The 13 best things to do with kids in Odawara

Odawara Castle is a beautiful, peaceful spot with some of the most breathtaking views from the very top. Once you're up there, you can take in wide views of the land and the sea—it’s honestly stunning and absolutely worth the climb. The atmosphere is calm and not overly crowded, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable compared to some of the busier castles. You can get a bundled ticket that includes entrance to both the castle and the nearby Samurai Museum, which is a great option if you’re interested in diving deeper into the history. Inside, many of the historical displays have English translations, which was helpful for navigating and learning more about the site. As for payment, they accept cash, Visa, and PayPay, which is convenient. Just outside the castle grounds, you’ll find some snack vendors selling shaved ice and other quick bites note that these are cash only. There are also several vending machines and quiet little spots with benches where you can sit, rest, and take in the view of the castle and its surroundings. Overall, it’s a calm, scenic, and culturally rich experience. Definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

Odawara Castle is a beautiful and historically rich site located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. The castle is a reconstruction of the original fortress that once served as the stronghold of the Hojo clan, one of the most powerful samurai families during the Sengoku period. Its elegant white walls and multiple tiers stand proudly above the city, offering a striking view from afar. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, which are spacious and well-kept, with traditional gates, stone walls, and a surrounding moat that add to the atmosphere. Inside the main keep, the museum provides detailed exhibits on samurai culture, weapons, and the history of the region. The climb to the top floor rewards you with panoramic views of Odawara city, Sagami Bay, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day. The park around the castle is especially famous for cherry blossoms in spring, drawing many visitors for hanami. Seasonal flowers and cultural events make it a lively place throughout the year. Overall, Odawara Castle combines history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a worthwhile stop for travelers exploring the area.

A beautiful castle I believe it’s the third largest in Japan. Inside there’s a museum with impressive samurai style pieces, as well as ceramics from the era that were found and restored. The surroundings are stunning, with a huge open field and an entrance that looks straight out of a movie. The view from the top is great not as spectacular as Osaka Castle, but still amazing. If you go early around 8am, you can take much better photos since there aren’t many people. Overall, a really beautiful and memorable place to visit!

Odawara Castle in the Hakone area is an impressive build; in fact, it's one of the tallest castles in Japan. As you walk towards it, the scale is quite impressive. Once inside, you can climb stairs all the way to the top, but before getting there, on every floor you'll be gazing at different graphs and objects, and even a few videos that describe this castle's history and it's importance in the context of the history of Japan. After reaching the top, there is a terrace surrounding that floor, so you can step out and enjoy the views, but also, the compound around the castle. This is a structure that has been destroyed several times and eventually neglected when it lost its importance. Eventually, the community started a movement to get the government to aid in its reconstruction. Hopefully, the last missing part, the palace, will also be rebuilt sometime. A visit to this castle is a must if you are heading out to Hakone.

Very interesting, and the scenery from up top was great! Lots of signage, the English translations were clear, and the translate app took care of the rest. Nice gift shop, including the staff. I was very surprised to learn that it's a postwar reconstruction. And I think the previous building was 19th century anyway. But the usage of and artifacts found at the site go back to 1400s at least.

Immaculate rebuilt historic castle. A key battle in the 16th century unification of Japan occurred here. Plus the “castle built in a day” happened here (Google it). A must see if you are visiting the castles of Japan. When we visited on October 13th 2025 we accidentally got caught up in the lantern festival. It was so much fun. I’ll be visiting Odawara again for sure.

It's not a fun place to visit, but thanks to that, there are not that many people here. That makes it a nice and quiet walk. Odawara Castle is the 7th tallest castle in Japan and the original was built in the 1400s! It's 510 yen to get in. The highlight was of course the top lookout. Everything else is just a lot of drawings, writings and some artifacts.

Fun affordable fun for the whole family. There is a nice affordable family restaurant inside in the 3F so you can spend all day there learning all sorts of interesting things. I recommend using the Google Translation app lens feature if you can't read Japanese.

I should have taken my.son early. He loves all the exhibition here. Same quality as national museum in Tokyo. They have 2 floors and you can see all the creature and geography. They also have a library. You can spend at least half day.

