#Japan #ATAMI #HIS Japan #Green Slow Mobility #Atami Tourism

Discover Atami’s Green Slow Mobility

Atami, a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning views and rich cultural heritage, has embarked on a new journey towards sustainable tourism. HIS, a prominent travel company in Japan, has teamed up with the Atami Tourism Bureau under the auspices of the Japan Tourism Agency's regional tourism enhancement initiative. This collaboration aims to invigorate tourist demand in early spring while improving accessibility to cultural and artistic hubs within the region.

A brand new program featuring eco-friendly slow-moving electric vehicles, termed "Green Slow Mobility," will provide visitors with a unique means to explore Atami, all while minimizing their carbon footprint. The initiative, set to begin in early 2026, is poised to unravel the beauty that Atami has to offer during the rare and enchanting season of cherry and plum blossoms — known to be among the first to bloom in Japan. By creating enjoyable and comfortable transportation options, HIS endeavors to craft new experiential values that connect tourists not just to the immediate attractions, but to the very essence of Atami’s culture and nature.

The Experience

The program will be structured around multiple routes, each offering an engaging experience:

1. Course 1: Cherry and Plum Blossom Viewing Experience
- Audience: General visitors (No reservation needed / Free experience)
- Route: Atami Plum Garden ⇔ Atami City Hall (approximately 15 minutes one-way)
- Dates: February 3 (Tue) to 5 (Thu), 2026
- Note: February 2 (Mon) is for invited guests only; public access begins on February 3.

2. Course 2: Nostalgic Spring Tour of Atami’s Culture and Flowers
- Audience: International travelers (Reservation required)
- Route: Atami Station → Atami Plum Garden → Kiun-kaku → Geisha Association (pass-by) → Atami City Hall → Atami Station
- Dates: January 29 (Thu) and 30 (Fri), 2026
- Pricing: Adults 1,910 yen / Under 18 years 1,910 yen / Under 15 years 1,360 yen / Under 12 years Free
- Admission for Atami Plum Garden and Kiun-kaku, along with a guide, is included.

3. Course 3: Atami Art & Spiritual Healing Experience
- Audience: International travelers (Reservation required)
- Route: Atami Station → MOA Museum of Art → Kinomiya Shrine (pass-by) → Atami Plum Garden → Atami City Hall → Atami Station
- Dates: January 26 (Mon) and 30 (Tue), 2026
- Pricing: Adults 3,300 yen / Under 18 years 2,700 yen / Under 15 years Free
- Admission for MOA Museum of Art and Atami Plum Garden, along with a guide, is included.

Future Prospects

This innovative trial aims to establish a sustainable tourism model that not only promotes during the plum blossom season but also extends throughout the year. By enhancing connectivity within the city, visitors can easily navigate from coastal areas to cultural sites, blending moving experiences with an exploration of Atami’s rich heritage. As they uncover the charms of the winter to early spring transitions, HIS envisions a boost in regional consumption, significantly benefiting businesses and communities.

In conclusion, the introduction of Green Slow Mobility positions Atami as a pioneer in sustainable tourism, offering visitors an eco-conscious way to experience its scenic beauty and cultural depths. As the program unfolds, travelers will be invited to embrace not just the landscapes, but the soulful spirit of Atami — a city waiting to be rediscovered with each gentle, mindful journey.