Atami Guide Club for foreigners

Autumn has come

2011-10-14T11:54:00.001+09:00

Sacred deer in Nara Park which is said to be the messengers of deity of Shinto love nuts. My sister in Nara has begun to preserve these nuts for the coming winter.
She expects enjoyable walking together with deer.

Cluster amaryllis, Higan-bana in Japanese

2011-09-30T14:40:00.011+09:00

Cluster amaryllis this year

Cluster amaryllis in 2009

Around the autumnal equinox week (O-higan in Japanese), cluster amaryllis comes out of the field and delight our eyes and tell us it’s time of O-higan.

This plant spreads by rhizome and it seems they have been very active this year as we find much more flowers than previous years.

Please compare the photos taken at the same place and time of 2009 and 2011.

WATERFRONT FIREWORKS FESTIVALS IN ATAMI THIS SUMMER

2011-07-12T14:21:00.004+09:00

This summer Fireworks Festivals are to be held on

24th July Sunday
30th July Saturday
5th August Friday
8th August Monday
18th August Thursday
21st August Sunday
24th August Wednesday
27th August Saturday

From 8:20 till 8:50 each evening.

For further information, please visit the website at;

http://www.atamispa.com/atami_ex/english/sightseeing/index.htm

Dashi float maintenace

2011-06-05T11:38:00.005+09:00

Two experts came from Kishiwada, well known in DANJIRI Osaka gave us some pieces of advice about wheel-frame and wood carving and sculpture and it’s maintenance on June 4. They said so many times with wonderful carved wooden Shimizucho float We have to go on to the next generation this wooden floats in a good state as possible.

RHODODENDRON

2011-06-01T14:10:00.004+09:00

Shakunage is a Japanese word for rhododendron.
It is said there are some hundred species throughout the world.
In Japan this season, wild rhododendron is one of delights for the people who love hiking or trekking, whereas we can enjoy them as garden flowers.

Moss-Covered Garden in Hakone

2011-05-23T16:44:00.002+09:00

The rainy season has just began in southern Kyushu islands. It is 8days earlier than average year and 20 days earlier than last year. The first day of the rainy season will then go up north gradually. We love fine weather, of course, but all the plants are waiting for the rainy season.

The photo was taken yesterday at Hakone museum of art and we expect it will turn out more beautiful and fresh-greener when the rainy season begins.

Cafe La Boheme Shirogane on May 5

2011-05-08T00:38:00.006+09:00

It’s been almost 2 months since I blogged last time. The holyday of Children’s day on May 5 we took a late lunch at Italian Café Bohme Shirogane, Minato-ku ,Tokyo with my daughter and her friends who lived in Koenji, Tokyo. Pizza especially Gorgonzola with honey and pasta ware so delicious we ordered 2bottles of wine and bottomed up. Also staff’s customer service made me so comfortable I never had.

http://www.boheme.jp/jp/casual/home/index

ＬＥＴ’Ｓ　ＢＥ　ＡＣＴＩＶＥ　！

2011-04-22T13:01:00.007+09:00

So called golden week will start next Friday. We have to take a rest after such miserable disaster in North Japan. And we must continue our activities with less hesitation in order to cheer up our society. May we, therefore, recommend some plans for you to refresh yourselves?
Spring Mini Cruise in Atami, Just right event for this season, will start soon.

Please enjoy quiet 30 minutes listening to the sound of waves and feeling fresh breeze on a boat “Ile de Vacances”. You can overlook the town of Atami in the twilight from the sea. Please come to Atami Port at 4:00. Departure is 4:30.

Fee
￥500 for Adult over high school student

Date
Saturdays of 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th of May, 2011 and
Saturdays of 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th of June 2011

Contact
0557-86-6196 Atami City Tourism Section

See you in Atami!!

Tenpura Tsurukichi starts Lunch Service

2011-03-19T13:58:00.007+09:00

Tenpura Tsurukichi well known as Kaiseki tempura starts lunch service at afforadable price. 　Mr.Tsujino chief of Tsurukich who comes from Osaka, selects the food material and uses so expensive cotton seed oil not rapeseed or sesame one.

e.g. Tempura Bowl with Akadashi miso soup at 1260 yen
Tempura Gozen with Sashimi or choosing your favorite side dish at 2100 yen etc.

So one step farther into there you enjoy the taste you never experienced!

〒 413-0015
11-1 Chuo-cho, Atami, Shizuoka Prefecture
TEL. 0557-86-2338
FAX. 0557-86-2339
Opening Hours
Part of the day 11:30 ~ 14:30 (L.O 14:00)
Part of the night 17:30 ~ 21:30 (L.O 21:00)
Third Thursdays Closed Wednesday

Unprecedented magnitude 9

2011-03-13T21:22:00.002+09:00

AGC　express our heartfelt sympathy to the victims of Tohoku Kanto earthquake March 11, 2011.

It’s the season of Japanese hay fever!

2011-03-09T14:39:00.003+09:00

Have you noticed some people wearing white masks since the beginning of March?
They are suffering so called “hay fever”. In Japan, the one which starts at this season of the year is Pollen Allergy. The pollen of cedar causes sneezing, nasal mucus itching eyes, itching skin and headaches. It is said one out of five or six people is suffering Cedar Pollen Allergy. And the people try to protect the pollen scattered in the air by the white masks.

Swapping the Fireworks poster of this year

2011-02-27T19:57:00.006+09:00

We replaced the last year’s damaged fireworks poster with new one.A new poster is sandwiched in UV-treated acrylic board. The layout of exhibition space seems so fine. Why not have a look when you come down to　Shimizucho.

Fireworks in 2011 as follows:
Spring 20:20~20:45
April 16 (Sat)
Summer 20:20~20:50
July 24(Sun),July 30(Sat),
Aug. 5(Fri),Aug.8(Mon),Aug.18(Thu).Aug.21(San),Aug27(Sat)
Autumn 20:20~20:45
Sept. 19 (Mon)
Winter 20:20~20: 45
Dec. 4 (Sun), Dec. 11 (Sun), Dec. 23 (Fri)

Researching of Isawa hot spring

2011-02-18T23:02:00.002+09:00

Dosankai,a mutual financing association of Shimizu chou Noby belongs to, goes to the Isawa hot spring yamanashi pref.to research the spa as a spa and health resort tomorrow. I'd like to compare in many aspects Isawa Onsen hot spring and Atami.

