小田原城
Odawara Castle
Overview
Odawara Castle was the stronghold of the Hōjō clan, who ruled the Kantō region for five generations during the Sengoku period. Renowned as an impregnable fortress, it repelled great armies led by Uesugi Kenshin and Takeda Shingen. Its sōgamae outer defensive perimeter stretched an astonishing 9 kilometers — the largest in Japan. The Hōjō clan fell in 1590 when Toyotomi Hideyoshi laid siege with an overwhelming force. The current tower, reconstructed in 1960, houses a museum covering the Hōjō clan and Odawara's history. The castle park, with views of Sagami Bay, is also known for its cherry blossoms and wisteria.
Connection to Swords
Sagami Province is the birthplace of Sōshū-den, one of the Five Traditions of Japanese swordmaking, and home to Masamune — arguably the most important swordsmith in Japanese history. The Sōshū tradition developed under the patronage of the Kamakura shogunate, producing legendary smiths including Masamune, Sadamune, and Yukimitsu. Masamune's style is defined by the beauty of its nie (crystalline particles) and brilliant jigane (steel surface), representing the pinnacle of Japanese sword art. The Hōjō clan also valued swords, and bestowing blades upon retainers was an important act demonstrating feudal bonds. The Sagami region from Odawara to Kamakura is hallowed ground for Sōshū-den, a must-visit for sword enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Reconstructed tower (museum)
- Akagane-mon and Tokiwagi-mon gates
- Remains of the sōgamae outer defenses
- Cherry blossoms and wisteria in the castle park
- Ishigakiyama Castle (Hideyoshi's siege camp ruins)
* Opening hours and admission fees are subject to change. Please check the official website before visiting.