Odawara Castle, located in Kanagawa Prefecture, is a must-visit destination for cherry blossom enthusiasts. Known for its historic architecture and vibrant sakura displays, the castle grounds transform into a pink wonderland each spring. Hundreds of cherry trees bloom around the stone walls, moats, and the castle keep, creating a quintessential Japanese hanami (flower viewing) experience. Combined with cultural events, evening illuminations, and the backdrop of Sagami Bay, Odawara Castle offers visitors an unforgettable blend of history and natural beauty during the sakura season.

Why Odawara Castle is Worth Visiting

• Historic Setting: A reconstructed 15th-century castle with a museum detailing its rich history.
• Special Events: Enjoy hanami festivals with cultural performances, food stalls, and evening light-ups.
• Scenic Views: The castle’s stone walls, surrounding moats, and nearby fort viewpoints offer stunning sakura photography opportunities.

Odawara Castle Cherry Blossoms

Odawara Castle boasts a wide range of cherry blossoms that bloom from late March to early April. The most prevalent variety is the Somei Yoshino, with its pale pink, delicate flowers creating a soft, ethereal landscape. Visitors can also admire the deeper pink yaezakura and the elegant, cascading branches of shidarezakura. These blossoms frame the castle keep, gates, and stone walls, offering countless picturesque angles for photography.

Special events, such as the Odawara Castle Cherry Blossom Festival, bring additional excitement to the season. Traditional performances, tea ceremonies, and local food and craft stalls highlight the festival, while evening illuminations provide a magical nighttime experience. The castle’s park-like grounds also make it ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics under the blooms.

Odawara Castle Facilities & Amenities

The castle is well-equipped to ensure a comfortable visit. Inside the castle tower, visitors can explore historical exhibits and an observation deck offering panoramic views of Sagami Bay. Additional facilities include a museum shop, coin lockers, free Wi-Fi, and accessible restrooms. The surrounding grounds feature attractions like a Ninja Museum, a Samurai Museum, and a small amusement park for children. Wheelchair-accessible parking and multilingual pamphlets cater to diverse visitors.

Dining Options

Odawara Castle offers delightful dining options both on-site and nearby. Kinjirou Cafe, located within the castle park grounds, serves light refreshments in a cozy and convenient setting. For a hearty meal, Kitchen Kabura offers a buffet of regional, homestyle fare in a welcoming, wood-accented environment. Visitors seeking Italian cuisine can enjoy Morizo, a charming restaurant known for its delicious pasta and pizzas. These dining spots provide excellent options to complement your cherry blossom viewing experience.

Travel Tips

• Use the Hachimanyama Fort Viewpoint: This spot provides one of the most panoramic views of the castle and cherry blossoms. It’s a short uphill walk but worth the effort.
• Bring a Picnic Blanket: Enjoy hanami by setting up under the cherry trees in the spacious park area.
• Prepare for Cool Evenings: If attending evening illuminations, bring a light jacket as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset.
• Try Local Snacks: Vendors often sell specialty foods like sakura mochi and grilled dango during the festival — don’t miss these seasonal treats.

How to Get to Odawara Castle

Reaching Odawara Castle is straightforward. From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen (Kodama or Hikari trains) for about 35 minutes. Alternatively, from Shinjuku Station, the Odakyu RomanceCar provides a scenic 70-minute journey. Once at Odawara Station, the castle is a convenient 10-minute walk. Signage in both Japanese and English helps guide visitors to the site.

Nearby Attractions

• Hakone: A popular hot spring resort town with stunning views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi.
• Odawara Fish Market: Experience fresh seafood and a bustling market atmosphere.
• Ishigakiyama Ichiya Castle Ruins: A historic site offering a unique perspective on Japan’s feudal past.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

• Shiroyama Park: Features expansive cherry tree groves and panoramic views of Odawara City.
• Odawara Flower Garden: Known for its diverse flower displays, including sakura.
• Hachimanyama Park: Offers a quiet retreat with picturesque cherry blossoms and a view of the castle below.