Imagine a place where the sea whispers secrets to the shore, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern delights. Atami, nestled along Japan’s coastline, is more than just a neighborhood—it’s a canvas of hidden alleys, steaming onsens, and flavors waiting to be savored.
In our Atami area guide, we’ll wander off the beaten path, tracing the contours of this coastal gem.
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A Quick Primer to Atami
Atami, a picturesque seaside city in Shizuoka Prefecture, is just a 40-minute Shinkansen ride away from Tokyo, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quick escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The city offers a breathtaking tableau, with the majestic Mt. Fuji looming in the distance, the serene waters of the Pacific Ocean at its shores, and cherry blossoms adding a splash of color to the landscape during spring. Renowned for its therapeutic hot springs and fresh, delectable seafood, Atami is a haven for relaxation and culinary delights.
This guide has curated the best activities and gastronomic experiences in Atami—from soaking in ancient onsens to sampling the catch of the day at a seaside restaurant, we ensure you’ll capture the essence of this enchanting city.
Things to Do in Atami
Atami Ekimae Shotengai
The Atami Ekimae Shotengai, also known as Heiwadori Shopping Street, was built to create a fun and memorable space where people can browse and receive a warm welcome to Atami. With various shops and restaurants, you can taste local delicacies and popular gourmet spots that have been featured in television programmes and magazines. Recently, Atami Ekimae Shotengai has launched an Instagram page to provide more detailed information on each shop in the shopping street. Make sure to check it out.
Find out more about Atami Ekimae Shotengai here on Google maps.
Atami Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
Stepping into Atami Nakamise-dori Shopping Street is like travelling back in time. With its nostalgic atmosphere, the shopping street hosts shops dating back to the ’60s and ’70s, giving you a glimpse of the Showa era. Famous for its sweet shops, it’s a must-visit along with Atami Heiwadori.
Find out more about Atami Nakamise-dori Shopping Street here on Google maps.
Omiya-no-matsu
Omiya-no-matsu, rooted back to the Edo era and originally known as ‘Hagoromo-no-matsu’, was planted by Elder Matsudaira Izunokami Nobutsuna. The tree gained fame in the late 1890s when featured in Koyo Ozaki’s novel, ‘Konjiki Yasha’.
It was renamed Omiya-no-matsu after a student of Ozaki placed a monument with inscriptions from his master next to the pine. The monument commemorates a poignant scene from the novel. This famous tourist spot in Atami is worth capturing for its stunning beauty.
Find out more about Omiya-no-matsu here on Google maps.
Jacaranda Promenade
The Jacaranda Promenade is renowned for its Jacarandas in full bloom from June to early summer, displaying a vibrant violet colour. It’s a spectacular sight and offers excellent photography opportunities, making it highly recommended if you are in Atami during the summer.
Find out more about Jacaranda promenade here on Google maps.
Ozawa no Yu 熱海七湯 小沢の湯
Ozawa no Yu is one of Atami’s seven hot springs. Many tourists purchase eggs from the nearby convenience store to cook in the steam from the hot spring.
Find out more about Ozawa no Yu 熱海七湯 小沢の湯 here on Google maps.
Yumae-jinja Shrine
Just a 15-minute walk from Atami station, Yumae-jinja Shrine is a place to visit, especially renowned for protecting Atami Onsen. Dating back to the Heian period, visitors come to honour the ‘God of hot springs’.
Find out more about Yumae-jinja Shrine here on Google maps.
Itokawa Promenade 糸川遊歩道
Famous for having some of the earliest blooming cherry blossom trees in Japan, Itokawa Promenade is recommended for a visit on your way to Atami Beach.
Find out more about Itokawa Promenade 糸川遊歩道 here on Google maps.
Atami Water Park
Atami Water Park offers a pleasant stroll with waterfront and harbour views, featuring an elevated terrace overlooking the harbour. At night, the terrace is illuminated, popular for romantic confessions. It’s also a fantastic spot to watch the Atami fireworks.
Find out more about Atami Water Park here on Google maps.
熱海山口美術館 Atamiyamaguchi Museum
The Atamiyamaguchi Museum, open for just over a year, hosts around 200 works by renowned artists like Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Pablo Picasso. Unlike most museums, photography and interaction with certain exhibits are encouraged. Special courses supported by professors from the Tokyo University of the Arts help nurture new artists.
Find out more about 熱海山口美術館 Atamiyamaguchi Museum here on Google maps.
起雲閣 Kiunkaku
Kiunkaku, one of the ‘three major villas of Atami’, was built as a villa in 1919 and became a renowned gathering place for literary masters like Osamu Dazai in 1947. It’s famous for blending modern and traditional architecture. Surrounded by a lush Japanese garden, it offers a tranquil environment for visitors.
Find out more about 起雲閣 Kiunkaku here on Google maps.
アタミロープウェイ山麓駅(後楽園駅) Atami Ropeway
The Atami Ropeway offers a stunning way to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Atami as it ascends the steep cliffs of Mt. Hachiman. Once at the top, numerous activities await, including the Umisora deck, offering breathtaking views over the sea. If visiting with your partner, you can purchase an Ema and tie it to the votive tablet at the observatory. Every New Year’s Eve, these tablets are burned in a ceremony believed to bring good luck and blessings to marriages.
Find out more about アタミロープウェイ山麓駅(後楽園駅) Atami Ropeway here on Google maps.
