Odawara Castle (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Odawara Castle?
A solo visitor can roam freely, use the free English phone app, study armor exhibits, and photograph Sagami Bay; the ¥500 ticket is cheap, but the keep has long, steep stairs and no lift.
Positives:
- Easy Solo Navigation: Compact grounds let you see main sights without a guide.
- Free Wi-Fi & Multilingual Support: Use the Odawara Sampo app in English for exhibit details.
Challenges:
- No Elevator: Steep stairs in the castle tower may slow you down with luggage.
- Limited English Signage: Some exhibit labels are only in Japanese; rely on the app for translations.
What is so special about Odawara Castle for solo trip?
- See panoramic bay views solo from a restored samurai keep
- Learn Sengoku-era history through tower exhibits and audio visuals
- Enjoy free Wi-Fi and a multilingual app for self-guided tours
- Wander compact castle grounds under plum and cherry blossoms
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to explore the main keep, museum, and grounds at a relaxed pace.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Odawara Castle
Climb the Castle Tower:
Ascend the five-story keep for panoramic views of Sagami Bay and displays of samurai artifacts.
Tip: Arrive at opening to avoid lines and photograph from the east corner for best light.
Visit Rekishi-Kenbunkan History Museum:
Watch short documentaries and view historical documents on the castle’s Sengoku-period history.
Tip: Join the English audio-visual presentation at 11:00 for deeper context.
Stroll Ninomaru Garden:
Walk under red and white plum trees in early spring and enjoy the moat views.
Tip: Bring a light snack and sit by the inner moat before peak bloom.
Use the Odawara Sampo App:
Access maps and exhibit details via free Wi-Fi across the grounds.
Tip: Download the app and offline map before arrival to save mobile data.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Castle tower admission | JPY 500 |
| Rekishi-Kenbunkan Museum | JPY 300 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 800 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Odawara Castle?
Early February to March: view plum blossoms against the white walls. Late March to April: spot cherry blossoms near the gates. November: see autumn foliage around the outer citadel.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Odawara Castle
- Early Visit Timing: Arrive at 9:00 opening to avoid tour groups.
- Combined Ticket: Buy a bundled pass for both the tower and museum at the ticket office.
- Off-Peak Weekday: Visit on a weekday to encounter fewer visitors.
Map of Odawara Castle
Address: 6 Jonai, Odawara, Kanagawa 250-0014, Japan
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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...
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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