Odawara Castle (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Odawara Castle?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Children can ride the ¥80 mini-train, feed carp, explore the ninja museum, and try on samurai gear; parents must supervise on steep keep stairs and there are no child-size toilets.
Positives:
- Free park entry: Castle Park grounds are free to enter, saving budget for activities.
- Picnic benches: Benches near the playground provide snack and rest spots.
Challenges:
- Steep stairs: Narrow stone stairs in the tower require holding children’s hands.
- No elevator: Strollers cannot go up; leave them at the base of the keep.
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?
- Climb the 60m tower for panoramic city and bay views.
- Kids enjoy miniature trains and battery car rides.
- Hands-on Ninja Museum and Samurai exhibits engage ages 3–12.
- Free park grounds with plum and cherry blossoms and picnic spots.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Perfect to explore the tower, exhibits and playground without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Odawara Castle
Climb Castle Tower:
Climb the 60m keep for Odawara City and Sagami Bay views.
Tip: Buy tickets early at 9:00 to avoid the line.
Ride Kodomo Amusement Park:
Ride miniature train and battery cars in the children’s playground.
Tip: Bring small coins; each ride costs ¥80.
Explore the Ninja Museum:
Try hands-on ninja tools and puzzles in indoor exhibits.
Tip: Start at opening to beat groups and enjoy quieter displays.
Feed Carp at Shrine Pond:
Buy a small bag of fish food to feed colorful carp near the Hotoku Shrine.
Tip: Fish food costs about ¥100 per bag; watch the kids carefully by the water.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Odawara Castle
- Arrive early: Get to the ticket booth at 9:00 to enjoy quiet exhibits first.
- Carry small change: Keep ¥10–¥500 coins for rides, snacks and fish food.
- Pack snacks: Use picnic benches for quick breaks without searching for shops.
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 Feb–Mar for 250 plum blossoms, late Mar–Apr for cherry blossoms, and see hydrangeas near the gate in June.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Castle tower tickets (2 adults, 2 children) | JPY 1,400 |
| Ninja Museum (2 adults, 2 children) | JPY 820 |
| Samurai Museum (2 adults, 2 children) | JPY 520 |
| Kodomo amusement rides | JPY 640 |
| Fish food for carp | JPY 100 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 3,480 |
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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