Independent travel and view of the city of Atami!

 

History of Atami

Atami (к, Atami-shi) is located in Shizuoka Prefecture, on the east coast of Japan, near Suruga Bay. The name of the city literally means “hot sea”, which is associated with the hot springs (onsen) that are present here. Because of this, Atami was historically known as a place of rest and healing.

Ancient history

• The Atami territory has been inhabited since ancient times. Archaeological finds show traces of human activity as early as the Jomon period (circa 10,000–300 BC), including pottery and tools.

• During the Yayoi period (about 300 BC-300 AD) agriculture and fishing developed here.

• During the Kamakura period (1185–1333), the area served as a strategic location as it was close to an important trade route between Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo).

The Middle Ages and Early Modern Times

• In the Sengoku era (XV-XVI centuries), Atami was under the control of various samurai clans, including the Hojo clan.

• During the Edo period (1603–1868), the city gradually became popular among samurai and nobility as a holiday destination. Here developed infrastructure for travelers, including inns (shokubin).

• Atami also became known for its hot springs. At this time, the first onsen resorts began to form.

Modernization and the Meiji Period (1868–1912)

• With the opening of Japan to the world and the construction of the Tokaido railway in the late XIX century, Atami received direct connections to Tokyo and Nagoya, which made the city accessible to tourists.

• Hotels and onsen resorts began to develop. Atami has become a popular holiday destination for citizens and nobility.

• At the end of the XIX century, the city also began to attract artists and writers, which contributed to its cultural development.

XX century and modernity

• 1923: After the Great Earthquake, Kanto Atami became a refuge for victims from Tokyo and Yokohama.

• 1950-1970s: Peak popularity of Atami as a resort for the Japanese elite. The city is known for its hotels, onsen and casinos (casinos are officially banned in Japan, but Atami had gambling entertainment establishments).

• 1980-1990s: Tourism reached a mass scale. Atami began to hold festivals, exhibitions, cultural events, which strengthened its status as a tourist center.

• Modern period: Today, Atami is a combination of historic onsen, modern resorts, cultural attractions (such as the Atami Museum of Modern Art) and beautiful nature. The city is also known for its garden complexes and views of the Pacific Ocean.

 

 

Interesting places for entertainment in Atami

Located just 100 km from Tokyo, Atami is a city that combines hot springs, picturesque nature and rich culture. Its name translates to “hot sea”, and it really is: Atami is famous for its onsen – healing hot springs that attract travelers from all over Japan and the world.

1. Onsen and rest

Atami is a paradise for lovers of relaxation. Here you can find:

• Traditional Japanese district onsen hotels (reokans) with stone baths in the open air.

• Modern spa complexes with ocean views. Advice for tourists: evening swimming in the background of sunset is an unforgettable experience.

2. Nature and species

• Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Suruga Bay make Atami an ideal place for photographers and romantic walks.

• Mountain routes and hiking trails around the city reveal picturesque waterfalls, including the famous Fuji Falls in the vicinity.

• Atami Plum Garden and other botanical parks are especially beautiful in spring when plums and cherry blossoms bloom.

3. Cultural attractions

• The Atami Museum of Modern Art is a combination of painting, sculpture and Japanese aesthetics.

• Atami Palace and historical buildings of the Showa period allow you to feel the atmosphere of the past.

• Festivals and festivals: for example, the Atami Flower Festival or the Fireworks Festival in summer are real vivid impressions.

4. gastronomy

• Fresh seafood, including shrimp, octopus and lobster, is the region’s true pride.

• Local delicacies: atami-moti, sea kale and dishes from hot springs.

• Restaurants range from traditional Japanese to modern cafés with ocean views.

5. Accessibility

• Just 40 minutes by high-speed train from Tokyo on the Tokaido line.

• A convenient transport network allows you to explore not only Atami, but also neighboring attractions: Izu, Hakone, Fuji.

 

You'll be met in Atami.private guidesAnd they'll offer you a copy.individual tours

 

Accommodation options in Atami

1. Luxury onsen and ryokans

Atami is famous for traditional Japanese ryokans - hotels with tatami, futon and its own hot springs. Here you are completely immersed in the atmosphere of a Japanese resort: terraces with ocean views, spas and kaiseki-style dinners. Examples:

• ISHINOYA Atami is a minimalist ryokan with panoramic sea views and open baths.

