Most travelers at Odawara Station seem to spend their waiting time sitting on a bench or grabbing a quick drink — but there’s actually a relaxing little spot just a few steps away that many people never notice.

If you had more time, I’d love for you to explore Odawara Castle — but I know that tight connections and heavy luggage can make that difficult.

So in this article, I want to introduce something you can enjoy even with just a few spare minutes: a free, open‑air footbath that’s almost directly connected to the station and offers a surprisingly beautiful view.

A Hidden Free Footbath Just Steps from Odawara Station

Most visitors never realize that Odawara Station has a free open‑air footbath you can enjoy without even leaving the station area.

It’s located on the rooftop of Minaka Odawara, a building directly connected to the station.

The footbath itself is simple and relaxing, with warm water and an open‑air view over the city.

Depending on the time of day it can be quiet, but it’s also a popular spot, so you may find other travelers enjoying it too — and still, it’s completely free.

How to Reach the Odawara Station Footbath (Covered Walkway Route)

Getting there is extremely easy.

From Odawara Station, follow the signs into LUSCA Odawara and go down to the 2nd floor.

From there, take the covered outdoor walkway that leads directly to the elevators for the footbath.

Take the elevator to the 14th floor, step outside, and the footbath is right in front of you.

Even on rainy days or with luggage, the route is smooth and comfortable.

Handy Spots You’ll Notice on the Way

You’ll pass a small mezzanine terrace on the way — a pleasant little spot where you can enjoy a snack or take a short break.

What to Expect: Warm Water, Open Air, and a Great View

The footbath is simple but relaxing: warm spring water, open air, and a peaceful view of the city.

If you look to your right, you can even see Odawara Castle — a historic landmark that has watched over the region for centuries.

You don’t need any special preparation; towels are sold on-site if you need one. It’s a perfect way to refresh your legs after walking or before catching your next train.

Perfect for Short Breaks Between Trains

Even if you only soak your feet for ten minutes, the round‑trip from the station takes at least half an hour.

But that’s exactly why it’s worth it.

If you’re just sitting on a bench for 30 minutes — or scrolling your phone while your kids look bored — this footbath is a far better way to spend that time.

Even travelers coming back from Hakone’s hot springs end up smiling here.

There’s something undeniably fun about a free, open‑air footbath high above the station, with warm water and a bit of sky around you.

It’s a small experience, but it adds a surprising amount of joy to your journey.

“Minaka” comes from an old Japanese word meaning “the center,” but the sound “mi” also carries a nuance of beauty or praise in Japanese. So the name suggests not just a physical center, but a pleasant, welcoming place at the heart of Odawara.

Enjoy Your Time at Odawara Station

Odawara Station is surprisingly friendly for travelers — from the easy indoor access to the footbath to the many coin lockers that let you explore hands‑free.

If you have even a little time to spare, I hope you’ll enjoy this small but memorable experience.

It’s a simple moment of relaxation, but it adds a gentle touch of joy to your journey through Japan.