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Fukushima City Tourist Information

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• Fukushima City
• Tourist Information Centers
• Fukushima Barrier-Free Tour Center
• Transport Information
• Greater Fukushima City
• Emergency Information

Hanamiyama Park (Fukushima Barrier-Free Tour Center)

Hanamiyama Park (April 7, 2020)

Azuma Goyomatsu Bonsai - Part 1

Master Swordsmith: Masahira Fujiyasu

Mizuhiki Workshop

20 Best Things to Do in Fukushima Prefecture (Sightseeing Attractions, Local Foods & Activities)

Fukushima has many great places to visit! Fukushima Prefecture can be found in the Tohoku region of northern Japan. You will find many historical, natural, and culinary attractions here, including a spectacular castle with a red-tiled roof, breathtaking lakes , and a variety of fresh fruits and fun festivals. Here are 20 fun things to do when visiting Fukushima . *Main image: PIXTA

What is Fukushima Prefecture like?

Getting to fukushima, 20 things to do in fukushima.

As Japan's third-largest prefecture, Fukushima Prefecture has a population of around 1.85 million people and is divided into three major areas: Aizu, Nakadori, and Hamadori. The Aizu region has a variety of historical sites like Tsuruga Castle and Aizu Sazaedo in addition to several hot springs towns. Nakadori is a central region of Fukushima , featuring mountainous natural landscapes , orchards, and hot springs . Both Aizu and Nakadori have basin areas that are relatively warm in winter and mountainous areas with cold summers and snowy winters. Hamadori is located on the Pacific side. It has many tourist attractions, including the pools of Spa Resort Hawaiians and the Aquamarine Fukushima Aquarium . Summers here are cool due to the gentle sea breeze. You can sample unique souvenirs from Fukushima by visiting the onsen towns of Fukushima City or Aizuwakamatsu . There are plenty of places to enjoy local sake and many great places to eat that offer local cuisines like ika-ninjin and gyoza .

It is about 200 kilometers from Tokyo Station to Koriyama Station, a convenient travel hub reachable by Shinkansen, JR lines, and highway buses. Flying to Fukushima Airport is an option depending on where you are coming from, but please note that there is no service to Tokyo. Getting to Fukushima via Shinkansen Depending on the train used, it takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to get from Tokyo Station to Koriyama Station via Tohoku-Hokkaido Shinkansen or Yamagata Shinkansen lines. The Yamabiko Shinkansen offers short travel time and 2 to 3 trains per hour, making it the most efficient way to get to Koriyama . At Koriyama Station, there are buses and connecting trains that will take you to Aizu, Kitakata, Fukushima , and Iwaki . Getting to Fukushima via other train lines As there is no direct JR train service between Tokyo and Koriyama , the journey would take around 4 hours and several transfers would be involved along the way. Although this route does run through some very pretty scenery, it's not recommended for most travelers.

Getting to Fukushima via Highway Bus The highway bus takes about 5 hours from Tokyo with morning, noon, and night departures. The bus is convenient because the cost is low and there is no need for transfers. However, there may be delays depending on weather or traffic conditions. It’s recommended more for those with a lot of luggage or who want to save on accommodation by taking an overnight bus. Fukushima Prefecture Tour Points If you’re planning to travel throughout Fukushima prefecture or go to mountainous areas like Urabandai and Azumayama, it is better to take a train to the nearest station and then rent a car or take a taxi. There are buses that go to major sightseeing destinations around Aizuwakamatsu , Fukushima City, and Koriyama Station. A one-way ride costs around 100-210 yen. Or you can opt for a one-day pass, which is sold on some buses, and is a great choice when wanting to visit many attractions at a great deal.

Fukushima Prefecture is rich in natural scenery, has a long history, and has many attractive tourist spots. Here are some highlights you can’t miss.

1. Tsuruga Castle: Enjoy the majesty of Japan's red-roofed castle

For about 500 years in the Middle Ages, Tsuruga Castle housed many prominent families, such as the Date and Gamo Clan, the Uesugi Clan, and the Matsudaira Clan. Such a famous castle was known for its strong defense, enduring for an entire month under the enemy's attack during the 1868 war. The castle was demolished with the changing time period in 1874. Tsuruga Castle was restored to its present appearance in 1965, and it is said to be the only castle in Japan that still has the same red-tiled roof from the time before it was demolished. Inside the castle tower is a reproduction of the inside of Tsuruga Castle as it was around 1868, as well as exhibits showing the history of Aizu and the succeeding castle lords. If you climb to the top floor, you can see a view of Mt. Bandai and Iimori Hill, as well as the townscape of Aizu.

• Address 1-1, Otemachi, Aizuwakamatsu Shi, Fukushima 965-0873
• Phone Number 0242-27-4005

・Hours: Open daily 8:30 - 17:00 ・Admission: 410 yen

2. Ouchi-juku: Stroll around a quaint town filled with thatched-roof homes

Ouchi-juku was a post town that prospered as a base for travel and transportation during the Edo Period (1600-1867), focusing on lodging and luggage intermediation and wholesale. Today, the 30 thatch-roofed restaurants and souvenir shops make it one of Tohoku's most popular tourist destinations. If you want to take some nice photos of the city, visit Koyasu Kannon Temple , which is a little uphill at the end of the road. There you can get a panoramic view of Ouchi-juku. Their specialty dish is “negi soba ,” which is served with a whole green onion instead of a chopstick to slurp the noodles. We also recommend “shingorou,” a dish made by rolling rice with egoma miso and baking it, as well as the Ouchi-juku omotenashi dish “tochimochi,” made from locally grown persimmons.

• Address Yamamoto, Ouchi, Minamiaizu-gun Shimogo-machi, Fukushima 969-5207

・Phone: 0241-68-3611 (Ouchi-juku Tourism Association) ・Hours: Vary by location

3. Urabandai: Surround yourself with natural scenery

Urabandai appeared on the north side of Mt. Bandai after a steam explosion in 1888. You can see the crater walls, the rocks that resulted from the blast, as well as the rough surface of the mountain . Another notable sightseeing spot is the hundreds of lakes formed from the rocks blocking the river ’s flow. Among them is the “Goshikinuma Konumagun,” a collective term for a group of about 20-30 large and small lakes , including Lake Aonuma and Goshikinuma. These lakes ’ waters change from emerald green to cobalt blue depending on the time of day and the sunlight. You can also walk along the scenic path, “Goshikinuma Shizen Tanshoro,” and explore the beautiful lakes and marshes one by one, with Mt. Azuma and Mt. Bandai in the background. It takes about one hour, and though it is a relatively easy walk with few altitude differences, it is recommended to wear sneakers or trekking shoes for comfort.

• Address 1093-697 Kengamine, Hibara, Kitashiobara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima 969-2701
• Phone Number 0241-32-2850

• Address Hibara, Kitashiobara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima, 966-0501 View Map
• Nearest Station Inawashiro Station （Ban-etsusai Line） 25 minutes by bus
• Phone Number 0241-32-2349

4. Spa Resort Hawaiians: Take in an exciting show

Spa Resort Hawaiians in Iwaki City occupies a site of approximately 130,000 square meters. The Hawaii-themed resort is home to the “Big Aloha” waterslide – Japan’s tallest and longest – and the “Beach Theater” featuring hula performances. At the large open-air bath, you can relax in the hot waters of Iwaki Yumoto Onsen before shopping for souvenirs at the “Hawaiians Market,” which sells unique items and famous brands of Fukushima sake. The resort has three hotels . At Hotel Hawaiians, Monolith Tower, and ViR Port, you can experience the feeling of a Hawaiian-themed resort, relax in a Japanese-style room, and spend time with your family. Each hotel is distinctly different, so you can choose which is best suited to your tastes.

• Address 50 Warabihira, Jobandohara-cho, Iwaki-shi, Fukushima 972-8326
• Phone Number 0570-550-550

・Hours: 10:00 - 22:00 * Varies seasonally ・Admission: Adults 3,570 yen

5. Aquamarine Fukushima: Enjoy a variety of sea creatures

Aquamarine Fukushima is situated on Onahama Port No. 2 Wharf facing the Pacific Ocean. It comprises a four-story naturally-lit main building and an outdoor area where visitors can interact with various animals. One of the highlights of the indoor area is the large tidal tank, which is a triangular tunnel-shaped tank filled with 2,050 tons of seawater and recreates the tide where the Oyashio and Kuroshio currents meet. Visitors can watch sardines, bonito, rays, and more while walking through the tunnel, and it’s fun to find fish hiding behind the rocks. In addition, the Oyashio Ice Box displays colorful and unique creatures in 49 small icy aquariums , including the round-bellied “Tamakonnyakuo,” which can only be seen at Aquamarine Fukushima . Serpent’s Eye Beach in the outdoor area is a 4,500 square meter touch pool. It’s popular with children, who can enter the water barefoot and come in direct contact with starfish and sea cucumbers.

• Address 50, Tatsumicho, Onahama, Iwaki-shi, Fukushima, 971-8101 View Map
• Nearest Station Izumi Station （Joban Line） 15 minutes by bus
• Phone Number 0246-73-2525

6. Miharu Takizakura: Enjoy blossom viewing at Japan's famous 1,000-year-old cherry tree

Takizakura, one of Japan’s three giant cherry trees, is a symbol of Miharu Town, also known for its old warehouses, shrines , and temples . The first cherry tree designated as a natural national monument, Miharu Takizakura is thought to be over 1,000 years old. A weeping cherry tree , Takizakura’s branches measure 25 meters across east-west and 20 meters north-south. Innumerable small pink flowers emerge in mid-April when the tree is in full bloom, and thousands of visitors come to see the waterfall-like cherry blossoms. There’s a promenade around the tree, and it takes about 30 to 60 minutes to circumnavigate. During the full bloom, it is often crowded from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on holidays, so visiting early in the morning or evening is recommended. That way, you’ll be able to fully enjoy Takizakura at a slower pace and take beautiful unobstructed pictures. Beautiful in bright sunlight, it’s also a must-see when lit at night. The pink blossoms of Takizakura stand out in the darkness to create a fantastic atmosphere as time stands still for viewers.

• Address Sakurakubo, Taki, Miharu-machi, Tamura-gun, Fukushima, 963-7714 View Map
• Nearest Station Miharu Station （Ban-etsuto Line） 15 minutes by bus
• Phone Number 0247-62-3690

7. Iimoriyama Hill: Learn about the tragic history of the Byakkotai samurai

Iimoriyama is a small mountain in the Aizu region that can be reached from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station in 5 minutes on the “Akabe” tour bus. Over 150 years ago, a unit of young 16- to 17-year-old samurai known as “Byakkotai” committed seppuku on the site. Other related facilities nearby include the Tomb of the Byakkotai Jukushi, where the Byakkotai are buried, and the Byakkotai Memorial Hall, which displays their history.