• Hotel New Akao is a large resort hotel with luxurious rooms and its own onsen complex.

• ATAMI ом - only 4 rooms, each with a personal onsen and ocean views, for complete privacy.

2. Medium level: comfortable hotels and spas

If you want a combination of comfort and reasonable price, choose resort hotels and spa hotels. They usually offer large baths, restaurants and sea views, but without excessive luxury. Examples:

• Atami Korakuen Hotel - comfortable rooms, close to the center and the beach, there is a spa.

• Atami Onsen Sakuraya is a combination of tradition and modern amenities, suitable for families and couples.

3. Budget options: business hotels, minisuku and hostels

For practical travelers or young people in Atami, there are affordable accommodation options:

• Prince Smart Inn Atami is a simple and convenient business hotel near the train station.

• Megumi Guesthouse ( ) is an inexpensive hostel with shared bathrooms, for economical rest.

• Guesthouse Maruya is a hostel with cozy shared rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

 

 

Attractions in Atami

1. Atami Onsen (Atami Onsen)

   • It is one of the most famous hot springs in Japan, with more than 500 springs, supplying about 20,000 liters of water per minute.

   • Onsen Atami is a great place for relaxation and healing, both in traditional ryokans and in public baths.

2. Atami Castle (ок)

   • Although it is not a historic samurai castle, but a tourist building, it is built in the Azuchi-Momoyama style.

   • The castle has several museums: samurai culture, rebuses, ukiyo-e and erotic art (“shunga”).

   • The observation deck offers a panoramic view of Atami, the bay and the surrounding area.

   • In the garden of the castle grow cherry blossoms - in the spring there is a flowering festival.

3. MOA Museum of Art (MOA Museum of Art)

   • The art museum, which houses about 3,500 works, is mainly Japanese and Chinese art.

   • There are national treasures - for example, the famous "Red and White Flowering Plums" (screen-fusuma) by the artist Ogata Korin.

   • The building of the museum and its garden are very picturesque: from the tunnel of light and sound you enter the main hall with sea views.

   • Hours and price: Usually from 9:30 to 16:30 (entry until 16:00), the cost is about 1,600 yen for adults.

4. Sanctuary of Kinomiya Shrine (или)

   • A very "energy" (power) place is one of the main sanctuaries of Atami.

   • There is a large camphor tree (大ам), which is said to be over 2,000 years old.

   • They say that if you walk around a tree, you can “extend life” or make a wish – a popular tradition among tourists.

   • From Kinomiya Station (.) – approximately 5 minutes walk.

5. Plum Garden (Atami Plum Garden)

   • The garden is famous for hundreds of plum trees - different varieties, bloom early (in Japan, often in January-March).

   • Plum Festival and autumn leaf festivals (Momiji Festival) are organized, as well as lighting in summer/autumn.

   • There is an area with a "foot bath" to rest after a walk.

   • Access: Bus from Atami Station (JR) to Baien (».) You can also walk or take a taxi.

6. Akao Herb & Rose Garden (ACAO Forest)

   • Very picturesque terraced garden, divided into 12 themed areas.

   • A wonderful combination of fragrant herbs, rose bushes and Japanese vegetation. Especially beautiful in the season of roses.

   • There is a cafe COEDA HOUSE, designed by architect Kengo Kuma, where you can taste tea, ice cream with a pink flavor, etc.

   • Access: bus from Atami station (used by Tokai-bus) to ACAO Forest stop.

7. Jimenosawa Park (Himenosawa Park)

   • The park with “Azalea Garden” and other floral areas: azaleas, hydrangea, daffodils – very beautiful in season.

   • There are also places for picnics and playgrounds, which makes the park good for family holidays.

   • Access: approximately 25 minutes by bus from Atami Station.

8. Atami Sea Port (Atami Port)

   • Through the port there are tourist boat excursions, especially for a view of the coast, the islands in the Gulf of Suruga and the surrounding area.

   • A good starting point for boat trips and photos of the Atami coast.

Transport accessibility (to attractions)

• Train and bus

  • The main transport “entrance point” is Atami Station (JR). Many attractions are connected by bus routes from the station.