Heavy fall of snow

2011-02-13T14:54:00.004+09:00

The heavy snow paralyzed transportation in Knato area yesterday. This photo is near Ohwakudani Hakone last year. I met Haseki in Sengokuhara Hakone by chance on this day.

Ume Plums or Japanese Apricot

2011-02-12T16:32:00.004+09:00

We Japanese love Ume for;
1) It is the symbol of early spring.
After long cold winter, we can expect warm active season coming soon.

2)From the fruits of plum;
We make ume pickles which is so sour but is said to be good for the stomach.
We make plum liqueur (wine) and jam.
In China, dried plum seasoned with sweetener is popular snack and recently young Japanese love to eat them, too.

The photo dates back to last Sunday the 6th Feb. in Atami Plum Garden.
Don't you thinbk we will soon be able to have full bloom?
The Plum Garden in Atami is to be opened until 8th Matrch.

A confidential menu

2011-01-29T22:13:00.011+09:00

I had a special dinner at the restaurant Oniontei with my sweet tonight.　One of menus is various pasta dishes, hamburger steak dishes differed from the family restaurant and runny omelets on the hayashi rice etc. But I can tell you ONIONTEI has a confidential menu: salt ramen (塩らーめん)and soy sauce ramen（醤油らーめん）. They're so especially good taste. These ramens are once a month menu and are not a normal one. Why not have a contact and a try?

Restaurant Oniontei: 12-1 nagisa cho atami city
tel:0557-85-0261

ＳＴＲＯＷＢＥＲＲＹ　ＰＩＣＫＩＮＧ

2011-01-27T15:15:00.006+09:00

About 30 minutes by car from Atami, A village called EMA is now welcoming family visitors to the glass or vinyl houses of strawberry. When agriculture was depending on natural weather, the season of strawberry was May to June but today when vinyl or glass houses are generalized, the season is Mid December to early May. And from December through May, you can enjoy strawberry picking.

Please mke a plan to visit EMA and eat full of strawberry for your week end journey.
Of course you can stay the night in Atami and enjoy hot spring and yummy cooking.

Unexpected final farewell

2011-01-22T14:52:00.008+09:00

A high school female classmate Mrs. C.S took her last breath 2days ago. The last time I met her was Numazu Commercial High school reunion party at Numazu Castle hotel on Jan.16.　We 21th annual graduate served as SECRETARY of the reunion party and were busy preparing for greeting guests. Nobody can imagine to say the final farewell to her less than 4 days. In a sense life is short. I now go to the vigil tonight.

Double Noses of SHINKANSEN

2011-01-20T16:48:00.003+09:00

The train leaves Ueno, Tokyo with double noses and probably with double tails (I am sorry I did not check the rear part). Can you guess why?

The train will be divided into two different destinations at a certain station on the way of Tohoku Shinkansen and Jyoetu Shinkansen. How clever and rational!

New Year's party guide

2011-01-14T22:59:00.008+09:00

New Year’s party at FUKUYA will be held after AGC monthly meeting on Jan.16 Sunday. We welcome your joining with our arms wide open.
Phone: 0557-81-2662
Time: 18:30
http://www.i-younet.ne.jp/~sybfuku/

“Atami Sakura”

2011-01-09T09:11:00.009+09:00

The Atami Sakura(=Atami cherry blossoms) are well known to early blooming. They are one month ahead of Kawazu cherry blossom(=河津桜) blooms. We soon hear Cherry-blossom festivals are being held in many places throughout the country. Photo: Jan.5, 2011 at Baien park near Kankoku-tein.

YU-LUXE MARATHON on 13th March

2011-01-05T16:06:00.005+09:00

The 27th Atami Yu-luxe Marathon will be held on 13th March, Sunday, and the application for the entry is now being accepted until 14th January.

Starting point as well as the goal is Sun-Deck and Atami Beach Line toll road is opened for the marathon course. This course is very popular for its sea breeze and its non-difference of the altitude along the coastline.

There are 4 choices among the following events:-

1.　2 kilo meters (complement 300)
Girls and boys of 1st to 4th grade of primary school
Starting time 11:10 am

2. 5 kilo meters (complement 1500)
F and M of age over 60, F and M of age over 40, F and M of age over 16,
Girls and Boys of Junior High and 5th to 6th grade of primary school
Starting time 10:00 am

3. 12 kilo meters (complement 2000)
Male of age over 60, F and M of age over 40, F and M of age over 16
Starting time 11:00 am

4. Family, 2 kilo meters, (complement 100 family)
Children 1st to 6th grade of primary school with parent(s)
Starting time 11:10 am

Entry Fee
Under High School student Yen 1500
Adult Yen 3000
Family Yen 3500

Plese ask for Details and payment slip via Japan Postal Office to

Telephone 0463-35-6691 or 0557-86-6196

First Kinomiya shrine then Kaizoji temple

2011-01-01T15:42:00.005+09:00

We could greet the New Year at Kinomiya shrine in peaceful circumstances then we went to Kaizoji temple for an ancestral visit to our grave. My second daughter came to see us today and she has a happy day at her home. The word “FAMILY” is just 6 letters though it is the treasure which it is hard to exchange with anything. Have nice new year’s holidays.

BON COURAGE!

2010-12-25T21:17:00.005+09:00

All of you are very busy in preparation for New Year holidays. We have just only 6 days until New Year 2011. What is your new year’s wishes? You will never know what you will find unless you get out and look for it. Bon courage!

Winter Fireworks

2010-12-24T00:40:00.007+09:00

Hi, everyone. I'm Hono, administrator of this blog.

I happen to take photos of fireworks display that was held yesterday, December 23rd 2010.

Photos are not very fine due to the lack of time of setting my camera.

Do you see the moon (almost full) in the sky?

When hungry after drink...

2010-12-18T22:55:00.005+09:00

We have many year-end-parties or a Christmas party in December, and the daytime is busy by work, also busy for bar hopping at night until the end of the year.The photo is the toasted Onigiri over which poured heated stock. The yellow tips is Uzu. You can imagine, it’s very nice Ochazuke(=お茶漬). I must confess the photo is my own breakfast today.

Soup stock see ⇒http://www.dasiya.jp

So take care, don’t lose your health.

Pro-Japan couple from Singapore

2010-12-14T15:29:00.004+09:00

We have been requested to guide AUTUMN of Atami in the afternoon on last Sunday.

On the very day, we all were happy as we could take photos of Mr. Fuji from Jikkoku Pass which is on the border of Shizuoka Pref. and Kanagawa Pref. Then we could enjoy the last autumn leaves of Baien Ume-Plum garden.

