Hime-no-Sawa Park (Atami City, Shizuoka) Complete Guide | Athletic Course, Flowers, and Access Information
Hime-no-Sawa Park, located in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a natural and spacious urban park spread across a highland at approximately 200 meters elevation with a panoramic view of Sagami Bay. Across its vast 58-hectare grounds, seasonal flowers, a full-fledged athletic course, and hiking trails are well-maintained, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
In this article, we provide comprehensive information about the charm of Hime-no-Sawa Park and explain everything you should know before visiting.
Basic Information About Hime-no-Sawa Park
Location and Access
Address: 〒413-0002 Atami City, Izuyama, Shizuoka Prefecture 1164-1
Phone Number: 0557-83-5301 (Hime-no-Sawa Park Management Office)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by season)
Closed: Year-end and New Year period (December 29 – January 3), other temporary closures may apply
Admission: Free (some facilities require fees)
How to Get There
By Car
- Approximately 60 minutes from “Atsugi IC” on the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 50 minutes from “Numazu IC” on the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Atami City Center
- Via National Route 135 and Prefectural Route 20 (Atami-Hakone Pass Line)
Parking: Free parking available (approximately 200 spaces)
By Public Transportation
- Approximately 25 minutes from JR Atami Station by Tokai Bus “Hime-no-Sawa Park” route, get off at the terminal
- Since bus frequency is limited, we recommend checking the timetable in advance
- By taxi from Atami Station: approximately 15 minutes (estimated fare: ¥2,500-¥3,000)
Attractions and Highlights of Hime-no-Sawa Park
1. Japan’s Premier Athletic Course “Jukkoku Pass Athletic Course”
The park’s main feature is a full-fledged athletic course spanning approximately 1.6 km, known as one of Japan’s representative athletic facilities.
Course Features:
- 40+ Checkpoints: Diverse athletic equipment including log bridges, rope climbing, and Tarzan swings
- Difficulty Levels: From beginner to advanced, selectable based on physical ability and age
- Time Required: Approximately 2-3 hours to complete the entire course
- Recommended Age: Elementary school students and above (some activities available for young children with guardian supervision)
Usage Fee: Adults ¥500, children (elementary and middle school) ¥300, young children free
Important Notes:
- Comfortable clothing and athletic shoes are essential
- Not available during rain or when equipment is wet
- Gloves are recommended to prevent injury
2. Seasonal Flowers Throughout the Park
Hime-no-Sawa Park is famous as a “flower park” where various flowers can be enjoyed year-round.
Spring (March – May)
- Cherry Blossoms: Approximately 200 Somei Yoshino cherry trees bloom, making it a popular flower viewing spot
- Azaleas: From late April to early May, approximately 60,000 azaleas color the slopes
- Rhododendrons: Around May, vibrant rhododendrons reach their peak
Early Summer (June)
- Hydrangeas: Approximately 3,000 hydrangeas color the rainy season
- Irises: Graceful flowers displayed around ponds
Summer (July – August)
- Crape Myrtle: Blooms with vibrant pink and white flowers amid summer heat
- Fresh Green Foliage: Enjoy deep green forest bathing
Autumn (September – November)
- Fall Foliage: From late October to mid-November, Japanese maples and other maples turn color
- Cosmos: Autumn wildflowers adorn the park
Winter (December – February)
- Plum Blossoms: Announce early spring from around February
- Camellias: Enjoy vividly colored flowers even in winter
3. Nature Walks and Hiking Courses
The park features multiple well-maintained hiking courses for nature walks.
Main Courses:
- View Course: Approximately 30 minutes to an observation platform with spectacular Sagami Bay views
- Forest Bathing Course: Approximately 45 minutes of leisurely forest walking
- Hearty Hikers Course: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes of challenging mountain terrain
Along the routes are bird-watching spots, popular among nature enthusiasts. Various birds can be observed throughout the seasons.