  • For example, the Atami Plum Garden can be reached by bus, walk or take a taxi.

  • To the MOA Museum: approximately 7-10 minutes by bus from Atami Station.

  • Akao Herb & Rose Garden is about 15 minutes from Atami Station to ACAO Forest.

• The Ropeway (Ropeway)

  • There is an Atami Ropeway that takes visitors up the hill, where some viewpoints and tour attractions are located.

  • Cost and schedule can vary – it’s convenient to check before traveling.

• Taxi.

  • Taxis are often used by tourists for convenience, especially if you want to visit several sites in a short time (e.g. temple + museum + garden). It’s faster than a bus, especially with limited time.

 

 

Activities in Atami

Winter / early spring (January – March)

• Plum Festival (Atami Plum Blossom Festival)
  Takes place from about mid-January to early March. In the garden of Atami (у, Baien) there are hundreds of plum trees - about 60 varieties. During the festival, cultural performances are organized: performances of taiko drums, geisha shows, tea ceremonies, live concerts. There is also a free distribution of amazake (a sweet rice drink) on some weekends.

• The Sakura Festival along the Ito River is decorated with flowering early cherry blossoms (early spring species, “atami sakura”), from about January 11 to early February. In the evening - cherry lighting, and on weekends there are additional events.

Spring / early summer (April – June)

• Sakura at Atami Castle (Atami Castle Sakura Festival)
  Many cherry blossoms are planted around the Atami Castle, and a cherry blossom festival is held during the flowering period (late March - early April).

• The Himenosawa Park Flower Festival
  In Himenosawa Park in late April – early May, azaleas bloom and a flower festival is held.

• Acao Rose Festa (Akao Garden Rose Festival)
  From the end of April to the end of June there is a festival of roses - thousands of roses, themed gardens, pink fragrances.

Summer (July - August)

• The Atami Marine Fireworks Festival
  One of the highlights of the year is the fireworks display over Atami Bay. There are several “sessions” of fireworks in the summer: in July and August.

• Izusan Hot Spring Fireworks Festival
  Port Izu - fireworks, especially spectacular "gold and silver Niagara" ("marriage fireworks").

• Taga Bay Fireworks Festival
  Also in August there is a large fireworks display near Taga Bay, with hundreds of explosions, a very beautiful sight.

Autumn (September-November)

• Autumn fireworks
  Atami conducts fireworks in the autumn period, not only in the summer.

• "Momiji Festival" Vв (Plum Garden)
  In late November - early December in the plum garden (Atami Baien) there is a festival of autumn foliage (momiji), when maple trees are painted in bright autumn colors. During this festival, there are lighting (ы) of trees and photo contests.

Other annual events

• е大е (Reitai-sai) in the Imamiya Shrine (Imamiya Shrine)
  For example, in October (in 2025 – 19 and 20 October) there is an annual festival in the temple with a parade, music, dances and traditional performances.

• Atami Kaijū Movie Festival
  Monsters / Kaiju Film Festival, where movies are shown (including classic ones), monster-themed drawing competitions, stylized events and food are held.

• New Year and Winter Fireworks
  Even in winter, fireworks are arranged in Atami – there are dates for December (for example, 6 and 25 December) according to the official calendar.

 

 

Weather and the best season to travel to Atami

Winter (December to February)

• Temperature: In winter, Atami is quite cool – in January, average daily highs are around 8.3 °C, lows can drop to ~2.8 °C.

• Precipitation: in the winter months, precipitation is less than in the summer.

• Snow: Snow is rare in Atami.

• Water temperature: Sea water in February is the coldest at about 15.3 °C.

Pros of winter: fewer people, a calmer atmosphere, cozy hot springs.
Cons: cold, the sea is not very suitable for swimming without protection.

Spring (March-May)

• Air temperature: in April, as an example, during the day ~ 15.8 ° C, at night ~ 9.9 ° C.

• Precipitation: humidity continues to be moderate; quite a few rainy days.

• Water temperature: in April - ~17.1 °C, which is quite cool for swimming.

Spring is a transitional period, the weather becomes milder and more pleasant, but the sea is still cool for a long swim.

