Atami Plum Garden

The Atami Plum Garden, known locally as Atami Baien, is one of Japan's most celebrated early-blooming plum tree destinations, established in 1886 during the Meiji period. The garden was created on land reclaimed from the sea and has since grown to encompass approximately 4.4 hectares with over 470 plum trees representing 60 different varieties. Its strategic location on the warm Izu Peninsula allows the plums to bloom significantly earlier than most other regions in Japan, typically from early January through early March, making it the country's first major plum blossom viewing spot each year.

The garden holds particular cultural importance as a symbol of Atami's development as a resort town. The varieties planted include both ornamental and fruiting plums, with colors ranging from white to deep pink and red. Notable specimens include ancient trees over 100 years old that have been carefully preserved. During the peak blooming season, usually mid-February, the garden hosts the Atami Plum Garden Festival, which features traditional performances, local food stalls, and evening illuminations that transform the landscape after dark.

Visitors can explore winding pathways that lead through the sloping terrain, offering varied perspectives of the blossoms against the backdrop of Atami's hills and occasional glimpses of Sagami Bay. The garden includes a small stream, traditional Japanese bridges, and rest areas where visitors can enjoy the scenery. Photography is particularly popular here due to the vibrant contrast of blossoms against the winter landscape. The garden also produces umeboshi (pickled plums) and plum wine from its harvest, with products available for purchase at the on-site shop.

The Atami Plum Garden is located approximately 15 minutes by bus from JR Atami Station, accessible via the Atami Yuyu Bus bound for the Izu-Tokai Bus route. Alternatively, it is roughly a 20-minute walk from the station for those preferring to travel on foot through the town. Admission during the plum blossom season is typically ¥300 for adults, while entry is free outside the blooming period when fewer trees are in flower.