From Tokyo: Odawara Castle, Samurai Museum, and Craft Tour

Step out of Tokyo and experience Japan's Castle and Craft Town, Odawara. A seaside town buzzing with culture, nature, and local flare. If you want to get off the beaten tourist path and experience something new on an easy day trip from Tokyo, then this tour is for you.

Located in Kanagawa prefecture, Odawara is just a 90 minute train ride from Tokyo.

On this tour, you will have the opportunity to see one of Japan's top 10 castles, learn all about the history of Samurai and Ninja, taste fresh Sushi at Odawara's harbour, make traditional handicrafts, and pay a visit to a observatory with breathtaking views.

Departing from Shinjuku, we will step back in time at our first desitnation and admire the iconic Odawara castle. Climb to the top of the castle tower, and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views from the observation deck.

Our next destination is The Samurai Museum. Learn all about the Samurai who once governed Odawara and their culture. You will see impressive Samurai armor on display and have the opportunity to try armor (and kimono) on as part of your tour.

For our lunch break we take a 25-minute walk from the Castle park to downtown Odawara and its port and harbor area. On the way, pass by a very small but beautiful shrine, and walk by the ocean. Odawara's port is a great place to try the freshest fish and seafood Odawara has to offer. As this is an active port, you are able to get up close to see the local fishermen in action slicing and dicing Sashimi or catching fish. The views here are lovely, and there is even a Lighthouse here shaped like a giant Lantern.

Next, we visit a local craft center where you can try your hand at traditional Odawara Chochin Lantern making and Yosegi wooden coaster making. This unique opportunity will allow you to learn all about the traditional and local art of these crafts which have shaped the culture of both Odawara and Kanagawa prefecture. Assisted by the friendly staff, this is a fantastic way to feel closer to Japanese heritage and culture, all in the cozy and welcoming setting of the center. The Chochin Lantern and Yosegi coaster wooden experience will last approximately 90 minutes. You will take both items you make home with you as great souvenirs of your time in Odawara. You can choose the design you want for your Lantern, and it is collapsible so will fold away nicely in luggage. The center also has a cafe where you can enjoy drinks and snacks.

For the final destination, explore Odawara Minaka, a newly built shopping and restaurant complex built in the style of the Edo period. Here, enjoy a relaxing foot bath experience at the top of an observatory to relax after your day of exploring. Foot baths are a traditional part of Japanese culture, and the water in these foot baths comes from nearby Hakone and its famous hot springs. If you have felt unsure about trying Onsen (Hot Springs) during your trip, then foot baths are a great alternative. This is the perfect way to conclude your day.