Summer (June - August)

• Air temperature:

  • In June - about 23.0 ° C during the day, at night - 17.7 ° C.

  • In July, the average maximum is ~26.8 °C, a minimum of ~21.9 °C.

  • August is the hottest month: during the day ~28.5 °C, at night ~23.3 °C.

• Precipitation: July is the wettest month, many rainy days.

• Water temperature:

  • In June - ~21.6 °C.

  • In July - ~24.9 °C.

  • In August - the warmest water, about 26.2 ° C.

Summer is the best time for beach holidays and swimming: the air is warm, the water is warmest.

Autumn (September-November)

• Air temperature: for example, in September - ~24.9 °C during the day and ~20.1 °C at night.

• Precipitation: September can be wet, quite a few rainy days.

• Water temperature: In September, the water is still warm, around 25.8 °C.

Autumn is a very pleasant season: warm, but not hot, the sea is still warm, the atmosphere is calm.

 

 

Language of communication, traditions and customs of Atami

Language of communication

The main language is Japanese

In Atami, as in most cities outside Tokyo, the level of English can be medium or low. In hotels, tourist centers, and large shops, staff can often explain themselves in basic English, but on the streets and in small restaurants – not always.

Traditions and norms of behaviour

1. Bows.

A bow is the main gesture of respect. Slightly lean in response - polite and natural.

2. Shoes.

• In traditional hotels (ryokan), private houses and some restaurants, shoes are taken off at the entrance.

• Sometimes home slippers are provided; there may be separate slippers in the toilet.

3. Onsen (hot springs)

Atami has a lot of them. It is important to follow the rules:

• Be sure to wash in the shower before entering.

• Swimming costumes are prohibited - entrance is only naked;

• Tattoos may be restricted (some onsen are prohibited or require a patch sticker to cover).

4. Tea and food

• Champagne is not considered rude, but loud conversation is.

• Sticks can not be stuck vertically in rice - this is due to funerary rites.

• You can not pass food with chopsticks to each other - also a ritual association.

• In the restaurant tips are not left - it is not accepted.

5. Public places

• The Japanese appreciate silence. Transportation doesn't talk on the phone.

• Food is rarely eaten on the go; it is better to find a place and eat quietly.

• Garbage is thrown only in specially designated urns (which are few), so the Japanese carry garbage with them to the nearest place for sorting.

Laws and regulations you need to know

1. Smoking

• Smoking is strictly regulated.

• On the streets is often forbidden, there are special "smoking pots".

• In some public places there is a complete ban.

2. Alcohol

• The purchase and use of alcohol is allowed from the age of 20.

• It is possible to drink on the street, but it is considered not very cultural.

3. Drugs.

The laws are super strict. Even small amounts of any banned substances lead to arrest, deportation and a lifetime travel ban.

4. Roads and traffic

• Pedestrians cross the street only on crossings and strictly on green.

• Switching to red is a violation for which you can make a comment or write a fine.

5. Garbage and cleanliness

For dumping garbage in the wrong place can be fined. In general, the person is expected to leave the place cleaner than it was.

6. Noise and behaviour

Evening and night noise is a violation. Even in tourist areas, it is customary to speak quietly, especially after 20-21 hours.

7. Photography

• In temples and museums there may be no photo zones.

• Photographing people without permission is considered rude.

8. Money.

• In Japan, cash is still respected, especially in smaller establishments.

• It is accepted to transfer money through a special tray (the cashier serves it).

 

 

The main dialogues for traveling to Atami

Greetings

• ствуのству - konnichiva - hello

• Good morning - Ohayo Gozaimas

• ыйのыйのый - Combanva - good evening

• Saionara - Goodbye

• ) - mata ne - until (informally)

Politeness

• Arigato Gozaimas - thank you.

• の - sumimasen - sorry / please

• 大 42 - Onegaisimas - please

• - hi - yes

• - ie - no

Useful questions

• Do you speak English? - Do you speak English?

• I don't know, I don't understand.

• ,の,の,の,, Mo: itido oneegaishimas, please repeat

• - Where is the toilet? - Where is the toilet?

At the restaurant.

