Odawara is a treasure trove for those interested in authentic Japanese culture, history, and nature. Its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and the town’s rich samurai legacy is on full display at attractions like Odawara Castle. But what truly sets Odawara apart are its diverse tour options: whether you want to walk through ancient castle grounds, learn ninja skills, or relax in healing onsen, there’s something for all. We especially recommend the Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour for its engaging insights and lively local atmosphere. This tour captures the essence of Odawara’s historic charm while offering plenty of chances to shop for local crafts and sample regional foods.
If you’re after a more meditative experience, the Forest Bathing in Temple and Enjoy onsen with healing power blends nature, spirituality, and relaxation in a six-hour trip, perfect for unwinding in Japan’s lush forests. For adventure lovers, the Hike Hakone Hachiri Japan Heritage Area offers an active day on the historic Old Tokaido route, taking you through scenic mountains and lakes. Whatever your style, the options below provide a detailed look at each experience to help you decide.
1. Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour
At number one, this Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour is a favorite for its comprehensive mix of history, culture, and local charm. Over roughly three hours, a bilingual guide will lead you through Odawara Station, historic streets, and the castle grounds. You’ll explore the well-preserved Odawara Castle Park, which still displays original architecture, and learn about the Sengoku Period, when samurai warriors like the Hojo clan ruled the region. The highlight is visiting the Odawara Castle History Museum and Ninja-kan, where you can get a true sense of ninja tools and techniques.
Guests consistently praise guide Jeff for his extensive knowledge and friendly approach. One reviewer says, “Jeff shared fascinating stories of samurai and ninjas, making history come alive.” The tour is very accessible, with free admission to most sites, and costs around $124 per person. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts and families wanting a good snapshot of Odawara’s past. The only caveat is that it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, engaging introduction to Odawara’s castles and streets, ideal if you want a guided, culturally rich experience.
2. Forest Bathing in Temple and Enjoy onsen with healing power
Number two on the list is the Forest Bathing in Temple and Enjoy onsen with healing power. This six-hour tour takes you from Odawara to Minamiashigara, where you’ll walk among ancient cedar and cypress trees on a trail up Daiyuzan Saijoji Temple. The experience combines gentle hiking, a visit to the temple with stories of its 600-year-old history, and a relaxing soak in a healing onsen. Lunch is served at a local temple cafe, known for its Japanese cuisine and regional sweets.
Guests love how this tour balances activity and relaxation, with some calling it “a perfect way to reconnect with nature and find peace.” The onsen’s healing waters are said to soothe both body and mind, making it particularly suited for those seeking wellness. The tour costs about $113, which includes transportation and lunch. It’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and looking for a spiritual, rejuvenating day.
Bottom Line: Great for nature lovers and anyone interested in combining cultural sights with genuine relaxation.
3. Ninja, Samurai, Odawara Castle Experience
Number three is the Ninja, Samurai, Odawara Castle Experience. This 2.5-hour adventure is hosted by a ninja expert and a bilingual guide. You’ll start with a walking tour of Odawara Castle and visit the Samurai Museum, where authentic armor and swords are displayed. Then, you’ll don ninja gear and practice fundamental skills like stealth walking and throwing shuriken, gaining hands-on insights into ninja life.
Guests rave about the interactive nature of this experience. One says, “Putting on ninja gear and trying techniques made history so much more real.” The experience costs around $156 per person and is perfect for those who want a fun, active way to learn about Japan’s samurai and ninja traditions. The guide’s expertise ensures you understand the historical significance behind each skill.
Bottom Line: An engaging, hands-on way to understand ninja and samurai culture—ideal for families and adventure seekers.
4. Hike Hakone Hachiri Japan Heritage Area
Number four, the Hike Hakone Hachiri Japan Heritage Area, offers an active exploration of Japan’s old Tokaido highway. Over about 8.5 hours, you’ll travel in a small group through scenic mountain trails, cross lakes by boat, and visit historic sites like Hakone Shrine. The hike includes a stop at a traditional tea ceremony, where you can taste regional specialties. The tour’s detailed itinerary is designed to immerse you in the natural beauty and historical significance of this famous route.
Guests highlight Tony’s local insights and personalized approach, saying, “He made the history come alive through stories and by sharing the area’s natural beauty.” The tour costs $386 for up to six people, making it a good value for active travelers who want a full day of outdoor and cultural adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for hiking enthusiasts eager to combine physical activity with Japan’s ancient trade routes and scenic vistas.
