All About Atami Onsen

Atami is a bustling hot spring town right by the seaside on the Izu Peninsula. Considered the gateway to Izu from Tokyo, continuing down south will take you to several other hot spring resorts on the peninsula offering their unique feel.

Atami is a popular destination for Tokyo residents and has something to offer year-round. In the colder months, its healing hot spring waters are the perfect place to relax. In warmer months, its beaches and famed fireworks make it a hotspot for tourists and locals alike.

Whether visiting Atami on a quick relaxing day trip or looking to stay for a weekend, here’s everything you need to know about this hot spring town.

The main station in Atami is JR Atami Station, easily accessible from Tokyo and other main cities.

From Tokyo: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen traveling towards Nagoya, Osaka, or Okayama, and you can be there in under an hour. Alternatively, you can take the Odoriko express train, which will take a little over an hour.

From Osaka or Kyoto: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen towards Tokyo, and you’ll reach Atami Station without a single transfer in around two hours.

History records from as early as 713 mention Atami Onsen, famed for its therapeutic bathing facilities. About a hundred years ago, everyone from politicians to famous artists and even royalty created private villas in Atami so that they could enjoy its baths and prime seaside location. You can visit Kiunkaku — one of the villas built in 1919 — as it’s been designated a tangible cultural property and is open to the public.

Besides its countless hot spring facilities, Atami has plenty of other attractions to offer.

Atami Castle: Famous landmark that offers beautiful floral views during cherry blossom season — and fireworks during the summer.

Acao Forest: Located on a hilltop, enjoy the panoramic view of Sagami Bay and the 13 themed gardens in an expansive area of over 600,000 square meters.

Jukkoku Pass: If it’s a clear day out, take the cable car to the top of Jukkoku Pass for a stunning view of Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay.

MOA Museum of Art: If you’re looking to peruse some art, head to the MOA Museum of Art. It houses a spectacular collection of Japanese and East Asian art and even has three national treasures, a Japanese garden, tea houses, and a traditional noh theater.

Atami Fireworks Festival: If your timing is right, you may be able to catch these fireworks that are held multiple times a year.

Atami Onsen Yamaki Ryokan

Atami Onsen Yamaki Ryokan is conveniently located right in the middle of Atami’s downtown district and just a four-minute walk from the harbor. With hot spring baths and meals prepared with local Atami ingredients to offer, this ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) is perfect for anyone looking for a traditional Japanese stay at an affordable price.

Atami Onsen Atami no Yu Shin Kadoya

Atami Onsen Atami no Yu Shin Kadoya is just outside of downtown Atami, giving it a more peaceful and tucked-away feel. This chic modern hotel overlooks the Sagami Sea and even has a rooftop tub to enjoy the view while you relax.

Shiosai no Yado Fujima

Shiosai no Yado Fujima is located further south of Atami’s downtown, but it’s worth the short trek away. It’s just across the street from the ocean and a three-minute walk to the beautiful Nagahama Seaside Park. With only five rooms, it’s a more intimate ryokan, making for a more private stay. Every room has an ocean view, and there are three private baths to relax in. For dinner and breakfast, enjoy Japanese dishes using fresh local ingredients.

Other Accommodations in Atami Onsen