Great for both adults and kids! The space is large with lots to see and explore. Tickets are extremely affordable, and free parking is a big bonus. Even during peak season, it wasn’t too crowded, which made the visit really enjoyable. Don't expect many English descriptions though.. The restaurant was surprisingly good, everything was super fresh and much more affordable compared to similar spots. Loved it!

A bit old and u can feel it the moment u walk in the doorn dusty and the toilet is india level . I think it about the maintenance but overall a good experience and the demonstration is very good

Beautiful museum and all the exhibits were amazing. Definitely check out the Giant Book exhibition!!

Very interesting and a good activity if it rains!

5 stars!!!!’ Our family love this place.

Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine has a cool spot where people hang wooden plaques with their wishes and prayers. Fun fact: The shrine is dedicated to Ninomiya Sontoku, a famous 19th-century agricultural leader and philosopher known for his teachings on diligence and community spirit.

A peaceful little shrine beside Odawara Castle. Surrounded by trees and calm atmosphere, nice place to stop by after exploring the castle grounds.

Very impressive Shinto Shrine at Odawara Castle. Many visitors here.

Definitely worth a few minutes of your time if you’re visiting Odawara castle. The 2 green gates are rather unique and the gardens and visitors center is well maintained.

It is a nice shrine, and it wasn't too crowded when we visited. The misters creating a cloud above the koi pond was a nice distinguishing feature.

Lovely little shrine with lots of shade. If you visit the castle, walk an extra five minutes and see the Shrine too.

Very pristine and tranquil place. I love the Japanese garden with a small fountain in the middle of a pond full of koi fishes. The place is really good for a retreat.

Roses bloom in a small area, but there are many types, and each type has a written description, which is a good device to stimulate our interest. It is a pity that there is no English description,though. The park is also easily accessible from the neighboring Suwanohara Park, making it a great place for lunch, a walk, or a jog on a sunny day. There are also many kinds of plum trees, and I am already looking forward to the next coming season ❗️ 17 Feb, 2023 : There is still time until all plum tree will be in full bloom. I would especially like to introduce you to Kayoikomachi plum trees. How deceptively beautiful Kayoikomachi are! Ikina na de, koikini shiroi hana sakasu. Kayoikomachi wa haru wo shirasete. It is a neat, single-petaled flower of wild plum nature. The flowers are medium sized (about 2.5 cm in diameter) and have a faint crimson tint. Plum blossoms with a faint crimson color like this give a sense of profundity and fragility. The tips of the petals are lightly wavy, the stamens are yellowish, and the bottom of the flower is yellowish brown. Is the name derived from the song "Kayoi Komachi"? When I look at the flower again with this in mind, it seems to be filled with an ethereal atmosphere. 24 May, 2023 : Lovely roses are in full bloom, dazzling in contrast with the fresh greenery. It is the best time to see them! Also, don't miss the tuberous fruits on each of the plum trees. Moreover, if you sit still for a while along the creek, you will be able to enjoy Orthetrum albistylum speciosum(Shioka Tombo), Cercion hieroglyphicum(Ito Tombo) and Butterflies. Another must-see is Hydrangea(Ajisai), although there are only a few plants, which seem to be eagerly waiting for their season to arrive. Furthermore, in the early morning, Irises and Lotus flowers are also blooming beautifully.

not easy to find the car park. the road signages are poor. there are plenty of car park lots. the garden is pretty and there is a good view to the city below. Quite a good place to spend an hour.

Plum blossoms were very nice. Be careful to check the bus schedule, as it runs only twice an hour.

What a treasure Free botanical garden. Near top of a mountain beauty tranquil views

Nice garden with tonda of different breeds of rose from different countries. The nest thing is that you can bring your dog.

Nice for walking, looking beautiful rose. Wide park, and ume garden.

Beautiful garden that is usually quiet and has something special to see in each season

We went at 940 am and everything was closed. We went to the worker and he said he will open things now but an hour later, everything was still closed. So many reviews saying free park but all the rides cost money and it's cash only. The train started operating but I only have my credit card. Big waste of time

Awesome park to spend a day with kids - plenty of places for them to play, look for bugs, long slides, get dirty, run around and then sleep in the car on the way back. There is also lots of nice easy trails for walks. Since it's high in the hills there is a nice cooler breeze even in the summer. Parking is 1010 yen for the day, recommend car park two as its closer to most of the things kids can play with. The park itself is free.