5. “Takigyo” Traditional Japanese Waterfall Training Meditation
Number five, the “Takigyo” Waterfall Meditation, offers a rare chance to experience Japanese spiritual practice firsthand. Held outside of regular hours at Odawara Castle, this 4-hour session guides you through waterfall bathing rituals with a Japanese monk. You’ll learn techniques to purify your mind and reconnect with nature’s energy, surrounded by sacred waterfalls and mountain scenery.
Many who try this find it transformative. One review states, “The peaceful setting and the guidance by the monk helped me find clarity I didn’t expect.” The experience costs around $143 and is suited for travelers curious about Japanese spirituality or seeking a meaningful, meditative activity.
Bottom Line: A unique, meditative journey, ideal for those interested in spiritual wellness and culture.
6. Japanese Traditional Music Experience
Number six is the Japanese Traditional Music Experience. This one-hour class introduces you to the enchanting sounds of the Koto, a stringed instrument. You’ll receive explanation, hands-on instruction, and a performance by the instructor, even if you’re a complete beginner. The session ends with a photo opportunity and the chance to feel the deep cultural significance of this musical art.
Guests say, “It was my first time touching a Koto, and the sound was so beautiful I wanted to stay forever.” The class costs about $46 and is perfect for music lovers or those wanting a quick but authentic cultural experience in Odawara.
Bottom Line: A short, sweet introduction to Japanese music—great for families and curious travelers.
7. Odawara: Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour
Number seven offers a similar but slightly shorter experience to tour #1, focusing squarely on Odawara’s castle and town with a knowledgeable local guide. This three-hour exploration includes visiting Odawara Castle, its park, and the historic streets, with a focus on Samurai and ninja stories. The guide shares stories about feudal Japan, making this a lively educational experience for history buffs.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention: “We were able to walk at our own pace and hear fascinating stories about the castle and local culture.” For $140, this tour emphasizes cultural storytelling and scenic views, especially during cherry blossom season.
Bottom Line: A concise, engaging tour for those interested in a deep cultural dive without a long commitment.
8. Odawara: Odawara Castle Tenshukaku Entrance Ticket
Number eight is a straightforward Odawara Castle Tenshukaku Entrance Ticket. For just about $3.50, you can access the castle’s main tower and gardens, viewing its artifacts, swords, and armor. From the top, enjoy sweeping views of Sagami Bay and the surrounding landscape.
This ticket is a great option if you prefer to explore independently after visiting the castle park or other nearby sites. The castle’s interior offers a glimpse into Edo-period craftsmanship and architecture, with exhibits that show how samurai lived and fought.
Bottom Line: An affordable, flexible way to experience Odawara Castle’s interior and panoramic views.
9. Odawara Castle Discovery of the Sengoku Samurai History
Number nine is the Odawara Castle Sengoku Samurai History Tour. This 1.5-hour guided exploration focuses specifically on the Hojo clan’s role during Japan’s Warlord era. You’ll learn about their fortifications, military tactics, and the castle’s strategic importance. From the main keep, you can enjoy views that extend to Tokyo Bay, adding a scenic element to the history lesson.
A reviewer notes, “This focused tour really brought the Sengoku period to life, helping me understand the castle’s significance.” The tour costs around $110, making it a good choice for history-lovers wanting depth without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: An excellent, focused look at Japan’s feudal samurai era within Odawara Castle.
$109.72 per person
10. Zen Meditation with a Japanese Monk in Odawara Castle
Number ten, the Zen Meditation with a Japanese Monk, offers a rare chance to practice mindfulness at the castle’s top floor, outside regular hours. Guided by Tomomi Iwayama, a Ganshu-ji Temple priest, you’ll sit in chairs while learning traditional meditation techniques in a tranquil setting with views of mountains and sea.
Participants report feeling a sense of calm and clarity afterward, describing it as “a soulful way to connect with Japanese spiritual traditions.” The experience costs about $141, perfect for those interested in spirituality, mindfulness, or just a peaceful escape.
Bottom Line: An authentic, peaceful activity for mind and spirit, especially suited for meditation beginners and spiritual travelers.
