1. How do tourists typically get to and from Atami in Japan?
There are various ways for tourists to get to and from Atami in Japan:
1. By train – The most common way to travel to Atami is by train. The JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line connects major cities such as Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, and Osaka to Atami Station. The journey takes about an hour from Tokyo or two hours from Osaka.
2. By bus – There are also direct buses that run between Atami and major cities such as Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka. These buses are usually cheaper than the train but take longer.
3. By car – Visitors can also drive to Atami via the Tomei Expressway or the Odawara-Atsugi Road.
4. By plane – The closest airport to Atami is Haneda Airport in Tokyo. From there, visitors can take a bus or train to Atami.
5. By ferry – Some tourists may choose to take a ferry from Shimizu Port near Shizuoka City to Atami Port.
Once in Atami, tourists can get around by local bus, taxi, or walking. Many attractions in the city can be reached on foot as it is relatively small. Tourists can also rent bicycles at some hotels and shops in the area.
2. What is the most popular mode of transportation for locals in Atami?
The most popular mode of transportation for locals in Atami is the train.
3. Are there any major highways or roads that connect Atami to other cities?
Yes, there are several major highways and roads that connect Atami to other cities:
– The Tomei Expressway connects Atami to Tokyo and other major cities in the Kanto region.
– The Odawara-Atsugi Road connects Atami to nearby cities such as Odawara and Shizuoka.
– National Route 135 runs through Atami and connects it to Numazu, Mishima, and other cities along the coast.
– National Route 1 also runs through Atami and connects it to Yokohama, Nagoya, and other major cities on Honshu island.
4. Can you rent a car or bicycle for exploring Atami?
Yes, there are car rental services available in Atami. Some of the companies that provide car rental services include Nippon Rent-A-Car, Times Car Rental, and Orix Rent-A-Car.There are also bicycle rental shops located near major attractions such as Atami Castle and Kinomiya Shrine. Prices for bicycle rentals may vary, but it is typically around 500-700 yen per day. Be sure to bring a valid form of identification when renting a vehicle or bicycle.
5. Is public transportation easily accessible in Atami?
Yes, Atami has a well-established public transportation system with buses, taxis, and trains connecting the city to other popular destinations in Japan. The local train station, JR Atami Station, is the main hub for trains in the area and is easily accessible by foot from most accommodations in the city. There are also several bus stops around the city with routes connecting to nearby towns and attractions. Visitors can purchase tickets or passes at train stations or from vending machines at bus stops.
6. Are there any water taxis or ferries available for transportation around Atami?
Yes, there are water taxis and ferries available for transportation around Atami. The Atami Port operates ferry services to nearby islands such as Hatsushima and Toi, as well as sightseeing cruises along the coast. Water taxis are also available for shorter trips or private hire. However, due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, some of these services may be temporarily suspended or have limited schedules. It is recommended to check with the Atami Port for the latest information before planning your trip.
7. How long does it take to reach the nearby city of Tokyo by train from Atami?
It takes about 50 minutes to reach Tokyo from Atami by train.
8. Are there any scenic routes you would recommend for traveling from Atami to nearby attractions?
Yes, there are a few scenic routes that we would recommend for traveling from Atami to nearby attractions:
1. The Atami Panorama Road: This route offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding hills as it winds through the city and up into the mountains.
2. Hakone Skyline: This is a famous scenic drive that takes you through the mountains of Hakone with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on a clear day.
3. Izu Skyline: This route runs along the coast of Izu Peninsula and offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and Mount Fuji in the distance.
4. Jogasaki Coast: This coastal road stretches from Atami to Ito and offers beautiful ocean views, rugged cliffs, and a chance to see natural wonders like Suspension Bridge over Jokkage Stream.
5. Odawara-Atami Road: This route connects Atami to Odawara and passes through scenic valleys, rice fields, and traditional Japanese villages.
6. Susono-Tanzawa Highland Drive: This scenic route takes you through lush greenery, villages, waterfalls, and hot springs in Tanzawa-Oyama National Park.
