On March 25, 2025, JR Atami Station celebrated a significant milestone: its 100th anniversary. The station, which has served as a vital gateway to the hot spring resort town of Atami, was the center of festivities that included a commemorative ceremony and various musical events, drawing in both locals and tourists alike.
Atami Station first opened its doors on March 25, 1925, as the terminal station for the Atami Line. Over the years, it has evolved into a major stop on the Tokaido Main Line, especially after the opening of the Tanna Tunnel in 1934, which connected it to the broader railway network. The station further solidified its importance in 1964 when the Tokaido Shinkansen began to stop there, enhancing its role as a key transportation hub.
The celebration kicked off at 9:50 AM with the "Atami Station 100th Anniversary Commemorative Ceremony," which featured a traditional "hot water opening" ceremony utilizing the famous Atami Onsen. JR East Japan Yokohama branch manager Seiichi Yano addressed the crowd, stating, "We must continue to be a gateway to a world-class tourist destination. We want to evolve into a station loved by the world." His sentiments were echoed by Atami Mayor Sakae Saito, who remarked, "The development of Atami has always been intertwined with the growth of its railway. This 100th anniversary marks a new beginning for the next century, as we strive to make Atami a resort destination admired by the world."
Adding a local touch to the festivities was Atami Fuji, a popular sumo wrestler from the city, who served as the One-Day Station Master. He expressed his delight at the turnout, saying, "It makes me really happy as Atami Fuji to see so many people using the station. As station master for the day, I will do my best to ensure everyone arrives safely at their destination." Atami Fuji, who has fond memories of using the station during his school days, shared a humorous anecdote about always waking up just in time to arrive at his stop, noting, "I used to take the train every day to my high school in Numazu. I would always wake up just before we arrived at Atami Station, so I never missed my stop!"
Following the ceremony, a parade featuring the Shizuoka Prefectural Police Music Corps, known as the "Pure Angels," and the Daikokuren Mikoshi took place at 10:30 AM in the shopping street adjacent to the station. The music corps performed on a special stage set up in front of the station, further enhancing the celebratory atmosphere as they played for the gathered crowd of residents and visitors.
In addition to the ceremonial activities, a special train departure ceremony was held, commemorating the station’s century-long service to the community and its visitors. The day was filled with joy and nostalgia as attendees reflected on the station's storied past while looking forward to its future.
JR Atami Station has not only been a transportation hub but also a witness to the town's evolution over the years. From bustling periods during Japan's economic growth to quieter times during crises such as the oil shock and the Great East Japan Earthquake, the station has remained resilient. It has continuously adapted to the needs of travelers, ensuring that it remains a vital part of Atami's identity.
The station's recent developments, including the opening of the Rasca Atami station building in 2016, have enhanced its role as a welcoming entry point for tourists exploring the Izu Peninsula. This modernization reflects the ongoing commitment to improving facilities and services for visitors, ensuring that Atami remains an attractive destination.
As the celebrations concluded, the community came together to express their hopes for the future of Atami Station. With a rich history behind it and a promising future ahead, the station is poised to continue serving as a beloved landmark for both locals and tourists.
Looking forward, the vision shared by community leaders and residents is clear: to maintain Atami Station as a proud representative of the region, attracting visitors from around the globe while preserving its unique charm and hospitality. The success of the centennial celebration is a testament to the station's enduring legacy and the community's commitment to its future.
