Risonare Atami, a resort hotel where sky, sea, and forest create a vibrant atmosphere, will host the "Seaweed School" educational travel program every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from March 1 to June 30, 2026. This program teaches participants about marine diversity and the critical role seaweed plays in supporting marine life through beach combing and underwater drone experiences. After the outdoor activities, participants will create their own pizzas using various types of seaweed to better understand the differences in appearance and taste. The program concludes with participants completing a worksheet to document their learnings and discoveries, deepening their understanding through this educational travel experience.
Background
The Izu Peninsula, where Risonare Atami is located, is known as a region blessed with rich marine resources, boasting the highest diversity of seaweed species in Japan. However, in recent years, the "isoyake" (coastal desertification) of seaweed beds, which serve as crucial habitats for marine life, has become a serious concern due to various factors including global warming. Risonare Atami developed this seaweed-focused program with the desire to raise awareness about the importance of seaweed and spark interest in the ocean and natural environment.
Features of Seaweed School
1. Discovering Marine Biodiversity Through Beach Combing
The program begins with beach combing, where participants search for seaweed, shells, crab claws, and other traces of marine life alongside knowledgeable staff. Following this, participants engage in a quiz-style learning session about the basic ecology of seaweed and its role in the marine ecosystem, while exploring the connections between the discovered creatures and seaweed. Through this learning experience, participants develop a deeper understanding of seaweed's importance and gain a newfound interest in nature.
2. Observing the Ocean with an Underwater Drone
After beach combing, participants operate an underwater drone with staff guidance, observing seaweed beds, areas affected by isoyake, and marine life up close to see the state of the ecosystem. By learning about the current condition of seaweed beds and understanding that seaweed serves vital roles such as providing habitat and food for marine organisms, participants can deepen their awareness of the natural environment and marine life.
3. Savoring Ocean Abundance with Original "Seaweed Pizza"
After learning about seaweed and marine life at the beach, participants return to the hotel to create original pizzas topped with various seaweed varieties including aromatic "aosa" and "tosakanori," which differ in color and shape. Whitebait and shrimp are also added to express the abundance of marine life. The baking process enhances the umami and aroma of the seaweed, filling the air with the scent of the sea. Through pizza-making, participants can enjoy and learn about the different colors and textures of seaweed varieties.
4. Documenting Learnings in a Dedicated Worksheet to Take Home
At the end of the program, participants complete a dedicated worksheet by documenting their discoveries from beach combing and underwater drone observations, along with their understanding of the connections between seaweed and the ocean. By completing the worksheet, participants create a tangible reminder of their learnings to reflect upon even after returning home.
Sample Schedule
10:00 AM - Depart from hotel
10:30 AM - Arrive at beach, learn about seaweed through beach combing and quizzes
11:00 AM - Underwater drone operation experience, seaweed observation
11:30 AM - Return to hotel
12:00 PM - Seaweed pizza making
12:30 PM - Lunch time
1:00 PM - Complete worksheet, summary
1:30 PM - Program ends
"Seaweed School" Overview
Period: Every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from March 1 to June 30, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM (including 1-hour round-trip travel time)
Price: 12,000 yen per group of 2 people (additional person +4,000 yen, all prices include tax)
Includes: Lecture, underwater drone experience, worksheet, rental wear, seaweed pizza making (lunch)
Capacity: 3 groups (maximum 4 people per group)
Eligibility: Hotel guests aged 4 and above (guardian participation required)
Reservations: Available on the official website (https://hoshinoresorts.com/ja/hotels/risonareatami/) until 5:00 PM three days prior
Notes:
- Program may be canceled due to weather or wave conditions
- Transportation is by private vehicle or taxi (additional fee applies)
About Risonare Atami
Located on a hilltop overlooking Sagami Bay, this all-ocean-view resort hotel offers breathtaking views of sky, sea, and forest, along with exclusive fireworks displays. Beyond abundant activities, guests can enjoy "Sora no Beach Books & Cafe" with white sand flooring, "Mori no Kūchū Kichi Kusukusu" featuring a 300-year-old camphor tree, and hot springs with spectacular views, providing a truly personalized resort experience.
Location: 2-13-1 Mizuguchi-cho, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture 413-0016
Phone: 050-3134-8093 (Risonare Reservation Center)
Rooms: 81 rooms (11 room types)
Rates: From 24,000 yen per person (based on 2 people per room, including tax, service charge, and breakfast)
Access:
- By car: Approximately 70 minutes from Atsugi IC on Tomei Expressway
- By train: Approximately 20 minutes by shuttle bus from JR Tokaido Line Atami Station
Website: https://hoshinoresorts.com/ja/hotels/risonareatami/