We spent 4 hours here and managed to see the entire park and do almost everything. I would probably say 6 hours would be best to give yourself some time. Most parking requires reservations but Parking lot 4 is for unreserved and is located directly in the middle.. I think it's a great spot. We rode the train to get to one side of the park so we could work it from one side to the other, that seemed to work well.

Might be nice for small children when the weather is good. It’s spacious and entry free. Also there are many clean restrooms and vending machines. The trains that run in the park run at a very slow speed and might only be of interest for toddlers.

Very attractive park in the forest. Several wonderful playgrounds are on site. The playground equipment is a bit outdated, but children will still enjoy it. Being in the mountains, we experience some steep grades that are tough. There are plenty of vending machines in the park and shaded benches. We found many rare insects!

An absolute wonderful place for the family! By the time you are done here I would be surprised if your children are able to stay awake. So much fun and so much energy was burned. Make sure to bring your own lunch nothing really close by for food but it was definitely worth the trip!

My 7 year old son was satisfied the facility very much. Adventure forest is one of the highlight, but only free park area might be enought for those who have small kids under 7.

It is difficult to categorize this facility with anything. The facility itself is art, the location is art, the ancient Japanese artifacts are art, and the fusion of these elements makes for a special experience. The cherry blossoms and rape blossoms were in full bloom, creating an Amazing landscape. The three hours are in the morning and afternoon, but the three hours go by quickly. Reservations are required through the website.

This place is tucked away in the countryside about 1.5hrs drive from Tokyo. It's best to book in advance for admission and free shuttle bus or parking permit, 3300 yen each person. It's closed at 4:30pm and the access to the bamboo forest is closed at 4pm. Some very exquisite architecture details, as well as spaces (Mies and Philip Johnson glass house vibe), displaying works by the designer/photographer himself. It's quite a little gem esp. if you can manage to visit during a cooler day.

Calm, zen oasis for those wanting a break from Tokyo. Imagine art but in the form of land-based installations and structures. Visited on a Saturday and it wasn’t crowded. Take your time to walk around the grounds, sit on any open benches and just soak in the moment. Wonderful views of the ocean, but like many others mentioned, pray your day of visit is bright and sunny. A leisurely walk around the entire ground would probably take 1.5-2 hrs. There’s a cafe right at the entrance that sells citrus-based drinks (since there’s a citrus grove there). Directions: definitely reserve your tickets online, together with the shuttle bus that will pick you up from Nebukawa Stn. Don’t get confused by the other shuttle bus which is for the Hilton Resort. Not advisable to walk from the train stn to the observatory since the road is narrow, hilly and it’s quite a distance away. If travelling from Tokyo Stn, can take the Shinkansen to Odawara Stn (33mins) before changing to a local train to Nebukawa Stn - this would be the fastest route but pricey due to the Shinkansen ticket.

Amazing art experience! Only wish i could have stayed longer as the session is only 3 hours and I go slowly. Brings art and architecture together dexigned by hiroshi sugimoto. Elements of japanese garden throughout and one of my favourite art places - reminded me of naoshima and chichu. There are 3 shuttle bus for each entry from the closest JR station and make sure you book online 2 days in advance to get the discount. I was not so organised and called up on the day for walk up ticket which was 3850 yen but very easy. The cafe is also great i enjoyed the orange gelato with amazing Views

A unique place, implacably created, which left a profound impression on me - Soul and body were healed after a three hour stay.

Hiroshi Sugimoto’s genius has culminated in an incredible demonstration of his talent in architecture and art. Subtle movements in nature that often backdrop experience are framed and offer a perspective upon nature as art, and as fundamental to understanding beauty. A highly recommended, moving and thought provoking experience. To enjoy the entire exhibit, arrive on time as the grounds are extensive and a slow pace is desirable.

Such a great place to be in balance with nature and enjoy the views, highly recommend to come for all nature and architectural lovers!

