Odawara: Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour

Odawara, a city steeped in Japanese history, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past through the Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour. This comprehensive 3-hour walking experience transports participants back in time, allowing them to explore the grandeur of Odawara Castle Park, uncover the mysteries of the Ninja and Samurai Museums, and marvel at the impressive Main Keep. With the expertise of a live English-speaking guide and potential savings of up to 10%, this tour promises to be a truly immersive and unforgettable adventure. By delving into the rich cultural heritage of the region, visitors can unlock a deeper understanding of Japan’s renowned martial traditions and the enduring legacy of the Odawara domain.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Odawara.

Key Points

• Guided walking tour of Odawara Castle and historic town, lasting approximately 3 hours and providing insights into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
• Visitors can skip ticket lines and explore the Ninja Museum, Samurai Museum, Odawara Castle Main Keep, and Hotokuninomiya Shrine during the tour.
• The tour showcases the expansive Odawara Castle Park, featuring impressive castle architecture, beautifully landscaped grounds, and informative displays about the castle’s storied past.
• Interactive exhibits and demonstrations at the Ninja Museum and the Samurai Museum offer a unique cultural experience for fans of ninja lore and samurai history.
• The tour is priced at $100.78 per person, with up to 10% savings available, and includes knowledgeable local bilingual guides and seamless booking experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This guided walking tour provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of Odawara Castle and the surrounding historic town.

The tour, which lasts approximately 3 hours, allows participants to skip the ticket lines and enjoy the expertise of a live English-speaking guide.

Highlights of the experience include:

• Exploring the historic castle grounds
• Learning about the iconic ninja figures and techniques at the Ninja Museum
• Discovering authentic samurai armor, helmets, and swords at the Samurai Museum
• A guided tour of the Odawara Castle Main Keep
• Visiting the Hotokuninomiya Shrine, dedicated to a famous scholar

With up to 10% savings available, this tour offers an immersive and educational journey through Odawara’s rich cultural heritage.

Stops and Activities

The guided walking tour typically begins with an exploration of the historic Odawara Castle Park, where visitors can enjoy the castle’s rich history and admire its impressive architecture.

Next, the tour takes guests to the Ninja Museum, where they’ll learn about the iconic ninja figures and their remarkable techniques.

Travelers then visit the Samurai Museum, which showcases authentic samurai armor, helmets, and swords, offering a glimpse into the warrior class’s legacy.

The highlight of the tour is the guided tour of the Odawara Castle Main Keep, where visitors can explore the castle museum and gain a deeper understanding of the site’s significance.

Odawara Castle Park

Nestled within the heart of Odawara, the expansive Odawara Castle Park offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Strolling through the picturesque gardens, guests can admire the castle’s impressive architecture, including the iconic main keep and defensive walls.

The park also features:

• Beautifully landscaped grounds with cherry blossom trees and tranquil ponds
• Informative displays and signage that provide insights into the castle’s storied past
• Opportunities to explore the ruins of former castle buildings and structures
• Stunning views of the surrounding mountains, creating a serene and picturesque setting

Exploring the Odawara Castle Park allows visitors to enjoy the legacy of this historic landmark, fostering a deeper appreciation for Japan’s samurai heritage.

Ninja Museum

Alongside the castle grounds, the Ninja Museum offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the secretive world of Japan’s legendary ninja warriors.

Through interactive exhibits and demonstrations, the museum brings to life the stealth, agility, and cunning that defined these covert operatives. Guests can try their hand at ninja techniques like throwing shuriken (metal stars) and navigating an indoor maze, gaining an appreciation for the ninjas’ specialized skills.

The museum also showcases authentic ninja tools, costumes, and scrolls, providing a vivid illustration of their clandestine lifestyle.

Whether you’re a fan of ninja lore or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the Ninja Museum is a must-visit stop on the Odawara Castle tour.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Samurai Museum

Situated adjacent to the Ninja Museum, the Samurai Museum offers visitors a captivating exploration into the legendary warrior class of feudal Japan.