On Iimoriyama Hill, there’s another important national cultural property, Aizu Sazae-do, built in 1796. This unique hexagonal, three-tiered pagoda derives its name from its shape, which resembles the shell of a turban snail. Interestingly, the interior stairs are constructed in such a way that the ascending and descending staircases do not intersect.

• Address Bentensita, Ikkimachi Yahata, Aizuwakamatsu-shi, Fukushima 965-0003

・TEL: 0242-23-8000 (Aizuwakamatsu Tourism Bureau) ・Hours: Free entry ・Admission: Free (depending on the facility)

• Address 155, Takizawa, Ikkimachiyahata, Aizuwakamatsu-shi, Fukushima, 965-0003 View Map
• Nearest Station Aizu-wakamatsu Station （Tadami Line / Ban-etsusai Line） 5 minutes by bus
• Phone Number 0242-22-3163

8. Fruit Line: Pick seasonal goodies in Japan's 'Fruit Kingdom'

Fukushima Prefecture produces the second-largest amount of fruit in Japan, and the fourth-largest amount of pears, and is called the “Fruit Kingdom.” If you want to experience the joys of fruit picking, head to Prefectural Route 5, commonly known as the “Fruit Line,” which runs along the foot of the Azuma mountain range on the west side of Fukushima City in the northern part of the prefecture. Along a 14-kilometer stretch of road, there are orchards where tourists can pick fruit. In mid-June, cherries begin to grow, and Fukushima ’s signature peach season starts in late July. Pears and grapes are harvested in fall, apples in winter and other fruits come into season throughout the year, so check before you visit. Somehow, picking fruit yourself makes it even more delicious, and you can also buy fresh fruit at tourist orchard shops.

• Address Locations along Prefectural Route 5, varying by orchard/fruit store

・Phone: 024-529-7663 (Fukushima City Hall Agricultural Promotion Division)

9. Mugenkyo: Hop a ferry and enjoy the mysterious foggy scenery

Until about 50 years ago, ferry boats were used as a means of transportation in the Mifuke Shuraku village along the Tadami River , which runs through the towns of Kaneyama and Mishima. The village was abandoned and the boats disappeared with it, but eventually, they returned in the form of the Mugenkyo Ferry tour boats. The fantastic sight of the boats moving through the river fog has recently attracted increasing attention. River fog is likely to occur when the water temperature is higher than the air temperature and the humidity is high, with the best times being morning and evening from June to August. Even if there is no fog, you can still enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding trees reflected on the mirror-like surface of the river . Please note that you need to make a reservation at least 5 days in advance for “Mugenkyo no Watashi.”

• Address 19 Hayato, Onuma-gun, Mishima-machi, Fukushima 969-7406

・Phone: 0241-42-7211 (Kaneyama Town Tourism and Products Association) ・Hours: Open daily late April – mid-November, 7:00 – Sunset (may be suspended due to weather and river conditions) ・Admission: Tour 6,000 yen (45 minutes, up to 3 people. 4 or more people 1,800 yen per person *Reservation at least 5 days in advance required), other plans available (contact for details)

10. Kitakata: Take a walk through the scenic 'Warehouse Town'

Due to its numerous old warehouses built to store food and other goods, Kitakata is called “Warehouse Town.” In a region where sake brewing and soy sauce production have been thriving since ancient times, such warehouses have long proven useful and many are still in active use. Warehouses can be found throughout the city and suburbs, from main streets to back alleys, and the number is said to exceed 4,000. The buildings have been constructed in various sizes and styles, some made with brick and black plaster, white walls, etc. At Kitakata Kura no Sato, which exists to pass on warehouse culture, you can learn more through a tour of the relocated warehouse and by viewing exhibition pieces related to the city’s warehouse history.

• Address 2-109 Oshikiri, Kitakata-shi, Fukushima 966-0094
• Phone Number 0241-22-6592

・Hours: Open daily 9:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:30) ・Admission: Adults 400 yen, 200 yen for elementary, junior high, and high school students

11. Lake Inawashiro: Spend time at Japan's fourth-largest lake

Lake Inawashiro, located almost exactly in the center of Fukushima Prefecture , is Japan’s fourth-largest lake . Highly transparent, the lake is also called “Tenkyoko” in reference to its being a “mirror-like lake that reflects the heavens.” Hundreds of swans inhabit the area from November through mid-April, making the lake a popular viewing spot. Around Lake Inawashiro, there are plenty of points of interest, such as Western-style buildings built in the Meiji era (1868-1912) and facilities that collect handmade glass products from around the world. Depending on the season , you can also enjoy lake bathing, fishing, and canoeing.

• Address Nagahama, Inawashiro-machi, Fukushima 969-3285

・Phone: 0242-62-2048 (Lake Inawashiro Tourism Association) ・Hours: Open Schedule

12. Waraji Festival: Join in one of Fukushima's famous summer festivals

The Fukushima Waraji Festival is an iconic summer festival held every August. Its origins lie in the traditional Shinto “Akatsuki Mairi” ritual that has continued for more than 400 years, during which prayers are made for health and safety when traveling. The festival’s highlight is a parade in which people in “happi coats” carry a huge traditional waraji straw sandal, accompanied by drums and shouts of “Wasshoi! Wasshoi!” With the 50th edition held in 2019, the festival format was changed to include live flute and drum music and dancers dancing to the new “Waraji Ondo” rhythm. Other festivities include straw sandal-making classes, and you can take your finished sandals home as a souvenir.

• Address 6 Okitamacho, Fukushima-shi, Fukushima 960-8034

・Phone: 024-572-7118 (Fukushima Waraji Festival Executive Committee Secretariat)

13. Soma Nomaoi festival: Go see horse-riding warriors in summer

Soma Nomaoi is a traditional Shinto ritual in which horse-riding warriors wear ancestral armor and ride through the fields. This horse festival is designated as one of Japan’s important intangible folk cultural properties. The festival takes place over three days, starting on the last Saturday of July every year. On the first day, horse-riding warriors depart from three shrines , and on the second day, about 400 riders compete for a Goshinki flag. The third day has multiple highlights, like the Nomakake, in which young people in white costumes catch horses with their bare hands and then dedicate them. The second day’s “god flag battle” is by far the climax of the festival. Fireworks are launched high into the sky, and when they explode, two sacred flags are released and fall as the mounted warriors race to catch them. The cavalry scene is as powerful as a real battle!

• Address 4-13-27 Hashimoto-cho, Haramachiku, Minamisoma-shi, Fukushima 975-0051

・Phone: 0244-22-3064 (Soma Nomaoi Executive Committee Secretariat)

14. Slurp some Kitakata Ramen: Kitakata’s gourmet specialty

The origin of these noodles is said to have come from Chinese noodles that were sold in stalls by young people who had come from China between 1920 and 1930. The noodles are thick and flat with a relatively high moisture level and are characterized by their firm appearance and texture. The soup has a soy sauce base, with flavors varying widely depending on the shop, from miso to salt. It is recommended to use the Ramen Map available at the tourist information center when deciding where to eat. The Kitakata Ramen Burger, made from baked and hardened noodles together with pork, menma, and green onions, is another popular menu item. Kitakata is also known for its unique culture of eating ramen early in the morning. This habit began when people who started work from very early in the morning, such as sake breweries and farmers, ate ramen during those early morning hours. You can currently order “morning ramen ” at about 20 different shops. Phone: 0241-24-5200 (Kitakata Tourism and Products Association)

15. Enban Gyoza: Sample dumplings full of bean paste and vegetables

These local dumplings are arranged and baked in a frying pan to take the shape of a disk when served on a plate. Sometime after World War II, the founder of the local gyoza shop "Genso Enban Gyoza Manpuku" visited China, where he tasted these dumplings at an izakaya stall arranged and baked in a wok. You can now eat this dish at about 15 stores around Fukushima City, most of which open in the evening. It is said to be a remnant from the time when, with the growing popularity of these Fukushima dumplings, salarymen would eat them on the way home from work. A special feature of this shop is the gyoza skin, some crisp and fried, and others kneaded with yomogi, or Japanese mugwort. The gyoza filling made from vegetables and minced meat is also very delicious and is the perfect accompaniment for a bottle of sake. Phone: 024-525-4031 ( Fukushima Prefecture Tourist Product Center)

16. Taste the local cuisine of the Aizu region

The western part of Fukushima Prefecture , the Aizu region, has many local dishes that use alpine produce and dried seafood . They are popular for their rich, classic flavor. Kozuyu is one such dish representative of the Aizu region, served out of hospitality on special occasions like festival days and other ceremonial events. The soup stock is made from dried scallops and is combined with boiled vegetables such as carrots and shiitake mushrooms, and soybean paste. Other local dishes include dried, pickled herring called Nishin no Sansho-zuke and Shingoro dumplings eaten in autumn to celebrate a good harvest. In addition, there are restaurants in Aizuwakamatsu where you can enjoy local cuisine, so why not sample some of the local flavors? Phone: 0242-27-4005 (Aizu-Wakamatsu Sightseeing Bureau)

17. Sample Fukushima sake

Fukushima Prefecture ’s sake breweries have won many awards at the “National New Sake Appraisal,” a competition for exhibiting new sake. It is said that you can taste the most delicious sake in Japan in Fukushima . There is also a school where you can study sake brewing for three years, and one focus of the prefecture as a whole is continually working to improve the quality of sake. Some sake breweries scattered throughout the prefecture also offer tours and tastings. The Fukushima Prefecture Tourist Product Center on the first floor of the Corasse Fukushima building near Fukushima Station offers about 800 types of sake from 55 breweries. The center also has a dining area that serves three types of sake and popular dishes that go well with sake. It’s an easy way to sample Fukushima sake and the perfect place to buy souvenirs.

• Address Corasse Fukushima 1F, 1-20 Mikawa Minamimachi, Fukushima
• Phone Number 024-525-4031

Hours: Open daily 9:30 - 19:00

18. Soak in the hot waters of Iizaka Onsen

About 25 minutes from Fukushima Station on the Fukushima Transportation Iizaka Line, Iizaka Onsen is easily accessible from the city. It has a long history and is said to have started around 3,000 B.C. This hot spring town is symbolic of the Tohoku region. Many people come to visit the 37 inns of various sizes that line the Surikami River and its tributary, the Aka River . There are 9 communal baths and 4 footbaths where you can easily enjoy the hot springs , and some inns offer day trip bathing. A simple hot spring , Iizaka’s smooth waters are colorless and transparent simple and said to be effective in relieving neuralgia and fatigue. Dining at a local cafe or cafeteria after soaking in the hot water is a recommended way to complete a relaxing day of bathing.