A nice little tea house/cafe inside of a historic building. Admission to walk around in the building is free. A nice hidden gem in Odawara.

This is a great example of traditional Japanese home. You can walk through the house as if you just stepped into history. I personally find this place awesome because you can walk through the rooms! No red tape. You can sit at the tables and pretend this is your house. Great for people who are interested in Eastern architecture.

Reservations required. Turned away at the door- Maybe because we came with children? The place was empty.. sorry to miss this cultural experience!

I enjoyed a nice cafe and well-kept garden. The view was gorgeous. Noted on my wonder-tips site.

Beautiful

(Translated by Google) We had a dinner party at Seikantei, a restaurant serving Odawara Bettei cuisine, a nationally registered tangible cultural property. Built around 1906 in the sukiya-style shoin-style building, it was the former villa of Marquis Kuroda Naganari. The Kuroda family is a distinguished family descended from Kuroda Kanbei, a brilliant military strategist who served Toyotomi Hideyoshi. This is a site of exceptional historical value, rare even nationwide, with a cultural asset over 100 years old built on a 400-year-old historic site. Visitors are required to pay a 550 yen per person conservation contribution, but the special space is well worth it. The food was prepared by Mieta (Sapporo, head chef: Saegusa), a renowned Japanese restaurant awarded one Michelin star. We tried their specialty, chicken mizutaki, in honor of Marquis Kuroda Naganari's time as lord of the Chikuzen Fukuoka domain. The elegant, savory flavor was even more delicious than the mizutaki I had in Kyoto. On this day, I opted for the "Ishigaki Course" (¥11,000 including tax, service charge not included). • Appetizer • Appetizer: Grilled Odawara Port Barracuda • Appetizer: Chicken Tempura • Sumiko: Chicken Mizutaki • Rice Dish: Rice Porridge • Dessert: Seasonal Fruit with Susuri Anko (Red Bean Paste) It's about a 20-minute walk from JR Odawara Station, but those booking the course receive a free shuttle from the station (reservations required), and the shuttle car, designed like a palanquin, was unique. After the meal, the staff member gave me a detailed tour of the building and history, and I found myself lost in thought. Next time, I'd definitely like to return for the soft-shelled turtle course. (Original) 国登録有形文化財に指定されている「小田原別邸料理 清閑亭」さんで食事会をさせていただきました。 明治39年頃に造営された数寄屋風書院造りの建物で、黒田長成侯爵の旧別邸にあたります。黒田家は豊臣秀吉に仕えた天才軍師・黒田官兵衛の流れを汲む名家。400年前の史跡の上に、100年以上前の文化財が建つという、全国的にも非常に珍しい歴史的価値の高い場所だそうです。 来館者は施設保全協力金として一人550円が必要ですが、それ以上の価値を感じられる特別な空間です。 お料理は、ミシュラン一つ星を獲得した日本料理の名店「みえ田」（札幌市／総料理長・三枝氏）によるもの。黒田長成侯爵が筑前福岡藩主であったことにちなみ、名物の鶏の水炊きをいただきました。上品で旨みの深いお味で、京都でいただいた水炊きよりも美味しいと感じました。 この日は「石垣コース」（税込11,000円・サービス料別）を利用。 • 先附 • 向付：小田原港カマスの炙り • 追肴：とり天 • 澄子：鶏の水炊き • 御飯物：雑炊 • 甘味：季節のフルーツ　すすり餡子 JR小田原駅から徒歩約20分ですが、コース利用の場合は駅から無料送迎（要予約）があり、お駕籠をイメージした送迎車もユニークでした。 食後には、建物や歴史について詳しく案内してくださるスタッフの方のお話もとても興味深く、時間を忘れて聞き入ってしまいました。 次回はぜひ、すっぽんのコースをいただきに伺いたいです。