熱海秘宝館 Hihokan – Adult Museum Atami
Atami Hihokan offers a quirky and amusing experience with its focus on the art of sex. From historical perspectives to modern interpretations, it’s a place for some light-hearted fun.
Find out more about 熱海秘宝館 Hihokan – Adult Museum Atami here on Google maps.
熱海城 Atami Castle
Atami Castle, standing 120 metres above sea level, offers one of the best views over Sagami Bay. Built in 1959 in the architectural style of the Momoyama period, it features multiple floors with various attractions. Visit the Atami Castle website for detailed information on what each floor offers.
Find out more about 熱海城 Atami Castle here on Google maps.
熱海梅園 Atami Plum Garden
The Atami Plum Garden is a splendid place to visit from late November to early December when the first plum blossoms bloom. With around 60 varieties among 469 plum trees, it offers a scenic walk and additional attractions like the Shinpei Nakayama Memorial Museum and Korean Gardens.
Find out more about 熱海梅園 Atami Plum Garden here on Google maps.
來宮神社 Kinomiya Shrine
Kinomiya Shrine, revered as the residence of the God of fortune and luck, is a place where many come to worship and seek blessings for health and good fortune. It hosts the ‘burning festival’ from July 14th-16th, offering a deep insight into its intriguing history.
Find out more about Kinomiya Shrine here on Google maps.
MOA Museum of Art
Since its opening in 1982 and its modern renovation in 2017, the MOA Museum of Art remains a grand venue to explore and appreciate Japanese culture through art. With ongoing exhibitions, it aims to interact with the local community and foster an ‘international tourism and cultural city’. The museum is strongly committed to art education, offering various programmes for students.
Find out more about MOA Museum of Art here on Google maps.
Restaurants in Atami
Kiito
Founded 200 years ago, Kiito is the longest-established store in Atami, famous for its chestnut confectionery. You can watch the chestnut paste being expertly prepared, enhancing the experience of tasting this Japanese delicacy
Find out more about Kiito here on Google maps.
Densuke Chaya
Densuke Chaya offers fresh seafood dishes at reasonable prices, with a splendid ocean view. The mixed fried set meal comes highly recommended by many satisfied customers for its fluffiness and crispiness.
Find out more about Densuke Chaya here on Google maps.
Irori Chaya
Irori Chaya is a seafood restaurant renowned for its fresh sashimi, especially the horse mackerel ochazuke. The restaurant provides a relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy a hearty meal.
Find out more about Irori Chaya here on Google maps.
KICHI+（キチプラス）
For a taste of local seafood, visit KICHI+. Offering special rice bowls with raw shirasu, boiled shirasu, and sakura shrimp for lunch, KICHI+ uses ingredients sourced from the suburbs of Izu and Atami, ensuring a genuine local dining experience. They also serve local sake and Shizuoka craft beer, enhancing the authentic ambience.
Find out more about KICHI+（キチプラス） here on Google maps.
Atami Purin
Featured in various TV programs, Atami Purin is celebrated for its nostalgic taste and unique flavours such as hot spring eggs or salt, adding a distinct ‘Atami-ness’ to the dessert. All purins are handmade, adding to their authenticity.
Find out more about Atami Purin here on Google maps.
Ichigo BonBon Berry Atami House
If you’re a strawberry enthusiast, Ichigo BonBon Berry Atami House is a must-visit. Featured in many TV shows and magazines, it offers a variety of strawberry-based treats like Ichigo Daifuku or the Strawberry Mochi Mochi Milk Parfait Deluxe. Each floor has a unique interior, making the experience even more enjoyable.
Find out more about Ichigo BonBon Berry Atami House here on Google maps.
Top Accommodations in Atami
Hotel New Akao
Located a 10-minute ride from JR Atami Train Station, Hotel New Akao offers modern accommodations with hot-spring baths boasting ocean views, a rooftop garden, and a French restaurant. Spacious guest rooms provide air conditioning, heating, a fridge, a tea/coffee maker, and a TV. The en-suite bathroom includes toiletries and a bathtub. The hotel also features a seasonal outdoor pool and free WiFi in all areas except the on-site restaurant.
Atami Korakuen hotel
Situated 2 km from Kinomiya Shrine, Atami Korakuen Hotel offers a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a terrace. Located around 4.2 km from Izusan Shrine and 5 km from Nagahama Beach, the hotel provides a 24-hour front desk and room service. Rooms are equipped with a kettle, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and some feature a balcony. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and relax in the sauna.
Onsen Hostel Hinoemi
Onsen Hostel Hinoemi provides a home away from home, just 45 minutes from central Tokyo by bullet train. With its own onsen on the property, guests can enjoy unlimited access to the natural hot spring. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, countryside atmosphere, free WiFi access is available throughout the property.
Atami: A Coastal Paradise
Atami isn’t just about soaking in hot springs—it’s a place packed with culture, nature, and history, ready to surprise and delight you at every corner. From the gorgeous bloom of plum and cherry blossoms in spring to the vibrant local art displayed in its museums and galleries, there’s always something new to discover.
Come to relax in the soothing thermal waters, wander around ancient shrines, or soak up the stunning coastal views. Dive into the local cuisine, experience the warm hospitality at our cozy hotels, and capture beautiful moments that you’ll treasure forever.
Keep this guide close as you wander through Atami, and if you have any questions or need tips to make your trip even better, just reach out. Atami is ready to show you its wonders, ensuring your visit is as memorable as it is fun. Enjoy exploring this charming city, and let Atami charm you with its hidden treasures.
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