The Japan (Summer) Diaries - Day 9

When I used to think of castles, I thought of the typical, Cinderella-style ones. I just so happened to travel to the nearby city of Odawara, on my ninth day in Japan, to see a traditional Japanese castle.

The train ride to Odawara was an hour and fifty minutes away from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, through beautiful countryside, small towns and even tree-covered mountains. I was tired yet restless, wanting to keep my eyes clued to the window of the train, soaking in as much of Japan as possible - except on the ride back, where I welcomed sleep almost immediately.

Originally built in 1447, Odawara Castle is a Hirayama-style castle since it was built on a mountain, which made it easier to defend.

Upon arrival in Odawara, I exited the station and could immediately see the castle in the distance, the roof surprisingly sticking up over the treetops. Sadly, I learned that the castle was under construction, so I wasn't able to tour the inside. However, I did walk all along the surrounding grounds, which contained a shrine, a small amusement park for children, and a small museum.

Walking under torii gates and over bright red bridges, I felt like I was in one of my favorite Japanese animes. There is something special I love about walking through history, history lover that I am. It was a hot day, but I made the best of it. I bought a delicious popsicle from a vending machine, that started melting profusely within seconds, but was welcome while taking in the historic sites. 

Back to Tokyo, Akihabara was my site of interest for the night.

This was certainly one of my favorite days and visiting the castle was an immediate highlight of the trip. After careful consideration, Japanese castles are now one of my favorites.

Where to next?