ATAMI SEASIDE FIREWORKS FESTIVAL

Kinomiya Shrine is dedicated to Kinomiya Daimyojin, a deity of good luck and happiness, and local people have worshipped here since ancient times. The giant camphor tree (O-Kusu) , more than 2,000 years old, that towers over the shrine is more than 2,000 years old and is designated as a natural monument, and is also venerated. Why not offer up a prayer to the camphor tree and connect to eternity?

The 360-degree panoramic view from the castle, which stands 43 metres above sea level, is Atami’s finest, taking in not only the whole of Atami City, but also Yugawara, the Manazuru Peninsula and, on clear days, the islands of Hatsushima and Ohshima, and the Ajiro and Ito areas of Izu Peninsula. At the top of the castle you will find a footbath to help you relax while enjoying the view.

Atami Plum Garden is famous for having the earliest-blossoming plum trees (ume) in Japan, and for its late-turning autumn leaves. With a total of 472 plum trees of 59 different varieties, including many that are over 100 years old, and around 380 trees whose foliage turns red in autumn, it is a beautiful sight all year round.

Centring on oriental paintings, calligraphy and handicraft, the museum has a collection of some 3,500 pieces, including three national treasures and 65 important cultural properties. It is situated in grounds measuring over 230,000 square metres overlooking Atami, and the main lobby offers a panoramic view of the bay, including the islands of Hatsushima and Izu Ohshima.

Himenosawa Park has been named one of Japan’s 100 best urban parks, and covers over a million square metres on a hillside. With more than 800 different species of plants and trees, there is something to see all year round, including cherry blossom and azaleas in spring, hydrangeas and water lilies in summer, the red leaves of the Japanese maples in autumn, and camellias in winter.

Hatsushima is the closest inhabited island to Tokyo. Thanks to a mild climate, it has colourful flowers in blossom all year round, and offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. Time seems to pass more slowly on Hatsushima, and far from the noise of the city, with a variety of restaurants run by the island’s fishermen and a wide range of accommodation, including villas, it’s the perfect island getaway.