15 Fantastic Tours & Experiences In Odawara

Why Odawara is a fantastic place for Tours & Experiences

Odawara offers more than just its famous castle—it’s a hub for immersive cultural encounters. Whether you’re interested in feudal Japan’s warriors and ninjas or peaceful forest bathing, Odawara has a rich variety of activities that bring history and nature together. For instance, the guided Ninja & Samurai Tour at Odawara Castle not only lets you walk through historic grounds but also trains you in ninja techniques with a real expert. Meanwhile, the Forest Bathing in Temple and Onsen experience offers a serene escape into nature, complete with healing hot springs. We love how these experiences balance active exploration with relaxation, offering something for history buffs, adventure seekers, and wellness lovers alike.

If you’re craving a hands-on experience, the Ninja, Samurai, Odawara Castle Experience stands out with its interactive ninja training and castle tour. For those fascinated by Japanese arts, the Traditional Music Experience lets you try playing the Koto, bringing you closer to the country’s musical soul. The list below highlights the best options, from cultural tours to outdoor adventures, each with its own flavor and appeal.

Quick Overview

Odawara is a treasure trove for history, culture, and outdoor activities. You can explore Odawara Castle with guided tours, discover ninja secrets, or learn about samurai armor and weaponry (see Tour #2). For a more active approach, try hiking the Hakone Hachiri trail (Tour #5). Wellness lovers will appreciate forest bathing and onsen experiences (Tour #3) or Takigyo waterfall meditation (Tour #6). For a cultural touch, don’t miss the Japanese Traditional Music class (Tour #7). Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.

1. Odawara: Guided Ninja & Samurai Tour of Odawara Castle

This 2.5-hour guided tour takes you into Odawara Castle Park, where you’ll learn about feudal Japan and get hands-on with ninja weapons. The tour starts at the Ninja Museum, where you can try real ninja techniques led by an expert and hear stories about legendary shinobi like the Hojo clan. A highlight is visiting the Samurai Museum to see authentic armor, helmets, and swords—perfect for visualizing samurai life.

What makes this tour special is the interactive ninja training, which appeals especially to those wanting more than just historical facts. The guide’s enthusiasm makes learning about ninja history engaging and fun. Guests rave about the hands-on weapons class and the lively storytelling.

Bottom Line: This tour offers a vivid, tactile experience of ninja and samurai culture, ideal for families or history buffs who want to get a real feel of feudal Japan.

2. Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour

For about $98, this 3-hour walking tour combines historic insights with the charm of Odawara’s streets. Starting at Odawara Station’s Tourist Information Center, your bilingual guide takes you through the city’s most notable sites, including the preserved Odawara Castle Park and its traditional architecture. The tour includes visiting the Ninja Museum to dispel myths and reveal what ninja really were, plus stories about the Hojo clan.

Guests praise the guide’s local knowledge, noting how the tour’s pace allows for meaningful exploration. One reviewer mentions, “Jeff’s stories about the samurai and sakura are a highlight.” The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention, making it perfect for those wanting an in-depth look at Odawara’s samurai and ninja heritage while also enjoying the local atmosphere.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a rundown of Odawara’s cultural and historical landscape with a friendly guide.

3. Forest Bathing in Temple and Enjoy Onsen with Healing Power

This 6-hour tour combines nature, spirituality, and relaxation, starting with a forest walk through the Daiyuzan Saijoji Temple area. Surrounded by centuries-old cedar and cypress trees, you’ll experience the Japanese practice of “shinrin-yoku” or forest bathing. After the walk, enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a temple cafe, followed by a rejuvenating visit to a healing onsen nearby. The water is renowned for its health benefits, making this a perfect retreat from city life.

Guests highlight the tranquil atmosphere and the personalized guidance from the local hosts. One reviewer describes the day as “perfect for recharging both mind and body.” This experience suits travelers interested in wellness, nature, and cultural traditions, especially those seeking a peaceful, restorative day.

Bottom Line: Ideal for relaxation and immersion into Japanese natural healing practices, perfect for those with a love for serene landscapes and traditional rituals.

4. Ninja, Samurai, Odawara Castle Experience

This 2.5-hour experience offers a full immersion into samurai and ninja culture. Led by a bilingual ninja scholar, you’ll tour Odawara Castle’s grounds, visit the Samurai Museum for authentic artifacts, and then try ninja techniques in a hands-on class. The highlight is dressing in ninja gear and practicing basic moves, making it perfect for families and kids.