In the evening, I hope they could enjoy Japanese food and winter fire-works at the hotel on the coast.

One thing I feel very sorry is the weather the next day. In spite of their well preparation, it rained and was cold. I hope they were not struck by the cold or flu and their stay in Japan will be filled with lots of happy experiences!（Steam from the excess hot spring coming out of the well　seems　to be curious for them.)

Why not have a Japanese Nabe tonight !

2010-12-11T20:08:00.007+09:00

The oden (Japanese hotchpotch) is a kind of the food boiled and seasoned food among Japanese-style dishes. It is the cooking that it puts seasoning to various ingredients materials such as a japanese radish, a tubular fish meat (竹輪), a konnyaku（こんにゃく）, a boiled egg and stewed them with a soy sauce, and stewed soup stock. I love Japnese the oden(Japanese hotchpotch) very much. How abou you? Noby's tonight main dish is the oden.

Information :a supreme soup stock see ⇒http://www.dashiya.jp
（椒房庵） teｌ：0120-014-277

Prevention drills against disaster

2010-12-04T18:58:00.004+09:00

The first Sunday in December every year is the day of the disaster prevention drills. Shimizu-cho block associations (清水町) are going to check every carburetor and fuels which mingled with oils such as generators, an engine with a saw and a water pump machine and to trying to start them tomorrow. As you know when we forgot the damages of the earthquake, it comes over. The preparation is necessary to minimize the damage.

Time has wings

2010-11-28T09:12:00.006+09:00

We see Christmas illuminations around the city. It’s December already! When I look back on this year, Setsubun Festival(節分祭) and Summer festival of Kinomiya shrine(例大祭、こがし祭り) Shimizu-cho block associations(清水町)served this year once in 20 years duties during incredible so hot days remain unforgettable. It’s really hard days but now it’s good memories.

Glowing autumn in Shoji-lake(精進湖)

2010-11-21T21:46:00.014+09:00

On our way to Akanekama (Akane kiln), outskirt of Yatsugatake, Yamanashi pref., we dropped in Shoji-lake on Nov.14. Autumn leaves were so beautiful that I took the shutter so many many times. Don’t you think "it’s beyond description"?

Mt. Fuji from the Kawaguchiko Lake

2010-11-19T15:56:00.004+09:00

For us, Mt. Fuji is the number one mountain in Japan.
I was lucky to take this picture last Sunday before dusk from one of the five lakes at the foot of Mr.Fuji

Beaujolais Nouveau (2)

2010-10-31T20:05:00.006+09:00

As you know Beaujolais district wines in France are released in the third Thursday of November every year, the new wine Beaujolais Nouveau arrived on October 30th at Narita Airport. Amount of the import of the year is about 6 million bottles according to the newspaper. The wine features a very smooth, fruity flavor that makes it easy to drink. Looking forward to tasting them on November 18.

Beaujolais Nouveau

2010-10-28T21:21:00.005+09:00

On the third Thursday of next month, November 18 is the day lifting the ban, Beaujolais Nouveau of this year. Shall we have a Beaujolais party?

ATAMI ONTAMA NEWS – Sun-set Cruise by “Yu-min Goh” with love

2010-10-27T17:37:00.005+09:00

An event for couples, pairs of parent and child or friends.
One of the couple on the cruiser is to shout love to his or her partner waiting on Moon Terrace at sea side. Then the both are to get on the cruiser together and enjoy sun-set cruising.
※　Don’t dive into the sea. Just one person cannot participate.

Date and time:

November 6th, Saturday 2010 (reservation on this date is acceptable)
16:45 ～ 18:00

Fee: ￥800 for cruising
Complement: 30 couples (please bring LOVE)
(minimum 20 couples to carry out the event)

Meeting place: At Wakagaeru Station on the promenade

The 27th wedding anniversary

2010-10-22T21:33:00.004+09:00

We have the 27th wedding anniversary. As you know“time flies like an arrow.”I said to myself. It’s true. We had a dinner in the Japanese style hotel Okawa, minaguchi-cho,Atami on Oct.20. The outdoor bath of this hotel with the shade of spotlighted bamboo is very much , as well as Japanese dishes. A sound of the water of Hatsukawa (初川)was so comfortable that we fogot for a while busy days.

ATAMI ONTAMA NEWS Let's enjoy Geisha show and Japanese style confectionery

2010-10-22T13:17:00.004+09:00

Day: 16th,23rd and 30th October
6th and 13th November
Time: 10:00-12:00
Fee：2000yen including fee for Geisha show and Japanese style confectionery
complement：20
Reservation: before the due date
Place to meet: in front of the hot spring for feet at Atami station

You can visit traditional Japanese style confectionery shop and enjoy Geisha show. You can also take pictures with Geisha and talk with them.

※
This article was originally posted in the AGC Japanese Blog on October 4th, 2010 by Ayako. Reprinted today by the administrator Hono.

The original article could be seen from the link below.

URL:
http://agcatami.blogspot.com/2010/10/atami-ontama-news-lets-enjoy-geisha.html

ATAMI ONTAMA NEWS 　Trekking and Taking pictures FOR GOOD WALKERS

2010-10-08T13:16:00.003+09:00

Time: 16th October, Saturday 9:00 ～ 13:00
Fee: \1,000-
Complement: 10 people
Meeting place: At steam locomotive in front of Atami Station
Instructor: Adachi Yukio
Schedule:

Station ～　vicinity of MOA museum ～(by bus) Himeno-sawa Park～stone Buddha images along mountain path ～Higane-san Hill ～Jikkoku Pass (Break up)
Reservation: by 15th October
Preparation: Be in walking wear and shoes.
Bring lunch, rain wear, water, and camera.

Please feel autumn in the field and hillside of Atami and take pictures of stone images, wild herbs, chestnut forest, pampas grasses, etc.

ATAMI ONTAMA NEWS let’s have experience of CANOEING

2010-10-02T09:10:00.004+09:00

Time: 23rd October Saturday
　 ①　9:45～11：00
　　　　　　②11：30～12：45
　　　　　　③13：30～15：30

Fee：　　① and ② ￥2,200- for beginners, lecture 45 minutes canoeing 30minutes
　　　　　　　 ③　￥3,500- for the people who have some experience,
　　　　　　　　　　　 Lecture 60 minutes canoeing 60 minutes

Receivable number：　10 people each, over 5th grade

Reservation: by the 20th October

Place to meet: Rest house in Nagahama Seaside Park, South Atami

The program will be carried out with a little rain.