• Address Totsunamachi, Iizakamachi, Fukushima-shi, Fukushima 960-0201, Japan

・ Phone: 024-542-4241 (Iizaka Onsen Tourist Association / Iizaka Onsen Ryokan Cooperative)

• Address 24-3 Iizakamachi, Fukushima-shi, Fukushima, 960-0201 View Map
• Nearest Station Iizakaonsen Station （Iizaka Line） 26 minutes on foot

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19. Buy some Okiagari-Koboshi: Cute folk crafts from Aizu

This folk craft represents the Aizu region, a figurine of a little priest with a soft and smiling expression. The locals have a New Year tradition in which they buy these dolls in amounts of one more than the number of members in their families, with the hopes of bringing their family prosperity and health . Because this figure stands up as soon as it falls down, it is thought to represent the ability to do good work. They are sold in various sizes and many variations, such as red and blue with a white background and individual colors such as pink and red. They can be purchased at souvenir shops throughout the prefecture, including the Aizu region, and there are also workshops and tourist facilities that offer painting experience activities.

20. Get some tasty Tama-yokan as a souvenir

Tamashimaya is a long-established Japanese confectionery shop that has been around since the Edo Period. They are famous for Yokan, which has an elegant sweetness and a rich, red bean flavor, and was said to have been presented to the Tokugawa Shogunate, who ruled Japan at the time, by the Niwa Clan who owned Nihonmatsu Castle . We especially recommend the cute, small, and round tama-yokan. It was developed at the request of a prefectural governor in 1937 to make a soft yokan that could be eaten even on the battlefield. The shopkeeper at the time realized that this yokan would stay fresh and soft forever when wrapped in rubber. The unique way of eating it requires stabbing through the rubber with a toothpick and is another reason for its popularity. It has become a standard souvenir representing Fukushima Prefecture , and there are now even heart-shaped ones on sale.

• Address 1-88 Motomachi, Nihommatsu-shi, Fukushima 964-0917
• Phone Number 0243-23-2121

Hours: Open daily 7:30 - 18:50

These 20 selections are just a taste of the rich in variety of Fukushima – enjoy your trip!

The information in this article is current as of April 2021. Please check official websites for the latest information before visiting. Text by: Shoepress

• Area Fukushima, Koriyama And Iwaki
• Category Other Sightseeing
• How To: Sightseeing

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• things-to-do

Things to do in Fukushima

Find a wealth of things to see and do in Fukushima Prefecture, from beautiful natural environments or cultural and historical discoveries to regional flavors, crafts, and festivals.

Unique in Fukushima

Aizu Festival

The Aizu Festival is one of the largest fall events in the Aizu Area. The main feature of the festival is the Aizu Hanko Gyoretsu, a procession of Aizu Domain Lords.Headed by flag-bearers holding the flags of the successive feudal lords of the Aizu Domain, the procession is attended by participants representing well-known feudal lords such as Lord Uesugi, Lord Hoshina, and Lord Matsudaira, and by groups of festival participants wearing garments and carrying tools associated with each of these lords.Each year, some 500 people parade through downtown Aizu-Wakamatsu in an event that magnificently recreates the world of samurai. Before the procession starts off, there is a kick-off ceremony at Tsurugajo Castle.Visitors can enjoy watching the sword dancing of the Byakkotai worriors and sword fight performances given by professional actors, with the castle keep of Tsurugajo in the background.

Shioyazaki Lighthouse

Shioyazaki Lighthouse (塩屋崎灯台) stands on the Usuiso Coast of Iwaki City in eastern Fukushima. Now a historical landmark, the lighthouse was first erected in 1899. Despite having sustained considerable damage from natural disasters over the years, including the 2011 tsunami, the lighthouse has been rebuilt and restored and now enjoys great popularity. Many visitors climb to the top to enjoy its stunning views of the ocean.It was counted among the 50 best lighthouses in Japan. Consider visiting during sunset: seeing the ocean bathed in the beautiful afternoon light is the perfect way to end the day.

Natsuigawa Valley

Natsuigawa Valley continues 15 km along JR Ban-etsu East Line. In autumn, the train passes the valley at a slow speed so that passengers can enjoy the awesome views from its windows. The beautiful view of the waterfalls and clear streams meandering through rocks is definitely worth seeing.

Bandai-Azuma Skyline

This sightseeing road that runs from Fukushima City's Takayu Onsen to the Tsuchiyu Pass, commanding panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.The spectacular views that stretch out at an average altitude of 1,350 meters attract visitors time and time again, and Bandai-Azuma Skyline has been selected as one of the 100 Best Roads in Japan.In spring, tourists can enjoy flower viewing while at the same time taking in the otherworldly winter scenery of the "Snow Corridor".In summer, the Nemoto Shakunage (Rhododendron brachycarpum), a species of alpine rose, and other alpine plants display their colorful flowers and fresh, brilliant green leaves. During autumn, the drive warms as roads become enclosed by fiery seasonal leaves.There are also many hot springs in the vicinity of the Skyline where visitors can enjoy a bath and relax stiff muscles while out on a daytrip.The roadway passes next to the crater of Mt. Azuma-Kofuji. Visitors can easily park their car at the nearby guest center and enjoy a short hike up to the crater’s rim.The Bandai-Azuma Skyline Roadway has been selected as one of the top 100 roads in Japan, and unlike many others, this one is free to use. There are rest stops along the way for the hungry traveler; the most popular is Jododaira, as it’s home to a rest house and an observatory.Be sure to plan ahead though, from mid-November to early April the roadway is closed due to heavy winter snowfall.

Areas in Fukushima

Central area, coastal area, fukushima by season, nature & scenery.

Goshiki-numa Ponds

The Goshiki-numa ponds of Urabandai are a cluster of five volcanic lakes at the foot of Mt. Bandai. When Mt. Bandai erupted in 1888, Goshiki-numa - which translates as "Five-Colored Ponds - were formed.In actuality dozens of lakes were created due to the 1888 eruption, but the Goshiki-numa Ponds are the most famous. It was thanks to the eruption that the lakes each took on rich color; the various minerals found in each lake give them a unique color and create a mystical aura.The colors of the Goshiki-numa Ponds also change throughout the year depending on weather and time of day, a truly mysterious phenomenon. The lakes have become a popular tourist destination. The five main lakes are Bishamon, Aka, Ao, Benten, and Midoro, and their colors range from a lime green to deep turquoise to a topaz blue. A scenic walking route guides visitors around the ponds. At 3.6 km in length, this walking route - which will take you past many of the ethereal colors - takes about 70 minutes to complete.If you’d like a view of all five lakes at once, why not take the 4 km walking trail from Bishamon-numa (largest of the five lakes) up to nearby Lake Hibara. Alternatively, if hiking is not on your itinerary, enjoy a simple rowboat out on Bishamon-numa. It’s especially lovely in autumn as the color of the autumn leaves reflects on the deep green surface of the lake. In winter, there are even snowshoe trekking tours offered. The color of the lakes looks particularly vivid in winter, seeing as the minerals in some of the lakes stop them from freezing over, meaning you can see their colors contrasted with the white of the snow.Be sure to stop by the Urabandai Visitor Center, which is a large and well-equipped facility. You can find great information here about tours as well as the various geography, wildlife, and even the history of the area. It’s a great chance to learn more about the ecosystem that makes up the Goshiki-numa Ponds.

Lake Inawashiro

Japan's fourth-largest freshwater lake, Lake Inawashiro is situated in Bandai Asahi National Park. It is also known as the “Heavenly Mirror Lake” and has a surface area of 104 square kilometers! The combination of Lake Inawashiro and Mt. Bandai form one of Aizu's representative landscapes. And being less than three hours from Tokyo by shinkansen and local train means that you have easy access from a major transport hub.The lake offers year-round fun. Enjoy cherry blossoms in spring at Iwahashi Shrine, one of Aizu’s five famous cherry trees. Summer at Lake Inawashiro is slightly cooler than the rest of Fukushima, so take advantage of camping by the lakeshore, and a wide variety of marine sports. Colored leaves and hikes are the popular thing to do in autumn, view the fiery hues and take in the crisp air. In winter, visitors can enjoy fresh powder snow and winter thrills in the form of skiing and snowboarding; and you can even catch a glimpse of migrating swans on the shores.It’s truly a beauty no matter when you decide to visit. There are also a wide range of scenic spots from where visitors can take photographs and soak in the view. It’s a great place to escape from the stress of work and life or just to experience Japanese nature and landscapes.Lake Inawashiro's size means that it is accessible from a number of sightseeing spots, including Tenkyokaku stately house and Hideo Noguchi Memorial Museum (a museum dedicated to the life and work of a Japanese scientist famous for his research on yellow fever). There’s plenty more to do nearby: view some amazing works by international artists at the Morohashi Museum of Modern Art, or visit the rainbow-colored Goshiki-numa Ponds.

History & Culture

Shiramizu Amidado Temple

Shiramizu Amidado Temple (Amitabha Hall) was constructed in 1160 by Princess Tokuhime of the Oushu Fujiwara clan, which built the "golden culture" in Oushu (the present Tohoku Region). It is the only building in Fukushima Prefecture that has been designated as a national treasure. Inside the hall stands a wooden statue of Amida Nyorai as well as a number of other Buddhist statues such as Kannon Bosatsu, Seishi Bosatsu, Jikoku Tenno, and Tamon Tenno.The garden, called Jodo Teien (Jodo, or "the pure land", is the Buddhist paradise) is a realm of natural beauty in every season. The scenery is especially breathtaking in summer when the lotus flowers are in bloom, prompting one famous writer to liken the garden to a mythical paradise.

