Atami Ume-en (Atami Plum Garden)

Overview

Atami Ume-en, located in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is renowned as a park boasting some of Japan's earliest blooming plum blossoms and latest autumn leaves. Situated on a gentle, sloping 4.4-hectare site along the Hatsukawa River, west of JR Kumiya Station and alongside Shizuoka Prefectural Road 11 (Atami Kaido), in the mountainous area of central Atami City, the garden features 472 plum trees of 59 varieties (272 early-blooming, 104 mid-blooming, and 96 late-blooming), approximately 380 maple trees, 134 pine and camphor trees, and a diverse range of other plants. From early January to early March, the "Ume Matsuri" (Plum Festival) showcases the vibrant blossoms of 469 plum trees across 60 varieties. The park is bathed in a festive atmosphere. From May to June, the fresh greenery shines, and from mid-November to early December, the autumn leaves paint the mountain in brilliant hues. Within the garden, visitors can relax in a footbath (available only during the plum and autumn leaf festivals), explore the Korean Garden, and visit the Nakayama Shinpei Memorial Hall. The Korean Garden was created in 2001 to commemorate the Japan-Korea summit held in Atami in 2000, where Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi and President Kim Dae-jung visited the garden. Established in 1886, following a proposal by Senzai Nagayo of the Ministry of the Interior in 1885, Atami Ume-en represents a significant aspect of Atami's culture, flourishing as a renowned hot spring resort. Offering breathtaking seasonal beauty and a glimpse into history and culture, Atami Ume-en is a must-see destination when visiting Atami.