Detailed Overview of Atami Onsen: History and Highlights

 

　Table of Contents

1. What is Atami Onsen?
2. History of Atami Onsen
3. Must-Visit Attractions at Atami Onsen
   

Introduction

Atami Onsen is one of Japan's premier hot spring destinations, renowned for its rich history and stunning natural surroundings. The hot spring town retains a nostalgic charm with retro streets reminiscent of the Showa era, offering visitors a delightful experience of strolling through the area while savoring local delicacies and enjoying the unique hospitality of traditional accommodations.

In addition to its therapeutic hot springs, Atami boasts a diverse range of attractions. Visitors can explore historic shrines, serene gardens, and cutting-edge museums, as well as modern resort facilities. The area caters to all interests, providing a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

This article delves into the unique features and historical significance of Atami Onsen while highlighting the must-see attractions in the area. Let’s embark on a journey into the captivating world of Atami Onsen！

1. What is Atami Onsen? 

Atami Onsen, located in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is one of Japan's most renowned hot spring resorts. Together with Beppu Onsen and Ito Onsen, it is considered one of the "Three Great Hot Spring Resorts of Japan." The onsen town is characterized by its retro streets that retain a strong Showa-era atmosphere, offering visitors a sense of nostalgia and novelty at the same time. The Peace Street Shopping District and the Nakamise Shopping District are particularly iconic, featuring old-style buildings where visitors can experience the charm of the Showa period. These shopping streets are popular for strolling and sampling local delicacies, including fresh seafood and specialty products from the area.

The history of Atami Onsen is ancient. According to the Izumi Fudoki (compiled in 713), it is said that the deity Okuninushi no Mikoto, concerned about the premature deaths of people in the land of Akitsu, taught the secrets of medicinal hot springs to Sukunahikona no Mikoto and sent him to the "Sacred Hot Springs of Izu." This is believed to mark the origin of Atami Onsen. In the Edo period, Tokugawa Ieyasu visited Atami in 1604 for therapeutic bathing. Following this, hot spring water from Atami was transported to Edo Castle, attracting many feudal lords and cultural figures to Atami Onsen.

Atami Onsen boasts over 500 hot spring sources and an abundant flow of approximately 20,000 liters of water per minute. The primary water type is sodium-calcium chloride, accounting for about 80% of the hot springs. Approximately 90% of the springs have temperatures above 42 degrees Celsius, with an average temperature of around 63 degrees Celsius, making Atami one of the leading high-temperature hot spring resorts in Japan. The waters are clear, offering excellent heat retention and reputed beauty-enhancing effects. Depending on the water type, Atami Onsen is said to be beneficial for cuts, burns, chronic skin diseases, frailty in children, and chronic gynecological issues.

Atami Onsen is also home to the "Seven Hot Springs of Atami," which have been cherished since the Edo period. These include "Oyu," "Nonaka no Yu," "Ozawa no Yu," "Furo no Yu," "Me no Yu," "Seizaemon no Yu," and "Kawarayu," which have been restored as tourist attractions today. Surrounded by the scenic coastline of Sagami Bay and abundant natural beauty, the onsen town features numerous ryokan (traditional inns) and hotels. Atami Station, the starting point of the Ito Line, is conveniently accessible from Tokyo, taking only about 50 minutes via the Shinkansen, making it a popular destination for tourists from the metropolitan area. Throughout the year, Atami hosts events such as fireworks festivals, drawing large crowds of visitors.

2. The History of Atami Onsen 

Atami Onsen, located in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most prominent hot spring resorts. Its history spans from ancient times to the present day, shaped by numerous significant events. Below is a chronological summary of its major milestones.

　1. 713: Mention in the Izumi Fudoki 

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The Izumi Fudoki, a regional chronicle compiled during the Nara period, records the geography, products, and folklore of Izu Province. Among its entries, it mentions the origins of Atami Onsen. According to legend, the deity Ōnamuchi no Mikoto (Ōkuninushi) expressed concern for the premature deaths of people in Akitsu no Kuni (ancient Japan) and entrusted Sukuna Hikona no Mikoto with knowledge of medicinal herbs and hot spring techniques. Sukuna Hikona was then sent to the "sacred hot spring" in Izu Province.

This "sacred hot spring" is believed to be Atami Onsen, marking its origins as a place of health and healing from ancient times. 