Tsurugajo Castle

Tsurugajo Castle allows visitors the opportunity to experience history, nature, and tradition with all five senses.Despite being mostly reconstructed, the surrounding park's stone walls remain in their original state. In 2010, for the first time since it was refurbished in 1965, the castle underwent a cosmetic restoration. Following completion in 2011, the same red-tile roofs seen by the Byakkotai (during the Boshin War and finals days of the Tokugawa shogunate) are now displayed for all to see.This castle is one of the final strongholds of samurai that remained loyal to the shogunate and today stands as a symbol of courage and faithfulness.Within the castle tower's museum, the swords and armor of the castle’s successive lords are on display. Visitors can watch a CG-enhanced theatrical video reflecting on the great history of Aizu.In addition to the historical atmosphere surrounding Tsurugajo, visitors can sense the changes that have occurred throughout history, thanks to the engaging and informative museum within the castle walls. It’s fun to gaze across Aizu from the fifth floor, like a feudal lord admiring his domain—the viewing platform up here provides panoramic views taking in Mt. Bandai and Mt. Iimoriyama.The castle is also a must-see in the springtime when approximately 1,000 cherry trees offer a magnificent display within the castle's grounds.When you’re in the mood for a rest, visit the Rinkaku Tea Rooms for some freshly-prepared matcha green tea. This tea house on the grounds of Tsurugajo was vital in the spread of this traditional art—and had it been destroyed during the Meiji Restoration, tea ceremony as it is known in Japan might have vanished.Tsurugajo Castle is truly a place where the modern visitor can slip into the past and become immersed in history. 

The Warehouses of Kitakata

In the Meiji and Taisho eras, Kitakata City experienced a boom in the construction of kura (traditional Japanese storehouses). There are approximately 4,200 still left in the city today. While these were used both as storehouses for businesses in the brewing and lacquerware industries, the building of a kura has traditionally been considered among Kitakata locals as a great symbol of status, and a source of pride.In the Mitsuya District, the rows of brick storehouses are reminiscent of rural Europe, whereas in the Sugiyama district, they have roofs that take the appearance of helmets. Visitors can see a range of kura and other traditional buildings at Kitakata Kura-no-Sato museum, or enjoy exploring the kura of the city on foot or by bike.See here for a 1 day itinerary for visiting Kitakata City.Check out a map of the kura located around Kitakata City.

Kyu Horikiri-tei

Kyu Horikiri-tei is a property steeped in history. Built in 1775, the building has been preserved since the Edo Period thanks to wealthy farmers and merchants. The property contains a large kura (storehouse), called Jukken Kura, as well as a traditional Japanese manor house.There is a public footbath located onsite. Use of the public footbath - which gets its water from the nearby onsen hot spring source - is accessible for wheelchair users. Japanese-speaking volunteer guides, knowledgeable about the history of Kyu Horikiri-tei and the rest of Iizaka Onsen, are available upon request. 

Hot Springs

Takayu Onsen

This famous hot spring area is located at an altitude of approximately 750 meters, which is why it’s called 'taka-yu' ('taka' means 'high-up' and 'yu' means 'hot spring'). Located on the slopes of the Azuma mountain range, Takayu Onsen area was once known as “Shinobu Takayu” and, together with Zao Takayu and Shirabu Takayu, prospered as one of three Takayu in what was once known as the northern Ou region. The waters of Takayu Onsen are a bluish milky color and are thought to have healing properties. Most of the resort facilities of the area neither add water nor adjust the temperature in order to maintain the natural allure of the hot spring waters. After bathing in the waters of this spring, your skin becomes almost slippery from the high acidic and hydrogen sulfide makeup. In the Takayu Onsen area, there are 10 natural hot spring sources, with names such as 'Takinoyu', 'Netsuyu', and 'Senkinoyu'. These sources are named after old public baths. In the olden days, bathtubs were built right next to or directly above the hot spring source. Today, the bathing facilities still receive their water flowing directly from the same source. Nowadays, Takayu Onsen consists of about a dozen ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), all offering their unique charm to travelers. You’ll be pleased to note that many of the ryokan open their hot spring baths to non-staying guests for a small fee. The most famous hot spring facility in Takayu Onsen is Tamagoyu, a wooden bathhouse with a traditional feel. There’s even a foot bath in the center of the town open to the public. If public bathing isn’t something you feel comfortable with, many of the onsen facilities in the area also offer private onsen rooms with a rotenburo (open-air bath) available for your own use. It is a relaxing experience unlike any other to soak in the hot waters and feel your worries melt away.

Yunokami Onsen

Yunokami Onsen is famous for having one of the only thatched roof station buildings in Japan. The hot spring area is fed from 8 source springs. Each ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) in the town draws its hot water directly from the source. The clear, transparent water is beloved for being soft and gentle on the skin. Many lodges offer just day-use of their baths, making it a great place to enjoy on a whim. There is also a public foot bath located at Yunokami Onsen Station. During the cherry blossom season, visitors can enjoy a warm foot bath while watching the light pink petals fluttering in the wind.

Iizaka Onsen

Fukushima City's Iizaka Onsen has been used as an onsen town for over 1,000 years, and has been visited by legendary figures in Japanese literature such as Matsuo Basho (1644-1694), the master of haiku poems. Locals in Iizaka Onsen pride themselves on the well-known Japanese phrase “Beppu in the West; Iizaka in the East”, which refers to the best onsen towns in Japan. The Surikami River that passes through the town is lined on either side by 9 high-rise ryokan (Japanese-style inns). More ryokan can be found scattered about Iizaka Onsen. The town is also dotted with a number of communal baths and public foot baths. Some of Iizaka Onsen’s most well-loved local foods include include Enban Gyoza and soft-boiled eggs known as Onsen Tamago. Iizaka Onsen is also close to sightseeing spots such as Hanamomo no Sato, the Fruit Line, and Nakano Fudoson Temple.

Kashi Onsen

There are well-known onsen in Tohoku, but Kashi Onsen, is treasured as one of this region's smallest, most off-the-beaten-track hot springs. In fact, Kashi Onsen home to only one ryokan inn: Daikokuya. Daikokuya’s oiwaburo (big-stone bath), which is measures 5m by 15m, with a depth of 1.2m, is gently warmed up from the source water that gushes up from the bedrock at the bottom of the bath, which is decorated with a number of large stones and small jewels.

Outdoor Activities

Ebisu Circuit

Ebisu Circuit – revered as a drift racing paradise – is visited every year by lots of international visitors. Ebisu Circuit’s ‘Drift Taxi’ experience lets you ride as a passenger in a special drifting car while a professional Drift School Teacher speeds around the circuit! Booking and more information here.

Watersports at S.A.Y (Lake Inawashiro)

A wakeboard shop located on the northwest shore of Lake Inawashiro in Fukushima Prefecture. It offers easy access from the Kanto region, bypassing major traffic congestion. Individuals and beginners are welcome. A specialized beginner's course is available, allowing even first-timers to enjoy their time on the water, and all necessary equipment can be rented. Bookings can be made even for 1 person. Why not spend a day enjoying the beautiful, clear waters of Lake Inawashiro, one of the most breathtaking lakes in Japan?

Oguninuma Wetlands

Be swept off your feet by the amazing scenery at the Oguninuma Wetlands. These wetlands are located in Urabandai area, and are just one part of the stunning Oze National Park. Lots of people hike here every year at the start of summer to enjoy views of the seasonal yellow flowers, called Nikko Kisuge.

JRA Fukushima Racecourse

The only Japan Racing Association racecourse in the Tohoku region. Enjoy the excitement of the seasonal races held during Spring, Summer and Winter, as well as the traditional Tanabata Prize in July. The racecourse also has other areas for enjoying yourself, including a children's play area and athletic facilities, making it a great place to come with the family.  

Cultural Experiences

Tsukimigaoka Chomin Center

Tsukimigaoka Chomin Center (a town hall-turned-hotel which is only a 20-minute walk from Aizu Yanaizu Station) is known for their famous sauce katsudon lunch. This dish contains fried pork cutlet and a simple egg omelet on rice which is covered with a savory sauce that simply melts in your mouth. There are other places in Yanaizu that serve the katsudon dish as well, but according to local opinion, the katsudon at Yanaizu Chomin Center is hard to beat. Why not stop by and fill your stomach before taking in the other local sights? There are even some great shared hot spring baths, which can be enjoyed as day visit onsen. There are plenty of nearby attractions. Enjoy your time hiking or fishing or at the nearby Kiyoshi Saito Museum of Art or the beautiful and serene Enzoji Temple. Kiyoshi Saito Museum of Art houses works by esteemed woodblock artist Kiyoshi Saito and the beautiful works he created throughout his lifetime. At the Enzoji Temple experience tranquility and nature, also learn about the origin legend of the akabeko, the nodding red cow famous in the area. And only a 15-minute drive away you can look at the No. 1 Tadami River Bridge View Spot; this bridge offers a spectacular sight of the Tadami River and the surrounding nature.

Aizu Painted Candles Craft Experience

Aizu Erosoku (painted candles) are sumptuous items that were long-prized among samurai families. Delicate and vivid patterns such as chrysanthemums, plum blossoms, and peonies are painted onto candles made of natural Japan wax extracted from the fruits of lacquer trees. Each candle is still painstakingly painted one by one, and they serve as regal decorations in Shinto and Buddhist ceremonies and weddings. A candle painting experience is available at Ozawa Candle Shop (Reservation required).

Design Your Own Shirakawa Daruma

There are records of Shirakawa Daruma (Japanese traditional dolls) being sold as far back as the feudal reign of the Niwa Domain in 1627. Current Shirakawa Daruma are known as “Shirakawa Tsurugame Shochikubai Daruma.” The faces of these dolls are painted to incorporate various animals and plants, with the eyebrows representing cranes, the mustache representing a turtle, the ears representing pines and plum trees, and the beard representing bamboo or pine trees. All of these images are thought to bring good luck. The daruma is known to be a very classical, lucky talisman, started by Matsudaira Sadanobu, the lord of Shirakawa, when he hired the renowned painter Tani Buncho to paint the now famous face on the daruma doll. Once every year a large Shirakawa Daruma Market is held to celebrate and sell the beloved daruma dolls. You can paint your own daruma at the two daruma workshops in town!

Relaxing Tea Ceremony at Tsurugajo Castle

When visiting Tsurugajo Castle, remember to check out the Rinkaku Tea Ceremony Room, which is situated inside the castle grounds. The beautiful Japanese garden surrounding the tea room is well worth a visit. What's more, you can enjoy traditional Japanese matcha tea together with a seasonal treat, all while looking out at the fantastic foliage of the garden.

Gourmet & Shopping

Sabo Yamadaya Café

A lovely café deep located in Ouchi-juku, decorated with adorable items like okiagari-koboshi (traditional monk dolls) and Aizu-made decorated candles. In addition to yukimuro coffee (snow-cured coffee), they’ve put together an original menu full of locally produced drinks and sweets. Feel free to leisurely enjoy a coffee in Ouchi-juku.