Please be prepared in clothes which may get wet like separate rain wear,
and bring a change and towel.

Sponsored and Instructed by Mr. Kawasaki Fumio, Representative of Canoe Shop KAWASAKI, you will get brief lecture of paddling and actual experience of canoeing on Taga and Ajiro Bay.

ATAMI ONTAMA NEWS　cycling along the beautiful cliff and sea sides

2010-09-27T16:15:00.005+09:00

Time: 9th October　Saturday　10：00～11：30
Meeting Place：　Wakagaeru Station in Atami
Fee: FREE of CHARGE
Guide: Ichiki Kohichiroh
Reservastion : Needed by 8th October Friday

Cycling from Seaside park in Atami to Nagahama Seaside Park, South Atami

On electric bicycle provided for test ride you will enjoy superior cliff side scenery.

ATAMI ONTAMA NEWS　　 Opening event

2010-09-24T15:35:00.005+09:00

“ONTAMA is an abbreviation for Onsen-Tamatebako which means Treasure box of Atami Onsen. 61 programs for pleasant experience will be held from 9th October till 14th November. Reference : Web-site of ONTAMA http://wla.jp/ontama/index.php?ssid, Atami Tourist Association Tel 0557-85-2222, or Atami Guide Club Tel 0557-68-3930(week-days only).

OPENING EVENT

Time: 　9th October, Saturday, from 12:00

Place: 　 Nagahama Seaside Park in Taga, South Atami

Free of charge

Reservation not necessary

Schedule:
12:00～12:15 　 Opening Ceremony
12:20～12：50　 Live by Itokawa-Ventures
13:00～13:30 Performance of the hula by Hula Harau O Hale Pume
14:00～15:30 Yoga on the beach
Anybody who has no experiences of Yoga and anyone of rigid body is welcomed. Let’s have the feeling of relationship between the nature and yourself and let's share worm and sweet time!　　　　　　　　　　　 Poease be prepared with Yoga-mat or bath towel or sheet, face towel, beverage and anti-sunburn care. The same program of Yoga on the beach will be held on 24th October, Sunday, at Moon Terrace, next to Sun-Beach in downtown Atami.

Ｒｉｃｅ　（４）

2010-09-22T09:27:00.004+09:00

On the grain belt of Japan where the winter comes earlier, the harvest has already finished.
In Shizuoka Prefecture, where the climate is mild, the harvest has just started.
The ears of rice are full and waiting to be cropped shortly.

After being cropped, the rice is hanged down for dehydration.

ATAMI ONTAMA in autumn 2010 will start soon

2010-09-18T08:53:00.005+09:00

ONTAMA is an abbreviation for Onsen-Tamatebako which means Treasure box of Atami Onsen. 61 programs for pleasant experience will be held from 9th October till 14th November. We will introduce these programs one by one and if some of them will interest you, please visit web-site of ATAMI-ONTAMA at http://wla.jp/ontama/file/calendar.php?ssid for application or please contact Atami Tourist Association Tel 0557-85-2222 or our club, Atami Guide Club Tel 0557-68-3930.

ＭＯＯＮＬＩＧＨＴ　ＹＯＧＡ(Pre-event)

Date 23rd September 2010, the night of Full Moon
Time 18:30 ～19:45
Place Atami Moon Terrace near Sun Beach
Fee Free of charge
Please be dressed in easy wear and bring yoga-mat or towel and water to drink.
Minimum number of applicant to execute the program 70　people
Reservation required
In case of rain Call Off

The Moon Light reflected on the sea of Atami is excellent.
Let’s have nice healing time under the Full Moon playing Yoga with the instruction of Ms. Ohki Aya.

33 Goddess of Mercy

2010-09-14T18:30:00.005+09:00

In the precincts of a temple in Ajiro named Hase Kannon, there are thirty three stone Buddha images. They seem to be dedicated in Edo era when Ajiro was prosperous as a port by the local people of devout Butddists. The images were not dedicated in the building of the temple but were put in the field.

Excursion in Atami on 5th September was broadcasted on FM radio

2010-08-24T15:16:00.004+09:00

Still some participants to the excursion are acceptable and we broadcasted the invitation by FM Atami Yugawara Ciao! 79.6MHz last Sunday.

This is the picture of the satellite studio and the draft read out.

Atami Guide Club is a volunteer group to introduce Atami in English and some Chinese or Korean to the people who need assistance in language.

As one of the events to celebrate the 134th anniversary of Shizuoka Prefectural organization, we will have half a day excursion on the 5th September Sunday. Starting time from Atami Station is 9:30 in the morning.

The main schedule is
To visit Jukkoku Pass by bus. We will be able to see Mt. Fuji there depending on the weather. Then back to down town, we will watch performance of Japanese Dance by Geisha girls. After lunch, we will stroll along the sea side to Marin Spa where we will break up at 3:30. After that, if you wish, you may enjoy swimming and various kinds of public bath at Marin Spa until its closing time. All the charge for this excursion is free except lunch as Shizuoka Prefecture and Atami City will support the event.

For further　information,　please　visit　our　web-site　at　Atami　Guide　Club,　Blog　pages　in　English　or　please contact us at e-mail info@agcjp.com , telephone 0557-68-3930 or fax 0557-68-5867. Thank you.

Please also refer to our blog of 3rd August.

Rice (3)

2010-08-17T14:28:00.005+09:00

While I assume to be lazy because of its hotness of this summer, the flowers of rice had already pollinated and borne baby rice as photographed. During the coming one month, these baby rice will grow well and become wholesome and sound in autumn. I hope they would be blessed with the least of typhoon.

Y’s MENS　FROM NAIROBI

2010-08-11T16:03:00.002+09:00

Have a look! This is my favorite photo I blog up . They are member of Y’s MENS From Nairobi . All members enjoyed themselves in Atami beer festa on Aug 1,2010.

INVITATION to an EXCURSION in ATAMI

2010-08-03T13:03:00.011+09:00

Cerebrating the establishment of Shizuoka Prefecture which started in summer of 134 years ago, our club, Atami Guide Club (AGC) will have an excursion by bus and on foot in Atami as below and invite foreign people living in neighboring towns:-

Date & Time
5th　September　Sunday　2010　9:30 ～15：30

Fee
FREE except lunch

Fixed Number
20 guests

Itinerary
9:30 Meeting in front of Atami Station at steam locomotive monument

Then visiting
1. Hashiri-yu, gushing hot spring in a cave
2. Jukkoku Pass(Depending on weather condition, we can look over Mt. Fuji.)
3. Performance of Geisha girls' Japanese Dance
4. Lunch
5. Watching an old Japanese house
6. Walking around beach to Marin Spa and break up at 15:30
7.