Guests love the interactive elements, describing the experience as both educational and fun. One reviewer mentions, “Putting on ninja clothes and trying the techniques was a blast.” The tour also includes a guided walk in Odawara Castle Park, giving you a well-rounded look at the castle’s architecture and historical significance.

Bottom Line: If you want a fun, hands-on cultural activity that combines history and active participation, this tour is hard to beat.

5. Hike Hakone Hachiri Japan Heritage Area

For those who love outdoor adventures, this 8-hour hike along a section of the old Tokaido highway offers stunning scenery and cultural insights. Starting at Hakone-Yumoto Station, you’ll hike approximately 8 miles through scenic landscapes, including a Hakone tea ceremony, visits to Lake Ashi, and views of Mt. Fuji from a pirate boat. The route also includes a visit to Mishima and a bus ride back to the start.

Guests appreciate the opportunity to connect with Japan’s historic transportation route while enjoying nature and cultural stops. The tour balances physical activity with sightseeing, making it suitable for active travelers prepared for a full day.

Bottom Line: Perfect for fit travelers wanting a deep dive into Japan’s ancient trade routes and natural beauty.

6. Takigyo – Traditional Japanese Waterfall Training Meditation

This 4-hour experience is not for the faint of heart. You’ll undergo a ritual waterfall meditation called “Takigyo” in a sacred setting, guided by a monk. As you stand under a waterfall, you’ll purify your mind and body, experiencing a powerful moment of spiritual clarity. The activity is highly authentic, involving prayers and rituals performed in street clothes, in a natural environment.

Guests describe the experience as life-changing, emphasizing the renewing effect on mental clarity. It’s best suited for travelers seeking deep culture and a transformative experience. Be prepared for a challenging physical and spiritual activity.

Bottom Line: A rare chance to engage in a traditional practice that offers mental refreshment and spiritual insight.

7. Japanese Traditional Music Experience

This 1-hour class introduces you to the Koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. You’ll receive a brief explanation of the instrument’s history, then learn how to play basic tunes using special attachment nails. The instructor performs a live demonstration, and there’s a photo session afterward. Even complete beginners gain a sense of Japanese musical aesthetic during this fun, engaging class.

Guests love how accessible the experience is—one says, “Even as a beginner, I managed to produce beautiful sounds.” The class is suitable for all ages and levels, making it a great cultural introduction for families or solo travelers.

Bottom Line: A delightful way to connect with Japanese art and music, especially if you’re curious about traditional instruments.

8. Odawara: Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour

This 3-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive look at Odawara’s castle and local streets. Starting at Odawara Station, your bilingual guide takes you through Odawara Castle, its museum, and the surrounding historic district, including craft shops and seasonal scenes. You’ll learn about the Hojo clan’s role in Japan’s Sengoku period and hear lively stories about ninjas and samurai.

Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to explore at a comfortable pace. One reviewer notes, “The tour gave us a deep understanding of Odawara’s culture without feeling rushed.” It’s ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed exploration of the city.

Bottom Line: Perfect for history and culture lovers who want a full but manageable introduction to Odawara.

9. Odawara: Odawara Castle Tenshukaku Entrance Ticket

For a self-guided visit, this entry ticket grants access to the Tenshukaku, Odawara Castle’s main tower, and its gardens. It’s an affordable way to explore artifacts, swords, and armor inside the castle, and the panoramic view of Sagami Bay from the top is stunning. The castle gardens are blooming with seasonal flowers, adding to the experience.

With a 4.2/5 rating from 30 reviews, visitors appreciate the chance to absorb the castle’s atmosphere at their own pace. The ticket is ideal if you prefer flexible sightseeing or are on a tighter budget.

Bottom Line: A straightforward, budget-friendly way to experience Odawara Castle’s exhibits and views.

10. Hakone customized private one day tour

This 7-hour private tour allows you to tailor your day in Hakone, just an hour from Odawara. You can choose from destinations like Hakone Shrine, Lake Ashi, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, or Owakudani. The guide helps craft an itinerary based on your interests, whether it’s art, nature, or hot springs.

Guests love the flexibility and personalized attention. One reviewer says, “Our guide adapted everything to our pace and interests.” This tour fits travelers who want to maximize their time and see specific sights without the hassle of navigating public transport alone.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a bespoke day trip with a private guide, especially if you want to focus on specific attractions.