Kura Café Sen no Hana

The Kura Café Sen no Hana is located on the grounds on Kunitaya Miso Factory in a remodeled kura (storehouse). Try the local flavors of Fukushima cuisine with their lovely lunch items featuring locally Nihonmatsu-produced miso and soy sauce. There are also many other menu items to appreciate, such as amazake, Mongolian-style tea, and coffee. The inside of the shop is also calming and decorated with local pressed flowers.Open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (with a break from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.), the Kura Café Sen no Hana is sure to give your taste buds a treat. Their fair prices and delicious cuisine make them popular with locals and visitors alike.The amazake, a nonalcoholic drink made from koji, or fermentation starter, is popular with guests. As for food, the zaku zaku soup is a traditional soup of chunky cubed vegetables which is eaten on special occasions like festivals and ceremonies, it is a famous Nihonmatsu specialty. But if you’re wanting to go for dinner, make sure you’re there before the last order at 5:30 p.m. (4:30 p.m. on Sundays). Next door to the Kura Cafe Sen no Hana, guests can also visit the Kunitaya Miso Factory. The redwood lattice of the exterior is especially attractive. In addition to the tours, the Factory also sells miso, soy sauce, and koji, which is used to make Fukushima’s famous 'sagohachi' pickles.All the products for sale are made at the Kunitaya Miso Factory and use pure water from Mt. Adatara and locally grown ingredients. It’s a great way to get the fresh flavors of Fukushima Prefecture. There are also seasonal products available, so be sure to have a look!

The Suzuki Brewery in Namie Town

The Suzuki Sake Brewery used to operate a sake brewery in Namie Town's Ukedo district, this building was located steps from the sea and was physically destroyed by the tsunami wave. This left the owner of the brewery without a home or a livelihood.They managed to evacuate with the necessities of the brewery and after the disaster, the brewery was moved to Nagai City to the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture in October 2011 (the same year as the earthquake). Since then, they’ve continued to brew sake with the hope of preserving the traditional sake brewing techniques that had been developed by generations of brewers in Namie Town.Finally, on March 20, 2021, the brewery was able to return to its hometown of Namie with the opening of a new brewery at the Namie Roadside Station. Here, visitors can watch the Suzuki brewers at work making their delicious sake. They even use locally grown rice to make some of their sake, with a focus on maintaining their hometown flavor.At the Namie Roadside Station, you can visit the sake brewery and taste their freshly brewed sake. For visitors who don't drink sake, there is also a sake flavored soft serve ice cream that is absolutely delicious. The soft serve comes in a traditional wooden sake cup!

Michi-no-Eki Fukushima (Roadside Stop)

Newly opened in 2022, Michi-no-Eki Fukushima (道の駅ふくしま）is a great place to buy local produce, souvenirs, and eat delicious Fukushima foods! Or even just to pause for a break along your road trip.It is located near the Fukushima Fruit line, so you’ll find a good assortment of delicious fresh fruit on display. You can also go fruit-picking to the nearby orchards using the rental bicycles available.Click here for more information on fruit picking in Fukushima!There is a dog park and an indoor play area for children called Momo Rabi Kids Park, which has many cute wooden toys and structures for children to play at as well as an indoor sandpit.We recommend trying the unusual ice-cream flavors at ‘yukiusagi’, a sweets shop that sells delicious parfaits and desserts using local produce. They sell rice-flavored ice-cream, as well as a special flavor called “Fukushima’s Sky Milk”（ふくしまの空ミルク）, which has a salty milk flavor! 

Ouchi-juku Snow Festival

Ouchi-juku’s rows of thatched-roof houses (which date back to the Edo Period) are transformed into a winter wonderland during Ouchi-juku Snow Festival, which takes place every February. Bright white snow falls and slowly builds up, as candles burn bright in snow lanterns, bathing the old post town in warm light. Various events are held during the two-day festival, the highlight being the fireworks on the first evening.----------------------------Snow Festival Schedule for 2024Getting to Ouchi-juku BY LOCAL TRAIN & BUS 2024:Download in PDF:Ouchi-juku Snow Festival 2024 The Event Scedule & The Special Schedule for Public Transportation Note added on January 9, 2024.We checked with the bus company that operates the Saruyugo Bus to see if reservations can be made. They are accepting reservations through their reservation website or by phone. Reservations have priority. The reservation site was only in the Japanese language, so we strongly recommend that you use the translation function to make reservations.Saruyugo Bus Reservationhttp://london-taxi.jp/saruyu_reserve/

Tadami Snow Festival

Snow sculptures big and small take center stage at this exciting, local snow festival. Try out local cuisine and browse traditional locally-made crafts at the Tadami Furusato Snow Festival. As night closes in, the snow sculptures are dramatically lit up. They look even more fantastic when surrounded with the light of the fireworks display that is held on Saturday and Sunday evening.

Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival

The Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival is held yearly on the first Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of October. The highlight of the festival is the procession of festival floats during the first evening. Seven large festival floats adorned with lanterns and filled with locals playing taiko drums make their way through the streets of Nihonmatsu City, filling the streets with festival music as they move.  The final destination for the floats is the Nihonmatsu Shrine.Don't miss the breathtaking sight of 3000 lanterns attached to the floats, burning against the night sky.

Disaster Recovery & Revitalization

The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum

The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum (東日本大震災・原子力災害伝承館, often referred to in Japanese only as ‘Denshokan’ [伝承館]) is located in Futaba town, in the coastal area of Fukushima prefecture.Through exhibitions, storytelling, research and interactive displays, visitors can learn about this area before, during and after the disaster, deepen their understanding of the revitalization of Fukushima and the decommissioning of the TEPCO Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, as well as listen to testimonies of residents.This museum shows how Fukushima has dealt with a complex and unprecedented disaster and its ongoing consequences, and communicates lessons for the future on the importance of disaster prevention and mitigation.The museum opened in September 2020 and has about 200 items related to the The Great East Japan Earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster on permanent exhibition.Exhibits include explanations in both English and Japanese.Located near the museum is the Futaba Business Incubation and Community Center.

The Remains of Ukedo Elementary School in Namie Town

The Remains of Ukedo Elementary School in Namie Town (震災遺構浪江町立請戸小学校) are located in the coastal area of Fukushima prefecture.Ukedo Elementary School, located 300 meters from the sea, was having classes when the earthquake struck at 2:46 p. m. on March 11, 2011. A few minutes later, a tsunami warning was issued for Ukedo. The school staff urged students to evacuate immediately to nearby Mount Ohirayama, approximately 1.5 km from the school. When the tsunami hit about 40 minutes after the earthquake, all of the students and staff had evacuated safely.The school building suffered great damage from the earthquake and the tsunami, as did most of Namie town, which shortly after became under evacuation order due to the nuclear disaster (the evacuation order for some areas in Namie Town was lifted on March 31, 2017).In 2021, the remnants of the Ukedo Elementary School building opened to the public. The facilities remain largely untouched, with debris, broken floors and ceilings, smashed objects, collapsed furniture and other school items. Visitors can see the extent of the destruction caused by the earthquake and tsunami and learn about the importance of disaster preparedness.At the entrance, you can scan a QR code using your phone to access the English translation of each explanation panel as you proceed through the school grounds.

Iwaki 3.11 Memorial and Revitalization Museum

Opened on Saturday, May 30, 2020, the museum was established to share the history of the disaster and the following reconstruction efforts by preserving and exhibiting materials related to the earthquake and tsunami, giving talks by local storytellers, and other activities. This way, they are able to preserve the memories and lessons of the disaster. There are panel displays about the earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear power plant accident, as well as about recovery and reconstruction, and displays of actual items damaged in the disaster, such as a blackboard from the former Toyoma Junior High School.The Iwaki Storyteller's Group offers regular lectures on the disaster. For more information on lectures, please visit this website.

Futaba Art District

Futaba Art District is an art initiative carried out by art collective Over Alls in Futaba (双葉町), a town in the coastal area of Fukushima.As of February 2023, Futaba Art District comprises ten murals located between the JR Futaba station and the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum.Futaba town had to be evacuated and was severely affected by the nuclear accident in 2011. In 2020, the evacuation order was lifted for the area around Futaba station.The murals that make up Futaba Art District depict various aspects of Futaba's culture and pay homage to its residents.When the artists asked Futaba residents what was most representative of their town, many answered ‘daruma dolls’ (traditional Japanese dolls for good luck). Since the Edo period, Futaba town held a yearly daruma market which had a famous tug-of-war. There are now murals depicting both the tug-of-war and the daruma dolls. In 2023, the Futaba Daruma Market was held again in Futaba town after 12 years.A woman who tended the local cafe and a family who used to live in the town, as well as other members of the community, are depicted in some of the murals.On each mural, you’ll find a QR code that you can scan to learn more about it (in Japanese).You can easily reach the Futaba Art District from the JR Futaba Station. Click here for a map of the Futaba Art District (in Japanese).

Snow Activities

Yellow Falls

This shining golden waterfall appears in the midst of Urabandai's harsh winter. The water, containing sulfur and iron, freezes one layer after another, creating a frozen fall which shines a unique golden colour - giving it the name 'Yellow Falls'. Urabandai Tourist Association recommends that those wishing to trek to the falls should do so only as part of a guided tour, as the trail is not clear in winter.

Smelt Ice Fishing

Come be surrounded by Mother Nature, enjoy ice fishing, and eat delicious, fresh smelt in Urabandai!During November and December, smelt fishing is done from on board a traditional Japanese houseboat. From January through March, it can be enjoyed atop the ice. The houseboats and the rental houses available for ice fishing allow you to fish in warmth and comfort. A one-day, 700 fishing permit is required and can be purchased at convenience stores in Urabandai. For information about smelt fishing, please contact the Urabandai Tourism Association.

Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain

With its high-quality powder snow, Hoshino Resorts Nekoma is perfect for all levels of experience, especially for full-fledged skiers. The Freestyle Park is popular among snowboarders on account of its rich variety of terrain features.

Adatara Kogen Ski Resort

The Adatara Kogen Ski Resort is located about halfway up the eastern side of Mt. Adatara, one of the One Hundred Famous Mountains of Japan. Powder-snowed slopes extending from an altitude of 950 meters to 1,350 meters offer superb enjoyment to everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. The well-equipped facilities include a high-speed 6-passenger gondola, a quad chairlift, three T-bar lifts, a ski center, and three restaurants. In addition, a 1,000 meter-long slope perfect for families has opened recently and there is also a snowboarding park (one-make jump, rails and boxes) as well as a newly-opened nursery room inside the restaurant Rendezvous. The open-air hot spring bath at the Fujikyu Hotel, located just in front of the ski slopes and with water piped directly from the hot spring source, will refresh you after skiing.  

