Why Odawara Is the Place to Be Right Now: New Stores, Events, Ramen... Get a Sneak Peek of Spring!
I noticed Odawara felt especially buzzing since last weekend, and it turns out that today, March 12th, CAINZ's new concept store just opened near the station. Plus, we're right in the middle of an event week covering the Yugawara and Manazuru areas. As a local, it's genuinely exciting to see Odawara in the spotlight just as we feel the first signs of spring.
Is Odawara Station Area Changing? CAINZ's New Urban Store Format
Odawara Station is the gateway to the Shonan and Hakone areas, served by the Odakyu Electric Railway and JR lines. Just a few minutes' walk from the station, home improvement giant CAINZ has opened a new style of store. It's what they call a "new urban format" – compact compared to their massive suburban stores, but featuring a carefully curated selection of goods.
I popped in for a quick look, and besides DIY supplies, they have stylish interior accessories and even groceries. It makes you want to buy all sorts of extras. This should be super convenient for tourists staying at the Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa who might need to pick up something urgently.
Odawara, Yugawara, Manazuru Event Week: Don't Miss These Highlights
From March 10th to 16th, various events are taking place across the region under the "Odawara, Yugawara, Manazuru Event Week." Here are the ones locals are particularly talking about:
- Odawara Voice Power-Up Workshop: A unique workshop where you can learn speaking and vocal techniques from voice professionals. It's apparently attracting everyone from business people to seniors.
- Yugawara Onsen Evening Cherry Blossom Illumination: An early spring tradition. An evening stroll here is truly special.
- Manazuru Fishing Port Morning Market: Bustling from early morning as people come for fresh seafood.
The best part is that all these events are easily accessible from Odawara Station via the Odakyu Electric Railway or buses.
You Can't Miss "Odawara-Style Ramen" When You're in Town
If you work up an appetite exploring the events, you've got to try the local specialty: Odawara-style ramen. It features a soy sauce-based broth, medium-thick straight noodles, and the key toppings: large sheets of nori (seaweed) and chopped onions. Odawara City has a vibrant ramen scene, with long-established shops and new players competing fiercely. The places near the station are great, but it's also fun to venture a bit further and discover a hidden gem that only the locals know.
Whether you spend a relaxing weekend at the Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa or hop between different events, Odawara is perfect for a quick getaway. It's easily accessible from Shinjuku via the Odakyu Electric Railway. Why not come and enjoy everything Odawara has to offer this spring?