The original castle was one of the few strongholds that successfully repelled attacks from Uesugi Kenshin and Takeda Shingen during the Sengoku period.
The current keep building serves as a museum rather than a period-accurate interior restoration.
The park contains a specific area dedicated to the remnants of the 'Sannomaru' (third bailey) wall section.
The castle grounds were once part of the largest fortification in the Kanto region during the Hojo clan's peak.
In 1703, the Genroku earthquake caused significant damage to the structure, requiring extensive repairs.
The site hosts an annual festival celebrating the history of the Hojo clan with a warrior procession.
The park layout preserves the orientation of the original 'Honmaru' (main enclosure) fortification.
Odawara Castle Park is centered on the reconstruction of the 15th-century Hojo clan stronghold, featuring a museum dedicated to samurai history and Edo-period artifacts. The park grounds serve as a significant site for cherry blossom viewing, hosting over 300 Somei Yoshino trees. The current main keep was reconstructed in 1960 using reinforced concrete to mirror the original architectural layout. Visitors can explore the interior, which houses displays of swords, armor, and historical documents. The park enclosure includes remnants of the original stone walls, dry moats, and restored gate structures like the Tokiwagi Gate. Outside the keep, there is a small zoo and amusement area featuring a miniature train and battery-operated cars for children. The site provides views of Sagami Bay from the top observation deck. It functions as a public park with landscaped gardens and walking paths throughout the former castle citadel area.
The main castle keep viewed from the bridge spanning the moat near the main entrance.
Visit the Tokiwagi Gate exhibition space to see authentic samurai armor and weaponry displays.
Take the stairs to the top observation deck for panoramic views of the city and the ocean.
Walk the perimeter of the stone moats to see the scale of the original defensive earthworks.
Do not overlook the free-to-enter park grounds; the main keep requires a separate ticket if you choose to enter it.
Closed for year-end holidays; periodically closes for building maintenance.
Remove shoes when entering the interior of the castle keep exhibition area.