(Translated by Google) Kura Cafe is a tranquil Japanese space. This time I ordered a hot coffee. Sipping the fragrant coffee while surrounded by the scent of wood and the warmth of tatami mats in the imposing building of a former marquis's villa, a nationally registered tangible cultural property, is relaxing. The gentle aroma is impressive; the roasted beans are not too dark, and the light aroma rises and resonates with the clear air of the premises, as time passes by in the gentle thatched grass. The coffee is characterized by a slight bitterness, the sweetness and subtle acidity of the beans, and a soft, rich aftertaste. With a tranquil garden view outside the window, it's recommended as a way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. (Original) 静謐な和の空間の蔵カフェ。 今回はホットコーヒーを注文。 国登録有形文化財の旧侯爵別邸という重みある建物の中、木の香りと畳のぬくもりに包まれながら、静かに香る珈琲を飲むと落ち着きます。 香りの優しさが印象的で、深煎りすぎず、軽やかに立ち上る焙煎豆の芳香が澄んだ邸内の空気と響きあり、ゆる茅に流れる時間。 ほんの苦味と豆の持つ甘みとほのかな酸味、後味には柔らかなコクが残るのが特徴です。 窓の外には落ち着いた庭園の景色が広がり、普段の喧騒を離れられるのでおすすめです。

It is cheap and a nice way wirt small kids to spend some time if it is either hot or raining. We ended up going because the busses to Hakone had hugh waiting lines after the trains where not running due to electical issues. It is basically an indoor playground. The staff were nice amd atttentive and warned us we would not be able to come back once we went to the shuriken game.

For a cheap entry fee of ¥310, you really get an experience. It's not just a museum, but also an obstacle course that actually gets you exercising: rope climbing, wall hugging, memory games, and even a shuriken-throwing boss fight. I'd say it's more targeted towards kids, judging by how physically small a lot of the minigames were, but adults can also benefit from the body coordination practice, even if it's just you and the staff flailing your arms.

Great idea but bad implementation. Finished in few minutes, some attractions were not available and just a horribly bad video game in the end.

Actually a pretty fun short experience. Adults would also find this quite enjoyable.

Not just a museum, but we could have experiance as a ninja

(Translated by Google) Since it was a weekday afternoon, we were able to get in with almost no waiting. Tickets do not need to be purchased in advance, but can be purchased on site. We have been to Odawara Castle before, and visited there, but the kids had fun, so this time we only visited the Ninja Pavilion. Above all, we were looking forward to the last attraction, so we all did our best this time as well. (Original) 平日の午後だったのでほぼ待つことなく入れました。チケットは事前購入が不要で、現地で購入となります。小田原城は以前に行ったことがあり、その時にも訪問したのですが、子供たちが楽しかったということで、今回はNINJA館のみ訪問です。なんと言っても最後のアトラクションが楽しみということで今回もみんなで頑張りました。

(Translated by Google) This facility is for adults and children to learn and experience, focusing on the Odawara ninja "Fuma" who supported the Hojo clan during the Sengoku period. At the entrance there is a ninja map of Japan, and you will be surprised and excited to learn that there are many ninjas from all over the country, not just Koga and Iga, and that each has their own name. First, enjoy the history of the Hojo clan and the Fuma clan through sound and video. After that, inside the museum there are rope climbs, hidden doors, stepping stones, narrow platforms, and more, which are surprisingly difficult and fun to overcome. Finally, there is a shuriken throwing event using digital technology. Incidentally, the Fuma shuriken appears in the game "Final Fantasy," and the Fuma clan appears in the ninja manga "NARUTO." (Original) 戦国時代、北条氏を支えた小田原の忍者「風魔」を軸に、大人から子供まで学習・体験できる施設。入り口には忍者の日本地図があり、甲賀や伊賀だけでなく多くの忍者が各地いて、それぞれ呼称があることに驚き、わくわくする。最初に北条氏と風魔の歴史を音と映像で楽しむ。その後、館内には綱登り、隠し扉、飛び石、狭い足場などあり、それを乗り越えるのは意外に難しく面白い。最後はデジタル技術を使った手裏剣投げ。ちなみにゲーム「ファイナルファンタジー」では風魔手裏剣、忍者漫画「NARUTO」では風魔一族が登場する。

