What is Atami?
Atami, in Shizuoka Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resort towns.
It boasts a beautiful location facing the Pacific Ocean and abundant hot spring resources, and has been a popular destination since the Edo period.
Today, Atami is a diverse tourist spot where you can enjoy not only hot springs but also historical buildings, fireworks festivals, seafood cuisine, and art and cultural facilities.
With good access—about an hour by train from Tokyo—many visitors come from both inside and outside Japan.
Atami is perfect for both short trips and longer stays.
Atami’s Attractions
1. Abundant Hot Spring Areas
Atami has many hot spring facilities.
At ryokan with open-air baths and day-use onsen facilities, you can enjoy the effects of the hot springs along with ocean views.
Representative hot spring areas include the following:
- Atami Onsen: A seaside hot spring known for its beautiful ocean views.
- Izusan Onsen: A hillside hot spring area offering a quiet, restorative atmosphere.
2. Atami Castle and the Surrounding Area
Atami Castle is a landmark of the city and is a “castle tower-style” tourist facility built in 1959 (Showa 34).
It has an observation deck where you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea and mountains.
Inside the castle are exhibits themed on Japanese history and culture, making it popular with families.
3. Fireworks Festivals
The Atami offshore fireworks festival is famous nationwide and is held several times throughout the year.
The sight of fireworks launched from the sea and reflected on the water’s surface is breathtakingly beautiful.
The summer and winter fireworks events, in particular, attract many visitors.
4. Seafood and Gourmet Food
Atami is also known for its fresh seafood.
Be sure to try sashimi, sushi, and hot spring–steamed dishes made with locally caught seafood.
Atami Ginza shopping street offers local specialties and sweets, so it’s fun to eat your way around the area.
5. MOA Museum of Art
For art lovers, the MOA Museum of Art is recommended.
It exhibits traditional Japanese crafts and paintings, and the building itself is known for its beautiful design.
You can also enjoy spectacular views of Atami from the museum.
How to Get There
By Train
- From Tokyo
- About 40 minutes to 1 hour by JR Tokaido Shinkansen.
- JR Atami Station is the nearest station.
- From Nagoya or Osaka
- Use the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station.
- About 1.5 hours from Nagoya and about 2.5 hours from Osaka.
By Car
- Take the Tomei Expressway and use Atsugi IC or Numazu IC, then follow National Route 135 to Atami.
- About 2 hours from Tokyo by car.
How to Enjoy Atami
1. Hot Spring Hopping
You can visit day-use onsen facilities and ryokan in Atami to enjoy several different hot springs.
Some accommodations offer rooms with private open-air baths, making them ideal for special trips.
2. Relax on the Beach
Atami Sun Beach is a sandy beach that gets crowded in summer.
At night it’s illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere.
3. Walking Around Town and Souvenir Shopping
Stroll through Atami Ginza and Heiwa-dori shopping street to find local specialties and gourmet treats.
Dried fish and onsen manju (hot spring steamed buns) are popular souvenirs.
4. Nature Walks in Atami
The hillside Kinomiya Shrine features a giant camphor tree over 2,000 years old.
The site is also known as a power spot.
Useful Information for Travelers
- Hot spring area opening hours
- Many onsen facilities are open from around 9:00 to 22:00.
- Check-in at accommodations is usually around 15:00, and check-out around 10:00.
- Best times to visit
- Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (fall foliage) offer pleasant weather and are great for sightseeing.
- The summer swimming season and fireworks festivals are also popular.
- Clothing and what to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for much of the hot spring town.
- Even in winter, bring warm clothing to stay comfortable.
Summary
Atami is a tourist destination with diverse attractions including hot springs, nature, history, gourmet food, and events.
Its convenient access, making it possible to enjoy a fulfilling trip even on a short visit, is one of Atami’s major appeals.
When planning your trip, we recommend checking the fireworks schedule and the opening hours of hot spring facilities in advance.
Enjoy a special trip in Atami where traditional and modern Japan come together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is there English information available?
Yes. Atami Station and major tourist spots have English signage.
Some hot spring facilities and hotels also have English-speaking staff.
Q2. Can I enjoy Atami as a day trip?
Yes. You can fully enjoy Atami as a day trip from Tokyo.
A popular plan is to combine a hot spring visit with a stroll around Atami Ginza.
Q3. Is Atami suitable for family trips?
Yes. The hot spring town has facilities and beaches suitable for children.
Many ryokan also offer family accommodation plans.
Enjoy Atami to the fullest and have a memorable trip!
