Hatsushima Island (Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Hatsushima is a small remote island off the coast of Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture. It has long flourished as a fishing base, and in recent years has become popular with tourists visiting for day trips and overnight stays as a "resort island where you can feel close to the sea and nature." The island is compact and can be easily walked around, making it an attractive spot to easily enjoy the seascape, the island's nature, and local seafood.

Its distinctive features include snorkeling and fishing in the crystal clear waters, strolling while feeling the sea breeze, and views from coastal observation spots and lighthouses. The island is dotted with accommodations, restaurants, and souvenir shops, and is well equipped for tourists.

Highlights

• Walking around the island: Enjoy the scenery of cliffs, reefs, and fishing ports while walking along the coastline and footpaths. The island is compact and easy to explore.
• Lighthouses and Observation Spots: From the island's hills and lighthouse, you can see Sagami Bay, the Izu Peninsula, and even Mt. Fuji on clear days (weather dependent). There are several spots suitable for taking photos.
• Sea activities (snorkeling, diving, fishing): In areas where the sea is relatively calm, you can enjoy snorkeling and playing on the rocks. Fishing is also popular, and you can target seasonal fish species. Please prepare your own equipment and safety precautions.
• Local seafood and food: There are restaurants that serve set meals, sashimi, dried fish, and other dishes made with fresh seafood. Enjoy the seafood that can only be found on the island.
• Accommodation resorts and hot springs (*varies by facility): At accommodations, you can enjoy a stay overlooking the sea, sunsets, and stargazing. Some facilities also offer day-use baths and foot baths (please check opening times in advance).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: JR Tokaido Main Line "Atami Station." From Atami Station, you can access Atami Port by bus, taxi, or on foot.
• Ship from the port: Regular ferries (high-speed ferries and large ships) operate from Atami Port to Hatsushima. The journey time depends on the type of ship and sea conditions, but it generally takes about 25 to 40 minutes. The number of flights and schedules vary depending on the season and weather, so please check the operating company's website or port information in advance.
• Access by carIf you are traveling by car, you can use the paid parking lots around Atami Port in Atami City and then take a boat from the port. There is almost no need to use a car on the island (whether or not vehicle transport is possible depends on the operator).
• Estimated travel time (transportation)From Tokyo, it takes about 40-50 minutes by Shinkansen to Atami Station (depending on the type of train), and it is also accessible by conventional train. From Atami Station, it takes about 10-15 minutes by bus to Atami Port, and about 20-30 minutes on foot along the seaside promenade.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Day trip：Excluding travel time, it will take approximately 3 to 5 hours to walk around the island, enjoy meals, and enjoy some light sea activities. Please plan accordingly, taking into account the round-trip ferry time.
• stay: If you want to relax and enjoy the sunset, night view, and morning sea breeze, we recommend staying one night. If you want to enjoy fishing, diving, or just relax in the surrounding area, one to two nights is appropriate.
• Short stay: Some people choose to stroll around the island for just an hour or two while waiting for a ferry or connecting flight, but considering meal times and the need to use the facilities, it's safer to visit with plenty of time to spare.

Nearby spots

• Atami Onsen (Atami city)Atami, the base for departures and arrivals to Hatsushima, has a wealth of tourist facilities, including a hot spring town, day spas, and the seaside promenade "Sun Beach."
• MOA Museum of Art: This art museum is located on a hill in Atami, and offers views of the garden and Sagami Bay.
• Atami Castle and Treasure Museum Area: An area with many observation decks and tourist facilities. Popular with families.
• Tourist spots on the Izu Peninsula: There are a variety of tourist destinations within easy reach by car or public transportation, including Ito, Izukogen, and Shuzenji.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Ship operation and cancellation: Cruises may be canceled due to poor sea conditions (strong winds, high waves, etc.). Please be sure to check the operation information in advance, especially during stormy weather in winter and typhoon season.
• congestion: On weekends, holidays, and in the summer, boats can be crowded and there can be long lines at restaurants on the island. We recommend booking your boat early, especially during the summer swimming season.
• Garbage and Nature Conservation: Islands are small living areas. Please follow local rules, such as taking your trash home with you and disposing of it in designated areas. When collecting creatures from the coast or rocky shores, please also follow fishing and nature conservation rules.
• Safety measures：When playing on the reefs, fishing, or snorkeling, please be sure to take safety precautions such as wearing a life jacket. The reefs can be slippery and dangerous at low tide.
• Facilities and Medical Care: There are limited medical facilities and convenience stores on the island, so it is a good idea to prepare your regular medications and necessary supplies in advance.
• Seasonal precautionsIn summer, wear sun protection (a hat and sunscreen) and take precautions against heatstroke. In winter and early spring, take precautions against the cold sea breeze. Be careful when swimming in the sea during jellyfish season.
• Consideration for local residents: Please observe tourist etiquette (keep noise to a minimum, do not enter private property, etc.) and be considerate of the local living environment.

Hatsushima is an attractive remote island where you can casually enjoy the sea, but please be sure to check the boat operation status and seasonal precautions to plan a safe and comfortable trip. If necessary, we can also provide more specific model plans and facility information based on the time of year and purpose of your trip (fishing, diving, accommodation, etc.). Please let us know if you have any requests.