If you are on odawara metro station and if you have extra time then you should visit this palace this place is very walking distance from the station there are 2/3 entry to enter this castle compound but I suggested enter from the main bridge side gate this is my first castle visit in Japan so I was very impressed with the entry with the beautiful bride and gate Made with the large size of the sand stone then you have to walk a little more with another 2 entries then you have to climb a few steps and the 3 rd gate to enter the main palace compound and you will see the best big white structure is the main castle That surprise experience is very different You can move around there in the souvenir shop and small museum in this complex You can rent here war clothes and local kimono 👘 and take a picture with castle background it was different experience I was so excited to see the inside of the place but they made a modern interior to display things inside I have not seen any original castle experience inside So if you are an architecture or interior field then then you might be disappointed to visit inside You have to buy tickets to go inside You can visit the last floor to see the sea view from the top floor Then there is a backside exit near the station.

Awesome place to visit. I would definitely bring your family and they have a ninja experience. They have samurai suits, you. Can rent small restaurants in the train station is very close.Also, the castle is full of history and is very cheap to go to only six hundred yen for a combo kit ticket

Not much of a park in the grand scheme of things. All the grounds around the castle are gravel. What grassy and treed areas there are are closed for excavation. Very clean public washrooms. There is a restaurant and an ice cream vendor which was lovely.

The park itself is probably more beautiful in other periods of the year, but the castle itself is really nice. Especially the amazing view. Sea, city and mountains.

Centered around the castle, the grounds serve as an enjoyable plaza. The park features elevation changes, making it unsuitable for those with mobility issues, but for the able-bodied, the path to the keep offers a bit of exercise. The grounds include exhibition halls displaying armor and swords. Shops selling rice dumplings, udon noodles, and coffee provide places to rest, making it an easy-going tourist spot.

The park is quite, there's a few chair to sit. If you go to odawara castle, you can find a huge park behind. The ajisai festival was over, but you still can see some blomming flower.

A gorgeous little walk through. The Castle is a paid ticketed part however I think even the park and grounds were beautiful enough to forgo the Castle - Up to you!

Less choices compared to Taiwan's. Drinks are also not nice. But the taste of donut is okay

Bubble tea is really good, ring donut and 2 flavor donut are ok

BEST DONUT EVER!!!!

wow

My first Mister Donut did not disappoint!

(Translated by Google) 2025.6.22. After taking care of business in the city early this morning, my wife said she wanted to get some Mochurin to take out, so we visited the Mister Donut in Sakaemachi for the first time in a while. Apparently Mochurin is a product that has recently become explosively popular at Mister Donut. However, when we asked the staff at the store, we found out that Mochurin is only sold for a set time each day, and there is still more than an hour left in the morning sales. We gave up and decided to buy honey dip, ponde de ring, and angel cream from the regular menu to take home. ...umm. What a shame. We'll come again when we get the chance⭐︎. (Original) 2025.6.22. 今朝早くに市内の所用を済ませたあと、家内が「もっちゅりんをtakeoutしたい」というので栄町のミスドを久々に訪店。もっちゅりんとは最近ミスドで爆発的な人気を博している品のことらしい。 ところが店頭に来てスタッフに訊けば、もっちゅりんは1日の販売時間が決まっており午前の販売にはまだ１時間以上もあるそうだ。われわれは諦めて、仕方がないのでregular menuの中からハニーディップとポンデリング、そしてエンゼルクリームを買って帰ることにした。 …umm.残念。機会を捉えてまた来ます⭐︎。

(Translated by Google) The temperature outside was over 35°C, so I came here to take shelter. It was quiet, cool, and relaxing. (Original) 外気温35℃超えだったので避難しに来ました。 静かで涼しくゆっくり出来ました。

(Translated by Google) This visit will be on June 20, 2024. A green park next to Hakone Yumoto Station and along the Hayakawa River! ? They even put up a signboard to emphasize it! ? Oh, ok...then it's a park. Here, the fireflies are protected, and there are blackout boards along the Hayakawa River. In addition, there is a waterway running below, separate from the Hayakawa River. Fireflies must be pretty clean water. Due to thorough protection, you can see many fireflies in the summer. Why am I not here until night...? (Original) こちらは2024年06月20日の訪問となります。箱根湯本駅そば、早川沿いにある緑ど……こ、公園！？　看板まで出して強調しておられる！？　お、おう……じゃあ、公園って事で。 こちら、ほたるを保護しており、遮光板が早川沿いに立ってたりします。また、早川とは別に下を水路が流れています。ほたるって事はかなり綺麗な水なのでしょう。 徹底した保護によって夏は多数のホタルが拝めるらしいです。何故、俺は夜までいないの……。