Activities in Fukushima

OUTDOOR ALL YEAR ROUND Coastal Area

Scenic Cycling Experience Along The Coast With Local Guide

¥13,500 per person

HISTORY&CULTURE ALL YEAR ROUND Central Area

Mini Tatami Making Experience and Factory Tour at Japan's First Interactive Tatami Complex

¥7,000 per person

English Speaking Guide

FOOD&DRINK OUTDOOR Coastal Area

Wellness Tour with Yoga and Fermentation For a Clean Mind and Body

¥12,000 per person

FOOD&DRINK AUTUMN SUMMER Central Area

Fruit Picking Experience

¥1,100～1,500

Approx. 1 hour

If you have any questions, suggestions, or tour enquiries, please contact us using this form.Replies within 2 business days.

Niigata's Murakami City: Enjoy Fun Events, Sightseeing, and Local Cuisine!

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10 Things to Do in Fukushima: Sightseeing, Food, and Safety

Fukushima is filled with wonderful spots for travel, like Aizu Wakamatsu, Ouchijuku, Lake Inawashiro, and the Tadami Line. Read to learn about where to visit, activities, and local food. This article also introduces tips, from transportation to the latest safety information.

Kousuke DEKI

Ouchijuku in Fukushima

Fukushima is a prefecture located in the northern Tohoku region of Japan. With its great outdoors, delicious cuisine, and seasonal views, it is an ideal spot for you to visit again and again.

Since the incidents in 2011, Fukushima is now completely safe for visitors to travel in nearly all parts of Fukushima Prefecture.

In this article, we introduce the latest information on Fukushima, along with must-visit spots, cultural events, and delicious food.

Table of Contents:

Three recommended scenic destinations.

1. Tadami Line 2. Lake Inawashiro 3. Goshikinuma - Five-Colored Lakes

Six Retro Areas

4. Ouchijuku 5. Tsurugajo Castle in Aizu Wakamatsu 6. Sazaedo in Aizu Wakamatsu 7. Kitakata 8. Hanamiyama Park 9. Hot Springs Area of Fukushima: Higashiyama and Iizaka Onsen

Family-Friendly Spots

10. Aquamarine Fukushima

Two Seasonal Events

1. Soma Nomaoi 2. Miharu Takizakura

5 Must-Eat Dishes in Fukushima

1. Kitakata Ramen 2. Japanese Sake 3. Peach-Flavored Sweets 4. Fukushima Gyoza Dumplings 5. Sauce Katsudon

Fukushima Prefecture - Visit More than Once

1. Where Is Fukushima? 2. Getting to Fukushima

Here we will suggest three spots in Fukushima with breathtaking beauty.

Tadami Line

Daiichi Tadamigawa Bridge Photo by Eri Miura. Picture from Why We Live In Fukushima: Interviews With International Residents

The JR Tadami Line is considered to be one of the most romantic railroads in the world. It is a local train line that runs between Aizu Wakamatsu and Niigata Prefecture.

In particular, the Daiichi Tadamigawa Bridge (shown above) is said to be the most beautiful spot to view the train line from. It is located between Aizu Hinohara Station and Aizu Nishikata Station, and is a great spot to see the train crossing over the Tadami River, surrounded by stunning nature.

Picture courtesy of Fukushima Sightseeing and Product Exchange Association

You can enjoy the area year-round, with vivid greenery in summer, yellow and red foliage in fall, and the beauty of snow in the winter.

Those who wish to see the lush outdoors should head to the observatory near the Station Stop, Oze Kaido Mishima Inn . A limited number of trains run on the Tadami Line, so be sure to check the time table (Japanese) to capture the shot you want. There is also a bus  that goes from Aizu Miyashita Station to the Station Stop Oze Kaido Mishima Inn. The bus leaves once a day at 8:10 from Aizu Miyashita Station.

Daiichi Tadamigawa Bridge Observatory Address: Fukushima, Onuma, Mishima, Kawai Google Map Official Website (Time Table): Timetable for the JR Tadami Line (Japanese)

Lake Inawashiro

Mt. Bandai and Lake Inawashiro. Picture courtesy of Fukushima Sightseeing and Product Exchange Association

Another must-experience is seeing the magnificent view of Mt. Bandai reflecting against the shimmering surface of Lake Inawashiro . This lake is one the most iconic destinations in Fukushima.

There is a sightseeing boat on the lake, which sails around for around thirty-five minutes. Ride it to cruise across the calm waters, while taking in the refreshing breeze and scenery.

Lake Inawashiro is the fourth biggest lake in Japan. In order to go see it, you will need to board a bus from JR Inawashiro Station and head to the northside of the lake. Other sightseeing spots nearby include Tenkyokaku , a villa once used by the imperial family that is a nationally-designated Important Cultural Property.

Lake Inawashiro (Bandai Sightseeing Boat Boarding Dock) Address: Fukushima, Yama, Inawashiro, Okinasawa, Nagahama 870 Google Map Website: www.aizubandai.com  (Japanese)

Goshikinuma - Five-Colored Lakes

Goshikinuma in Japanese means a marsh of five colors. As its name suggests, you can see an array of different hues at this marsh.

The twenty to thirty marshes in the area are collectively referred to as Goshikinuma. The bodies of water here show varying colors depending on the weather, season, surrounding scenery, or volcanic substances contained in the water.

It takes around one hour and ten minutes, to an hour and thirty minutes to see all the marshes. The course isn't too intense, so it is an ideal hiking route. At Bishamon Marsh, a relatively larger marsh, you can rent a boat and enjoy a scenic ride.

Goshikinuma Marsh Entrance Address: Fukushima, Yama, Kitashiobara, Hibara Kengamine Google Map Website: Goshikinuma Marsh (Japanese)

Four Retro Areas

Photo by Eri Miura. Picture from All The Charms Of Japan In One Place! 10 Things To Enjoy In Fukushima

When you come visit Ouchijuku , you'll feel like you've slipped back in time to an old era of Japan!

Ouchijiku is located between Aizu and Nikko , and at one time functioned as a rest stop known as  shukubamachi (*1) in the past. Here, you can see the remnants of a historic Japanese town with thatched roof houses from the Edo Period . Currently, these type of houses can only be seen in a few areas Japan, such as Shirakawago .

Locals still live in these houses, and some also operate as souvenir shops, soba restaurants, and cafes.

*1 Shukubamachi: A town where people took a break during their journey between cities during the Edo Period.

When in Ouchijuku, be sure to try Takato soba (buckwheat noodles), or negi soba (green onion soba.) It is a soba dish that comes with a whole stalk of green onion.

You can try this dish at several restaurants at Ouchijuku, but Ouchijuku Misawaya (shown above) was the original shop that began serving it. When eating this dish, you use the green onion instead of chopsticks to scoop up the fragrant noodles in the chilled dashi broth . The green onion is fresh, so you can eat it if you wish, but it can be a little spicy.

On a sunny day, you can sit outside and enjoy a refreshing bowl under the warm sun.

Ouchijuku Address: Fukushima, Minamiaizu, Shimogo, Ouchi Yamamoto Google Map Website:  Ouchijuku (Japanese)

Aizu Wakamatsu - Tsurugajo Castle

Tsurugajo Castle is an iconic castle in Fukushima. This is the only castle in Japan that has a roof made with red roof tiles.

Around this castle is where the Boshin War took place at the end of the Edo Period in 1868. The Boshin War was a series of civil battles between people for and opposing the Edo Shogunate (*2).

*2 Edo Shogunate: The government during the Edo Period was ruled by the Tokugawa Shogunate. Ieyasu Tokugawa was the first leader. Yoshinobu Tokugawa handed the government to the Meiji Emperor after fifteen generations.

In the winter, this area gets snow from January to March annually, making this one of the few castles in Japan you can see covered in snow .

Tsurugajo Castle is located in Aizu Wakamatsu . The town is filled with antique-style buildings and fun shops, like Aizu Ichibankan , a historical house renovated into a cafe, and Suehiro Shuzo , where you can enjoy a tour of the sake brewery. The traditional structures can be seen around Nanokamachi Street and Noguchi Hideyo Seishun-dori Street .

Tsurugajo Castle Google Map Website: Tsurugajo Castle

Sazaedo Temple in Aizu Wakamatsu

At Sazaedo Temple , you can witness the world's one and only wooden double helix structure, measuring 16 meters high. The temple's double helix structure consists of six pillars in the center and six corner pillars. Often in Europe, you'll see spiral staircases built within historical church buildings, but in Japanese architecture you'll often only find basic straight staircases within temples.

Inside of Sazaedo, there are thirty-three statues of Kannon that are enshrined. The way this structure is built allows you to go around the thirty-three statues of Kannon at once, which was very popular amongst the common people when the temple was first built. Why not try climbing this intriguing double structure spiral staircase yourself?

Sazaedo Temple Address: Fukushima, Aizuwakamatasu, Itsukimachi Oaza Yahata, Bentenshita-1404 Google Map Operating hours: 8:15 to sunset (9:00-16:00 from January to March) *Open year round Admission: 400 yen for Adults, 300 yen for high school students, 200 yen for elementary and junior high students Access: [Aizu Bus] Machinaka Tour Bus Haikara-san Bus or Akabe Bus - alight at Iimoriyamashita Stop, 5 minute walk

You will find many sturdy-looking structures and buildings when visiting  Kitakata , located in northwestern Fukushima. These structures are called kura , and were originally built to protect valuables from fires and disasters.

There are many places that still use the kura for storage, while some kura have been renovated into souvenir shops and cafes open to the public. You can find many kura around Kitakata Station near Fureai-dori Street and Otazuki Kura-dori Street. Make sure to check out the unique ramen shrine if you drop by Fureai-dori Street!

Kitakata Fureai-dori street: Google Map Website: Kitakata (Japanese)

Hanamiyama Park

Although this park is run as a family business, the flowers trees that have been beautifully planted on the vast park grounds are worth visiting for a view. Along with Sakura cherry blossoms, many varieties of flower trees such as forsythia, quince, magnolia, and peach trees can be seen here at Hanamiyama Park. When the spring season ends in May, hydrangeas and mountain lilies begin blooming from June.

Visit in April to view the park's masterpiece: sakura cherry blossoms and nanohana blossoms both blooming at the same time.