11. Takigyo – Traditional Japanese Waterfall Training Meditation

This 3.5-hour activity offers a deep spiritual experience under a sacred waterfall, guided by a monk. You’ll learn the meaning and rituals of Takigyo, which involves standing under a waterfall as a form of purification. It’s physically demanding but offers profound mental clarity and inner peace.

Guests rave about the transformative nature of the experience, describing it as life-changing. It’s best suited for those interested in Japanese spiritual practices and willing to endure some discomfort for the reward of renewed focus.

Bottom Line: An authentic, challenging experience for those seeking spiritual growth and culture.

12. Japanese Traditional Music Experience

This 1-hour class offers an introduction to the Koto, including learning basic techniques and playing simple tunes. The instructor’s supportive teaching style helps even complete beginners produce beautiful sounds. The experience ends with a performance and photo session, making it perfect for families or solo travelers interested in music and culture.

Guests mention how much they appreciated the hands-on approach, with one saying, “I was surprised how quickly I could produce a sound that felt authentic.” The class is suitable for all ages and offers a lasting memory of Japan’s musical traditions.

Bottom Line: A charming, accessible cultural activity that brings Japanese music closer to you.

13. Odawara Castle Discovery of the Sengoku Samurai History

This 1.5-hour private tour focuses on Odawara Castle’s role during Japan’s Sengoku period, especially as the Hojo clan’s stronghold. Your guide reveals battles, strategies, and artifacts, with sweeping views from the castle’s main keep. It’s an engaging way to understand military architecture and warfare of the era.

Reviewers note the guide’s depth of knowledge and personalized storytelling. One says, “I felt like I was walking through a battlefield, not just looking at relics.” This tour appeals to history lovers who want a focused, detailed look at samurai and castle defenses.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting an immersive history lesson about Japan’s warring states period.

14. Odawara Ramen Crawl Experience: Visit 2 Iconic Shops

For foodies, this 1.5-hour ramen tour visits two famous Odawara ramen shops, each with its own style. You’ll taste thick, frizzy noodles with chashu, as well as rich fish broth reflecting the coastal influence. It’s a flavorful way to explore local cuisine beyond the tourist spots.

Guests love trying authentic regional flavors and learning about ramen’s regional variations. One reviewer states, “The guide explained the nuances of each bowl, making the tasting even more enjoyable.” It’s perfect for those eager to taste local specialties and learn about Japan’s beloved noodle dish.

Bottom Line: A tasty, cultural adventure for food lovers wanting to experience Odawara’s ramen scene.

15. Become a Lord of Odawara Castle Private Tour

This 4-hour private experience lets you dress as a lord, walk the castle grounds, and enjoy exclusive access after hours. Included are samurai armor fittings, a ninja experience, and a private tour of Odawara Castle. It’s a luxurious, personalized way to step into history.

Guests mention the unique opportunity to dress up and explore with a guide who makes the experience memorable. The price reflects the intimate, tailored service, making it perfect for special occasions or travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Bottom Line: An extraordinary experience ideal for history enthusiasts and those celebrating special milestones.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Odawara

When selecting your ideal experience, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If you’re eager to dive deep into ninja and samurai culture, the guided ninja & samurai tour (Tour #1) offers an engaging combo of history and hands-on practice. For a relaxing day, the forest bathing and onsen tour (Tour #3) is perfect if you want peace and natural healing.

For those seeking adventure and physical activity, the Hakone Hachiri hike (Tour #5) provides scenic beauty and a solid workout. If you’re interested in spiritual practices, the Takigyo waterfall meditation (Tour #6) is a once-in-a-lifetime challenge.

Booking early is advisable, especially for private and seasonal tours, and consider combining experiences—like pairing a castle tour with a cultural activity—for a fuller stay. Many tours also offer flexible times and small group sizes, perfect for personalized adventures.

Final thoughts

Odawara’s variety of tours means there’s something to fit nearly every travel style. History lovers will enjoy castle and samurai tours, while cultural enthusiasts can try traditional music or forest bathing. Adventure seekers should look to hiking or waterfall meditation, and families will find interactive ninja experiences especially fun.

To make the most of your trip, consider your interests and how much time you want to dedicate to each experience. Booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these unique opportunities. With this list, you’re well-equipped to pick memorable experiences that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of Odawara.

Enjoy your journey into this fascinating city—there’s a story behind every corner, and these tours are your best way to uncover it.