7. Amagi-Kogen Route: This mountain road runs through Amagi-Kogen highland region with scenic views of tea plantations, forests, and cascading rivers.
8. Ashigara Toll Road: This toll road offers panoramic views of Suruga Bay as it climbs up the Ashigara mountains towards Gotemba city.
9. How frequent are train and bus schedules in Atami?
Train schedules in Atami are very frequent, with trains running approximately every 10-15 minutes during peak hours. During off-peak times, trains run less frequently, with some intervals being up to 30 minutes. Bus schedules vary depending on the route and time of day, but they generally run every 15-30 minutes.
10. What is the cost of public transportation in Atami compared to other cities in Japan?
The cost of public transportation in Atami is relatively cheaper compared to other cities in Japan. A single ticket for the local train or bus costs around 200-300 yen, while a one-day pass for unlimited rides on local trains and buses in Atami costs 800-1,000 yen. In comparison, the cost of public transportation in more urban cities such as Tokyo or Osaka can be significantly higher, with a single ticket costing 200-500 yen and a one-day pass costing 1,000-2,000 yen. However, it should be noted that the cost of public transportation varies depending on the distance traveled and the mode of transportation (local trains, subways, long-distance buses).
11. Is it possible to hire a private driver or guide for transportation around Atami?
Yes, it is possible to hire a private driver or guide for transportation around Atami. There are many companies and individuals offering this service in the area. You can search online for “private driver Atami” or ask your hotel concierge for recommendations. Some hotels may also offer their own private transportation services.
12. How do locals navigate through the steep and hilly terrain of Atami?
1. On foot: Most locals are used to walking up and down the steep hills of Atami, as it is a common form of transportation for shorter distances. Many streets have stairs or ramps to make it easier to navigate the slopes.
2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Atami and are a popular mode of transportation for those who do not want to walk up or down the hills. Taxis can be hailed on the street or found at taxi stands throughout the city.
3. Buses: There is a bus network in Atami that connects different areas of the city. These buses are equipped with special features such as low floors and hydraulic suspension systems to help navigate through hilly terrain.
4. Cable cars: To reach higher points in the city, locals can also take advantage of cable cars, which are popular tourist attractions as well. These cable cars provide scenic views and offer a convenient way to travel up steep inclines.
5. Ropeways: Similar to cable cars, ropeways are also available in certain parts of Atami to help people travel up and down steep hills.
6. Private vehicles: Some locals may use their own personal vehicles to get around Atami, but due to the narrow roads and steep inclines, driving can be challenging for those not accustomed to navigating through such terrain.
7.Vespa rentals:
Another popular way for locals to navigate through Atami’s hilly terrain is by renting Vespas or other motorbikes, especially during peak tourist seasons when traffic can become congested on narrow roads.
8.E-bikes:
E-bikes or electric bicycles have also become increasingly popular among locals in recent years due to their ability to easily traverse uphill slopes without much effort.
9.Skateboards/scooters:
Some young locals may opt for skateboards or scooters as an eco-friendly and fun way to get around the city’s hilly roads.
10. Staircases:
Since Atami has many staircases connecting different areas of the city, some locals may choose to take these routes and get their daily exercise while also navigating through the hilly terrain.
11. Locals’ knowledge:
With time and practice, locals become familiar with the city’s layout and learn which routes are steeper and which ones are less challenging, allowing them to navigate through the hilly terrain more efficiently.
12. Assistive devices:
For those with physical disabilities or mobility issues, there are assistive devices such as motorized wheelchairs and scooters available for rental in Atami to help navigate through steep terrain. Alternatively, some areas of the city have public elevators that can be used to reach higher points.
13. Are there any particularly challenging roads or areas for drivers in and around Atami?
Some challenging roads and areas for drivers in and around Atami include:
1. The Izu Skyline: This 44 km road has a series of steep curves and sharp turns, making it challenging for inexperienced drivers.
2. Route 135: This route connects Atami to Tokyo and has several narrow sections with hairpin turns, making it difficult to navigate during peak traffic hours.
