“Experience a Day in the Shoes of a Feudal Lord in a Japanese Castle Town”

Simon Celestine, a French tourist, embarked on a unique journey at Odawara Castle, transforming from a mere visitor into the temporary lord of one of Japan’s most remarkable feudal-era fortresses. Situated just 50 miles from central Tokyo, Odawara boasts a rich history intertwined with the influential Hojo clan, loyal Fuma ninja, and a pivotal 1590 battle that shaped modern Japan.

Despite its historical significance, Odawara often gets overlooked by foreign tourists rushing through on bullet trains to more renowned destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. With a surge in overseas visitor numbers, the Japanese government aims to promote exploration of lesser-known yet equally impressive locales. Odawara, selected for government assistance, has embraced initiatives to showcase its historical charm.

The “daimyo for a day” experience invites tourists to shed their 21st-century attire and step into the roles of feudal lords. The meticulous process involves the careful donning of traditional garments, including the iconic “kabuto” helmet and cord chin strap, completing the transformation into lords of the domain.

Naoya Asao, head of international promotion for the Odawara Tourism Association, expressed optimism about the campaign putting Odawara on the map and attracting more visitors. While often seen as a gateway to more popular destinations, Odawara has a wealth of history waiting to be explored, and the “daimyo for a day” experience offers a unique way to share that history.

Simon Celestine, accompanied by three friends, embraced the curated experience. Guided by costume experts accustomed to dressing actors in period movies and TV dramas, they adorned themselves with traditional attire, including long white undershirts, leggings, chest armor, and weapons. The “katana” for striking down enemies and the “wakizashi” for ritual self-disembowelment were explained, adding a layer of authenticity to the immersive experience.

The four “daimyo” ventured out into Odawara Castle, drawing curious glances from locals. Crossing the castle’s outer moat, they were greeted by re-enactors donning accurate reproductions of warriors’ armor from Japan’s Warring States period. The strategic location of Odawara, controlling road traffic between Kyoto and Edo, made it a focal point for rival clans in the 15th and 16th centuries.

The castle, a symbol of Hojo clan authority, withstood numerous sieges until Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s conquest in 1590. Despite being razed to the ground, the castle was later rebuilt, preserving its historical significance. Celestine and fellow “daimyo” explored the castle’s innermost courtyard, enjoying performances by musicians showcasing the skills of Japan’s legendary ninja.

Odawara, known as the traditional home of the Fuma clan of ninja, features a ninja museum where visitors can try their hand at wielding traditional weapons. The journey continues with a traditional kaiseki meal and a night inside the castle, offering a glimpse into the life of feudal lords.

The day concludes with a feast fit for a “daimyo” at a nearby restaurant, surrounded by a traditional garden. Kneeling geisha entertain with dances and shamisen performances, ensuring a memorable experience. The lords, replete with the lavish kaiseki meal and local sake, retire to the castle’s uppermost floor for the night, savoring their temporary noble status before returning to commoner life the next day.