Odawara Castle Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Odawara Castle Park?
What makes it 85% Kids-Friendly: School-age children enjoy the ninja obstacle course, mini zoo, playground, and costume rentals, while flat lawns allow breaks; only the tower stairs need extra care from parents.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly paths: Wide, paved walkways make it easy for younger children to rest in a stroller.
- Free play areas: Playground, small zoo, and lawns cost nothing and suit every age.
Challenges:
- No elevators: The castle tower has steep stairs and no lift. Hold kids’ hands at all times.
- Limited shade: Few trees in summer. Bring hats, sunscreen, and water.
What is Odawara Castle Park?
- A historic park centered on a reconstructed five-story castle tower dating to the 15th century
- A cultural complex housing a samurai artifacts museum, a local history exhibition, and seasonal floral displays
- A landscaped urban green space defined by traditional gardens, a moat promenade, and a children’s playground
What is so special about Odawara Castle Park for with kids?
- Historic castle climb with child-friendly exhibits
- Hands-on ninja obstacle course
- Costume rental for fun family photos
- Mini zoo and playground free of charge
- Seasonal flower spots perfect for family picnics
Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours
Why 3–4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the tower climb, ninja course, costume play, zoo visit, and a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Odawara Castle Park
Climb the castle tower:
Ascend five stories for panoramic views of Odawara City and Sagami Bay.
Tip: Buy tickets at the main office and go early to avoid queues.
Tackle the Ninja obstacle course:
Test agility on ninja-themed ramps, walls, and tunnels.
Tip: Reserve at the Ninja Museum counter; children must wear closed shoes.
Dress up as samurai or ninja:
Rent child-size armor or ninja gear for garden photos.
Tip: Book costumes on arrival; sizes fit ages 3–12 and session lasts 30 minutes.
Ride the miniature train:
Take a gentle loop around the park on a small train.
Tip: Carry coins; tickets cost about ¥200 per person and sell at the platform.
Explore the small zoo and playground:
See capybaras and monkeys then play on ride-on cars and slides.
Tip: Free entry; visit early to spot the animals when they are active.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Odawara Castle Park
- Arrive early: Beat crowds by visiting when the park opens at 9 AM.
- Combine tickets: Buy castle and ninja museum combo ticket at the same counter to save time.
- Pack a picnic: Enjoy lunch on the lawns under seasonal blooms to save on food costs.
Reviews of Odawara Castle Park
Jasper
The park itself is probably more beautiful in other periods of the year, but the castle itself is really nice. Especially the amazing view. Sea, city and mountains.
Ralf Winter
Not much of a park in the grand scheme of things. All the grounds around the castle are gravel. What grassy and treed areas there are are closed for excavation. Very clean public washrooms. There is a restaurant and an ice cream vendor which was lovely.
A S
Awesome place to visit. I would definitely bring your family and they have a ninja experience. They have samurai suits, you. Can rent small restaurants in the train station is very close.Also, the castle is full of history and is very cheap to go to only six hundred yen for a combo kit ticket
Soni Pratik
If you are on odawara metro station and if you have extra time then you should visit this palace this place is very walking distance from the station there are 2/3 entry to enter this castle compound but I suggested enter from the main bridge side gate this is my first castle visit in Japan so I was very impressed with the entry with the beautiful bride and gate Made with the large size of the san...
Jay S
Even though the weather was not agreeable rain, and more rain, and broken umbrella the experience was very good. Everything about the castle was truly awesome. Even got to be a fake ninja and samurai. I highly recommend this visit it was truly fun.
When is the best time to visit Odawara Castle Park (Hakone, Japan)?
Cherry blossoms bloom late March–early April. Plum flowers appear February–March. Wisteria trellis blooms late April–May. Irises peak in early June. Pack a picnic blanket to relax under the blooms.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Castle tower admission (2 adults + 2 kids) | JPY 1,420 |
| Ninja obstacle course (2 adults + 2 kids) | JPY 820 |
| Samurai costume rental (2 kids) | JPY 600 |
| Mini train ride (4 rides) | JPY 800 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 3,640 |
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 Odawara Castle Park
Address: 6-1 Jōnai, Odawara, Kanagawa 250-0014, Japan
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About Odawara Castle Park
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
+81 465-23-137310 BEST nearby Activities
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