It is said that the ume (plum) groves were first planted by the Hojo clan during the Warring States period to provide food for the troops (some theories exist). Among the three plum groves: Bessho, Hara and Nakagawara, around 35,000 plum trees are in full bloom during the correct season and are framed by Mt. Fuji and Hakone. During the Ume Festival from early February to early March, events such as Odawara Chochin Odori, a local performing art, and lion dances are held. (Photo by photolibrary)

The Odawara Plum Festival is held from early February through early march each year. The Soga Plum Forest is the primary venue, and that is made up of three areas: Bessho, Hara, and Nakagawara. Each is operated primarily by the farmhouses that are located there. Bessho is the largest of the three, and features a citrus and vegetable stands, souvenirs, eateries, and more.

Built here in the early 700 A.D., Daijoin is a temple where you can practise waterfall meditation. Waterfall meditation is a way to liberate and regenerate oneself, and gain a sense of unity with the natural world. The monks at Daijoin practise waterfall meditation, and offer guidance to visitors who wish to try it themselves.

Stare in awe at the fireworks display over the Sakawa River, flowing through Odawara. Fireworks will shower down from the sky like Niagara Falls. View them up close or from the riverbank for an exceptional attraction. Cool down while looking up at these fireworks.

This beach is located in Ninomiya Town, Kanagawa Prefecture. Enjoy a dragnet fishing experience at Sodegaura Beach, just a 7 minute walk from Ninomiya Station on the JR Tokaido Line. Thanks to its prime location, this dragnet fishing experience is widely used for company and community events, hands-on learning, and school trips. We provide thorough explanations so that even first-time visitors can feel at ease. It's as simple as pulling a rope in tug-of-war, making for an enjoyable experience from children to adults. The real excitement lies in the sheer wonder as to what could be inside as the net is pulled ashore. Participants can even directly touch marine life caught in the net, offering a valuable learning experience about biology, nature, and diet. The "come-as-you-are BBQ" plan is also extremely popular, featuring delicious Shonan Shirasu (whitebait)♪