Odawara Castle (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Odawara Castle?
What makes it 63% Baby-Friendly: Ground paths allow strollers and a tourist-center nursing room and diaper table exist, but the keep has only steep stairs so parents must carry baby; no stroller rental available.
Positives:
- Free baby-care facilities: Nursing room, changing station and hot-water dispenser at Ninomaru center
- Level stroller paths: Gentle slopes in the inner citadel allow smooth stroller access
Challenges:
- Steep stairs at main keep: No elevator inside; carrying baby and stroller up is difficult
- Limited nursing hours: Nursing room closes at 16:30, earlier than park closing
What is Odawara Castle?
- A 15th-century flatland fortress that served as the Hōjō clan’s political center during Japan’s Sengoku period
- A six-tiered tenshukaku (main keep) reconstructed in 1960, featuring traditional stone walls and characteristic ornamental roof gables
- A historic complex of moats, turrets and gates housing samurai armor exhibits and castle-era artifacts that illustrate Kanto region heritage
What is so special about Odawara Castle for with baby?
- Stroller-friendly grounds with gentle slopes
- Free nursing room and changing facilities
- Shaded benches by the carp pond for quiet breaks
- Seasonal blossoms and fall colors enhance the stroll
- Ideal 2–3 hour visit for a family with a baby
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time to stroll park paths, use baby-care facilities, feed carp and rest without rushing
Baby-Friendly Activities in Odawara Castle
Stroll inner citadel stroller path:
Follow the slope route around the main keep on level ground
Tip: Avoid steep stairs by using the slope path near the south gate
Nursing & Diaper Room Stop:
Visit the Ninomaru Tourist Information Center for nursing, diaper-changing and formula prep
Tip: Arrive before 16:30 when the room closes to avoid rush
Carp Feeding at Shrine Pond:
Buy fish food from the nearby stand and feed carp in the Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine pond
Tip: Keep the baby at a safe distance and feed slowly to avoid splashes
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Odawara Castle
- Arrive before 10 AM: Beat crowds and secure stroller parking near the main entrance
- Bring your own stroller: No stroller rental; your own offers best fit through gates
- Pack light snacks: Use benches and picnic areas near the playground to avoid vendor lines
Reviews of Odawara Castle
A S
Wonderful experience. The outside is free but the castle is very affordable about ¥500 yen $3.50. And only a small amount more for the samurai museum. I definitely want to come back with my family it was really fun lots of food in shops and vending machines and everywhere takes card. The train station area also has so much food options 5 min walk.
Kenjiro Y
It's not a fun place to visit, but thanks to that, there are not that many people here. That makes it a nice and quiet walk. Odawara Castle is the 7th tallest castle in Japan and the original was built in the 1400s! It's 510 yen to get in. The highlight was of course the top lookout. Everything else is just a lot of drawings, writings and some artifacts.
Melvin J.
Odawara Castle is a charming historic site with beautiful grounds and great views. Perfect for a relaxing walk and learning a bit of local history. Fun fact: The castle was a key stronghold during the Sengoku period and famously withstood multiple sieges. Definitely worth stopping by if you’re nearby!
Kevin Sanchez
Awesome sights inside and outside of the castle. Learned a lot about the history of the castle and the construction. There are some floors that no photography is allowed in. The view from the top of the castle is definitely something to see if you visit. Was not super busy when we went which was near the closing time. Beautiful layout! Would definitely go again.
Leonard Leow
Beautiful and well-maintained historical site with a great view from the top of the castle. The entrance fee for the main castle museum is 510 yen, but the exhibits inside mostly consist of historical pictures and movies, which may not be very exciting. There is also a separate samurai museum that requires an additional ticket. The castle grounds are lovely, especially during cherry blossom season...
When is the best time to visit Odawara Castle (Hakone, Japan)?
Come in early spring (Feb–Mar) for plum blossoms in calm weather. In autumn, enjoy fall foliage when crowds are smaller.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fish food at shrine stand | JPY 100 |
| Snacks and drinks | JPY 300 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 400 |
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
Address: 6 Jonai, Odawara, Kanagawa 250-0014, Japan
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About Odawara Castle
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
+81 465-22-3818Explore Popular Things to Do
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