　2. 1604: Tokugawa Ieyasu’s Visit 

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During the early Edo period, Tokugawa Ieyasu frequently visited hot springs across Japan for health and recovery purposes. In March 1604 (Keichō 9), Ieyasu stopped at Atami Onsen while en route to Kyoto and stayed for seven days, bathing for therapeutic purposes. He was accompanied by his sons, Yoshinao (Gorōtarō) and Yorinobu (Nagafukumaru), who also participated in the therapeutic baths.

Ieyasu was so impressed with Atami’s hot springs that in July of the same year, he sent five barrels of its water to Kyoto’s Fushimi for the convalescence of Kikkawa Hiroie, the feudal lord of Iwakuni. This initiated the practice of regularly transporting Atami’s hot spring water to Edo Castle, a custom known as Okumiyu (御汲湯). During the tenure of the fourth shogun, Tokugawa Ietsuna, this custom became well-established. Records from the Kyōhō era (1716–1736) show that during the reign of the eighth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune, a total of 3,643 barrels of hot spring water were transported to Edo Castle over nine years.

　3. 1666: Establishment of Kawarayu for the Common People 

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In 1666 (Kanbun 6), Inaba Mino-no-Kami, the lord of Odawara Castle, constructed a bathhouse for the common people of Atami, including farmers and fishermen. At the time, the "Ōyu" hot spring was primarily reserved for noble guests, and other hot springs were limited to certain households. Thus, Kawarayu became the only accessible bathhouse for local residents and was cherished as a valuable resource.

Also known as Kawarayu (literally "riverside bath") due to its tiled roof, the bathhouse was reputed to alleviate conditions such as poor circulation, neuralgia, and rheumatism. The mineral-rich waters, high in salt, were said to turn cloudy white upon bathing. 

　4. 1923: Impact of the Great Kanto Earthquake 

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The Great Kanto Earthquake of September 1, 1923 (Taishō 12), significantly affected Atami Onsen. The earthquake caused widespread destruction, particularly due to tsunami damage. However, it also temporarily increased the output of Atami’s hot springs, including the Ōyu geyser, to the point that surplus water had to be discharged into the sea.

Over the following months, the spring flow gradually decreased, leading to concerns about its stability. In response, local hot spring stakeholders formed the "Atami Hot Springs Association" to manage and regulate the springs more effectively. 

　5. 1962: Artificial Restoration of the Ōyu Geyser 

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In 1962 (Shōwa 37), efforts were made to restore the Ōyu Geyser, which was once counted among the world’s three great geysers. Engineers reconstructed the geyser to preserve it as a cultural landmark. It was programmed to erupt artificially every four minutes for three minutes between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., restoring its role as a symbol of Atami Onsen and attracting numerous tourists.

 　6. 1964 to the Present 

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On October 1, 1964 (Shōwa 39), the Tokaido Shinkansen opened, with Atami Station serving as a stop. This drastically improved access from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, significantly boosting tourism. During Japan’s economic bubble of the late 1980s, Atami Onsen experienced a surge in visitors as corporations built company retreats and large resort facilities in the area. The hot spring town thrived as a premier destination during this period.

However, the collapse of the economic bubble in the 1990s led to a decline in visitors, causing economic challenges for the town. In the 2000s, Atami City began revitalization efforts, focusing on preserving historical architecture, improving the appearance of the hot spring town, and hosting events to attract tourists. These efforts have successfully enhanced Atami Onsen’s appeal as a modern yet historically rich destination.

3. Highlights of Atami Onsen 

Atami Onsen is a hot spring destination that blends natural beauty with historical charm, offering many attractions worth exploring. Below are some must-visit spots in the area.

　■ Atami Sun Beach 

Located in the heart of Atami City, Atami Sun Beach is a picturesque, man-made white-sand beach stretching approximately 400 meters. It is a popular spot, especially in summer, attracting families and couples for seaside relaxation. At night, the beach transforms into "Moonlight Beach" with a mesmerizing light display from sunset to 10 PM, creating a romantic ambiance perfect for evening strolls.

The beachfront is lined with cafes and restaurants, offering scenic views of the ocean while dining or taking a break. Throughout the year, the area hosts events like fireworks festivals, drawing large crowds of visitors.

　■ MOA Museum of Art 

Opened in 1982, the MOA Museum of Art is a private museum housing approximately 3,500 pieces of art, with a focus on East Asian works. Its most famous exhibit is the national treasure Red and White Plum Blossoms by Ogata Kōrin. The museum’s elegant interior blends traditional Japanese materials with contemporary design, providing an inspiring space for visitors.