Hanamiyama Park Address: Fukushima, Watari, Hara-17 Operating hours: 7:00 to 18:00 *Open year round Admission: Free Access: 15 minutes by taxi from JR Fukushima Station East Exit

Hot Springs Area of Fukushima: Higashiyama and Iizaka Onsen

Fukushima has the fifth largest number of natural hot springs in Japan. There are over 130 hot springs in the prefecture.

Located only fifteen minutes by bus from Aizu Wakamatsu Station, Higashiyama Onsen is a hot spring district with over fifteen ryokan . The iconic view of the hot springs is shown in the picture above, with the bridge extending across toward Ryokan Mukaitaki.

Mukaitaki is a historic building that has been designated as a cultural property of Japan. You can see the different meticulous construction techniques that have been used throughout the buildings. All twenty-four rooms have a different thematic design. Prime ministers, writers, and many celebrities have stayed in the area, and it has also been used as a filming spot for movies.

Higashiyama Onsen Address: Fukushima, Aizu Wakamatsu, Higashiyamamachi Oaza Yumoto Google Map Website: Higashiyama Hot Springs

Pictured above is Iizaka Onsen , located twenty-five minutes by train from Fukushima Station. There are nine public bathing spots at this hot spring area.

Nakamuraya Ryokan is not a public bath, but an inn where you can use the hot springs without an overnight reservation. You can also use a private bath here. The building is also a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan.

Other sightseeing spots around Iizaka Onsen include the Kyu Horikiri-tei , which was a former house of a prestigious family.

Iizaka Onsen Address: Fukushima, Iizaka, Yuzawa Google Map Website: Iizaka Onsen

Aquamarine Fukushima

You will be absolutely stunned when viewing the huge tanks that  Aquamarine Fukushima has. The large tank shows the collision between the warm and cold currents and contains 2050 tons of water, with over 120,000 creatures in the aquarium. There's also a touch pool that replicates the ocean floor, providing entertainment for all ages.

Ten minutes from the aquarium is Aeon Mall Iwaki Onahama , a large shopping complex with around 130 shops. Located slightly further away but in the same area is MEGA Don Quijote (located at La Park Iwaki), a large branch of the nationwide discount store, Don Quijote.

Aquamarine Fukushima Address: Fukushima Iwaki, Onahama, Tatsumicho 50 Google Map Website: Aquamarine Fukushima (Japanese)

Soma Nomaoi

Picture courtesy of Soma Nomaoi Executive Committee

This stunning image is from a festival called Soma Nomaoi .

It is said that this festival began over 1000 years ago during the Heian Period by the warlord, Taira no Masakado. The main purpose of this festival was to capture horses that were released to the fields and to offer them to the gods.

The procession down the city streets. Picture courtesy of Soma Nomaoi Executive Committee

Soma Nomaoi is held for three days at the end of July every year.

The festival highlight falls on the second day, where you can see the procession through the city streets. Participants will be dressed in kacchu (*3), carrying flags passed down from their ancestors.

You can also see the Kacchu Keiba event, where ten men on horses storm through the fields. There's also the Shinki Sodatsusen match, in which people fight to catch the flags that fall from the sky.

Soma Nomaoi is held on the last weekend and Monday of July every year. For details, please check the official website  (Japanese). On the second day of the festival, there is a free shuttle bus to the festival from JR Haranomachi Station.

*3 Kacchu: Armor worn by the samurai.

Soma Nomaoi Hibarigaoka Festival Spot (the venue for Soma Nomaoi): Address: Fukushima, Minamisoma, Haramachiku, Hashimotocho 4-13-27 Google Map Website: Soma Nomaoi (Japanese)

Miharu Takizakura

The Miharu Takizakura in Fukushima is one of the three largest cherry blossom trees in Japan. The word "taki" means waterfall, and like its name, the cherry blossoms cascade down like a waterfall.

This astonishing beni shidarezakura cherry blossom tree is over 1000 years old, extending 25 meters wide and 20 meters in height.

During the cherry blossom season in mid-April, the tree is lit up beautifully at night. There is also a temporary bus that runs from JR Miharu Station and the Miharu Takizakura.

Miharu Takizakura Address: Fukushima, Tamura, Miharu, Taki, Sakurakubo Google Map Website: Miharu Takizakura (Japanese)

Despite the incidents in 2011, all the delicious food you'll find in Fukushima is completely safe to eat . Passing Japan's food safety standards, one of the strictest in the world, all food goes through rigorous inspections for radionuclides and have been deemed safe to eat.

Kitakata Ramen

A dish to try in Kitakata is Kitakata ramen , known for its light, soy sauce based soup. There is also a custom of eating ramen in the morning, so there are some shops that are open as early as 7:00 in Kitakata.

Shokudo Namae , Bannai Shokudo , Makoto Shokudo are all recommended ramen shops that are within walking distance of Kitakata Station.

Japanese Sake

Picture from Try Award-Winning Sake In Fukushima! Visit The Kingdom Of Quality Sake

Fukushima is one of the top sake producing locations in Japan. In 2019, they were awarded with the gold medal for the seventh straight year at the Excellent New Brew of Sake Awards Ceremony in Japan.

The flavor of Japanese sake changes drastically depending on the production area and the brewery. Try a cup at an izakaya in Fukushima, or sample some at a souvenir shop to taste the difference.

Peach-Flavored Sweets

Many types of fruit are grown in Fukushima.

Peaches , in particular, are a specialty of Fukushima, produced in the prefecture's northern region. Summers are hot in this valley area, and the heat brings out the sweetness from the peaches. The juicy, mouthwatering peaches made with clean water and rich minerals are a treat from Mother Nature.

Fukushima Gyoza Dumplings

Fukushima gyoza is a specialty dish from the Fukushima City area, where dumplings are laid out in a circular form. Filled with Napa cabbage and other vegetables, the dumplings are crispy and fried. They make a perfect side dish for beer.

Sauce Katsudon

Katsudon is a donburi dish where a pork cutlet is coated in egg and put over rice. However, in the Aizu area in Fukushima, you will get sauce katsudon , where the pork cutlet is soaked in katsu sauce. A layer of cabbage is laid over rice and is topped with a cutlet dipped in sauce.

The picture above shows a sauce katsudon from a town called Yanaizu . Fluffy egg is sandwiched between the cabbage and sauce-dipped cutlet in this dish. There are many different variations of sauce katsudon depending on the shop you go!

Fukushima is a destination you want to keep on your visit list no matter how many times you've visited before!

Where Is Fukushima?

Fukushima is part of Japan's Tohoku area. It is the third largest prefecture in Japan and contains three major areas.

Hamadori is the coastal region, the Nakadori is the central region, and Aizu is the western region. Despite being in the same prefecture, each area is very unique, with distinct culture and natural landscape.

Getting to Fukushima

Sendai International Airport

If you are traveling from Sendai , there is a bus (Aizu bus) (Japanese) that goes to the Fukushima area. The bus from the airport is currently unavailable, but there is a route from Sendai to Aizu Wakamatasu (3,300 yen), and from Aizu Wakamatsu to Fukushima (3,300 yen).

There is a direct bus (Japanese) leaving from Shinjuku  that goes to Fukushima as well. It stops at locations including Koriyama Station and Fukushima Station. It takes around five hours and costs around 5,100-5,500 yen, depending on where you alight.

From Tokyo , there is the Tohoku Shinkansen that departs from Tokyo Station and Ueno Station. Shinkansen stops include Koriyama Station and Fukushima Station. This area is included in the JR EAST PASS (Tohoku Area) .

Experience the Best of Japan in Fukushima

Fukushima receives many international visitors each year, reaching 100,000 or more travelers staying in the prefecture, drawn by its nature-rich regions, culture, and delicious food.

Put Fukushima on your to-visit list and experience all this prefecture has to offer for an unforgettable trip.

MATCHA Editer.

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Fukushima City

Fukushima (����) is the capital city of Fukushima Prefecture in the Tohoku Region of Japan. Located along the foothills of the Azuma mountain range about 40 kilometers inland from the Pacific Ocean, Fukushima is not a major tourist destination, but offers a variety of natural and seasonal attractions including hot springs , hiking trails in spectacular volcanic landscapes, and Hanamiyama , one of Japan's most pleasant cherry blossom spots .

Fukushima's city center lies 60 kilometers northwest of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant and never had to be evacuated. Radiation levels remain slightly above the pre-accident levels but do not pose a health threat.

Top attractions in Fukushima

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8 Best Places to Visit in Fukushima

Fukushima is often associated with the nuclear disaster that followed the disastrous tsunami and the the big earthquake in 2011. This was the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl. Some of you might wonder if it is worth visiting Fukushima and we say wholeheartedly yes. Fukushima is a prefecture located in the Tohoku region of Japan, that is so much bigger than just ‘that place’. The third largest prefecture of Japan has so much to offer due to the outstanding effort of the local people. You can see historical sites, breathtaking natural landscapes and taste the delicious local foods in Fukushima. In this article, we will introduce places to visit in Fukushima prefecture, that we’re sure you will be surprised about!   ▼ Get exclusive access and learn all about the Fukushima Exclusion Zone on our tour!

1. Ouchi-juku

2. tsuruga castle, 3. aizu-wakamatsu, 4. goshiki numa, 5. hanamiyama park, 6. inawashiro lake, 7. abukuma cave, 8. tepco decommissioning archive center, fukushima exclusion zone 1-day tour from tokyo, fukushima daiichi nuclear power plant visit 2-day tour, where to stay in fukushima, japan wonder travel tours , other articles you might enjoy.

Ouchi-juku refers to a small area known for its well preserved old houses. The town is located in the southwest of the heart of Fukushima prefecture and was used as a post town during the Edo era , where people traveling around the country took a rest and stayed overnight. There were countless numbers of post towns around Japan at that time, and this one is considered as one of the most well-preserved post stations of all. There are a number of Japanese traditional houses and buildings lining the main road, and most of them feature the traditional thatched roof. Especially in winter, the snow-covered roofs offers visitors an amazing scenery! You can also find some souvenir shops selling local specialties for an affordable price.

You can’t just visit Ouchi-juku and take in its stunning scenery, you also need to try the famous local dish called Takato-soba which is usually eaten with Welsh Onion. It is a kind of onion native to Japan, and the long shape is perfect to use for eating soba noodle instead of chopsticks! It could be much more difficult especially for those who are not used to using chopsticks, but it is definitely a must try once you visit there! 

If you are interested in the history of Ouchi-juku and want to learn more about it, you can go to the museum which exhibits traditional daily tools which were once practically used by people living there. The museum itself is using a reconstructed old building, so it must be an exciting experience to enter the building and feel the unique atmosphere!