(Translated by Google) I went on May 24, 2024. Although it is called a park, it is a place where fireflies grow naturally, so there are no special facilities, and there are gravel roads and no lighting, so you will need comfortable shoes and non-dazzling lighting. Use the red bridge in front of Hakone-Yumoto Station to cross the Hayakawa River, turn right, and as soon as you pass the Yumoto Fujiya Hotel elevator, a sign will appear. The park is about 150 meters from there. Fireflies start appearing one by one from around 7pm and can be seen until around 8:30pm. I was able to see around 50 fireflies. When I put my hand out near a flying firefly, it landed on my hand and glowed gently, soothing me. There were a few people there, but it wasn't crowded, but I did wish they wouldn't turn on the lights so that people could see them. It's about a 3 minute walk from the station, so I think it would be a good idea to visit. P.S. Please note that many of the shops in front of Hakone Yumoto Station close at 6pm. (Original) 2024/5/24に行ってきました。 公園と言っても、ホタルが自生しているところなので特に設備はなく、砂利道&無照明なので歩きやすい靴と眩しくない照明が必要です。 箱根湯本駅前の赤い橋を使い早川を渡り右に行き湯本富士屋ホテルのエレベーターの前を通り過ぎるとすぐに看板が現れます。 そこから150メートルほどが「公園」と思われます。 19時頃からぽつりぽつりとホタルが出てきて20時半頃まで見ることができます。 ざっと50くらいのホタルを見ることができました。 飛んでいるホタルの近くに手を差し出したら手にとまって優しく光ってくれて癒やされました。 数名が来ていましたが混んではいませんが、目をつくライトを点灯させるのはやめてほしいと思ったくらいです。 駅から徒歩3分くらいなので訪れてみたらよろしいかと思います。 追伸 箱根湯本駅前の商店の多くは18時に閉店しますのでご注意を

(Translated by Google) Firefly viewing event from 8pm to 10pm. When I got there just before 8 o'clock, the lights were already down and fireflies were flying everywhere. It was fairly crowded, but everyone was watching quietly. There were a few people who didn't know where to go. It seems better to refrain from using strong light. (Original) 午後8時から10時までホタル鑑賞会。 8時少し前に行きましたら、もうライトダウンされていて、ほたるがあちらこちらに飛んでいました。 そこそこの混み具合でしたが、皆さん静かに鑑賞なさっていました。場をわきまえない方がわずかにおられました。強い光はお控えになった方がよろしいようで。

(Translated by Google) The walking route to Firefly Park, the vermilion-painted bridge that spans the Hayakawa River, and the water surface reflecting the sky in the evening are magical. (Original) ほたる公園へ行くまでの徒歩ルート、早川に掛かる朱塗りの橋、夕刻に水面が空を映して、幻想的です。

(Translated by Google) I wanted to see fireflies. It was around 7:30 pm and the sky wasn't completely dark, but I was happy to see fireflies! (Original) ほたる見たくてきました。19:30くらいで空は真っ暗ではなかったですがほたるが見れて満足でした！

(Translated by Google) The path is surrounded by slightly elevated trees and grass along the Hayakawa River, and there is also a thin stream of water flowing along the side, giving it an elegant feel. When I visited last year, it was late so unfortunately there were no fireflies flying... Revenge a year later. Just after 7pm, I saw a glimpse of small and beautiful fireflies, and the world of Pillow Book... This time it was at the end of May, and we went from the world of ``Darkness Monaho'' to ``Okashi that faintly shines inside.'' I sat there for a while, admiring it. (Original) 早川沿いの少し高くなった木々や草に囲まれた小道で、脇にも細い水が流れており、風情がある。昨年訪れた時は時期が遅くてホタルは残念ながら飛ばなかったが… 一年後リベンジ。 19時過ぎくらいにチラホラと小さくて美しい螢の光、枕草子の世界…。今回は5月末でしたが『闇もなほ』の世界から『ほのかにうち光りて行くもをかし』へ。暫く見とれて座り込んでいました。