3. Atami Coastline Road: This scenic coastal road has steep inclines and drops, as well as tight turns, which can be challenging for drivers.
4. Hakone Turnpike: Another popular scenic drive, this winding mountain road has several hairpin turns and narrow sections that require careful navigation.
5. Neksan National Route: Located on the Izu Peninsula, this 18-km long road is known for its steep inclines and tight curves, making it a challenging drive.
Overall, driving in Japanese cities can also be challenging due to the narrow roads and heavy traffic. It is important to proceed with caution and follow all traffic rules carefully.
14. Are there any traditional means of transportation still used in Atami?
Yes, there are still traditional means of transportation used in Atami. These include:
1. Rikisha (rickshaw) – This is a traditional mode of transportation where passengers sit on a small carriage pulled by a person.
2. Jinrikisha (human-powered cart) – Similar to rickshaws, but with an additional seat for the driver and pedals for easier movement.
3. Geta (wooden clogs) – These traditional footwear are sometimes still worn by locals and visitors when walking around Atami.
4. Kago (palanquin) – A type of sedan chair carried by two or more people, often used for special events or festivals.
5. Japanese-style taxis – These are retro-style taxis that have been around since the early 1900s and are still seen on the streets of Atami today.
6. Traditional boats – Some fishermen in Atami still use traditional wooden fishing boats called ‘Wasen’ for their daily work.
7. Fune (boat) ride – Visitors can also take a ride on a traditional Japanese-style boat around Atami’s harbor and enjoy views of the city from the sea.
15. Can you purchase a multi-day travel pass for unlimited use of public transportation in and around Atami?
Yes, you can purchase a multi-day travel pass for unlimited use of public transportation in and around Atami. The “Izu Kyuko Free Pass” is available for 1-day, 2-days, or 3-days and includes unlimited rides on the Izu Kyuko Line (local trains) and discounted fares for buses and attractions in the surrounding area. You can purchase this pass at the ticket counters of major train stations in Atami or online.
16. Are taxi services readily available in and around the city center of Atami?
Yes, taxi services are readily available in and around the city center of Atami. There are several taxi stands located at major transportation hubs such as the train station and bus terminals, as well as popular tourist destinations. Taxis can also be hailed on the streets or booked through a phone call or ride-hailing app.
17. Is there a designated bike lane or path for cycling around Atami?
There is a designated cycling path called the “Atami Panorama Cycling Course” that runs along the coast and through parts of Atami. It is approximately 5 kilometers long and offers scenic views of the ocean and surrounding nature. Additionally, there are also bike lanes on some roads throughout the city for cyclists to use.
18. Are there any cultural etiquette or rules to be aware of when using public transportation in Japan?
– Avoid talking on the phone while on trains or buses, as this is considered rude and disruptive to other passengers.
– Board the train or bus in an orderly fashion and avoid pushing or shoving.
– Offer your seat to elderly people, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.
– Do not eat or drink on public transportation, unless it is specifically allowed (such as on long-distance trains).
– Keep your belongings close and avoid taking up extra space with large bags or personal items.
– Do not litter or leave trash behind on trains or at stations.
– Refrain from playing loud music or talking loudly, as this may disturb other passengers.
– Respect designated “quiet zones” and avoid making unnecessary noise in these areas.
– Be mindful of cultural differences regarding personal space, especially during crowded rush hour commutes.
19. Do trains have designated sections for luggage storage on board when traveling out of town from at this station?
Yes, most trains have designated areas for luggage storage on board when traveling out of town from this station. These areas may include overhead racks, under seat storage, and luggage racks located near the doors. However, it is always recommended to check with the specific train company or service for their policies on luggage storage before traveling.
20.Can you buy tickets for trains, buses, and ferries in advance or only on the day of travel?
It depends on the specific transportation system and country. In some cases, advance tickets can be purchased online or at transportation ticket offices. In others, tickets may only be available for purchase on the day of travel. It is always best to check with the specific transportation company for their ticket purchasing policies and options.