Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine?
What makes it 70% Kids-Friendly: Children can run on lawns, feed koi, and write ema, and Odawara Castle playground is steps away; however, water edges lack rails and no child-specific workshops exist, so close supervision is vital.
Positives:
- Free Grounds Access: Shrine grounds have no entry fee, freeing budget for snacks and activities.
- Compact Layout: Garden, pond and cafe sit close together, making it easy to move with kids.
Challenges:
- Limited Parking: Shrine lot fills fast; have coins ready for nearby public parking.
- Uneven Paths: Some stone paths are uneven; make kids wear sturdy shoes and watch for trips.
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 kids?
- Free entry and compact layout keep costs low and movement easy
- Hands-on koi feeding thrills kids
- Creative ema art activity engages young imaginations
- Kinjiro Cafe offers kid-friendly snacks and warm soup
- Seasonal blooms and foliage add color for family photos
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to feed koi, explore the garden, visit the cafe, and let kids play without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine
Feed the koi:
Buy fish food and let kids feed the koi in the misty pond.
Tip: Purchase a small bag (≈¥200) and split feeding turns between children.
Run on forest plaza:
Let kids safely run on the open lawn under vermilion torii gates.
Tip: Head here first to burn energy before cooler pond-side walks.
Draw wishes on ema plaques:
Kids can write or draw their wishes on wooden plaques.
Tip: Bring a small pencil case or buy markers at the shrine for better colors.
Snack at Kinjiro Cafe:
Order “KINAPON” chewy snacks or gojiru soup sets in kid portions.
Tip: Go early to grab a bench; ask staff for kid-sized bowls.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine
- Visit Early: Arrive before 10 am to enjoy the pond mist and avoid midday crowds.
- Pack Extras: Bring water and small snacks since cafe seating is limited at peak times.
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 frame the pond. In autumn, maple leaves glow red. Summer moss is lush after rain.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Koi food | JPY 200 |
| Ema plaque | JPY 500 |
| KINAPON snack | JPY 495 |
| Gojiru soup & rice set | JPY 935 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,130 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
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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