If you wish, after the breaking up, you can enjoy yourselves in Marin Spa which is open till21:00. Web site of Marin Spa is http://meijisp.jp/management/marinespa/

In this case, please bring swimming suits, towels etc with you.
Enterance fee to Marin Spa will be paid by AGC.

We welcome your joining this excursion and please let us know your participation by 31st August at the followings:-

e-mail: info@agcjp.com (answer e-mail is to be sent from agcjpnew@yahoo.co.jp)
telephone: 0557-68-3930
fax: 0557-68-5867

A Japanese word for midsummer

2010-07-27T11:43:00.005+09:00

As soon as the hotness of the day starts in the morning, the chirping of several kinds of cicadas starts continuously. This is one of the symbols of midsummer for us Japanese. We call this continuous chorus of cicadas as “Semi-Shigure”which means the shower of cicadas’ chirping.

Do you agree this sense of the words or do you think it’s only a noise?

Nobody in Sunbeach?

2010-07-24T22:28:00.004+09:00

I took this photo from the side of Hotel Ikeda by the walk of my dog Jolly at 5:50 a.m. today. Sea breeze and the call of gulls I love not yet so hot and humid rather comfortable sea side morning walking is very fine. I broke a sweat having good feeling. Why not have a try everyone?

Cormorant fishing

2010-07-22T23:46:00.015+09:00

I went to Shikoku for my husband's class reunion.

One of his classmates lives in Oozu in Ehime Prefecture.

Oozu is famous for cormorant fishing.

I watched cormorant fishing for the first time.

Cormorant fishing is fshing that the cormorant fisherman makes a bonfire and gathers sweetfishes and fishes with cormorants in the summer.

The bottom photo is a photo of the fish which the cormorant caught.

I was very excited. Do you want to see it,too?

Japan is a country of the Temperate Zone

2010-07-20T15:46:00.003+09:00

Today’s temperature：－
Sapporo 27 degrees centigrade
Tokyo 34 ℃
Osaka 　　 33℃
Okinawa 　 31℃
and Atami　　32 ℃

Japan is not in the tropical zone but we call these sultry nights Nettai-ya in Japanese which means the night of the Tropical zone. This word seems to be accurate, doesn’t it?

Good chance to sell KAPPA EBISEN

2010-07-13T11:20:00.004+09:00

On a pleasure boat to watch rocky tract along the Sea of Japan, I sprinkled “KAPPA-EBISEN”in front of sea gulls perching on tetrapods. Then, suddenly, numbers of sea gulls flew after the boat and followed it with chirping. It was a splendid scene.

In Atami too, I am going to experiment myself if the sea gulls here will snatch at “KAPPA-EBISEN. And If the result will be affirmative, don’t you think this will be a nice business chance for the merchants in Atami !?!?

ＲＩＣＥ（２）

2010-07-06T12:32:00.001+09:00

Sprouts of rice which had been planted about two months ago have grown sound and cover the grain belt of Japan. Hope they will be blessed with good weather.

The Japanese Drumbeat

2010-07-01T23:57:00.006+09:00

Exercise of the Japanease Drum for the "Kogashi Festival" began on today.

From July 1st to 14th, the children practice the Japanese Drum every night for 2 weeks.

And they can ride on the float on 15th and 16th.

Whenever I hear the drumbeat, I think that the rainy season is over and summer begins soon.

In fact, one day of the festival rains evry year.

After the festival, we can see the fireworks display in summer.

In this summer, the fireworks display is performed on July 25, 30, August 5,11,19,22,and29.

Why don't you come to see the fireworks display in this summer?

Vitality or Vulgar Taste ?

2010-06-29T12:23:00.006+09:00

Which is the right word to explain the decoration on a building in Osaka?
Cheerfully
Merrily
Lively
Loud
Noisy
Showy
Gaudy
Garish

Oh,dear!!

Lavender

2010-06-26T15:40:00.005+09:00

Not ever having to go to Hokkaido by air,we enjoyed seeing lavenders at Herb Festival in Kawaguchiko（河口湖）on July 23.

Noby's note PC is still hospitalized but seems to leave there today.

"The Jingai-Sou"

2010-06-25T00:01:00.010+09:00

There are many high quality villas in Atami.

One of the villas is "Jingai-Sou", where a old stone pavement is left here like Roman roads.

"Jingai" means to be separeted from agony of the world in the outside of the maddding crowd.

It santds near the seashore, and is very quiet.

I felt that I came another world.

Today, we had a guide training in Ajiro,the south of Atami.

I saw the gorgeous house of the boss who lends boats and equipment of fishermen in the past,too.

Don't you observe various houses with us?

Discomfort Index

2010-06-22T11:48:00.004+09:00

Based on the temperature and the humidity, discomfort index is calculated.

Average temperature here in Atami today is about 25～26 ℃ and humidity ranges about 80～90％ . As you may understand, this humidity is the culprit of discomforts.

In Okinawa, the rainy season was over and in Hokkaido, they don’t have rainy season but other regions than these areas throughout Japan are now covered with rain and dampness.

But such discomfort is the blessing for bumper crop and necessary for nature. Therefore let’s find out the pleasure which cheers us up like the succor World Cup with toasts of beer and laughter!!

Coming soon Kogashi Matsuri.

2010-06-19T16:26:00.008+09:00

It's less than 25days away to Kogashi Matsuri this year. Shimizucho　has been on the duty-neighborhood association serving Kinomiya Shinto Shrine once in 20 years this year, so we have a great many events. Noby must participate in a line consisting of more than 400 persons on July 16, too. We have been spending very busy days. Movie taken at Ginza-cho in 2009.

Hydrangea　－　Ajisai in Japanese

2010-06-15T11:52:00.004+09:00

Rainy season has started and hydrangea matches this season very well. Along the railroad bound for Itoh/Shimoda from Tokyo/Atami and in front of the Oyama Park, various colors of hydrangea entertain our eyes. The life of flowers in this area will last till early July but the colors of the flowers at this beginning stage seem to be much vivid. The code for hydrangea in Japan is “whim” or “caprice” as you see the colors of the flowers change while they bloom. In other Japanese, we call them “Nanabake”or "Shichi-henge“ both of which mean “seven changes”

Cleaning Hatsukawa river.

