Panduan
Atami Baien is a vast municipal garden spanning 4.4 hectares in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture. It is renowned for hosting the earliest plum blossoms in Japan and the latest autumn foliage season. The garden features 469 plum trees of 60 different varieties, including ancient trees over 100 years old. Additionally, with approximately 380 autumn foliage trees, visitors can witness a spectacular transformation of colors throughout the seasons. Located in the historic hot spring resort of Atami, this space harmoniously blends natural beauty with cultural heritage.
The history of this plum garden dates back to 1886 (Meiji 19). It began when Senzai Choyo of the Ministry of Home Affairs proposed the need for a walking park to encourage moderate exercise alongside hot spring treatments. The site holds a prestigious history, having once been managed as Imperial property. Following a major renovation in 2008, the garden now stands as a representative cultural facility of Atami, where modern amenities coexist beautifully with traditional landscapes.
The garden is filled with diverse elements that create its stunning scenery. A key highlight is the 'Baien Go-kyo' (Five Bridges of the Plum Garden) spanning the Hatsukawa River, including the Zenka, Geigetsu, Sobi, Chujo, and Kofu bridges, which serve as beautiful accents for strolls. Another unique feature is the 'Korean Garden,' built in 2001 to commemorate a summit between Japan and South Korea, recreating the architectural style of a 400-year-old Korean residence. Visitors can also explore the 'Masahiro Sawada Memorial Museum,' which showcases works by the Order of Culture recipient, or relax at the foot bath located towards the inner part of the garden.
The garden offers a completely different atmosphere depending on the season. From early January to early March, the 'Plum Festival' celebrates the blooming of early-flowering varieties. From May to June, the garden is lush with fresh greenery, and from mid-November to early December, the 'Autumn Foliage Festival' allows visitors to enjoy the season's latest colors. During certain periods, night illuminations are held, creating a magical, dreamlike landscape quite different from the daytime view.
Beyond simple strolls, the garden offers rich cultural experiences. Near the Korean Garden, you can enjoy a 'foot bath' (ashiyu), allowing you to relax in warm water while surrounded by nature during the Plum or Autumn Foliage festivals. At the Masahiro Sawada Memorial Museum, you can connect deeply with Japanese art through his sculptures. The grounds are also dotted with various poetic monuments and stone tablets, adding a sense of historical depth to your walk.
The area surrounding Atami Baien is a peaceful residential district lined with historic hotels and resort apartments. It is within walking distance of JR Kinomiya Station and offers easy access to the lively shopping streets and beach areas near Atami Station. Since the area is rich in hot spring facilities, many visitors enjoy a route that combines a garden stroll with a hot spring soak.
As the garden features gentle slopes, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please choose clothing appropriate for the season. Payments for paid areas during the Plum Festival or at the museum can be made via cash or credit card. While some English signage is available, it is best to check the official website for details in advance. To protect the plants and facilities, please stay on the designated paths.