Odawara: Home of the Odawara Castle
Odawara is a city located in Japan’s Kanagawa Prefecture. Archeological evidences indicate that this land has been inhabited since the prehistoric times. It is a major transit point for tourists traveling in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu areas. Tourists also go here to enjoy watersports at its pristine coastal area. It is also popular for its hot spring resorts and its production of processed fish. The closest airport to Odawara is the Oshima Airport (OIM), which only accepts local flights.
Best Time to Visit
This town is at its most beautiful when the cherry blossoms are in its full bloom. As such, Odawara accommodations are mostly full during the months of March to May when the scenery is perfect and the weather is ideal for travel.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Odawara Castle is the main attraction in this city. This imposing structure used to be a stronghold during the 14th and 15th century, but it fell when General Toyotomi Hideyoshi invaded the town. Another stunning castle in the area is the Ishigakijima Ichiya Castle, a fortress secretly built by Hideyoshi when he was placing Odawara under siege. The enemies thought that the castle was just built in one day when they surprisingly saw it appear on their territory. After a few days, the enemy clan surrendered and Hideyoshi was able to secure his victory. For accommodation needs near notable landmarks such as Lake Ashi, Hakone Gora Park, and Hakone Shrine, a good option is the Yumoto Fujiya Hotel, which offers Japanese-style rooms. Another Japanese-styled accommodation is Hakone Suimeisou, which provides a private hot-spring bath for its guests.