Hike a section of the ancient forest-clad Tokaido Highway that links Tokyo with former capitals Kyoto and Osaka. Experience Amazake Chaya, one of the few remaining of hundreds of teahouses that lined the old Tokaido, Cedar Avenue with towering 400 year-old Japanese cedar patrolling both sides of the trail, and stunning views of Mt Fuji (weather permitting) from Yamanaka Castle Ruins, and more. Hakone Hachiri has been declared a Japan Heritage Area. Allow our guide to immerse you in the history, culture, and natural heritage of this ancient route.
This is a forest bathing journey combining a peaceful cedar forest, a historic temple, lunch and an onsen. We meet at Odawara Station and travel by train to the forest area, where a 600-year-old temple stands among centuries-old cedars. Along the temple paths, your Shinrin-yoku facilitator leads slow breathing and sensory invitations: noticing bark textures, rustling leaves, forest aromas and the changing light. The pace is unhurried, with time to pause and take in the surroundings. We then have lunch at a local temple chaya. The day finishes at an onsen in the forest. Train fare, lunch and onsen admission are not included in the Viator price and are paid separately during the tour.
Discover the history and stories of the samurai and ninja at Odawara Castle on this exploration and experience into Japanese culture and history. Odawara Castle is the centerpiece for this walking tour that will include historic insight, local goods, craft shops, and much more. This castle was the grounds for some of Japan's most famous samurai and ruled over a large part of central Japan during the Sengoku Period of Japanese history. The city of Odawara still has many connections to the traditions and culture of the time of the samurai. Learn about the history of the samurai, architecture of Japanese castle, and all about the mysterious ninja. A short stop by a local shrine is also included as we explore this historic city on foot. Odawara is conveniently located just south of Tokyo, nestled between the shores of the Pacific Ocean and mountains of Hakone.
Hosted by one of Japan's leading ninja experts and a bilingual local guide, this experience lets you meet and learn from a ninja scholar and take a tour of the Odawara Castle grounds and practice some of the fundamental techniques used by the ninja. The experience will start with a guided walking tour of Odawara Castle by a local bilingual expert, visiting the Samurai Museum and the castle grounds to see some authentic artifacts and learn about their role and culture. You will move through the Ninja Museum and learn and practice some of the techniques together with the ninja expert, such as meditation, movement, real tools and weapons used by ninja. Odawara is your gateway to Hakone and memorable experience in Japan. 3:30pm: Meet at the Ninja Museum in Odawara Castle Park 3:30pm: English guided tour in Odawara Castle Park 5:00pm: Ninja training experience at the Ninja Museum 6:00pm: Experience to finish
Explore the always-popular Hakone with a round-trip ticket on the fast Odakyu Lines for 2 or 3 days. Gain unlimited access to the Hakone Tozan Cable Car, Hakone Tozan Bus, Hakone Ropeway, and more! Gain unlimited use of 8 convenient modes of transportation, which include Odakyū Odawara Line Ordinary Train: 1 roundtrip (between Shinjuku Station & Odawara Station) Unlimited rides on 8 transportation networks in Hakone which includes(Hakone Tozan Railway,Hakone Tozan Cable Car,Hakone,Tozan Bus,Hakone Tozan Bus,Hakone Sightseeing Cruise,Hakone Ropeway,Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus and Tokai Bus). Enjoy discounts at over 70 exciting facilities such as hot springs and hip art galleries
Authentic Koto Experience in Odawara Castle Town (Near Tokyo)
Discover the authentic sounds of the "Koto", Japanese traditional stringed instrument! Come join to my class. Anyone, even a complete beginner, can enjoy playing beautiful sounds. When you join this class, you won't just play the ”Koto"; you'll also feel Japanese history and culture. The outline of this experience is as below -Explanation about "Koto" -Instruction how to play "Koto" by using special attachment nails -Try playing "Koto" -Performance by the instructor -Photo session I am qualified to teach Koto. Odawara, a historic castle town, is my hometown. I created this experience activity because I want to share the joy of experience traditional Japanese music right here in this historic city.
Hakone Adventure: Explore Nature’s Beauty and Tranquility
Embark on a breathtaking journey through Hakone, where nature and serenity converge. With convenient departure options from Shinjuku (Tokyo), Odawara, Gora, or Hakone-Yumoto, your adventure begins with a scenic ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway, followed by a cable car and ropeway offering panoramic views of majestic mountains and volcanic landscapes. As you ascend, witness the dramatic sight of steam rising from volcanic vents and immerse yourself in the beauty of Hakone’s mountainous terrain. Upon reaching Lake Ashi, board a tranquil sightseeing boat to glide across the water, soaking in stunning vistas framed by the towering presence of Mt. Fuji. Guided by an expert, this unforgettable experience invites you to explore one of Japan’s most iconic scenic destinations, blending natural beauty with cultural depth—perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Odawara Castle invites you to an exclusive experience becoming a lord of the castle. Get suited in a samurai armor, walk the castle grounds, be entertained and enjoy ninja experience during your time. This will be a private experience and you will have an exclusive access to the castle main keep and the Ninja Museum after its business hours. This unique experience is specially curated for you. Enjoy this luxurious and special itinerary only in Odawara. Dinner at Seikantei can be arranged with an additional fee if asked ahead of time.
Odawara Castle Discovery of the Sengoku Samurai History
Explore Odawara Castle, the stronghold of the powerful Hojo clan, with a professional guide and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Sengoku era. Known for its formidable defenses, this castle withstood numerous attacks from famous warlords. From the top of the main keep, enjoy panoramic views of Odawara and, on clear days, see as far as the Boso Peninsula across Tokyo Bay. Experience the ambitions of the Hojo clan and step back in time to the heart of Japan's turbulent history.
ZEN Meditation with a Japanese Monk in Odawara Castle
A meditation experience with a Japanese monk at the top of Odawara Castle Main Keep. This experience is held outside of business hours, so the venue is reserved for exclusive use. Forget about your daily life as your monk guides you through this special space and activity. Spend some time relaxing and reflecting during the meditational experience. You can also enjoy a spectacular view from the top of the castle. A scenic beauty surrounded by the sea and mountains from the exclusive access to the top floor of Odawara Castle while you discover traditional techniques to find peace and balance in our lives. 5:00pm: Meet at the entrance of Odawara Castle Main Keep 5:15pm: Experience to start 6:45pm: Experience to finish A person must be 18 years old or above to join this experience.