Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine?
What makes it 61% Baby-Friendly: Paths fit strollers and a nursing room sits in the park, yet shrine toilets lack change tables and a few stone steps force lifting, making the outing doable but somewhat inconvenient with infants.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly paths: Main paved routes allow easy stroller use. Watch for small stone steps near shrine stairs.
- Nearby baby-care: Free nursing room and diaper tables in Odawara Castle Park are a 5-minute walk away.
Challenges:
- Limited on-site baby facilities: Shrine restrooms lack changing tables; use park restrooms instead.
- Tight parking: Shrine lot has few spaces; plan to park in nearby coin lots or arrive by train.
- Uneven surfaces: Stone steps and gravel areas may slow stroller movement.
What is Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine?
- A Shinto shrine dedicated to 19th-century agrarian reformer Ninomiya Sontoku, established in 1894
- Located within Odawara Castle Park at the foot of the Hakone mountains, featuring vermilion halls, torii gates and a reflective koi pond
- A historical complex that preserves Ninomiya’s teachings through engraved monuments and traditional garden landscaping
What is so special about Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine for with baby?
- Easy, stroller-friendly stroll through vermilion Torii and mossy forest
- Interactive koi-feeding at the misty pond for family fun
- Café terrace offers snacks and warm gojiru soup with bench seating for a baby
- Free nursing rooms and changing tables are steps away in Odawara Castle Park
- Paths and parking can be tight; planning ahead ensures a smooth visit
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time to stroll paths, feed koi, and relax at the café without rushing the baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine
Walk the mossy Torii-lined path:
Follow paved paths under vermilion Torii gates through a mossy forest plaza.
Tip: Use the wider sections for your stroller and pause at open spots for photos.
Feed koi at the misty pond:
Buy fish food and watch colorful koi swim through gentle mist sprays.
Tip: Purchase food at Kinjiro Café entrance so one parent can hold the baby safely.
Relax at Kinjiro Café terrace:
Order Kinjiro Soft ice cream or gojiru soup and sit at outdoor benches.
Tip: Choose a shaded table near railings to keep the stroller close and in sight.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine
- Arrive early: Visit before 10 AM to beat crowds and secure parking close to the shrine.
- Plan baby breaks: Stop at Ninomaru Information Center first to use the nursing room before exploring.
- Combine with castle park: Extend your trip with a short walk to Odawara Castle and playground nearby.
Reviews of Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine
Poppy
A peaceful little shrine beside Odawara Castle. Surrounded by trees and calm atmosphere, nice place to stop by after exploring the castle grounds.
Melvin J.
Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine has a cool spot where people hang wooden plaques with their wishes and prayers. Fun fact: The shrine is dedicated to Ninomiya Sontoku, a famous 19th-century agricultural leader and philosopher known for his teachings on diligence and community spirit.
Daniel Scott
Very impressive Shinto Shrine at Odawara Castle. Many visitors here.
Scott Lee
It’s only about 10-15 short walk away from Odawara station and worth the visit. The shrine is very well maintained and has a very nice cafe nearby. There is also a castle in the park and a ninja centre so I recommend that you check out other places in the park!
Rich Loffman
Definitely worth a few minutes of your time if you’re visiting Odawara castle. The 2 green gates are rather unique and the gardens and visitors center is well maintained.
When is the best time to visit Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine (Hakone, Japan)?
In spring, cherry blossoms line the approach. In autumn, red maple leaves reflect in the pond. In summer, arrive early for cooler shade under mossy trees. In winter, warm up with gojiru soup at the café.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fish food (optional) | JPY 200 |
| Kinjiro Soft ice cream | JPY 495 |
| Gojiru soup & rice set (2 adult) | JPY 1,870 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,565 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine
Address: 8-10 Jōnai, Odawara, Kanagawa 250-0014, Japan
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About Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 50-1721-286810 BEST nearby Activities
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