The town is less than two hours drive from Tokyo and has long been a favored resort for Tokyoites.
Atami literally means 'hot sea', and it rises out of the sea in a slow curve that suddenly steepens into the imposing hills that overlook the town - reminiscent of Naples.
Eons ago these hills formed one side of a volcano, the other side lost to the sea. The town is built in the remnants of the crater.
With this geological history, there are hot springs all over the area, which, along with its fine views of the sea, makes it the ideal onsen resort.
Read more: http://www.japanvisitor.com/japan-city-guides/city-guide-atami#ixzz4Jf9VYcvo