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Atami has been a destination I have had on my list since I moved here. A resort town by the ocean and a reasonable distance from Tokyo – the perfect getaway. Atami is located on the east coast of the Izu Penisula and is about an hour on the Shinkansen. When we decided to book the trip, I didn’t realize there were so many things to do in Atami, and I certainty didn’t get to them all (more reason to go back)!
7 things to do in Atami
Stay in a Ryokan & Soak in an onsen
With Atami being a major hot spring resort town, staying in an onsen is a must! “Atami” actually translates as “hot ocean” because of their famous hot springs. Relaxing in a Ryokan by the water, and soaking in the onsens is a great way to start your weekend in Atami. Ryokans can range in price, but you are sure to find one in your budget. I stayed at the Hotel Resorpia Atami and absolutely loved it. Read my full review of my stay here.
Atami Castle
Although this castle was built in 1959 as a tourist attraction, don’t let that detour you from visiting! From the basement to the tower observatory you can experience the Japanese Castle Musuem, the Ukiyoe Erotic Art Museum, the Samurai Culture Museum and so much more. My favorite was the panoramic view of Atami from the top of the Castle where you can see a marvelous view of downtown Atami, Manazuru peninsula and of course stunning views of the water.
Stroll the streets
Walk back in time through Atami Ginza and browse shops, antique cafes and stroll through a street filled with history. This shopping arcade was once was the heart of this fishing town, and is slowly reviving for today’s tourism. For more shops and restaurants, hang around Atami station for small streets perfect for buying trinkets and scattered eateries as well.
Another place worth strolling (especially during the blooming of Plum Blossoms) is the Itokawa Path along the canal. It is beautifully framed in mid February with plum blossoms. We were there when the they began to fall which I think made the scene even more beautiful.
Herb Rose & Garden
One place that was on my list for things to do in Atami that I was unable to get to was the herb and rose garden. Having a stellar view of the ocean, I am sorry I missed out! With 12 different gardens carrying a variety of flower species, this is a paradise for garden lovers. Every season brings something new (with winter beginning to bloom plum blossoms, followed by tulips and roses). Any season is a good time to enjoy the beauty that are Japanese gardens.
Atami Baien (Plum Garden)
For those visiting when I did in February, you are in for a treat! This is prime Ume (Plum) blossom season. Although overshadowed by Cherry Blossom season, Ume Blossom season arrives later in the winter and is the true sign of spring. If Atami is on your itinerary try to make plans mid February to early March for the Plum Festival hosted here. They have small entertainment acts and sampling of various teas. From beautiful bridges, to waterfalls and thousands of trees filled with pink and white plum festivals, you will find a true appreciation for Japanese nature and gardens.
MOA Museum of Art
The Museum of Art in Atami has over 3,000 works of art including art from Monet, three national treasures and a tea room. The founder (Okada Mokichi) of the museum who opened the Hakone Museum of Art, had a desire “to build a world-class museum in Atami to introduce the excellent sense for beauty innate in the Japanese culture to people worldwide.” Another place I hope to see when I return.
Kinomiya Shrine and Ookusu
A well visited shrine, with small hidden details and beautiful grounds. Kinomiya Shrine should be on your list of things to do in Atami. The people of ancient Japan believed that within trees, rocks, and other things of nature, dwelled gods. The connection between worship and nature is extremely apparent at this shrine. The Kinomiya Shrine was simply called “Ki” meaning “tree” until the end of the Edo period. This shrine became a place to worship the tree dwelling gods, and they would give thanks to the camphor trees that were on the grounds of the shrine. Due to a need to generate money in 1859, they cut 5 of the 7 trees down, leaving two that still stand today (one being the Ookusu, Sacred Tree).
After visiting the shrine, head to the Ookusu, which stands unshaken for over 2,000 years. “The legend says if you circle around the tree, with every lap, your life extends by one year, and those with wishes will have them granted. You can’t miss that, can you?
Many first time visitors rush to the popular spots when traveling in Japan, but there is something to say about lesser known cities. They have so much to offer in terms of history and in this case – hot springs and beautiful nature. Hoping on your second trip to Japan you can explore other areas, like Atami and see for yourself how diverse and incredible the country of Japan is!
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