2010-06-13T17:30:00.001+09:00

On June 13 we have cleaned up Hatsukawa river from 6:30 am. A good many neighborhood in Shimizucho gathered near Kenban. It took about 2 hours to weeds picking streached and attached to both the walll of the river.

The Ito River Ⅱ

2010-06-10T20:48:00.007+09:00

It is the Ito River.

I took this photo today.

The bougainvilleas become in full bloom now.

In this year,it was late for cold weather.

And you can see flowers of jacaranda near the beach.

I enjoy to live in Atami.

Extracurricular class in Seaside,Manazuru

2010-06-08T11:44:00.005+09:00

As announced previously, we had a pleasant time to learn how to take good photos last Sunday.

Not only ourselves but also two young ladies we happened to meet there could learn how to be charming models!!

I hope they could also enjoy the class.

Manazuru peninsula shooting & walking

2010-06-05T20:08:00.004+09:00

This is the first time our extracurricular activities.Please gather in front of the ticket gate by 12:30 at Atami Station tomorrow.We move to　Manazuru station by Toukaido line, and we’re going to take a taxi to the Cape Manazuru (tel:0465-68-1112), then we’ll meet Mr.Adachi.　This menu is last year’ｓRestaurant Iwachu.

A sea urchin bowl

2010-06-03T23:24:00.004+09:00

Japan is an island country blessed with the riches of its many rivers and the sea that surrounds it on all sides.

Fish and seafood have been key parts of the Japanese diet since ancient times.

A rich variety of fish and seafood is available all year round.

There are also various different ways to cook fish.

Early summer is the sason for lightly roasted bonito.

But I enjoyed to eat a sea urchin bowl last week in Hokkaido.

It is June.

2010-06-01T13:40:00.007+09:00

In archaic Japanese、 June is said“Minazuki”(水無月).
Direct meaning of the Kanji-character is “the month without water.”
But this explanation is a mistake. Also in old Japanese , “Minazuki” means the month of water and this seems to be true. On lunar calendar, June is the season to fill paddy field with water and Minazuki comes from this fact.

And on solar calendar we use generally, we will soon be in rainy season here.

Small scale but limpid stream

2010-05-29T20:51:00.004+09:00

The season has come when a draft beer and a Hiyashichuka (冷やし中華)are so delicious.
Hatsukawa river(初川) which flows ｔhrough Baien Park bring us sensation of coolness.
We are soon going to enjoy lots of firefly flashings and the fantasy world they will make here from Jun.

Cherry blossom Ⅲ

2010-05-27T23:44:00.004+09:00

Atami is the earliest place to see the cherry blossoms in Japan.

Blossoms begin in early December and peak in mid-January.

I took the lower photo on Janyaru 24.

Wakkanai is the most north place in Hokkaido, Japan, and the latest place to see the cherry blossoms in Japan.

On May 23, the cherry blossoms had bloomed in Wakkanai in this year.

I took the upper photo in the Rishiri Island that it takes about 2 hours by ship from Wakkanai, on May 25.

I was able to see the cherry blossoms of the early blooming and the late blooming in this year.

Japan may seem to be a small island, but is wide unexpectedly.

Pond of Ice (氷=ice )

2010-05-25T12:51:00.005+09:00

Kurotake, a mountain covering the edges of Atami, Kannami and Izunokuni-shi remains the geographical features of its origin being a somma(外輪山), the outer rim of a volcanic crater. Izu Skyline Road runs along the ridge.

From one of the lookout points on the road, we can overlook a pond Koori-ga-ike (koori=ice).As the name indicates, so many years ago, people utilized ice formed on this pond.
How the temperature has changed to warm!!

When the weather is clear we can also look Mr. Fuji from the road.

First come first served.

2010-05-21T21:41:00.003+09:00

Kangiyodo zuido tunnnel(観魚洞隧道) constructed in 1910, until R135 a by-pass road completed, every bus, truck and car entered into the tunnnel. But it’s width was so narrow 4.1m that vehicles didin’t run for alternate traffic, as “ first come first served traffic.”
It’s 117 m long, 4.1m wide, 3.8m high. 90years has passed since then. “When coming out of the tunnel,there was not a snowy country there but ...Hote New Akao there.”

The Ito River

2010-05-21T01:59:00.018+09:00

This is the Ito-riber that flows through the center of Atami.

There are many interesting object d'arts.

First photo is the Dragon Bridge.

Next one is a octopus and the fourth one is a turtle and a flatfish?

I don't know the third one.

And last one is real gaslight.

Why not come and see the these object d'arts by yourself?

NAGAHAMA BEACH in SOUTH ATAMI

2010-05-18T11:18:00.006+09:00

At least once a year, or, several times a year, children want to go out for swimming in the sea during their summer vacation. Young people also want to go out to the sea side to spend romantic time with their girl or boy friend. People young in heart want to spend quiet time with their partner or want to spend happy time with their family or friends.

Nagahama beach in Taga, South part of Atami, will respond to these requirements.

With different atmosphere from the center of Atami, you will find relaxed mood here and fill your body with fresh air.

“Plein Soleil” by Alain Delon

2010-05-14T21:35:00.006+09:00

On my way ,of course with my friend Jolly, to the reclaimed land of Atami bay next to Korakuen Hotel. I happen to meet the sailboat of which the owner is unknown has been thrown away for years. It doesn’t seem to North Korea ship. I remembered the Alain Delon’s movie in 1960 “ Plein Soleil”(=太陽はいっぱい). Such a pleasant imagination I did. How about you.

2010-05-13T23:11:00.002+09:00

This photo was taken in Manazuru,Kanagawa prefecture, where is two sations away from Atami.

Last Sunday, we walked around the Manazuru Peninsula for a groundwork.

On June 6, we are going to perform a photo party with professional cameraman.

If you have any interests in camera,or you want to walk around Manazuru with us, please contact us at our home page's information.

ATAMI

2010-05-11T13:59:00.003+09:00

It is said the Hot spring of Atami can date back to one thousand several hundred years ago, when hot water gushed up to the surface of the sea and inlet of the village was covered with hot water. This is the origin of the word Atami in Japanese character 　熱　　海　　（hot sea）.

