Odawara is a small town near the Izu Peninsula on the Tokaido Shinkansen (40 minutes) or Tokaido line (90 minutes) from central Tokyo. Odawara castle is stated as one of the top 100 Hanami Spots in Japan. As I was on my way to Hakone - I decided to have a quick look to see what it's like.

Odawara castle is around 600 meters or 10 minutes walk from the main station. Like many castles in Japan - it's reconstructed and on top of a hill.

As you enter Odawara castle from the North entrance - you are greeted with Cherry Blossoms along with earth works. They are currently excavating the outer castle for reconstruction.

Like most famous Cherry Blossom spots, it was busy and there were plenty of places to grab a bite to eat. I still find it interesting that I now enjoy eating fried Sweet Potato chips with sugar and cinnamon.

Entrance to the reconstructed castle. At the time - it was packed.

At the front is an electric train - which also has a few picnic spots in the general vicinity.

Getting To Odawara Castle From Odawara Station

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After getting off at East Exit of Odawara Station, you will go along the wide road running between the buildings. (Photo #2). Then you will see a triangular plaza. Go along the right side of the plaza and soon afterward cross the street to enter the narrower shopping street leading to the outer moat of the castle. It takes about five minutes from the plaza to the bridge crossing the outer moat of the castle park.