Odawara Castle (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Odawara Castle?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can ride the mini-train, feed carp, try ninja exhibits and climb the keep; toilets and low child prices help, but many stairs inside require supervision and no stroller.
Positives:
- Interactive Exhibits: Kids can touch ninja tools and try on armor for a hands-on history lesson.
- Spacious Park Grounds: Wide lawns and picnic benches let families rest and snack between activities.
Challenges:
- Steep Castle Stairs: No elevator inside the tower; carry strollers or leave them at the base.
- Limited Food Options: No cafes inside grounds; bring water and snacks for small hungry visitors.
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 kids?
- Historic tower climb with safe, kid-friendly steps
- Hands-on ninja museum and samurai armor try-on
- Mini train and battery-car rides priced per ride
- Scenic koi-feeding at a tranquil shrine pond
- Seasonal plum blossoms and autumn colors
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to climb the tower, explore kid rides, visit museums and feed the koi without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Odawara Castle
Climb the Castle Tower:
Climb to the top for panoramic views of Odawara City and Sagami Bay.
Tip: Buy tickets at the southeast gate to skip lines; watch your step on steep stairs.
Mini Train & Battery Car Rides:
Ride the miniature train and battery cars in Kodomo Amusement Park.
Tip: Bring small-change coins and plan 2–3 rides per child to fit your schedule.
Odawara Ninja Museum:
Explore hands-on ninja tools and watch short demonstrations.
Tip: Visit on a rainy afternoon; open 9:00–17:00, last entry at 16:30.
Samurai Armor Try-On:
See real samurai armor at Tokiwagi Gate and let kids try on helmets and sword replicas.
Tip: Check size availability at the entrance; dress kids in comfortable layers.
Koi Feeding at Hotoku Shrine Pond:
Buy fish food near the shrine and feed the colorful koi.
Tip: Bring 100 ¥ coins; feed a few fish at a time to avoid splashing.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Odawara Castle
- Arrive at Opening: Get to the gate by 9:00 to beat crowds at the tower and playground.
- Pre-Buy Coins: Exchange yen at a nearby ATM before arrival to skip change machines for rides.
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)?
Visit in early March for plum blossoms and late November for fall foliage framing the castle walls.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Castle tower entry (2 adults + 2 kids) | JPY 1,400 |
| Ninja Museum entry (2 adults + 2 kids) | JPY 820 |
| Mini train & battery cars (4 rides) | JPY 320 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,540 |
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 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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