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Private tour in Odawara Yuko A
Odawara Castle Town - History, Culture & Local Flavors
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6 hours
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6 hours
1
Yuko A.
5.0
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2
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Hello everyone, and welcome to Japan! My name is Yuko, and I’ll be your guide today around Hakone, Odawara, and Atami. I was born in Tokyo, but I’ve always loved exploring new places. I began my career working as a cruise staff member and then tour escort, traveling to many beautiful destinations and meeting wonderful people from around the world. I also spent couple of years living in the United States, which gave me valuable international experience and a deeper understanding of what travelers look for when visiting Japan. Later, I worked for over 30 years with a major American airline as a flight attendant and customer service agent, where I learned the true meaning of hospitality and communication across cultures. After many years of working and traveling, I decided to settle down — and I chose Odawara, a charming castle town (Jōkamachi), known for its rich history and friendly local atmosphere. From the moment I arrived, I completely fell in love with this area — the peaceful streets, kind people, mountains, and nearby hot springs. Since moving to Odawara, I’ve been working at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, a beautiful place where art and nature come together in perfect harmony. The museum features works by artists from around the world, including Picasso, and being surrounded by such creativity has deepened my love for this region. Today, I’m so happy to share with you the beauty, history, and spirit of Japanese culture through Hakone, Odawara, and Atami. I hope you’ll enjoy not just the famous sights, but also the small, heartwarming moments that make this part of Japan so special. I also offer customized themed experiences, such as art tours, shrine and temple visits, and hands-on workshops like making traditional Japanese sweets or kamaboko (fish cakes). Let’s relax, have fun, and enjoy a wonderful journey together! *** Please kindly be sure to send me a message before making a reservation. *** I can arrange a car with a driver so you can travel comfortably and safely.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Yuko A.
Castle, Shrine, Fishing Port Lunch & Art or a Serene Temple Surrounded by Forests
Overview of your Odawara tour
Experience the essence of Odawara Castle Town on this flexible 7-hour private tour. Visit Odawara Castle to explore samurai history and the legacy of the Hojo clan, followed by a stop at the peaceful Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at Hayakawa Fishing Port. Choose one optional activity, depending on availability: ・Enoura Observatory ・A serene forest temple ・Kamaboko (fish cake) making ・Wagashi sweets-making This tour blends history, culture, and local flavors at a comfortable pace and can be adjusted to suit weather, conditions, and guest preferences on the day. During the seasons of plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, and hydrangeas, we can also guide you to local flower-viewing spots. *Public transportation is available upon request. Please note that Enoura Observatory and Saijo-ji Temple require private car transportation* *A half-day tour featuring Odawara Castle and lunch is available by public transportation* *Please send me a message before making your booking*
Your Odawara tour itinerary
- Meet me at Odawara Station and begin your exploration of Odawara Castle, learning about the Hojo clan and samurai culture. - Continue to the peaceful Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine, then enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at Hayakawa Fishing Port. - Choose one optional activity, depending on availability and conditions on the day: ・Enoura Observatory (Approx. 2 hours · Advance reservation required・Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays・High school students and above) An open-air art and architectural site overlooking the sea, where contemporary design blends with nature and seasonal light. ・Saijo-ji Temple (Approx. 1–1.5 hours · Forest setting · Easy pace) A serene temple surrounded by forest, offering a quiet and reflective atmosphere. ・Kamaboko Making Experience (Approx. 45–60 minutes · Indoor) Learn how Odawara’s famous fish cakes are made by local artisans. ・Wagashi Sweets-Making Experience (Approx. 45–60 minutes · Indoor) Create traditional Japanese sweets inspired by seasonal designs.
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Minivan
A premium vehicle, full air-conditioning, and the comfort of your own private driver.
What's included
What's not included
Meeting location
Odawara, Kanagawa, Japan
Odawara Station, Kanagawa Japan. Pick-up from hotels in Hakone is subject to availability and prior consultation.
- You can request a different meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout process.
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English
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6 hours
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6 hours
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.