Things To Do
WATER
With the cool waters of Sagami Bay and countless mountain hot springs, Atami is refreshing and relaxing in equal measure. Early risers can watch the sun come up from Atami Sun Beach – or drop by later in the day for a sheltered sea swim. Follow up a busy few days in nearby Tokyo with a rejuvenating onsen experience and let the natural hot spring water work its magic.
EVENTS
Torn between wanting to explore Japan in the colder months, and being here for cherry blossom season? Atami flowers earlier than anywhere else in this part of Japan, with trees bursting into colour from January to early February. The city comes alive with festivals to mark the season, with the Plum Festival playing host to cultural performances and tea ceremonies. Stroll along Itokawa Promenade to see the delicate pink cherry blossoms, or Atami Plum Garden to witness plum and cherry flowering together. And if you’re here in autumn, the garden flames with fiery red maple trees.
FOOD & DRINK
It’s no surprise that fresh seafood is the dish of the day in coastal Atami. As well as more familiar sushi, try variations such as Kaisendon – a seafood bowl of rice topped with sashimi. Or try Himono (sun-dried and grilled fish) if you love rich, umami flavours. The region is also a top grower of bitter orange (Daidai), with cafés and bars throughout the city offering Daidai-infused drinks and cocktails. Finally, you’ll be sure to find plenty of authentic matcha and matcha sweets for a pick-me-up as you explore.
