Table of contents:
This travelogue chronicles my experiences in Atami, a city in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Atami is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, offering a relaxing and enjoyable time. I will detail my journey from Tokyo to Atami, my experiences at the Guest House Atami, various attractions and activities in Atami, and local dishes of the region. If you're planning a trip to Atami, you'll find some tips and recommendations here to help plan your journey.
From Tokyo to Atami
By Train
Atami is super accessible from Tokyo, and the train journey is short. Within Atami, you can also easily take the bus. There are several lines that will take you wherever you want.
Shinkansen Option
If you're in a hurry, you can take the Shinkansen. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and costs between 4,000 and 5,000 Yen. But even if you don't want to spend a lot of money, there is a cheaper option by taking the local train.
Local Option
The journey by local train takes a little longer, but it's much cheaper - only about 1,000 - 2,000 Yen. The journey takes about 2 hours.
The cheapest fare can only be selected on the mobile device, making the cost more transparent. This applies to both the Shinkansen and the local train.
By Car
If you're travelling by car, you can also drive to Atami. But be careful, because Atami is very mountainous and you need to be familiar with the area and have experience driving here. The journey takes about 2 hours and you can enjoy the scenery along the way.
Hotel - Guest House Atami
If you're travelling to Atami and looking for an authentic Japanese experience without breaking the bank, you should definitely stay at the Guest House Atami. During my trip, I was able to enjoy a traditional atmosphere and beautiful ocean views. The Ryokan-style room was equipped with tatami mats and futons, providing a cozy and authentic sleeping place.
The receptionist was very friendly and spoke some English, which can be a relief for some.
It is important to note, however, that shoes are not allowed throughout the hotel. As in traditional hotels/Ryokans, you have to leave your shoes outside and walk around the hotel in slippers. There are special slippers for the toilets.
The bathroom was very clean and even though we had to share the toilets with other guests on the floor, it wasn't a problem for us. There were two showers on the second floor, which were also very clean. Washing machines were also available, which was a big plus for us.
The highlight of our stay, however, was the Onsen on the first floor. After a long day of exploring, we could relax here and enjoy the breathtaking ocean views.
The price of 18,000 Yen (120 Euro) per night during Golden Week may seem a bit high for some, but it's definitely worth it. After Golden Week, prices range between 100 and 170 Euro depending on the room.
Overall, I had a wonderful stay at the Guest House Atami and I can recommend it to anyone looking for an authentic and relaxing accommodation in Atami.
Tip: You can drop off your luggage before the check-in time of 15:00, as the hotel is only 5 minutes from Atami Station, making it perfect for exploring the city or the beach before checking in. Even after checking out, it is possible to leave your luggage at the reception to explore the city or castle and pick up your luggage later to go home.
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/vdHdjrL4VK2owNnY6
Booking.com: https://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/guesthouse-maruya.en.html?aid=8007223&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2
Find more hotels in Atami
Affiliate Link: If you book a hotel through my widget or link on Booking.com, I will receive a small commission. There are no additional costs for you and you support my blog. I am very grateful and wish you lots of fun travelling (^_^) .Onsen in Atami
There are many Onsens in Atami, known for their healing properties. However, if you are traveling to Atami during spring or summer, you have many other options besides bathing in the hot springs, as it is not for everyone. We had an Onsen in our hotel that allowed us to relax after a long day of exploring.
Atami Sun Beach
Atami Sun Beach is a beautiful sandy beach where you can spend a lot of time depending on the weather. If you are travelling with your family, this beach is especially recommended. The kids can play in the sand and splash in the sea while you relax in the sun. The beach is very clean and well-maintained, and the ocean views are breathtaking. Another plus of Atami Sun Beach is that there are hardly any waves due to the breakwaters. So if you prefer swimming in the sea rather than surfing, you've come to the right place. If you are in Atami, you should definitely plan a visit to Atami Sun Beach. Here's a Google Maps address: https://goo.gl/maps/6X7sctRXBr1TKdWN9
Atami Castle
Atami Castle is one of the main attractions of the city of Atami and offers a great view of the city and the sea. The entrance fee of 1,100 Yen was personally too expensive for me. However, if you are willing to pay the price, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the sea.
Although I wasn't inside, I could marvel from the outside at how beautiful the castle is. If you think the entrance fee is beyond your budget, you can still admire the beauty of the castle from the outside.
Besides the castle, you can relax in the cafe / restaurant right next door and enjoy the view. The place also offers fantastic views of the city of Atami and the sea.
https://goo.gl/maps/MaamxkgXDjPvMQdx7
Atami Ropeway
In my opinion, the Atami Ropeway is a great way to get to Atami Castle and up the mountain. The price for adults is 400 Yen for a one-way trip up and 700 Yen for a round trip. Children pay 300 Yen or 400 Yen for a round trip. The views during the ride are breathtaking and definitely worth a visit.
https://goo.gl/maps/DnxSCmBMpRyveBMk7
Maguroya - Restaurant right at the station
When you arrive at the station, you should definitely visit Maguroya. The food is not only very delicious, but also inexpensive. I tried the Kinmedai Nitsuke and found it simply delicious. The fish is called "northern slimehead" in English. I also ordered Masu (Sea Trout) and Ikura, which are salmon eggs. Also very delicious!