Keywords

• - Manu: - menu

• - mizu - water

• מя - oh thou - tea

• Osusume - recommended dish

• Betsu-betsu - separately (about the account)

• )42) - issho - together (one score)

Phrases

• .の., Menu o kassai. - Please give me the menu.

• .人. KORE o kassai. - This, please.

• Osusume wa arimas ka? - Is there anything recommended?

• Okaikei Onegaisimas. - Check, please.

Mini-dialogue

You are: .の.の.ש Sumimasen, meyu o kassai. Excuse me, the menu, please.

Waiter:??????? Yes, please.

You: .の. . KORE O KAKASAY. This, please.

In the store / shopping center

Useful phrases

• Ikura desca? - How much is it?

• Arimas ka? - Do you have...?

• Tetto miteiru dake des. - I'm just looking.

• Kore but saizu wa arimaska? - Is it in a different size?

• Kurejitto ka: do wa tsukaemas ka? - Can I pay with a card?

Mini-dialogue

Are you: ?の??Sumimasen, kore ikura desca? Excuse me, how much is this?

Seller: 1000 в San en des. - 1000 yen.

Transportation.

Phrases

• .️... e ikitai des. - I want to go to ...

• の Kono Dansha Wa Atami or Ikimaska? - Is this train going to Atami?

• Tsugi wa nan-eki deska? - Which station is next?

Useful words.

• - Eki - station

• - Denxia - train

• - basu - bus

• 国 - Deguchi - exit

Mini-dialogue

You are:С人. Sumimasen, Atami e Ikitai des. Sorry, I have to go to Atami.

Station employee: :の:国 Kono Danxia de Ikemas yo. You can take this train.

At the hotel/ryokan

Phrases

• .の.の. . Çekku-in o oneegaishimas. - I need a check-in.

• Yoyaku Shite Imas. - I have a reservation.

• Wi-Fi?Waifai wa Arimas ka? - Is there Wi-Fi?

• You, wa nan-ji deska? - What time is breakfast?

• の Taxi about yonde Moraemaska? - Can you call a cab?

Mini-dialogue

You: .大. . Yoyaku Shite Imas. I have a reservation.

Employee: 大.の.の.人. Onamae o oneegaishimas. Please give me a name.

Onsen (hot springs)

Useful phrases

• Doko de kigaimas ka? - Where do I change?

• Taoru wa arimaska? - Do you have towels?

• Irete mo and desca? - Can I come in?

• Sumimasen, tattoo ga arimas. Sorry, I have a tattoo (just in case).

Emergency phrases

• Taskate Kakasai! - Help me!

• In wa doko desca? - Where's the hospital?

• Kibun ga warui des. - I'm sick.

• Keisatsu about Yonde Kaksai. - Call the police.

 

 

Food, medicines, souvenirs and gifts in memory of the city of Atami

Atami and Izu branded products

1) Dza Kurobu (ленのлен) - local Himono (dried fish)

Atami is one of the centers of chimono production in Japan. These are fish fillets soaked in sea water and dried in the sun. What to bring: sealed vacuum kits. Why unique: the traditional taste of the region, a great gift for lovers of Japanese cuisine.

(2) Mikan (mandarin) from Izu and products thereof

The region is famous for sweet tangerines. What to buy:

• Mikan-Zeri - tangerine jelly

• tangerine

• tangerine

• tangerine

(3) Wasabi from Izu plantations (natural root)

The Izu Peninsula is the place to grow the best wasabi in Japan. You can buy:

• fresh root (very fragrant)

• premium paste

• wasabi

• wasabi nuts

(4) Kaki-no-ha sushi (sushi in persimmon leaves)

A rare regional product. Persimmon leaves give aroma and protect fish.

(5) Kamaboko of Atami (fish pies)

Often sold in gift sets, tender and fresh.

2. Sweets and delicacies

1) の の — Onsen mandyu

Steam cakes made in onsen pair. Atami has his own brand stores. Great souvenir - sold in beautiful boxes.

2) Izu-mannazuke - sweet pickled fruit

Maybe pear, persimmon, melon.

3) Traditional sweets "Yukari"

Mini-cookies/tea sweets sold only in Atami.

3. Medical and cosmetic products related to onsen

Atami is famous for hot springs, and on their basis make cosmetics and medicinal products.

