake) and umeboshi (pickled plums).

Tap Water and Swimming: Tap water in Odawara is safe to drink. For swimming, nearby beaches such as Yugawara and Atami are known for clean waters and are monitored regularly.

Costs: Entry to Odawara Castle is around 510 JPY ($3.50). Dining costs vary, with meals typically ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 JPY ($7-$17) depending on the restaurant type.

Overall, it's a charming stop for those exploring the Kanagawa region.

What time is rush hour traffic in Odawara?

Rush hour in Odawara typically occurs from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays. During these times, roads and public transportation like trains can be crowded as commuters travel to and from work. If you're planning to drive or use public transport, consider traveling outside these peak hours to avoid congestion. Alternatively, use navigation apps to find real-time traffic updates and the best routes.

Can I go to Odawara alone?

Traveling to Odawara alone is entirely feasible and enjoyable. The city is well-connected by train, with the Odawara Station serving as a major hub for the Tokaido Shinkansen, JR, and local lines, making it easy to reach from Tokyo and other cities. Solo travelers can explore the historic Odawara Castle, visit the nearby hot springs in Hakone, or stroll through the vibrant local markets.

For accommodations, there are various options ranging from budget hostels to mid-range hotels. Dining alone is common and comfortable, with many restaurants offering counter seating and a variety of Japanese cuisine.

Safety is generally not a concern, as Odawara is considered a safe city for tourists. However, it's always advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Tap water is safe to drink, so carrying a refillable water bottle is convenient. If you wish to swim, nearby beaches are monitored for cleanliness, though you should check local advisories for the latest conditions.

Is it safe to travel to Odawara right now?

Odawara is generally considered safe for travelers. As with any destination, it's wise to stay informed about local conditions and advisories. Japan is known for its low crime rates, but always exercise standard precautions like securing your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.

Transportation:
Public transportation is reliable and efficient, with frequent trains connecting Odawara to other major cities. The Odakyu Line and Tokaido Shinkansen are popular options.

Health and Safety:
Tap water is safe to drink in Odawara, and the city's beaches are regularly monitored for cleanliness, making them safe for swimming.

Weather Considerations:
Odawara, like much of Japan, can experience typhoons, especially from June to October. Check weather updates and plan accordingly.

COVID-19 Measures:
Ensure you're up to date with any travel restrictions or health guidelines related to COVID-19, which may change based on global and local conditions.

Overall, Odawara remains a safe destination for travelers, with necessary precautions.

Can you drink and walk around Odawara?

In Odawara, public drinking is generally allowed, but it is considered polite to avoid excessive drinking in public spaces. Drinking alcohol while walking is not common practice, and it is recommended to consume beverages in designated areas such as parks or outdoor seating at restaurants.

For purchasing alcohol, convenience stores and supermarkets sell a variety of beverages, and you can find local sake, which is worth trying. It's important to respect local customs and maintain a low profile if consuming alcohol in public areas.

When it comes to tap water, it is safe to drink in Odawara. The local water supply meets strict safety standards, and you can refill your bottle at public fountains or taps. There are no major swimming areas directly in Odawara, but nearby coastal regions offer clean beaches monitored for water quality. Always check for any advisories before swimming.