$141.26 per person
11. Hakone customized private one-day tour
Number eleven offers a flexible option: Hakone Private Day Tour. This tailor-made experience lasts about seven hours and can include visits to Hakone Shrine, Lake Ashi, Owakudani, or the Hakone Open-Air Museum, depending on your interests. The guide will work with you to craft a personalized itinerary, making it ideal for those who want to see specific sights or enjoy a relaxed pace.
Guests say that the guide Tony’s local knowledge and personalized approach made the day special, mentioning, “He made history come alive through stories and shared the area’s natural beauty.” The cost is about $164 per person for a small group, making it a good value for a customized experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a flexible, personalized sightseeing day in Hakone.
$163.70 per person
12. Odawara Ramen Crawl Experience: Visit 2 Iconic Shops
Number twelve is the Odawara Ramen Crawl. For just under $100, this 1.5-hour tour takes you to two famous ramen shops known for their regional styles. You’ll taste thick, frizzy noodles with chashu pork and savor rich fish broth, tasting the local flavors that make Odawara ramen distinctive.
One reviewer remarks, “The guide explained the differences in flavors and let us enjoy each bowl at our own pace.” This tour is perfect if you’re a foodie eager to explore local cuisine without fuss. It’s lightweight and flexible, making it suitable for a quick, delicious experience.
Bottom Line: A tasty, casual way to discover Odawara’s ramen culture and enjoy authentic flavors.
$98.22 per person
13. Become a Lord of Odawara Castle Private Tour
Number thirteen is the luxurious Private Lord Experience. For roughly $987, you get exclusive access to Odawara Castle, dressing as a samurai, and enjoying a private dinner at Seikantei. The tour includes a private guided walk through the castle grounds, ninja experiences, and personal storytelling tailored to your interests.
While costly, guests say it’s perfect for those wanting an exclusive, immersive experience. One notes, “It felt like I stepped into history, dressed as a lord and walking the castle privately.” Best suited for special occasions or travelers seeking a high-end cultural experience.
Bottom Line: An extraordinary, personalized adventure for those willing to invest in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
$986.74 per person
14. Bar Hopping in Odawara A Guide to Local Spots
Number fourteen, Bar Hopping in Odawara, offers a lively night out. For around $57, you’ll visit hidden local bars, enjoy sake tastings, and sample regional snacks like oden and ramen. This tour is a great way to experience Odawara’s authentic nightlife away from tourist-heavy spots.
Guests love the friendly guides and the chance to chat with locals. One says, “The owner and staff made us feel like regulars, and we tried sake we never would have found on our own.” It’s ideal for night owls or those interested in Japanese pub culture.
Bottom Line: Fun, sociable, and perfect for experiencing Odawara’s local drinking scene.
$57 per person
15. Forest bathing and onsen with healing power
Number fifteen is the Forest Bathing & Onsen Tour. This six-hour experience includes a peaceful walk among 500-year-old cedar trees, a visit to a temple with 600-year-old history, and a soak in a healing hot spring. The tour surrounds you with nature, history, and wellness, culminating in a relaxing massage at a hot spring resort.
Reviewers mention, “The onsen and the forest walk perfectly balance physical activity with relaxation,” making it suitable for travelers seeking both rejuvenation and cultural insight. Cost is about $112, which covers transportation, lunch, and hot spring access.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a calming blend of nature, culture, and relaxation.
$112 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Odawara
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For a comprehensive introduction, the Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour offers a balanced mix of history and local life. If you prefer a peaceful escape, Forest Bathing plus onsen is perfect. Adventure travelers should look at the Hakone Hachiri hike or the Ninja and Samurai Experience for their interactive and active components.
For those with a higher budget and a desire for exclusivity, the Become a Lord of Odawara Castle Private Tour provides an immersive, private experience. Foodies will enjoy the Ramen Crawl, exploring Odawara’s regional flavors at a relaxed pace. Planning ahead and booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom or autumn foliage.
Final Thoughts
Odawara offers an array of tours that cater to history buffs, nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and foodies alike. Whether you want to wander through ancient castle grounds, learn ninja techniques, or relax in hot springs, there’s a memorable experience waiting. The best value can be found in the guided tours like the castle discovery walks or the forest bathing trips, while the luxury experiences cater to those wanting something truly special.
No matter your interests or travel style, these options deliver insights into Japan’s rich traditions and natural beauty. Be sure to book early to secure your spot, especially during high season, and prepare for a journey into Odawara’s authentic past and peaceful present.