Atami is about an hour from Tokyo and famous for hot springs. It has nice old ambiance that is different from Tokyo or Osaka. I visited Atami a few weeks ago and really enjoyed it. I recommend Atami for those who would like to experience hot springs. Price varies but some places are quite reasonable compared with Hakone.
Access to Atami
If you plan to take train from Tokyo Station, there are 3 options:
- JR Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train) “KODAMA” 45 min.
- JR Express “ODORIKO” 1 hour 20 min.
- JR Tokaido Honsen 1 hour 42 min.
The quickest way is to take Shinkansen. Please note that only “KODAMA” stops at Atami Station. “NOZOMI” nor “HIKARI” do not stop at Atami.
Hot springs
Atami is one of the most famous hot springs resorts in Japan. There are more than 500 hot spring sources in Atami. Historically, it was known since Nara Period and eve Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Shogun of the Edo Shogunate, visited Atami for the hot springs.
There are variety of Ryokans (Japanese Inns) and Hotels. You can choose according to your preference and budget. Most of the Ryokans have plans with dinner and breakfast.
I visited one of the hotel that has been renovated recently. It has nice “Retro” looks but rooms are western style with beds so it was comfortable. Most traditional Ryokans have Japanese style rooms (with futon)
Even if you don’t have enough time and just want to spend few hours, try “Atami Bay Resort Korakuen” They have spa zone, launge, restaurant and food market.
What else can you do in Atami?
When you get off at Atami Station, there is a small shoppingn mall at the station. There is also a foot bath in front of the station. If you arrive early, you can walk around the station area. There is a shopping streets called “Atami Ginza” There are restaurats, sweets, coffee shops and sourvenir shops.
If you would like to visit a famous shrine there, Kinomiya Shrine is impressive. There is a sacred camphor tree that is 2100 years old.
If you would like to visit an art museum, MOA Museum is really beautiful. They have a wonderful collection of Japanese style paintings (Nihon ga) and a folding screen and a vase that is National Treasure. They also have a Japanese Garden. There are restaurants and cafes, too.
If you like to do marine activities, Hotel New Akao has SUP, Snorkeling, Kayak and etc. Reservation is required for the activities. The hotel also has “retro” game corners, karaoke, table tennis to experience nostalgic onsen (hot spring) experience.
If you would like unique experience, there is a small island called “Hatsushima.” It takes 30 min. from Atami Port by ferry. There is a cottage, resutaurant, marine and outdoor activity facilities.
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