Odawara is a beautiful city located between the bountiful coastline of Sagami Bay and the mountains of Hakone. Facing the Pacific Ocean, Sagami Bay serves as a valuable resource, providing Odawara with a diverse variety of excellent seafood. Thanks to this rich natural environment, Odawara has long been known as a thriving area for fishing and the seafood industry, producing numerous renowned local specialties.

Among these, Odawara kamaboko is especially famous nationwide, boasting a history of over 400 years. While fish is the key ingredient in kamaboko, what sets Odawara apart from other regions in Japan is its proximity to the mineral-rich spring water filtered through the Hakone mountains. These two elements combine to create kamaboko’s distinct texture and rich flavor.

Today, the traditional production methods of Odawara kamaboko are carefully preserved, allowing visitors to witness the craftsmanship of skilled artisans up close. The city also offers hands-on experiences where visitors can try making kamaboko themselves, making it a popular and unique tourist attraction.