4. Observation Platform Overlooking Sagami Bay
From the observation platform on the park’s high ground, a beautiful panoramic view of Atami City and Sagami Bay spreads out. On clear days, you can see as far as Hatsu Island and Izu Oshima, making it an excellent photography spot.
The scenery at dusk is particularly stunning, with the contrast between the orange sky and sea captivating visitors.
5. Lawn Area and Picnic Zone
The spacious lawn area is popular with families.
Ways to Enjoy:
- Spread a leisure sheet for picnicking
- Play ball or frisbee
- Bring a bento and spend a relaxing day
- A free play area for children
Since restaurants are limited in the park, we recommend bringing your own lunch and beverages.
Details of Park Facilities
Management Office
Located near the park entrance, the management office provides the following services:
- Distribution of park maps
- Tourism information
- Athletic course reception
- Lost and found
Restrooms and Rest Areas
Multiple restrooms and rest areas are located throughout the park. Main facilities include:
- Restroom near parking lot (with multi-purpose restroom)
- Rest area along the athletic course
- Gazebo near the observation platform
Vending Machines
Vending machines are located near the parking lot and at several points in the park for beverage purchases. Since dining facilities are unavailable, we recommend bringing meals or dining in Atami’s downtown area.
Recommended Ways to Spend Time at Hime-no-Sawa Park
Family Plan (Half Day)
9:00 AM Arrival and Parking
- Early arrival ensures parking
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Athletic Course
- Enjoy the course during the cool morning
- Choose routes based on children’s fitness levels
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch on Lawn
- Picnic with a packed lunch
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Flower Walk and Photography
- Enjoy seasonal flowers
- Take photos at the observation platform
2:00 PM Departure
Couple/Friends Plan (Full Day)
10:00 AM Arrival
10:30 AM – 1:00 PM Hiking
- Challenging mountain walk on the hearty hikers course
- Bird watching and forest bathing
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Lunch Break
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Athletic Course and Walking
- Try the athletic course
- Photograph park flowers
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM Sunset at Observation Platform
- View sunset over Sagami Bay
5:00 PM Move to Atami Downtown
- Dinner and hot spring bath in the hot spring district
Photography Enthusiast Plan
Hime-no-Sawa Park is attractive for photography.
Recommended Shooting Spots:
- Observation Platform: Sagami Bay panorama (afternoon sidelight recommended)
- Azalea Slopes: Late April to early May in full bloom
- Hydrangea Garden: June during the rainy season, water droplets beautiful after rain
- Autumn Foliage Trail: Early to mid-November early morning light
- Cherry Blossom Row: Late March to early April in full bloom
Photography Tips:
- Use sidelighting during early morning and evening hours
- Not only close-ups of flowers, but also wide-angle photography with Sagami Bay as background is appealing
- Visit each season to record seasonal changes
Combining with Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Hime-no-Sawa Park, you can also enjoy other tourist attractions in Atami.
Atami Downtown (approximately 15 minutes by car)
- Atami Sunbeach: An artificial beach in the city center
- Atami Plum Garden: Famous for Japan’s earliest blooming plums (January-March)
- Komi Shrine: An ancient shrine popular as a power spot
- Atami Castle: Splendid views from its keep
- Atami Hot Spring: Numerous day-use hot spring facilities and foot baths
MOA Museum of Art (approximately 20 minutes by car)
An art museum housing numerous national treasures and important cultural properties. Positioned on a highland overlooking Sagami Bay, its architecture is also noteworthy.
Izuyama Shrine (approximately 10 minutes by car)
An ancient shrine associated with Minamoto no Yoritomo and Hojo Masako, famous as a matchmaking shrine. Easily accessible from Hime-no-Sawa Park.
Jukkoku Pass (approximately 15 minutes by car)
A cable car takes you to the summit for spectacular views of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, and Sagami Bay.
Precautions When Visiting Hime-no-Sawa Park
Clothing and Belongings
Essential Items:
- Comfortable athletic shoes (avoid sandals and heels)
- Hat and sunscreen (summer)
- Plenty of drinking water
- Towel and change of clothes (for athletic course use)
- Insect repellent spray (summer)
- Leisure sheet (if planning picnics)
Useful Items:
- Work gloves (for athletic course)
- Binoculars (for bird watching and sightseeing)
- Camera and smartphone (fully charged)
- Rain gear (in uncertain weather)
- First aid kit (band-aids, etc.)
Seasonal Precautions
Spring (March – May):
- Peak seasons for cherry blossoms and azaleas see crowds; early arrival recommended
- Mornings and evenings can be cool; bring a jacket
Summer (June – August):
- Heat stroke prevention is essential (frequent water intake)
- Insect bite protection (insect repellent spray, long sleeves and pants recommended)
- Strong sunlight requires thorough sun protection
Autumn (September – November):
- Fall foliage season is popular; parking lot gets congested
- Large temperature variations; wear adjustable clothing
Winter (December – February):
- Higher elevation means lower temperatures than downtown
- Thorough cold weather preparation
- Possible road icing; caution when driving
Safety Precautions
- Athletic course use is at your own risk; avoid overambitious attempts
- When hiking, confirm signs to avoid getting lost
- If encountering wildlife (wild boars, monkeys), do not provoke; quietly withdraw
- Check weather forecast in advance for sudden changes
- Cell phone signal is weak in some park areas
Pets
Pets may enter with the following rules:
- Always use a leash
- Always remove and dispose of waste
- Be considerate of other visitors
- Pets not allowed in athletic course facilities
History and Origin of Hime-no-Sawa Park
The name “Hime-no-Sawa” (Princess Marsh) has various theories, with the most credible linked to Izuyama Shrine.
Izuyama Shrine is an ancient shrine with deep faith, and is known as where Minamoto no Yoritomo and Hojo Masako developed their love. The surrounding area was considered a spiritual domain of Izuyama, and the place name “Hime-no-Sawa” is said to derive from a marsh where shrine maidens (princesses) purified themselves.
Park development began in the 1960s-1970s, developing into a major Atami tourism and recreation facility. Particularly through athletic course development, it became established as a popular family destination.
Annual Events
Hime-no-Sawa Park hosts various seasonal events.
Cherry Blossom Festival (late March – early April)
An event coinciding with cherry blossom blooming season. Nighttime illumination is sometimes provided.
Azalea Viewing (late April – early May)
When approximately 60,000 azaleas peak, guided tours and other activities are offered.
Hydrangea Viewing (June)
During this rainy season tradition, events to tour hydrangea highlights are held.
Autumn Foliage Festival (November)
During autumn foliage season, special walking programs and photo contests may be held.
For event details and latest information, check the Atami City Tourism Association website or official Hime-no-Sawa Park information.
Making Access to Hime-no-Sawa Park More Convenient
Using Tokai Bus Timetable from Atami Station
When using public transportation, checking the Tokai Bus timetable in advance is important. Knowing return bus times ensures smooth sightseeing.
Points:
- Weekday and weekend schedules differ
- Additional buses may run during tourist season
- Always confirm the last bus time
Rental Car Use
Multiple car rental companies operate near Atami Station. Renting a car is convenient if you want to efficiently visit not just the park but surrounding attractions.
Taxi Reservations
Return taxis called from the park may take time to arrive. Note taxi company numbers in advance for peace of mind.
Nearby Accommodations Around Hime-no-Sawa Park
Staying overnight in Atami allows for more fulfilling sightseeing.
Atami Hot Spring District Area
- Large resort hotels
- Established hot spring inns
- Affordable business hotels
- Pensions and small inns
Various accommodation types are available near Atami Station, selectable by budget and purpose. Staying at a hot spring inn allows soaking in hot springs to relax after sightseeing.
Izuyama Area
The nearby Izuyama district also has hot spring accommodations. These offer quieter, more relaxed stays than downtown Atami.
Tips for Maximum Enjoyment of Hime-no-Sawa Park
1. Choose the Season for Your Visit
Hime-no-Sawa Park has different charms each season. Choose your visit time based on desired flowers and activities.
- Flower viewing: Spring (cherry blossoms, azaleas), early summer (hydrangeas), autumn (fall foliage)
- Athletic course focus: Pleasant spring and autumn seasons
- Hiking: Autumn foliage or spring’s fresh green leaves
2. Allow Adequate Time
To fully enjoy the extensive grounds, allocate at least 3-4 hours. For both athletic course and hiking, a half-day to full-day stay is recommended.
3. Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes rapidly; always check forecasts before visiting. The athletic course is unavailable in rain, so selecting a sunny day is crucial.
4. Arrive Early
During popular seasons (cherry blossom, azalea, foliage), parking gets congested. Planning to arrive around 9 AM when the park opens ensures smooth entry.
5. Don’t Forget Hydration
Athletic courses and hiking use more stamina than expected. Bring sufficient water and drink regularly.
Hidden Enjoyment Tips from Locals
Early Morning Forest Bathing
Early after opening, fewer people allow for quiet forest bathing. Morning-dew-covered vegetation and sunrise-lit Sagami Bay views are exceptional.
Bird Watching
Hime-no-Sawa Park is a bird paradise. Various species like Japanese white-eyes, varied tits, and great tits can be observed. Binoculars enhance the experience.
Recording Seasonal Changes
Visiting the same spot seasonally and photographing captures nature’s changes. Finding favorite spots and recording seasonal appearances is another enjoyable approach.
Sunset Viewing
The sunset from the observation platform is magnificent. Staying until closing time (5 PM) to watch the sun sink into Sagami Bay is a romantic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can Hime-no-Sawa Park be enjoyed on rainy days?
A: The athletic course is unavailable during rain, and hiking trails become slippery, so sunny day visits are recommended. However, the azalea season offers rain’s unique charm.
Q2: Can small children (toddlers) enjoy it?
A: Yes. Lawn play and easy trail walks are possible for toddlers. However, most athletic equipment targets elementary school students and above.
Q3: Are there dining facilities?
A: There are no restaurants in the park. We recommend bringing a packed lunch or dining in Atami’s downtown before visiting.
Q4: Can wheelchairs access the park?
A: Some areas from the parking lot are wheelchair-accessible, but uneven terrain makes complete wheelchair access difficult. Contact the management office in advance.
Q5: Can I bring pets?
A: Yes, leashed pets are permitted. However, follow manners regarding waste disposal.
Q6: When is Hime-no-Sawa Park most beautiful?
A: Late April to early May azalea season is most vibrant and popular. November’s early autumn foliage is also beautiful and recommended.
Q7: How much time is needed?
A: Light walking alone requires 1-2 hours, athletic course activity needs 3-4 hours, including hiking requires a half to full day.
Summary: Enjoy Nature and Activities at Hime-no-Sawa Park
Hime-no-Sawa Park is a natural and spacious urban park boasting Shizuoka’s appeal. It combines a professional athletic course, year-round seasonal flowers, an observation platform overlooking Sagami Bay, and quiet forest-bathing hiking courses—offering multifaceted charm.
It accommodates diverse enjoyment styles: family leisure, couple dates, group outdoor experiences, and individual nature walks. Its proximity to Atami’s hot spring district allows combining hot spring tourism for more fulfilling travel planning.
Free admission (athletic course requires payment) is another major appeal, making casual visits possible. The park’s changing seasonal appearances promise new discoveries with each visit.
Why not visit Hime-no-Sawa Park on your next day off to enjoy nature and activities? The spectacular Sagami Bay views and abundant nature will surely refresh you.
Address: 〒413-0002 Izuyama, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture 1164-1
Phone: 0557-83-5301
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: Free (athletic course requires payment)
Parking: Free (approximately 200 spaces)
Create unforgettable memories at Hime-no-Sawa Park!