Then thanks to the prayer and devotion by a virtuous priest, the gushing of the hot water was transferred from the sea to the land. Since then fishermen have had being saved their occupation and villagers have been enjoying the benefits from the hot spring.

At present, I can imagine the town is on an ancient caldera (Please look at the picture) and the water deep in the underground is still heated up and offers us Onsen Hot Spring.

For us, Atamians, the hot spring is the gift from the earth!

Shinsui Park and Moon Terace

2010-05-06T23:36:00.005+09:00

Blue water, white sand, hotels and palm trees create an atmosphere like that of international luxuary beach resort.

On the Moon Terrace you can feel and breathe in the air of the ocean.

In the night, it is a spot for a million-dollar night view of Atami.

Visitors to Atami can enjoy the illuminations on Sun Beach every night until 10pm.

The Shinsui Park serves as special seats for the Atami Marine Fireworks Shows.

These waterfront parks are Atami's new tourist spots, serving as a perfect promenade.

Rice (1)

2010-05-04T20:02:00.004+09:00

Sprouts of rice have just been planted on the paddy field in the middle part of Izu Peninsula.

From now on, the paddy field all over Japan will be covered with sprouts of rice from south to north gradually and we can enjoy watching them grow towards summer to autumn. I like watching rice grow out of the window when I am on Shinkansen. Rice is very strong plant that it can stand in the watery paddy field, which prevents weed from growing around rice.

GUESS　 WHERE ？

2010-05-01T19:33:00.003+09:00

The stairway between former Ground Hotel and former New Daiwa Hotel, which lead to R135 along with Sun beach. This is the first time I went down here even I have lived in Atami for about 50 years. I think a lot of tourists walked here in the times of good economy.

Nara

2010-04-29T23:32:00.012+09:00

It is 1300 years after Nara became the capital of Japan.

Various events are performed now.

These photos were took at Muro-ji Temple which I visited last year in the northeastern part of Nara Prefecture.

Muro-ji Temple allowed women to visit, in contrast to Koya-san Kongobu-ji Temple in Wakayama prohibited the entrance of women to the temple.

So, Muro-ji Temple was called "Nyonin-Koya" or Koya Temple for Women.

I was impress with the beauty of the five-storied pagoda which is the second oldest one in Japan.

And I also excited to see the statues of Buddha that are national treasure.

I enjoyed to spend quiet time very much.

ＴＥＡ　ＰＩＣＫＩＮＧ

2010-04-27T12:59:00.003+09:00

In general, the first picking of the new tea leaves starts around this time of the year. Shizuoka Prefecture is the top district of producing tea. Bidding for “Fresh Tea” of the first product of the year is the important event for the people who concern tea business.

But this year,　due to the low temperature and the lack of sun shine in March and April, tea leaves have not grown satisfactory, according to the TV news. People of tea market are very anxious if they could hold the initial bidding as usual year.

The photo was took three years ago when a couple and their new born baby from Europe came to Japan for their honey moon and experienced tea-picking in Nirayama, a neighboring town of Atami. It was middle of April, bit earlier for tea picking, but fortunately, tea trees grown in glass houses for tourism was available.

We do now expect the weather will be cleared up this week and onwards as otherwise, I am afraid, we may not be able to get delicious green tea this year.

In the middle part of Shizuoka, there spreads huge plantation of tea which is worth your visiting.

Under the construction.

2010-04-25T10:14:00.004+09:00

Although Sun beach and sunrise in Atami are very great, we also often see such an apartment. While hotels or Japanese style hotels in the middle of the very depression today give up their business in the management, an apartment is built year after year. But construction will be stopped shortly after a circulating fund stops running. This is an another feature of Atami.

Dishes

2010-04-23T00:15:00.005+09:00

The potage of the the pumpkin.

A duet of eggs and vegetables.

Sauteed pork with salad.

Orange mamalade Gelee.

How about these dishes?

Sometimes I take my time and cook sowly and carefully.

I look forward to not only cooking but also chattering with my friends.

A lof of youg couple who work together cannot have much time for cooking.

Some people often buy a convinent packed lunch.

I'm anxious about thier health. Besides I'm anxious about their chidren's health.

The time may have changed.

The taste of Mamma may be old.

Week End Fishing

2010-04-20T11:35:00.005+09:00

Business men from the USA enjoyed fishing on Saturday afternoon 17th in Ajiro, South Atami.

For the people who used to fish much bigger salmon in the USA, catching mackerel and rockfish seemed to be another experience. But the result of their catch should have been satisfactory, I hope!

SPRING WARMTH　＆　GENTLE SEE　BREEZE

2010-04-18T19:41:00.003+09:00

Noby＆Horo invited their relatives who lived in Kannami and Mishima city to Atami Industrial festival sponsored by Atami the chamber of commerce. We really enjoyed the spring warmth and a soft sea breeze.

A Tsunami

2010-04-15T23:40:00.006+09:00

By the Chile big earthquake of the end of February, a tunami repeated itself locally in the coastal place of the center of Japan more than four hours.

These sign say "Caution tunami hazard area!" or "Be careful to tunami!" at the town by the sea,Ajiro, in Atami City.

If you feel a earthquake at the sea shore, you shoud run away there quickly.

The second stage of a piano

2010-04-13T13:09:00.004+09:00

After 30 years without any player, an upright piano has just got a new owner, 5-year-old girl and her family, and is now under thorough tuning. The piano is now delighted to get fresh ventilation and is prepared to meet its new owner.

Thank you for all the people who helped to arrange the transfer of the piano to its new owner!

My master 's got exhausted!

2010-04-10T20:45:00.007+09:00

Master Noby is going to attend his niece's happy wedding ceremony in Zushi Kanagawa pref. tomorrow. He is to kick off at about 7:20 a.m. here. So he's going to drink wine for celebration in advance tonight. M---m good night.

The cherry blossom tunnel

2010-04-09T01:04:00.006+09:00

I visited at Izu-kougen,Ito city, in Shizuoka Prefecture last Tuesday.

The cherry blossom tunnel continue about 3,00 meters.

The cherry blossoms are in full bloom now.

Now is the best season in Japan.

Ninja?!?!

2010-04-06T11:23:00.006+09:00

There is a small mountain called MAKUYAMA in Yugawara , a neighboring town of Atami. The top of the mountain is only 625 meters above sea level but the rock wall at the foot is suitable spot for rock-climb training.

On 22nd March, I saw several climbers training like ninja.

If you are a trekking lover, how about making a plan to walk around Yugawara and Atami? The both will give you beautiful nature with Onsen Hot Spring bathing after good sweat.