From the museum, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Sagami Bay. Additional facilities include a traditional tea room called Ippaku-an and a Noh theater, offering an immersive experience of Japanese culture. The museum's cafe and restaurant serve dishes and desserts made with local ingredients, creating a memorable experience for guests.

　■ Kinomiya Shrine 

Kinomiya Shrine, with a history of over 1,900 years, has been revered as a place for good fortune and blessings. The shrine is home to a 2,000-year-old camphor tree, designated a national natural monument. This massive tree, with a trunk circumference of about 24 meters, is said to extend one’s lifespan by a year if you walk around it or fulfill your wishes if you do so while making a silent prayer.

At night, the tree is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere distinct from the daytime experience. The shrine grounds also feature a stylish cafe, Saryo Houko, where visitors can enjoy specialty teas and sweets in a serene setting.

　■ Atami Plum Garden 

Established in 1886, Atami Plum Garden is renowned for having the earliest blooming plum blossoms in Japan. The garden boasts 60 varieties and 469 plum trees, including some over 100 years old. The first blossoms typically appear from late November to early December.

The "Plum Festival" held from early January to early March showcases a continuous bloom from early to late-flowering varieties. The garden also features about 380 maple trees, hosting the "Autumn Leaves Festival" from mid-November to early December, showcasing some of Japan’s latest autumn foliage. Facilities like foot baths and souvenir shops enhance the visitor experience, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the seasonal beauty.

　■ Atami Castle 

Built in 1959 as a tourist attraction, Atami Castle is not a historical fortress but a popular vantage point offering panoramic views of Atami City and Sagami Bay from its observation deck. Inside, the castle features exhibits on Edo-period culture and history, including displays of samurai armor, swords, and ukiyo-e prints.

The surrounding area is famous for cherry blossoms, particularly "Atami Sakura," which bloom from mid-January to mid-February, attracting many visitors for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). Beneath the castle, the Atami Trick Art Museum is an interactive attraction ideal for families.

　■ Hatsushima Island 

Hatsushima is the only inhabited island in Shizuoka Prefecture and is located about 30 minutes by high-speed ferry from Atami Port. It is the closest island resort to the Tokyo metropolitan area and features the Hatsushima Island Resort. Activities include glamping at the "Asian Garden R-Asia" and an adventure park, "Hatsushima Adventure SARUTOBI," offering outdoor fun for visitors.

The island is also home to seafood restaurants operated by local fishermen, serving fresh catches from the surrounding waters. These eateries are particularly known for their delicious seafood dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

　■ Atami Hihokan and Atami Ropeway 

Atami Hihokan (Erotic Museum) is an adult-only entertainment facility located atop Mount Hachiman, overlooking the onsen town. The museum humorously and creatively explores themes of eroticism from around the world, offering a unique and unconventional experience.

The museum is accessible via the Atami Ropeway, which departs from a station near Atami Port and takes about 3.5 minutes to reach the summit. The retro gondolas provide scenic views of Atami during the ride. At the top, the "Lovers’ Cape Observation Deck" offers stunning views of Sagami Bay and Atami City, with the Umisora Terrace being particularly renowned for its breathtaking panoramas.

　■ Nakamise and Heiwa Shopping Streets 

Located near Atami Station, the Nakamise and Heiwa Shopping Streets retain the retro charm of the Showa era. These streets are lined with long-established shops, some over 60-70 years old, offering local specialties, souvenirs, and gourmet delights.

・Nakamise Shopping Street:
Just a one-minute walk from Atami Station, this covered street features dried fish stores, onsen manju (steamed buns), and quaint cafes, making it ideal for shopping and snacking.

・Heiwa Shopping Street:
Adjacent to Nakamise, this arcade street is home to stores selling fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional crafts. Restaurants and souvenir shops add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of local treats like onsen manju and dried fish while soaking in the nostalgic vibe. Seasonal events and sales add fresh excitement to every visit.

 In Conclusion 

Atami Onsen, as one of Japan's premier hot spring destinations, has continued to captivate visitors with its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Loved by many from ancient times to the present day, it offers more than just its rejuvenating hot springs—it's a town that warmly welcomes every visitor. From the retro charm of its Showa-era shopping streets to gardens that showcase seasonal beauty and serene moments spent admiring its stunning coastline, every aspect of Atami provides a unique and unforgettable experience.

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and embark on a journey to rejuvenate your body and soul, Atami Onsen is a destination you should not miss.