Kyoto to Odawara train with JR Central

Information about the Kyoto to Odawara train route

The Kyoto to Odawara route is a straightforward and scenic journey that connects two of Japan's most culturally rich destinations. Trains depart from Kyoto Station (Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto 600-8216), one of Japan's largest and busiest railway hubs, making it easy to board without much fuss. The journey to Odawara Station (1-1-1 Shiroyama, Odawara, Kanagawa 250-0045) is operated primarily via the Tokaido Shinkansen, Japan's iconic high-speed rail line, and takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes depending on the service you choose.

The most common shinkansen options for this route are the Hikari and Nozomi services. However, it is worth noting that only the Hikari stops at Odawara — the Nozomi bypasses Odawara entirely, so always check your service before booking. The Hikari runs regularly throughout the day, making it easy to plan your departure around your itinerary.

Best time of year to travel this route This route is popular year-round, but spring (late March to early April) and autumn (mid-November) are peak seasons due to cherry blossoms and fall foliage respectively. Trains during these periods fill up fast, so booking a reserved seat in advance is strongly recommended. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, January to February (outside of New Year holidays) and June (rainy season) tend to be quieter travel periods with more availability.

We recommend using the JR Pass for traveling in trains all around Japan to save more money if you pretend to do many trips. You can check the correct prices for every station or shinkansen connection in Omio's JR Pass information.

Kyoto to Odawara by train: what to expect on board

Traveling on the Tokaido Shinkansen is one of Japan's most iconic experiences, and the Kyoto to Odawara leg is no exception. The trains are punctual, clean, and comfortable, operating with the precision Japan's rail network is famous for worldwide.

Seating and comfort Shinkansen carriages are organized into ordinary (non-reserved and reserved) and Green Car (first class) options. For this relatively short journey, ordinary reserved seating is perfectly comfortable. Seats are spacious with generous legroom compared to standard trains, and each row reclines smoothly. Seats on the right-hand side (seats D and E, heading from Kyoto toward Tokyo) offer views of Mount Fuji on clear days — a highlight not to be missed on this route. The best visibility tends to be in the morning hours when skies are clearest, particularly in autumn and winter. Make sure to book a window seat on the right side (E seat in ordinary cars) when traveling eastbound toward Odawara.

Luggage Overhead racks are available for small to medium bags. If you are traveling with large suitcases, the Tokaido Shinkansen has designated oversized luggage spaces at the front and rear of certain carriages, but these require a prior reservation when booking your ticket. Plan ahead to avoid any issues at boarding.

On-board services Food trolleys pass through the carriages during the journey selling bento boxes, snacks, and drinks. However, given that Kyoto Station has an impressive array of ekiben (train station bento boxes), it is highly recommended to pick one up before boarding — it is one of the great pleasures of long-distance train travel in Japan.

Practical tip Arrive at Kyoto Station at least 15–20 minutes before departure to locate your platform, validate your JR Pass or collect your tickets, and find your reserved seat carriage. Shinkansen platforms at Kyoto are clearly signposted in English, making navigation straightforward even for first-time visitors.

Getting to Odawara and beyond

Odawara Station serves as a key transit hub in Kanagawa Prefecture, connecting travelers onward to some of the region's most visited destinations.

Onward to Hakone The most popular onward journey from Odawara is to Hakone, one of Japan's premier resort areas known for its hot springs (onsen), views of Mount Fuji, and the open-air museum. From Odawara Station, you can board the Hakone Tozan Railway directly — the journey to Hakone-Yumoto takes approximately 15 minutes. The Hakone Freepass, available for purchase at Odawara Station, covers unlimited use of the Hakone Tozan Railway along with buses, ropeways, and sightseeing boats within the Hakone area and is a cost-effective option for day-trippers and overnight visitors alike.

Onward to Tokyo Odawara is also well-connected to Tokyo, with both shinkansen and the Odakyu Romance Car (a premium limited express service) running regularly. The Odakyu Romance Car from Odawara to Shinjuku takes approximately 70 minutes and offers a scenic, comfortable alternative to the shinkansen for those heading into the city.

Onward to Kamakura and Yokohama Using the JR Tokaido Line, travelers can head northeast toward Kamakura (approx. 40 minutes) and Yokohama (approx. 35 minutes), both popular day-trip destinations from Odawara.

Local transport in Odawara Within Odawara itself, the city is compact and walkable from the station. Local buses also connect the station to Odawara Castle and other nearby attractions with ease.

What to expect when you arrive in Odawara

Arriving at Odawara Station places you right in the heart of this historic castle town in Kanagawa Prefecture, a city that balances its deep samurai heritage with a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Odawara Station overview The station has both JR and Odakyu exits, so follow signs for the JR East Exit when arriving via shinkansen. Coin lockers are available inside the station — a practical option if you plan to explore the city before heading to your accommodation. Tourist information is also available near the station exits, with English-language maps and guides readily accessible.

Top things to do in Odawara The undisputed highlight of the city is Odawara Castle (Odawara-jo), a beautifully reconstructed feudal castle located just a short 10-minute walk from the station. The castle grounds are a popular cherry blossom spot in spring and offer panoramic views of Sagami Bay and the surrounding mountains. Inside the castle tower, a museum traces the history of the Hojo clan, who ruled the region during Japan's Sengoku period.

Beyond the castle, Odawara is well known for its kamaboko (fish cake) culinary tradition, and the area around the station has several shops where you can sample and purchase this local specialty. The Hinodecho shopping street near the station is a pleasant area for casual browsing and local dining.

Best time to visit Odawara Spring is the most popular season, with the castle grounds drawing large crowds during cherry blossom season (late March to early April). Autumn is equally beautiful with colorful foliage framing the castle. Summer brings warm weather and proximity to the coast, while winter offers crisp, clear days that are ideal for spotting Mount Fuji from the castle observation deck.

Practical tips for arrival

• The walk from Odawara Station to Odawara Castle takes approximately 10 minutes on foot and is well signposted.
• If you are continuing to Hakone, purchase your Hakone Freepass at the Odakyu counter inside Odawara Station before boarding the Hakone Tozan Railway.
• English signage is widely available throughout the station and the main tourist areas, making navigation easy for international visitors.