Atami Plum Garden (Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Atami Plum Garden is a famous plum blossom spot in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Known for its plum blossoms that bloom in early spring, the best time to see them is usually between mid-January and early March. The garden is an undulating mountain garden, characterized by the landscape of colorful plum blossoms spreading across the slopes, as well as waterfalls, babbling brooks, and walking paths. It has been popular with locals and tourists for many years, and seasonal events such as plum festivals and illumination events are also held here (the dates and contents of these events vary from year to year).

Highlights

• Plum grove (variety of plums): A variety of plum varieties, including white and red plums, are planted, allowing you to enjoy the changing colors and scents. The scenery of the trees lined up on the slope makes for a photogenic sight.
• Walking trails and observation spots: If you climb the paths within the park, you will come to observation decks and lookout points, from which you can see Sagami Bay and Atami city (views may vary depending on the weather).
• Waterfalls, streams, and rest areasThe garden has small waterfalls and waterways, allowing you to take a leisurely stroll in a quiet atmosphere. There are also benches scattered throughout.
• Atami Plum Festival IlluminationDuring the flowering season, street stalls and local events are held, and the area is often lit up at night, creating a fantastical landscape that is different from the daytime scenery.
• Photo SpotThere are many spots suitable for photography, such as a tunnel of plum blossoms, flowers covering the entire slope, and places with the sea in the background.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: JR "Atami Station"
• busFrom Atami Station, there are city loop buses and local buses bound for Umezono Iriguchi and Umezono. The journey takes about 10 to 15 minutes (depending on road conditions).
• Walking: If you walk from Atami Station, there are many slopes and stairs, and the required time will be approximately 20 to 35 minutes (including uphill sections) depending on your stamina and the route you take.
• taxi: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from Atami Station (depending on traffic and road conditions).
• car: There may be paid parking lots around the park, but they tend to be crowded during the plum blossom festival and on weekends, so we recommend using public transportation.
• *Opening hours, admission fees, direct bus service, etc. may change depending on the season or events. We recommend checking official information in advance.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Easy lap: 30-45 minutes
• A leisurely stroll with plenty of time to take photos and take breaks: 60-90 minutes
• If you also want to enjoy the stalls and events at the Plum Festival: Around 2 hours

Nearby spots

• Kinomiya Shrine: Famous for its large sacred tree. It is close to Atami Station and is an easy spot to visit along with the plum garden.
• Atami Sun Beach: You can enjoy a stroll along the coast and the sunset. We recommend taking a walk along the sea after touring the plum garden.
• MOA Museum of Art: The location overlooking the sea and art appreciation is attractive. Combining it with a stroll through the gardens makes for a fulfilling sightseeing experience.
• Atami Castle:It has an observation deck and exhibits, making it a popular tourist spot.
• Atami Hot SpringsAfter your walk, relax in a hot spring. There are many inns and day-use facilities available.

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

• congestion: The number of visitors increases during the plum blossom viewing season, the plum festival, weekends, and holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, it's best to go on weekdays or early in the morning.
• Pedestrian environment: The park has slopes, stairs, and areas with poor footing. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. Some areas may be difficult to navigate with wheelchairs or strollers.
• Climate and clothing：It can get quite chilly in the mornings and evenings in early spring, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket. Be careful as the trail can be slippery on rainy days.
• MannersPlease be considerate of your surroundings by not picking flowers or breaking branches, eating or drinking in designated areas, or leaving trash behind. There may be rules and etiquette for bringing pets, so please check in advance.
• photo shoot: Generally, photography is permitted, but please be mindful not to disturb other visitors. There may be restrictions on the use of tripods and commercial photography.
• Information confirmation: Opening times, admission fees, event schedules, and illuminations may change from year to year, so please check the latest information on the official websites and tourist information of Atami City and Atami Plum Garden before visiting.

(Note) You can copy and paste the text directly into an HTML block or a regular paragraph block in the WordPress Gutenberg editor. If you need more detailed information on opening hours, access timetables, or the latest admission fees, please let us know.