Cherry Blossom

2010-04-01T23:50:00.007+09:00

Today's news said tha the cherry trees are in full bloom today in Tokyo.
(I took this picture 3 days ago, at Ueno.)

When the cherry blossom season arrive, people gather, taking food and drink with them and have boisterous parties.

Ueno is the most famous place to have cherry viewing parties.

From Edo period, 400years ago, blossom viewing caught on as a form of entertainment for ordinary townspeople.

Every spring, the cherry trees all over Japan burst into bloom.

More than 300 different varieties of flowering cherries grow around the country.

Somei-yoshino cherry trees only bloom for particularly short period of time, and their petals seem to start dropping almost as soon as thery've opened.

For over 1,000years, people in Japan have perceived the cherry blosssom to be the mirror of their sensibility.

The last snow of winter

2010-03-30T13:41:00.001+09:00

“Mountains covered with snow and cherry blossom” is the typical photo motif of early spring of northern countries in Japan. But it was a big surprise for us to have snow yesterday 29th March here in Atami!!
It was the latest snow since the weather observation had started.
We can hardly take such a photo in Atami which is known for its nice mild climate both in summer and winter.

Coming AGC general meeting

2010-03-27T19:54:00.008+09:00

Chie-san send to my master Noby the mail by Mr. SS. His proposal for near future Atami was so imposing and Noby wondered why Mr.SS's brain was so young. How do you think？

Noby　can’t attend the AGC general meeting next month due to his neice’s wedding ceremony. He is looking forward to seeing you on April 3 at Sakura party in Mr. M house Taga, and he’s going to introduce one of his friend Mr.Komuta who wants to become AGC member. So until then bye-bye.

Kabukiza Theater

2010-03-25T23:08:00.009+09:00

Do you know the Kabukiza Theater is going to close by this April?

It's going to be rebuilt for the reason of the deterioration, the earthquake-proof problem and the barrier-free.

Now, in the Kabukiza Theater," The good-by performance" is taking place from January, 2009 (last year).

In the Kabukiza Theater, there are 1600 seats, stage cartains of the theater is worthy special attention.

The Kabukiza uses 3 traditional colors;black , green and orange. Colorful curtain gives the audience the impression of traditional Japanese work.

It is said that the appearance design's going to succeed to the present Kabukiza Theater and the scale (the capacity and the stage size) is the same approximately.

Spring in 2013, new building's going to open.

(I took this picture last summer.)

Do you play tennis?

2010-03-23T16:25:00.003+09:00

In Oyama Seaside Park in Taga, Atami, we can enjoy playing tennis at reasonable charge. The city runs tennis courts every day through the year except 29th December ～3rd January.

Playable time
September ～June Day-time 9:00～17:00　Night-time 17:00～21：00
July and August 　 Day-time 9:00～19:00 Night-time 19:00～21：00

General Playing fee
Day-time Yen 1,050/hour Night-time Yen 1,530/hour
(If you have friends in Atami who can play with you, discount charge for residents would be applicable.)

Please bring your rackets and balls as rental goods are not available.

Contact for resavation:- phone 0557-68-3506 (in Japanese)

(If you need help for resavation in English, we will be happy to assist y ou.)

How about a trip to Atami for exercise by tennis with Onsen Hot Spring and nice sea food afterward!!

My master Noby

2010-03-20T18:04:00.004+09:00

Hello everyone, my name is Jolly. Today I introduce my master to you. My master'S name is Noby,his handle name. He always walks with me at about 6:00~7:00 in the morning,checking his pedometer(万歩計)along the sea-side. It seems to me he is making efforts to loose his weights. My master almost take a bath after our taking a walk.
Before he goes to office, he makes my breakfast. I see him off and miss him until darkness.

...to be continued.

Wedding Ceremony

2010-03-18T21:54:00.006+09:00

This dessert was served by some restaurant at Aoyama in Tokyo.

In this restaurant, my son's wedding party will be held on March.

In Japan, more than 700,000 couples get married each year.

It's said that more than 60 percent of all Japanese wedding ceremonies are Christian-style.

But, for my generation' wedding ceremonies were generally held at a shrine by Shinto-style.

And the bride was usually dressed head-to-toe in white. White is a sacred colour and representing absolute purity. It shows that her immaculate heart will take on the colour of the groom' s family from now on.

Slowly but surely, the institution of marriage is changing .

FLEA MARKET on 21st Sunday March, 2010

2010-03-16T13:34:00.004+09:00

On the third Sunday every month, the shop association of Atami Ginza Street holds a flea market from 10:00 to 15:00 at a building next to Kamatsuru, a shop of dried fish.
This time, Atami Guide Club is going to open a stall and would like to receive as many visitors as possible. Members of our club will provide their belongings in order to support the club’s poor finance. We will be happy if you could come and take a look for a lucky find before you go out for sightseeing in Atami.

(photos:- flea market held in summer in 2008)

Beautiful rape blossoms!

2010-03-13T13:44:00.005+09:00

Since I happened to see the rape-blossoms field was very beautiful in Kannami-cho(田方郡函南町), I got off my car and took a couple of pictures. Speaking of rape blossoms, I can image boiled them with a soy sauce(お浸し)、or mixed with mustardｓ(芥子和え).
Especially I love them tasted with Rishiri Konbu(利尻)or Dounan Konbu(道南).
Tell me how do you cook other way?

The largest camphor tree

2010-03-11T21:08:00.013+09:00

This is the largest camphor tree growing in Japan.

The tree is known as Kamo no Kusu can be found in a Hachiman Shrine in Kamo-cho, in Kagoshima.

The Kamo no Kusu is approximately 30meters high and has a girth of 33.6meters.

Local people reckon the tree to be 2,000 years, but is officially said to be 1,500 years olds.

I took this picture when I went home for a Buddhist memorial service for my father last summer.

Although the residents of Atami can see the second largest camphor tree any time, probably it's your first time to see the largest camphor tree in Japan.

Japan's second largest and oldest kusunoki tree (camphor tree) stands in the left of the main shrine, Kinomiya Shrine, in Atami. This tree is thought to be about 2,000years old, and still healthy.

It is colossal 23meters in circumference and approximately 20-25meters tall.

And it is said to endowed with special powers such as making people healthy and safe from the ills, the gift of eternal youth and longevity. And also you can make whatever wish you like.

The next time you are in Atami why not take a short walk up to see the Kinomiya no Kusu?