What to know
Atami Castle (熱海城, Atamijō) was built in 1959 as a tourist attraction on a hilltop overlooking Atami, even though the city never historically had a castle. This concrete complex houses exhibits on Japan's various castles. Visitors can dress up in Edo Period costumes and try solving Japanese riddles. A game center and an erotic ukiyo-e exhibition are located in the basement.
The castle sits 100 meters above sea level, and its top floor offers panoramic views of Atami and Sagami Bay. The grounds are a popular spot for cherry blossoms, typically blooming in late March to early April, and for fireworks held on about a dozen days throughout the year, especially during summer. A trick art museum is located next door.
Atami Castle is a stop on the Yuyu Sightseeing Loop Bus (currently out of service; about 15 minutes from Atami Station, 300 yen per ride or 800 yen for a 1-day pass). Alternatively, the castle is a short walk from the top station of the Atami Ropeway (500 yen one way, 900 yen round trip), which connects the castle to the port area below. The lower station of the ropeway can be reached by a ten-minute taxi ride from Atami Station (about 1600 yen one way).
How to get to and around Atami How to get to and around the Izu Peninsula
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- 1200 yen (~$7.68) (Atami Castle)
- English name
- Atami Trick Art Museum
- Original name
- Atami Castle
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.