Cherry blossoms, a symbol of spring in Japan, have captivated many people both domestically and internationally with their beauty. Among them, Odawara Castle in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is known as a popular flower-viewing spot where the historic castle harmonizes splendidly with stunning cherry blossoms.
Every spring, around 300 cherry trees, mainly Somei Yoshino, color the castle ruins park, offering visitors a magical landscape.
This article carefully introduces the charm of cherry blossoms at Odawara Castle, blending historical background and tourist information.
It is a must-read for those who want to create beautiful memories during their spring trip to Japan.
1. What kind of place is Odawara Castle?
Odawara Castle is a historic castle believed to have been built in the 15th century and is famous as the stronghold of the Hojo clan during the Sengoku period.
In particular, the five generations of the Hojo family starting from Hojo Soun ruled all over the Kanto region, and Odawara Castle was the largest castle in the Kanto area at that time.
Nowadays, the main keep, tenshukaku, turrets, and moats have been restored and maintained, and it is open to the public as "Odawara Castle Ruins Park."
From the tenshukaku, you can overlook Sagami Bay and the Hakone mountain range, creating a scenery where nature changes with the seasons and blends with the castle. The cherry blossoms in spring are especially spectacular, and the harmony of the white tenshukaku with the pale cherry blossom colors is like a painting.
Inside the park, there is a historical museum, zoo, and children’s amusement park, making it popular not only among castle enthusiasts but also among families and couples.
2. Reasons to enjoy cherry blossoms at Odawara Castle
Odawara Castle’s cherry blossoms have unique attractions that other flower-viewing spots do not.
Firstly, the contrast between historical architecture and cherry blossoms. The Somei Yoshino cherry trees blooming in front of the tenshukaku, which has a history of over 400 years, are truly a scene symbolizing the beauty of harmony in Japanese culture.
Secondly, cherry trees are well balanced and planted around the castle grounds, moats, and the entire castle ruins park, allowing visitors to enjoy cherry blossoms wherever they walk. Especially, the reflection of cherry blossoms on the moat and the flower scenery seen over the stone walls captivate photography enthusiasts.
Furthermore, the "Odawara Sakura Festival," held in conjunction with the cherry blossom blooming period, features stalls, events, and light-ups, offering different atmospheres during the day and night, which is a major attraction.
3. Things to enjoy during cherry blossom season at Odawara Castle
Visiting Odawara Castle during cherry blossom season offers an experience beyond just flower viewing.
Sakura Festival Events
From late March to early April, the "Odawara Sakura Festival" is held, featuring local gourmet food stalls, stage performances, and kimono experiences. Particularly, performances of Japanese traditional instruments and tea ceremony experiences provide a fresh cultural experience for international travelers.
Nighttime Cherry Blossom Light-up
At night, the tenshukaku and around the moats are illuminated magically, creating a romantic scenery completely different from the daytime. The sight of cherry blossoms glowing in the dark is full of extraordinary beauty.
Spectacular Views from the Tenshukaku
From the observation deck of the tenshukaku, a panoramic view spreads out over the city, Sagami Bay, and even as far as Mount Fuji. The experience of looking down on a cherry blossom carpet is unique.
Strolling and Photo Spots
The park has many well-maintained walking paths where you can leisurely enjoy the cherry blossoms. The castle gates, stone walls, and bridges are popular photo spots.
4. Tips when visiting Odawara Castle
Best Timing
The best period to see cherry blossoms in Odawara is usually from late March to early April. Since it varies depending on weather conditions, it is recommended to check the official website or weather forecasts for blooming information in advance.
The 1 to 3 days of full bloom are the most beautiful, so if scheduling is flexible, it is ideal to visit during that time.
What to Bring
- Leisure sheet (convenient for flower viewing on grassy areas)
- Warm clothing (it can get cold during evening light-ups)
- Camera or smartphone (many photogenic spots)
- Trash bags (essential for observing manners)
- Mobile battery (for photography and map app use)
Recommended Activities
- Climbing the tenshukaku: The observation deck with a panoramic view of the castle town is a highlight during cherry blossom season
- Sakura Festival experience: Workshops that let you immerse yourself in local culture are also held
- Kimono rental: Strolling in traditional Japanese clothing is perfect for commemorative photos
- Picnic: Enjoy spring flavors with gourmet food from stalls or your own lunch
5. Access Information
Access by Train
About 35 minutes from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station by Tokaido Shinkansen, then about a 10-minute walk from the east exit of Odawara Station to Odawara Castle.
Also, using the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station, you can reach Odawara without transfers in about 90 minutes.
Access by Car
Use the Odawara-Atsugi Road on the Tomei Expressway and enter the city from "Odawara Nishi IC."
There are several parking lots around the castle, but it is very crowded during cherry blossom season, so using public transportation is recommended.
6. Flower Viewing Etiquette
Hanami has a long tradition in Japan and comes with several manners. Being mindful of the following enables a pleasant time and helps build good relationships with others around you.
- Take your garbage home or dispose of it in designated places
- Avoid loud noises and excessive rowdiness
- Do not touch or climb the cherry trees
- Be respectful when reserving spots; do not occupy unattended places for long periods
- Be considerate of other visitors when bringing pets
Observing these manners is also an act of respecting Japanese culture.
7. Recommended Tourist Spots Around Odawara Castle
Odawara Kamaboko Street
Odawara is famous for kamaboko (fish cake). Near Odawara Station, "Kamaboko Street" offers handcraft experiences and food tours, popular among tourists.
Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine
A shrine located within Odawara Castle Ruins Park dedicated to Ninomiya Kinjiro. Cherry blossoms bloom along the approach path, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Odawara Fishing Port
An area lined with restaurants offering fresh seafood. Stop by after enjoying the cherry blossoms to savor seasonal spring flavors from the sea.
Suzuhiro Kamaboko Village
A complex facility including the kamaboko museum, factory tours, and dining, perfect for souvenirs and hands-on experiences.
In Conclusion
Odawara Castle is an excellent spot to experience a quintessentially Japanese scene where cherry blossoms and history weave together.
In spring, the cherry blossoms blooming around the tenshukaku soothe visitors’ hearts and create an enchanting landscape.
The vibrant daytime views, serene nighttime beauty, and interaction with regional culture make the cherry blossom experience at Odawara Castle an essential scene for understanding spring in Japan.
Touch history, be healed by nature, and become familiar with culture—how about spending such a rich travel time at Odawara Castle?
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