(Translated by Google) We started walking along the path and it was all very pretty, but as soon as we saw ourselves surrounded by some pieces of giant fuchsia spiders, we were scared shitless and turned around. (Original) Empezamos a caminar por el sendero y era todo muy bonito, pero en cuanto nos vimos rodeados de unas pedazo de arañas fucsia gigantes, nos cagamos vivos y nos dimos la vuelta

Team impressed us with their genuinely friendly and welcoming service. Even though most of the staff spoke only a little English, they were patient, supportive, and made sure we understood everything—perfect for first-timers! The interactive instructions were clear and simple, provided in easy-to-follow English, so we felt confident and ready before exploring the multiple courses from 1 to 9 on our own. Safety is clearly their top priority, but they also know how to make things fun and stress-free. The orientation session is hands-on and builds up your confidence step by step. Once you’re on the different course routes, you can take everything at your own pace, so there’s no pressure or rush—just pure enjoyment surrounded by beautiful forest scenery and there is no problems finishing all 9 courses at your own pace no matter how slow you progress. Speaking of the forest, we were pleasantly surprised by how cool it felt even during the height of the summer heat. There were very few mosquitoes, which is a huge plus! Another thoughtful touch: the staff provided a small bag to store your essentials like your phone and wallet (it even fits a couple of water bottles). There are no lockers—just open communal shelves—but the area felt very safe. A reservation is absolutely essential to avoid disappointment—this place is popular for a reason. And a word to the wise: wear clothes, underwear, socks, and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty (or even throwing away). The zipline runs are long, fast, and super exciting, but you’ll almost certainly end up landing in damp cedar bark and soil at the end. Bring a complete change of clothes, including underwear and shoes, to freshen up afterward!

Big zip lining course for kids and adults. Approx 1.5 to 2 hours takes to complete entire 9 courses. New comers can also enjoy as training will be provided on site. Staff is very nice and friendly. Can speak Japanese and English.

Tons of fun no matter how old you are! The obstacles themselves were very entertaining in their own right, but mostly my friends and I had fun berating each other as we struggled through each obstacle.

Not appropriate for adults i.e. people over 5ft 5' the zipline is completely in your way when doing obstacles; obstructing your head or shoulder the whole time meaning you can't have fun balancing etc. If you aren't going with small kids, don't bother!

I would have given them 10 stars if it was possible. Absolutely AMAZING!!!! We were myself, my husband and two children 13 and 9, and we had a blast! The stuff is super helpful, nice, polite and friendly, the rides are fun and can be scary but super cool, everything is safe. I would recommend to anyone!!

Very cool run for beginner, and they let you some freedom to go as you wish (very rare in japan ^^) for experienced, not much to see ^^

I really enjoyed ziplining. It was super FUN! The courses got more difficult as I advanced. It was so scary, but there were staff at each station to assist me if I needed help. They first took my friends and I through a safety meeting before leaving us to explore. It took about two hours to complete the courses. It could have taken less time, but we went slowly.

This is a place in Odawara where a castle used to be. The biggest benefit to come here is the views you can get of Odawara. It's a nice and peaceful place to chill out as well.

Great spot for history buffs. Nice views over Odawara and not crowded even on a weekend.

This is one of my favorite places to take my dog for a walk. The views are stunning. There is a public toilet at the top. There is a nice large piece of grass, perfect for your kids to play, or even your dog. Please be sure to pick up after your dog. There seems to be a significant amount of time invested to make this place look as well kept. If you're hungry after, there is a shop across the street where you can buy some sweets and local products.

Cool place to hang out. The nature is beatiful save the culture save the nature .

If you’re a particularly interested in Japanese history, then it’s a must visit! Also, one of the 100 castle stamp is located here as well. There’s a bus that goes out from Odawara/Hayakawa station every Sat/Sun/holidays to this area, so I highly suggest to take that instead (unless you have a car to drive on the weekday).

Lovely alternative to Takao for an mild hike

A place with good View to the surrounding areas near sea.