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24 Available Tour Excursions in Odawara
Hike a section of the ancient forest-clad Tokaido Highway that links Tokyo with former capitals Kyoto and Osaka. Experience Amazake Chaya, one of the few remaining of hundreds of teahouses that lined the old Tokaido, Cedar Avenue with towering 400 year-old Japanese cedar patrolling both sides of the trail, and stunning views of Mt Fuji (weather permitting) from Yamanaka Castle Ruins, and more. Hakone Hachiri has been declared a Japan Heritage Area. Allow our guide to immerse you in the history, culture, and natural heritage of this ancient route.
Price: $226.61
Duration: 9 hours
This is a forest bathing journey combining a peaceful cedar forest, a historic temple, lunch and an onsen. We meet at Odawara Station and travel by train to the forest area, where a 600-year-old temple stands among centuries-old cedars. Along the temple paths, your Shinrin-yoku facilitator leads slow breathing and sensory invitations: noticing bark textures, rustling leaves, forest aromas and the changing light. The pace is unhurried, with time to pause and take in the surroundings. We then have lunch at a local temple chaya. The day finishes at an onsen in the forest. Train fare, lunch and onsen admission are not included in the Viator price and are paid separately during the tour.
Price: $132.00
Duration: 6 hours
Option1 This program offers a safe introduction to traditional Japanese wadaiko drumming, even for beginners. The session starts with a short explanation of wadaiko history, followed by an instructor demonstration. Participants then learn basic drumming techniques while experiencing Japan’s unique rhythms and vocal calls. The program ends with a simple group performance. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, this hands-on activity is a memorable way to experience Japanese culture through sound and movement. Option2 Enjoy a taiko drumming experience in Odawara, perfect before or after sightseeing in Hakone! Held at Omura Music Store, this 30-minute program offers an easy introduction to traditional Japanese culture. No experience is needed, as instructors carefully teach the basics, making it suitable for both children and adults. Feel the powerful sound of Japanese taiko drums and enjoy playing together in this memorable activity.
Price: $32.37
Duration: 1 hours
Hosted by one of Japan's leading ninja experts and a bilingual local guide, this experience lets you meet and learn from a ninja scholar and take a tour of the Odawara Castle grounds and practice some of the fundamental techniques used by the ninja. The experience will start with a guided walking tour of Odawara Castle by a local bilingual expert, visiting the Samurai Museum and the castle grounds to see some authentic artifacts and learn about their role and culture. You will move through the Ninja Museum and learn and practice some of the techniques together with the ninja expert, such as meditation, movement, real tools and weapons used by ninja. Odawara is your gateway to Hakone and memorable experience in Japan. 3:30pm: Meet at the Ninja Museum in Odawara Castle Park 3:30pm: English guided tour in Odawara Castle Park 5:00pm: Ninja training experience at the Ninja Museum 6:00pm: Experience to finish
Price: $116.54
Duration: 2 hours
For those for whom mere sightseeing is not enough... This is the ultimate cultural experience, where you can bathe in waterfalls, purify your mind, and encounter the “real” Japan! Surrounded by the sacred nature of Japan, this experience is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will sharpen your spirit in the silence of . The prayers of local monks, the challenge of performing waterfall rituals in authentic street clothes, and the feeling of refreshment afterwards will be the unforgettable highlights of your trip. For those who seek the “extraordinary” and the “real Japan,” this is a trip that will touch you from the bottom of your heart.
Price: $161.87
Duration: 4 hours
Discover the authentic sounds of the "Koto", Japanese traditional stringed instrument! Come join to my class. Anyone, even a complete beginner, can enjoy playing beautiful sounds. When you join this class, you won't just play the ”Koto"; you'll also feel Japanese history and culture. The outline of this experience is as below -Explanation about "Koto" -Instruction how to play "Koto" by using special attachment nails -Try playing "Koto" -Performance by the instructor -Photo session I am qualified to teach Koto. Odawara, a historic castle town, is my hometown. I created this experience activity because I want to share the joy of experience traditional Japanese music right here in this historic city.
Price: $45.32
Duration: 1 hours
A meditation experience with a Japanese monk at the top of Odawara Castle Main Keep. This experience is held outside of business hours, so the venue is reserved for exclusive use. Forget about your daily life as your monk guides you through this special space and activity. Spend some time relaxing and reflecting during the meditational experience. You can also enjoy a spectacular view from the top of the castle. A scenic beauty surrounded by the sea and mountains from the exclusive access to the top floor of Odawara Castle while you discover traditional techniques to find peace and balance in our lives. 5:00pm: Meet at the entrance of Odawara Castle Main Keep 5:15pm: Experience to start 6:45pm: Experience to finish A person must be 18 years old or above to join this experience.
