2026 MINAKA Odawara Street-Tree Illumination: A Full-Day Course

On Odawara Castle Street (お城通り) in front of MINAKA Odawara (ミナカ小田原), the complex facility in front of Odawara Station, the street trees are decorated with illuminations from around mid-October through around the following February each year (in 2023 the lights were switched on starting October 13; the 2026-27 schedule has not yet been announced, so please check the official website). Since the street trees line a public road, viewing is free. In the early afternoon, climb Odawara Castle Ruins Park's castle keep for a panoramic view of Sagami Bay and the old castle town. Afterward, take a break at the free observation foot bath garden on the 14th floor of MINAKA Odawara, soaking your feet in hot-spring water. In the evening, head to Odawara Castle Street to coincide with the lighting. This is an outing that stays within the station area, combining Odawara's traditional townscape with a tree-lined avenue of lights. Winter evenings get cold, so dress warmly before heading out.