Overview
Odawara is a compact coastal city in Kanagawa prefecture, best known for its reconstructed castle and as the main railway junction into Hakone. The city preserves a small-town feel while offering quality local food specialties like kamaboko (steamed fish paste) and himono (dried horse mackerel), plus seasonal plum blossom festivals.
Architecture · Day Trips · Festivals · History · Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
Japan uses Type A and B power plugs (100V). Mobile providers include NTT Docomo, au, and SoftBank with 4G/5G coverage.
Food
Local specialties include kamaboko (fish paste), himono (dried aji fish), umeboshi (pickled plums), and regional ramen varieties.
Language
English signage is limited outside major tourist spots. The station tourist information office has staff but English proficiency is limited.
Money
Japan uses Japanese yen (JPY). Cash and credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Transport
Odawara Station is a major Tokaido Shinkansen stop with direct trains to Tokyo, Yokohama, and Nagoya. Odakyu Line provides direct service from Shinjuku.
