Odawara

The most popular sightseeing spot in Odawara. The castle tower commands a view of the whole of Odawara city and ancient objects such as weapons and tools are on display. Basic English descriptions are available. And there are various events around Odawara castle: for example, there are Hojo Godai Festival and Ume-Festival, and it's a great spot to view cherry blossoms in the springtime.

A large natural history museum, two stops from Odawara Station on the Hakone Tozan Line. The museum focuses primarily on the natural history of Kanagawa Prefecture, including sea life found in Sagami Bay. It includes an extensive geology section discussing the formation of the Japanese isles, as well as large displays of volcanic rock from Australia and northern Canada.

A shop with products made of ume (Japanese apricot) since 1871. In the back of the shop, there is a historical section with a barrel more than 140 years old made to produce umeboshi (pickled ume) as well as a display of a series of pickles dated since the foundation of the company. The company was founded by Mr. Monya Komine, who was chief cook of Odawara castle, and is run by the Komine family in its fifth generation. You can taste a wide selection of products for free, and on weekends there is often a multilingual person who can help you with additional information.

A festival to contemplate the blossom of plum flowers.

Hojo Godai means "Five heads of the Hojo clan", who ruled the area in the 16th century. At this large and lively festival, there are many street stalls selling barbecued chicken, yo-yos, and more. Locals carry an omikoshi (portable shrine).