Maguroya is only a three-minute walk from Atami Station, making it very easy to get to. If you are looking for good food at a reasonable price, this is definitely the place for you. You can find more information on Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/gkgt3QR5YWrC2wXg6
Coffee Denen
I found a small, cozy café in Atami that I would like to recommend to you. It's called Coffee Denen and has a rustic charm that reminds me of grandma's living room. I ordered a delicious ham sandwich and one with egg and it was simply delicious. The perfect place to take a break from exploring the city and relax. If you are looking for a cozy café, you should visit Coffee Denen.
https://goo.gl/maps/PUGAYUhVwS9iMiW29
Izakaya (Uotami Atami Ekimae)
If you are looking for a place to eat well and inexpensively in the evening, you should definitely visit the Izakaya (Uotami Atami Ekimae). There is very tasty food at relatively inexpensive prices. I was impressed that the Izakaya is open until 01:00, which is really rare in Atami and other places outside big cities, as many restaurants close at 21:00. Although Google Maps has many bad reviews, I can really recommend the Izakaya. Of course, it can be different in peak season, but I think you will have a good time there. Take a look here: https://goo.gl/maps/gGCeWxVotfKnLG6Q9 and convince yourself.
Kinomiya Shrine with 2,000 Year Old Tree
Want to relax in Atami and looking for a special place? Then you should definitely visit the Kinomiya Shrine! Here you will not only find two historical trees, one of which is over 2,000 years old, but also two to three cafes. If you're in the mood for something sweet, there's also matcha and traditional Japanese sweets. I personally can recommend the caramel soft ice cream - it tastes simply delicious! The shrine is a great place to enjoy nature and relax. So, what are you waiting for? Visit the Kinomiya Shrine and experience an unforgettable moment in Atami!
MOA Museum
The MOA Museum is a real highlight of Atami. Unfortunately, I didn't have time to visit the museum, as it can only be reached on foot or by car and I didn't have time to walk up the mountain. But if you have the opportunity to visit the museum, you should definitely do it! The views of Atami and the sea from above are said to be breathtaking.
Atami Nakamise
The Atami Nakamise is a shopping street for Omiyage (souvenirs) where you can also find street food like fish cakes, ice cream, and ramen. You will also find some cafes and restaurants there. Located right at the exit of the station, it is the perfect place to have a bite to eat before leaving and get Omiyages for your loved ones. The atmosphere here is very lively and there are many vendors who are happy to show you their products. If you are a fan of Japanese street food or just looking for a special souvenir, then Atami Nakamise is the perfect place for you!
https://goo.gl/maps/vSzqhfsGDFUL1U3r7
ACAO FOREST - Park
I have to say that I was a bit disappointed when I wanted to enter the park. The entrance fee of 4,000 Yen was simply too expensive for me personally. However, I had read that the price can vary depending on the season. Maybe I was just there at the wrong time. In the Google Maps reviews, I read that the price is usually between 1,000 and 2,000 Yen. Due to the high price, I decided not to visit the park. I think there are many other places in Atami that you can visit without spending so much money.
https://goo.gl/maps/vdDvs4tLAvNGPfYz7
Herb House Atami
Before the entrance to the park, I discovered a small café called Herb House Atami. The café offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and is located right in front of the entrance to the park. I ordered a delicious iced tea and relaxed. Even though I didn't visit the park, I found it worthwhile just for this magnificent view and the relaxed atmosphere that the café offers. So if you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the view, you should visit the Herb House Atami. There is also a shop right next to the café that sells many different herbal teas and herbs like lavender.
https://goo.gl/maps/bXkF2CJ48zU3ZgCL9
Local Dishes of Atami
If you're travelling to Atami, you should definitely try the local dishes. As Atami is located on the coast, fish plays an important role in the regional cuisine. Here are some of the dishes I tried during my stay in Atami:
Kinmedai
Kinmedai is a fish also known as "northern slimehead". I tried it at a restaurant at Atami Station and it was simply delicious. The fish is very tender and has a mild flavour. If you like fish, you should definitely try Kinmedai.
Onsen Manju
Onsen Manju is a traditional Japanese sweet that is typically enjoyed during a visit to hot springs. The sweet consists of a unique mixture of flour, sugar and rice flour. The dough is then wrapped around various fillings, including sweet red bean paste, green tea and even chestnuts.
Shirasu-Don
Shirasu-Don is another popular dish in Atami. It consists of steamed rice topped with small, white raw fish called Shirasu. The fish is very tender and has a mild flavour that goes well with the rice.
Himono
Himono is air-dried fish, which is very popular in Atami. The dried fish has an intense flavour.
Conclusion of the trip to Atami
Atami is an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy a relaxing trip. The city offers a variety of activities, including Onsen, beaches, parks, shrines and museums. Getting there from Tokyo is easy and fast, either by train or car. The Guest House Atami is a great option for those looking for an authentic Japanese experience. The accommodation offers a traditional atmosphere and beautiful ocean views. The price may be a bit high, but the experience is definitely worth it. There are also many opportunities to try local dishes like Kinmedai, Onsen Manju and Shirasu-Don in Atami.
Overall, Atami is a great destination for anyone looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and wants to enjoy a relaxing time. The city offers a variety of activities and sights that are suitable for families and solo travellers alike. Although some places like the MOA Museum or the ACAO Forest can be a bit expensive, there are also many affordable options like Atami Sun Beach or Maguroya. I can recommend Atami to anyone who is looking for a relaxing and authentic Japanese experience.
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