Where to Go

Check Out This Family-Friendly Day Trip Just Outside Of Tokyo

One day in Odawara equals a lifetime of memories

The Vacationeer
View of the Japanese coast near Odawara

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, consider adding a day trip beyond the capital’s bustling streets. Odawara, just a train ride from Tokyo, offers a different taste of Japanese culture, with miles of natural beauty and landmarks steeped in ancient history.

Here’s what to see, where to go and what to do in Odawara, including plenty of family-friendly activities for the whole crew.

Odawara Castle in Odawara, Japan, near Tokyo 

Morning

Odawara Castle

  • Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (last admission at 4:30 p.m.)
  • Admission: Adults ¥510 │ Children ¥200

Take a 20-minute walk from the train station to the north entrance of Odawara Castle Park, a Japanese treasure built in the 15th century.

Explore the immaculate grounds, then scale the castle tower to reach the observation deck five stories up, offering great views of the surrounding city. Each floor provides a unique insight into Japanese history and culture and stunning views.

Odawara Castle Costume Experience

  • 1-hour costume rentals available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily (final costume rental at 3:30 p.m.)
  • Adults ¥500 │ Children ¥300

If you’re traveling with children, visit the gift shop near the Tokiwagi Gate for the chance to dress in authentic Japanese clothing, including samurai armor and kimonos. Get the grown-ups in costume, too, for the perfect family photo in the surrounding gardens.

Odawara Castle NINJA Museum

  • Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (last admission at 4:30 p.m.)
  • Admission: Adults ¥310 │ Children ¥100

Next, head to the NINJA Pavilion, where kids will embark on a mission to tackle hands-on obstacle courses and prove their ninja strength (full ninja armor optional).

This attraction draws crowds, so expect longer wait times if you visit on a weekend or holiday.

Snack Time at Mister Donut

  • Open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
  • Snacks range from ¥40 to ¥860

Once it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth, take a short stroll to Mister Donut. Try the mochi donuts, a fusion of American donuts and Japanese mochi, for a fluffy pastry.

A display case of bowls of food and prices in Japan 

Afternoon

Lunch at Odawara Fish Center

  • Open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
  • Set meals range from ¥1,650-¥2,200

Odawara’s ideal position overlooking Sagami Bay makes it a booming town for the fishing industry. Ride from Odawara Station to Hayakawa Station on the JR Tokaido Line to Odawara’s beloved fish market and find the restaurant on the second floor. Sample the day’s freshest catch in various authentic Japanese preparations.   

The earlier you can get there, the better. The restaurant’s meals sell out quickly, especially the ichiba-don, a rice bowl packed with seasonal fish.

Suzuhiro Kamaboko Village

  • Kamaboko Museum open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
  • Suzunari Market open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

Odawara is known for its seafood staples, including Kamaboko, a cured cake of cooked fish with a lovely pink exterior. Think of fish cakes with a signature pink swirl in the United States, often accompanying a piping hot ramen bowl.

Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Kazamatsuri Station near the Suzuhiro Kamaboko Village, a great place to pick up Kamaboko to remind you of your trip. Tour the museum to taste samples and take a class where you can learn to make it yourself (which you’ll want to reserve in advance). Or browse the Suzunari Market gift shop and take home Kamaboko and other local delicacies.

A living room and kitchen in a Suite at The Bay Forest Odawara, a Hilton Club 

Evening

The Bay Forest Odawara, a Hilton Club

Board the train to JR Nebukawa Station to your final destination: The Bay Forest Odawara, a Hilton Club your luxurious retreat for the night.

This resort is tucked into the sprawling grounds of the Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa, offering villa-style accommodations at the foot of the Hakone Mountains and an impressive roster of amenities. For dinner, eat at one of the on-site restaurants or use your Suite’s fully equipped kitchen. Then plunge into the onsen hot springs before turning in for the night and dreaming of the day’s adventures.

Read “Vacation Inspiration For Your Next Family Bucket List Trip” and learn how one Hilton Grand Vacations Owner uses vacation ownership for unforgettable family trips.

 

Vacationeer

The Vacationeer

The Vacationeer is a collective of Hilton Grand Vacations storytellers whose goal is to inspire travelers to go further. We're always on the lookout for new destinations to explore, useful travel tips, and unique ideas to help you plan the most memorable vacations possible.

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