1) Onsen Skin Care — hot spring water cosmetics

You can buy:

• lotions

• mask

• moisturizer

• bath salts (mimicking water Atami)

Drug patches (warming) for muscle fatigue

They are found all over Japan, but local brands are often sold in Atamian pharmacies.

3) ыのы (Yu-no-hana) - bath minerals

A mixture of minerals that mimics natural onsen water. It's a great gift, it's cheap.

(4) Remedies for leg fatigue after long walks

• cooler

• peppermint

4. Traditional crafts and souvenirs of the region

(1) Kamabi-ban - Izu pottery

Beautifully decorated dishes in blue and white, unique to the region.

2) Yugashima wood products

Carved caskets, stands for tea ceremony, sticks (hashi).

(3) Local incense (co:)

Izu is famous for its laconic aromas based on conifers and citrus fruits.

(4) Traditional Japanese Tenugui towels with Atami drawings

You can buy with images:

• fuji

• sea

• geyser

Amulets from Atami (Omamori) temples

Especially popular:

• health

• plague

• travel

5. Locally produced alcohol

(1) Sake from Izu (local sake crafters)

Most are small family businesses. The taste is mild, slightly sweet.

2) Mikan-liquor

A light tangerine drink. Very nice, almost dessert.

(3) Umeshu - plum wine

Atami has its own recipes, often with the addition of mandarin or wasabi (!).

 

 

Rest safety, documents, insurance, telephones, Internet in Atami

1. Security in Japan

1. General level of security

   • Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, with a low crime rate and a very good police force.

   • However, natural risks are possible: earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis.

   • In the event of a strong earthquake, if you are on the coast, it is better to move to higher ground to reduce the risk of a tsunami.

2. Evacuation and emergency preparedness

   • Explore where the nearest shelters/safe zones are located.

   • Keep a map and evacuation information apps on hand (many tourists use local earthquake warning apps).

2. Documents required for travel

1. Passport

   • The passport must be valid for the entire period of stay.

   • It is also important that there are enough blank pages for printing.

2. Visa/Residence Permit

   • According to official rules, citizens of many countries can stay in Japan without a visa for up to 90 days if the purpose of the trip is tourism.

   • For those who need a visa: for a tourist visa, the “period of stay” is usually 15, 30 or 90 days.

   • The validity period of the visa itself (“validity”) can be, for example, 3 months during which you need to enter.

3. Additional documents

   • When applying through the consulate may require: work certificates, bank statement, travel itinerary, booking accommodation.

   • If you apply for a visa, a questionnaire, a photo, a letter of invitation, if necessary, is filled in.

3. Insurance

• Medical insurance is mandatory: it is highly recommended to have travel health insurance covering hospitalization, treatment and repatriation – especially in case of accidents or emergencies.

• Choose a policy that is valid in Japan, with good coverage.

• Be sure to keep insurance documents (paper and electronic copies) to present if necessary.

4. Emergency telephones and contacts

• Police in Japan are 110.

• Ambulance/Fire Service 119. (This is a general emergency number for medical care and fires.)

• Consular Services: It is helpful to have contact with your embassy/consulate in Japan. For example, in the memo to the tourist indicated: the Russian Embassy in Tokyo.

• English Speaker Hotline: There are services that can help in English, such as TELL (Tokyo English Life Line) for psychological support and emergency counseling.

5. Mobile communications and operators

• It is best to buy a SIM card for tourists or rent a pocket Wi-Fi on arrival. So you will stay in touch and in case of emergency you can call.

• In Japan, major mobile operators – NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au; they have options for tourists (prepaid SIM).

• Many airports (including Tokyo and major international airports) offer racks with SIM or Wi-Fi routers.

6. How many tourists can live without leaving (visa regime)

• As already mentioned, a short-term tourist visit can be up to 90 days (for many countries).

• Important: “period of stay” is the number of days allowed, even if the visa provides a longer “window” for entry.

• Renewal of Temporary Visitor status is possible, but very rarely and only for exceptional reasons.

• Some travel sources mention the possibility of multiple entries, but beware: frequent “visa wounds” can raise questions about immigration. “There’s no upper limit to how many times you stay 90 days”