Through its impressive collection of authentic samurai armor, helmets, and swords, the museum provides a vivid glimpse into the discipline, honor, and combat prowess that defined these iconic figures.

Visitors can marvel at:

• Intricately-crafted suits of armor showcasing the samurai’s dedication to meticulous craftsmanship
• Ornate helmets adorned with symbolic crests and ornamentation
• Razor-sharp katanas and wakizashi swords, the signature weapons of the samurai
• Historical documents and scrolls detailing the samurai’s code of ethics and fighting techniques

The Samurai Museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking to enjoy the captivating legacy of Japan’s revered warrior class.

Odawara Castle Main Keep

The crown jewel of the Odawara Castle complex, the majestic Main Keep stands as a striking testament to the architectural prowess and military might of feudal Japan. Visitors can explore this iconic structure through a guided tour, learning about its history, construction, and the strategic role it played in the region’s turbulent past. Spanning five floors and standing at 45 meters tall, the Main Keep was designed to withstand even the most determined siege. Visitors can marvel at the intricate carpentry, defensive features, and panoramic views from the top floors. Through the guided tour, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the engineering excellence and historical significance that define this historic landmark.

Design Feature	Purpose
Multi-tiered construction	Enhance structural stability and defense capabilities
Wooden interiors	Provide insulation and protection against the elements
Narrow staircases	Impede the movement of invading forces
Openings for archers	Allow defenders to target approaching enemies
Elevated watchtowers	Provide vantage points for surveillance and early warning

Hotokuninomiya Shrine

Adjacent to Odawara Castle’s historic grounds stands the Hotokuninomiya Shrine, a revered site dedicated to a renowned Confucian scholar and teacher.

This shrine honors the legacy of Hayashi Razan, a prominent figure during the Edo period who made significant contributions to the intellectual and cultural landscape of feudal Japan.

Visitors can explore the shrine’s tranquil grounds and learn about Razan’s life and teachings, which focused on Confucian principles such as:

• Filial piety and respect for elders
• Loyalty to one’s lord and country
• Cultivation of moral character
• Devotion to scholarship and education

The Hotokuninomiya Shrine offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich history and the enduring influence of Confucian philosophy.

Pricing and Booking

With savings of up to 10%, the Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour is priced at $100.78 per person. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, ensuring a seamless booking experience.

The tour includes entry tickets to the Samurai Museum, Ninja Museum, and Odawara Castle Main Keep, as well as a knowledgeable local bilingual guide.

Guests can explore the historic castle grounds, learn about the iconic ninja figures and techniques, and visit the shrine dedicated to a famous scholar, all within a 3-hour walking tour.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, this guided tour offers an exceptional value for your money.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows participants to cancel or change their booking up to 24 hours before the tour start time without penalty. Cancellations within 24 hours are subject to a 100% cancellation fee.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for students and seniors. Travelers can save up to 10% on the base price by providing valid student or senior identification when booking the tour.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Museums and Castle?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside the museums and castle on the tour, except in areas where photography is explicitly prohibited. However, they should be mindful of any restrictions and respect the guidelines set by the sites.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is partially wheelchair accessible, as the Odawara Castle grounds and some museums can be navigated with assistance. However, access to certain areas, such as the castle keep, may be limited. Visitors should inquire about specific accessibility accommodations when booking the tour.

How Do I Get From Odawara Station to the Meeting Point?

The tour meeting point is the Odawara Station Tourist Information Center, which is just steps away from the Odawara train station. Guests can easily walk from the station to the meeting point in under 5 minutes.

Recap

The Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

From the expansive Odawara Castle Park to the captivating Ninja Museum and the impressive Samurai Museum, the tour provides a comprehensive understanding of Odawara’s past.

With the expertise of an English-speaking guide and potential savings, it’s an opportunity not to be missed for those seeking a deep dive into Japan’s fascinating traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here: