Atsugi Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Atsugi and discover the best places to visit, things to do, food & drinks, where to stay, and more with our comprehensive travel guide.


Atsugi is a beautiful city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. If you are planning to visit this charming city, our comprehensive travel guide has got you covered. From exploring historical sites to trying local delicacies, we have compiled everything you need to know to make your trip to Atsugi a memorable one.

Introduction to Atsugi

Located in the heart of Kanto, Atsugi is a small city with a population of around 224,462. The city boasts of beautiful landscapes, lush green parks, ancient temples, and museums that showcase the region’s rich history and culture. The city’s traditional festivals are an excellent way to experience the local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Atsugi

Whether you prefer natural landscapes or want to explore the region’s history and culture, Atsugi has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Atsugi:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jizo-ji Temple: Established in 1466, Jizo-ji Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple renowned for its beautiful architecture, stunning gardens, and historic statues.
  • Atsugi Castle Ruins: This ancient castle’s ruins are a must-visit for history buffs. The castle played an essential role in the region’s history and was involved in various battles.
  • Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine: Located near Atsugi Station, Tomioka Hachimangu is a famous Shinto shrine known for its beautiful architecture and traditional festivals.
  • Museum of Modern Art: The museum showcases a beautiful collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • Hayashi Fumiko Memorial Hall: The museum displays the life and work of Hayashi Fumiko, a pioneer in Japanese women’s literature.

Natural Attractions of Atsugi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Oyama Afuri Shrine: This stunning mountain shrine offers breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. The shrine is a popular destination among hikers and nature lovers.
  • Nanasawa Onsen: Relax in the hot springs and enjoy the beauty of nature at Nanasawa Onsen, a perfect getaway spot from the city’s hustle and bustle.
  • Komakado Kazaana Cave: Explore the ancient Komakado Kazaana Cave, located in the mountains. The cave is famous for its beautiful rock formations and mystical atmosphere.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Atsugi

Atsugi has several beautiful hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the natural scenery. Some of the top trails include:

  • Oyama Hiking Trail: This hiking trail is a popular destination among hikers and offers stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty.
  • Komakado Kazaana Cave Hiking Trail: Enjoy a scenic hike through nature and explore the ancient Komakado Kazaana Cave along the way.
  • Iiyama Park Biking Trail: The park has some of the most beautiful biking trails in Atsugi, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Atsugi: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of things to do in Atsugi. Here are some of the top activities and tours to consider:

  • Attend a Local Festival: Atsugi hosts several traditional festivals throughout the year. Attending one of these festivals is an excellent way to experience the local culture.
  • Explore Nature: The region’s natural beauty is a highlight of Atsugi, with several beautiful mountain shrines, hiking and biking trails.
  • Try Local Delicacies: Atsugi is famous for its delicious local cuisine, including soba noodles, sushi, and sake. Do not miss trying these dishes during your trip to Atsugi.

Week-Long Itinerary for Atsugi

If you have a week to spend in Atsugi, here’s an itinerary that covers all the top attractions and activities:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Jizo-ji Temple, Atsugi Castle Ruins, and Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine.
Day 2 Explore the Museum of Modern Art and the Hayashi Fumiko Memorial Hall.
Day 3 Hike the Oyama Hiking Trail and visit the Oyama Afuri Shrine.
Day 4 Experience the beauty of Nanasawa Onsen.
Day 5 Bike through the Iiyama Park Biking Trail.
Day 6 Explore the Komakado Kazaana Cave Hiking Trail and visit Komakado Kazaana Cave.
Day 7 Attend a local festival and try local delicacies.

Food and Drink Scene of Atsugi

Atsugi’s food and drink scene is a highlight of the city’s culture. Here are some of the top dishes and local beverages to try in Atsugi:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Soba Noodles: Thinly sliced buckwheat noodles served hot or cold with a dipping sauce.
  • Sushi: Freshly made sushi using local seafood.
  • Oden: A popular hot pot dish that includes various ingredients such as eggs, tofu, and fish cake soaked in a flavorful broth.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: A traditional Japanese rice wine, Atsugi is famous for its high-quality sake.
  • Green Tea: A refreshing beverage made from Japanese green tea leaves.

Where to Stay in Atsugi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Atsugi has several great accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses, that cater to a range of budgets. Some of the top options include:

  • Hotel Vista Atsugi: Located in the city center, the hotel is a great option for those looking for a convenient location and comfortable stay.
  • Seiryu-so Guesthouse: A traditional Japanese ryokan-style guesthouse that offers a unique cultural experience.
  • Toyoko Inn Atsugi-eki Nishi-guchi: A budget-friendly hotel located near Atsugi Station.

What to Buy in Atsugi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Atsugi offers several unique and beautiful souvenirs that you can take back home to remember your trip. Some of the top options include:

  • Traditional Japanese crafts: Atsugi is famous for its traditional Japanese crafts, including pottery, ceramics, and textiles.
  • Sake: Take home a bottle of high-quality sake, a perfect gift for your loved ones.
  • Matcha green tea: Experience the unique flavor of Japanese green tea with high-quality matcha powder.

Local Culture and Customs of Atsugi

Atsugi is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. When visiting the city, it’s essential to respect the local customs and etiquette, including removing your shoes before entering a house or temple and bowing as a sign of respect.

Best Time to Visit Atsugi

The best time to visit Atsugi is during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is beautiful. From late March to early May, the city is covered in beautiful cherry blossoms, and in October and November, the autumn foliage is breathtaking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Atsugi

When visiting Atsugi, remember these do’s and don’ts to ensure a pleasant experience:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try local delicacies and drinks.
  • Learn some basic Japanese phrases.

Don’t:

  • Don’t tip in restaurants and cafes.
  • Don’t use your phone in quiet public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Atsugi

Atsugi is a safe city with a low crime rate. However, like any other city, it’s essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuable belongings safe, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Atsugi

No particular vaccinations are required to visit Japan, including Atsugi. Tap water is safe to drink, but many people prefer to drink bottled water.

Getting to Atsugi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Atsugi is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including air, bus, and train.

Airports Near Atsugi

The nearest airport to Atsugi is Tokyo Haneda Airport, which is around a one-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Atsugi

Atsugi Bus Terminal is a major bus station in the city that connects to several destinations in Japan.

Other Options

If you prefer to travel by train, take the Odakyu Line to Atsugi Station, which is well-connected to other destinations in the region.

How to Get Around in Atsugi

Atsugi has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses and trains. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive. Walking and biking are great options for exploring the city’s local culture and scenic beauty at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Atsugi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time to spare, Atsugi is an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations and excursions, including:

  • Kamakura: A famous coastal city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and beaches. It’s around a 30-minute drive from Atsugi.
  • Hakone: A beautiful mountainous region known for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji. It’s around a 45-minute drive from Atsugi.
  • Yokohama: A bustling port city known for its beautiful gardens, Chinatown, and stunning architecture. It’s around a 45-minute train ride from Atsugi.

Conclusion

Atsugi is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of nature and culture. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures or want to explore the region’s history and culture, the city has something to offer for everyone. With our comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Atsugi and experience the best of what the city has to offer.