Price: $129.49
Duration: 1 hours
Hakone is a famous hot spring resort and Fuji view spot just an hour away from Tokyo. Let us enjoy varied sceneries made by the active volcano. Please choose one or two destinations besides Lake Ashi and Owakudani Valley: Hakone Open Air museum, Hakone Shrine, Hakone Park, Onsen hot spring bathing, Hakone Checkpoint.
Price: $194.24
Duration: 7 hours
Explore Odawara Castle, the stronghold of the powerful Hojo clan, with a professional guide and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Sengoku era. Known for its formidable defenses, this castle withstood numerous attacks from famous warlords. From the top of the main keep, enjoy panoramic views of Odawara and, on clear days, see as far as the Boso Peninsula across Tokyo Bay. Experience the ambitions of the Hojo clan and step back in time to the heart of Japan's turbulent history.
Price: $100.36
Duration: 1 hours
Embark on a flavorful journey through Odawara with a visit to two iconic ramen shops, each offering its own take on the region's distinctive ramen. From thick, frizzy noodles with chashu pork and wontons to rich fish broth reflecting the coastal influence, you'll experience the true essence of Odawara-style ramen. This tour is perfect for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Japan's beloved ramen culture, away from the typical tourist spots.
Price: $63.13
Duration: 1 hours
Discover the history and stories of the samurai and ninja at Odawara Castle on this exploration and experience into Japanese culture and history. Odawara Castle is the centerpiece for this walking tour that will include historic insight, local goods, craft shops, and much more. This castle was the grounds for some of Japan's most famous samurai and ruled over a large part of central Japan during the Sengoku Period of Japanese history. The city of Odawara still has many connections to the traditions and culture of the time of the samurai. Learn about the history of the samurai, architecture of Japanese castle, and all about the mysterious ninja. A short stop by a local shrine is also included as we explore this historic city on foot. Odawara is conveniently located just south of Tokyo, nestled between the shores of the Pacific Ocean and mountains of Hakone.
Price: $116.54
Duration: 3 hours
Embark on a breathtaking journey through Hakone, where nature and serenity converge. With convenient departure options from Shinjuku (Tokyo), Odawara, Gora, or Hakone-Yumoto, your adventure begins with a scenic ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway, followed by a cable car and ropeway offering panoramic views of majestic mountains and volcanic landscapes. As you ascend, witness the dramatic sight of steam rising from volcanic vents and immerse yourself in the beauty of Hakone’s mountainous terrain. Upon reaching Lake Ashi, board a tranquil sightseeing boat to glide across the water, soaking in stunning vistas framed by the towering presence of Mt. Fuji. Guided by an expert, this unforgettable experience invites you to explore one of Japan’s most iconic scenic destinations, blending natural beauty with cultural depth—perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Price: $137.33
Duration: 5 hours
Kamakura is such a compact city that you can see the whole area within a day. One of the representative sight-seeing spots is Big Image of Buddha in Kotokuin temple. From there, you can travel almost all the famous temples for six hours. Many historical sites are covered in public transportation services. On the way to Hachimangu, we can enjoy shopping on KOMACHI street. While walking through the street, we can feel something different from the western culture. In this area, there are many valuable temples and shrines within a walk. So, we can visit many historical temples and shrines such as so-called hydrangea temple and bamboo grove temple. All these temples are located in calm environment, so you will feel like being in KAMAKURA ZEN Buddhism style. About 1 hour from JR Kita Kamakura station, we will visit the 2nd largest city YOKOHAMA. This time, we will stop over at China town in ISHIKAWA cho in Yokohama. We can enjoy a variety of Chinese cuisines for reasonable prices.
Price: $226.61
Duration: 6 hours
Explore the always-popular Hakone with a round-trip ticket on the fast Odakyu Lines for 2 or 3 days. Gain unlimited access to the Hakone Tozan Cable Car, Hakone Tozan Bus, Hakone Ropeway, and more! Gain unlimited use of 8 convenient modes of transportation, which include Odakyū Odawara Line Ordinary Train: 1 roundtrip (between Shinjuku Station & Odawara Station) Unlimited rides on 8 transportation networks in Hakone which includes(Hakone Tozan Railway,Hakone Tozan Cable Car,Hakone,Tozan Bus,Hakone Tozan Bus,Hakone Sightseeing Cruise,Hakone Ropeway,Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus and Tokai Bus). Enjoy discounts at over 70 exciting facilities such as hot springs and hip art galleries
Price: $72.50
Duration: 48-72 hours
Odawara Castle invites you to an exclusive experience becoming a lord of the castle. Get suited in a samurai armor, walk the castle grounds, be entertained and enjoy ninja experience during your time. This will be a private experience and you will have an exclusive access to the castle main keep and the Ninja Museum after its business hours. This unique experience is specially curated for you. Enjoy this luxurious and special itinerary only in Odawara. Dinner at Seikantei can be arranged with an additional fee if asked ahead of time.
Price: $971.21
Duration: 4 hours
- Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch around Odawara Fishing Port. - Try your hand at crafting traditional Kamaboko (fish cake) at the Suzihiro Kamaboko Museum. - Stroll through Odawara Castle grounds, learning about local history and the "Ichien Yugo" (harmony & sustainability) philosophy. - Relax at Ninomiya Shrine with a serene matcha tea/Coffee break at Cafe. - Experience the unique citrus juice tap and sample local treats at Castle Town Market.
Price: $51.67
Duration: 4 hours
Experience a unique bar hopping tour in the charming town of Odawara, away from the bustling downtown of Tokyo. Explore traditional izakayas near Odawara Station and indulge in a variety of sake paired with local delicacies like oden, ramen, and other popular Japanese dishes. Whether you’re enjoying the tour solo or with a companion, the atmosphere in Odawara offers a taste of authentic Japanese nightlife that you won’t find in the city’s tourist spots. Over the course of 1.5 hours, visit some of the town’s favorite hidden gems and enjoy a one-of-a-kind local experience.
Price: $109.10
Duration: 1 hours
古くから温泉町として栄えた箱根は、都心からも近く、富士山のビューポイントとしても人気がある。海賊船やロープウェイを乗り継いで火口の近くまで行き、火山ガスが吹き出るところを見ることができる。 最後にゆっくり温泉につかって旅の疲れを癒やしてから東京に戻りましょう。
Price: $207.19
Duration: 9 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, English (commonly spoken by tourists)
- Climate: Humid subtropical
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Approximately 190,000
- Best Time to Visit: times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and natural beauty.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries including the US, EU, and UK can enter Japan visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. Others may require a visa obtained in advance. Japan offers e-visa options for certain countries. Visa on arrival is generally not available. Travelers must have a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds.
About Odawara
Odawara is a charming city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and scenic coastal setting. It serves as a strategic gateway to the famous Hakone region, making it a popular stop for travelers exploring the area. The city’s centerpiece is Odawara Castle, a beautifully restored fortress that offers insight into Japan’s feudal past and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Odawara’s location along the Pacific coast provides visitors with access to fresh seafood and picturesque beaches. The city blends traditional culture with modern amenities, offering a relaxed atmosphere away from the hustle of larger cities. Visitors can enjoy seasonal festivals, local crafts, and hot spring resorts nearby. Odawara’s accessibility from Tokyo by bullet train makes it an ideal day trip or short stay destination for tourists seeking history, nature, and authentic Japanese culture.
Odawara Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Kanagawa Prefecture
- Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
- Group Size: Private or shared tours
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Recommended For: The best times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and natural beauty. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layers for changing temperatures. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet public behavior. Odawara is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many places. ATMs are available but may have limited hours.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $55
Highest Price Tour: $200
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Odawara’s cuisine highlights fresh seafood from Sagami Bay, including specialties like shirasu (whitebait) and grilled fish. Local dishes often feature seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese preparation. Must-try foods include Odawara’s seafood rice bowls and tempura. Dining customs emphasize seasonal freshness and presentation. Noteworthy restaurants include local sushi bars near the fish market and traditional izakayas serving regional sake and small plates.
Getting Around
Odawara is easily reached by Shinkansen from Tokyo and other major cities, with travel times around 35 minutes from Tokyo. Local transportation includes buses, taxis, and rental bicycles. The city is compact, making walking a convenient option for sightseeing. Train and bus passes are available for tourists. Costs for local transport are moderate, with many attractions accessible on foot or by short bus rides.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and natural beauty. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layers for changing temperatures. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet public behavior. Odawara is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many places. ATMs are available but may have limited hours.
Culture & Customs
Odawara’s culture reflects traditional Japanese values of respect, harmony, and community. Visitors should bow when greeting and speak politely. Festivals such as the Odawara Hojo Godai Festival celebrate the city’s samurai history with parades and performances. Gift-giving and modest dress are appreciated. Public behavior is generally reserved and orderly. Visitors are encouraged to follow local etiquette in shrines and public spaces.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..