Tsuruga Castle , also known as Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle is a castle constructed in 1384 and one of the most beautiful castles of Japan . During Edo era, it played an important role as a political center of the Aizu clan who had a significant power due to its close relationship with the Tokugawa Shogunate which governed the whole country at the time. It also became a main stage for the Boshin war , which was one of the fiercest wars in Japan in its long history and also a turning point for Japan. After the Tokugawa Shogunate ended, the original structures were unfortunately destroyed in 1874 in a series of political measures implemented by the new Meiji government. Only the fundamental ruins such as walls of stones and moat are remained precisely as they were even today. In 1965, the castle was reconstructed, and is currently used as a museum which is open to the public. The castle is situated in the heart of Aizu Wakamatsu city, which is in the eastern part of Fukushima. On the castle grounds you can also visit the beautiful Rinkaku Teahouse , where the feudal lords used to hold the tea ceremony .

Tsuruga Castle 8.30am – 5pm Admission fee ¥410 (adult) or ¥520 for a combi ticket (Castle, teahouse & Oyakuen Garden)

Aizu-Wakamatsu is a famous samurai town, surrounded by mountains. The city is known for its many historical highlights, including the Tsuruga Castle , the iconic castle that is also known as one of the best sakura spots in the area. The city officially call itself Samurai city because of its history and there are more historical spots and traditional buildings, like the reconstructed samurai residence Aizu Bukeyashiki . If you are strongly interested in Japanese history, we recommend you some time in the city. 

A recommended visit is Mt. Iimoriyama home to the interesting architectural highlight Sazaedo Temple . From the outside it doesn’t look all too special, but when you visit the interior, you’ll realise there are two spiral ramp-like staircases. As one is used to go up and one to go down, you will never come across someone who’s walking down. Located also on the Iimoriyama Hill, a few minutes south of the temple on foot, you can visit the burial ground of 19 young samurai who committed suicide (seppuku) after they saw their beloved Tsuruga Castle engulfed in flames and thought they has lost the Boshin war. The tragedy is that they were wrong, the castle wasn’t at fire at that time, but the story of their loyalty and devotion has become well known. Besides the long history and the beautiful buildings, Aizu-Wakamatsu is known for its high-quality sake, traditional crafts, onsen , and scenic train rides .

Goshiki Numa is a cluster of several ponds and lakes located in Bandai plateau of Mount Bandai. This mountain is in the northwestern part of Fukushima, and counted as one of the best mountains in Japan. Although Goshiki means five colors in Japanese, there aren’t five different colours of water… there are many more! The ponds and lakes enchant visitors with the mysterious colours of water which are not artificial, but thoroughly created by nature! It is said that the water contains some special chemical elements such as silicon and aluminums, which occurred due to an eruption of Mount Bandai in 18th century. The colours are changing according to several factors including climate, season, and time which makes it more special and fascinating! 

There is also a tracking course around the ponds, and you can take a relaxing walk while being surrounded with the amazing nature. The best season to visit there is spring, when snow has melted away and the plants and flowers come out and grow further! You can also rent a rows at the largest pond called Bishamon Numa , and enjoy the pleasant view from the lake, which will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip!

If you want to visit somewhere to admire flowers, Hanamiyama park could be the perfect option for you! It is a large park sitting on the hillside of the mountain located outside of the center of the city. It was initially started by a local farmer who decided to cultivate the thicket in front of their house and started to plant several spices of flowers and plants. In 1959, they opened it to the public, hoping that anyone could come and enjoy the seasonal flowers whenever they wanted for free! A famous Japanese photographer, Akiyama Shotaro, was extremely impressed by the scenery, and described it as a “flower paradise”. He is said to have repeatedly visited there, which resulted in the increase of the number of visitors afterwards. 

Needless to say, the best season to enjoy the park is spring, as cherry blossoms and plums are in bloom. There is a shuttle bus running between JR Fukushima station and the park, which makes it easy accessible for people who don’t have their own car. The park belongs to the local farmers as a private property so there are some restrictions you need to remember while you walk around there.    

Inawashiro Lake is the fourth largest lake in Japan and recognized as a symbolic tourist attraction in Fukushima. It is situated in Bandai Asahi National Park , about 514 meter above the sea level. There are several tourist spots around the lake such as a camping ground and World Glassware Hall Inawashiro , which displays a number of handmade glassware. Many tourists also go to the Hideyo Noguchi Memorial Museum, which is dedicated to a world-famous bacteriologist who was born and grew up there. Cruising ship is also available on the lake, and it offers a peaceful ride in a calm atmosphere!

Inawashiro Lake World Glassware Hall Inawashiro (Japanese only) Hideyo Noguchi Memorial Museum (Japanese only)

Abukuma Cave is a natural wonder that was only discovered a little over 50 years ago. Located in the Tamura City of the Naka-dori area of Fukushima, this limestone cave is like something out of a movie. This cave has naturally formed over the last 80 million years by single drops of water slowly but surely melting the limestone and the calcium phosphate crystallizing into what are called stalactites, making for the beauty that it is today. From the looks of it, you may think that this cave is small and you’d be able to see everything in a few minutes, but that’s not the case. If you’re looking to go through the whole cave, it is a bit over half a kilometer long and takes around 40 minutes to get through!

Finally, we want to introduce a unique center which offers a slightly different experience for you compared to other tourist attractions. TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center is an archive center operated by TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings), and was formerly used as Energy Museum for Fukushima Daini Nuclear Power Plant . Their exhibits help you understand the story of the nuclear accident caused by the big earthquake and tsunami in 2011. They also explain how they have been struggling to achieve the decommissioning of the Daiichi Power Plant over the last 9 years. Everything is clearly explained and transparent for the visitors, so that we can preserve the unforgettable memory for the future generations. An impressive experience!

TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center (Japanese only)

English brochure is also available

Don’t forget to check out our Fukushima Exclusion Zone tours!

For those interested in what happened in 2011 with the earthquake and disaster, we have some tours that will give you a full understanding, as well as hopefully a new point of view on the area as a whole. We highly recommend making a trip to the area if you haven’t yet.

We have a very insightful and informative 1-Day tour from Tokyo where you will have the chance to see highlights of the beautiful Fukushima coast that was devastated by the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear power plant accident. You will also get to talk with the locals who were in the area when everything happened, and see how they have overcome all of the adversity. Have a look below for more information.

▼ Book here

This is the longer and in depth version of the tour, that will provide a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn about nuclear power, what happened to the devastated area, and how we can make the most of the experience for a better future. You will even have the chance to make an exclusive trip to the Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, where the disaster took place, and see the coast’s highlights as well.

• The Celecton Fukushima One minute walk from JR Fukushima Station, delicious breakfast and friendly staff
• Shosuke-no-Yado Takinoyu Japanese Ryokan style room with great onsen hot springs, good location to explore around the city
• Harataki Traditional Japanese ryokan which welcomes you with the view of the waterfall, outside and indoor onsen hot springs

Perhaps you didn’t know this, but Fukushima prefecture is one of the largest prefectures and the majority of the prefecture was largely unaffected by the nuclear disaster following the earthquake and tsunami of 2011. We strongly recommend that you visit some areas which are more relevant to the real struggles and sad memories that local people have been through, but also make sure to visit the other beautiful places as well. Our answer to the question, “is Fukushima worth visiting?” is definitely yes, but not only because of its tourist attractions. We want you to remember that Fukushima is a very special, impressive place where you can feel the aftermath of the devastating disaster and understand the importance of avoiding the same accident happening ever again in the future. 

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help! 

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Culture in Fukushima

Aizu Festival in Fukushima 2024

Aizuwakamatsu City is well-known for its rich samurai heritage. Every year, a 3-day festival takes place around the castle and down..

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Ouchi-juku was a small post office in the Edo period and part of the Aizu Nishi Kaido trade route. Merchants who were passing through could get food and..

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Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle, also known as Tsuruga Castle is a concrete replica of a traditional Japanese castle in northern Japan, at the center of the city..

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Climb a 57-meter statue in Fukushima Prefecture, or relax in the garden with different flowers blooming throughout the year.

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Aizu Sazaedo (会津さざえ堂) is a 16.5 meter high, three-storied, hexagonal Buddhist pagoda located in Aizu-wakamatsu.

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The Real Danger of Visiting Fukushima

November 30, 2022 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

Is Fukushima worth visiting? It is, but I fear that many would-be Fukushima travelers are asking a more fundamental question—you know which one I’m thinking of.

On one level, it’s understandable. The global media made it seem like the nuclear incident in the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake was the apocalypse, as if it engulfed not only all of Fukushima prefecture, but the entirety of Japan as well.

The reality, of course, is that the disaster affected only a small portion of coastal Fukushima, and that even there, the threat has largely faded after nearly 12 years. The real danger of visiting Fukushima is that you won’t want to leave.

Where to Stay in Fukushima (if You Go)

Once you’ve accepted that Fukushima is safe, the next step is to decide how long you’re going to stay. While some travelers will ride the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Koriyama or Fukushima (and likely rent a car at either, in order to make the most of their time), others will decide that it’s best to say the night somewhere in Fukushima prefecture, and plan accordingly.

As far as where to stay, I’d say Aizuwakamatsu ends up being the most central and sensible place for most travelers. On the lower end, Tagoto guest house offers simple but authentic accommodation in an area not far from Aizuwakamatsu station. Travelers who want a higher-end experience, meanwhile, can choose Aizuhighashiyama Onsen , which is a bit out town but is downright luxurious.

Where to Go in Fukushima

Goshikinuma ponds.

I’ll start with a disclaimer. While the crystalline waters of Goshiki-numa certainly contain a number of colors within them, I’m not sure I can easily spot all the ones their name ( go shiki is “five colors” in Japanese) hints at. At the same time, visiting during the autumn (as I most recently did) definitely makes a trip here a more vibrant affair. 

Aizuwakamatsu

If there’s one town that makes Fukushima worth visiting, it’s Aizuwakamatsu. If the stunning castle at the center of it doesn’t do it for you, or if the mountains rising around on all sides leave you cold, consider eating its most famous local dish. Sauce katsu , as its name suggests, is a crispy tonkatsu pork cutlet covered in tangy sauce.

Not far from Aizu (to which locals usually abbreviate the name of the city) is Ouchi-juku. Although it’s little more than a street, whose old farmhouses evoke those of Shirakawago half a country ago, the charm is evident. Enjoy a view of the scene from the viewpoint at its northern end, or slurp famous local soba noodles.

Lake Inawashiro

Another places that makes Fukushima worth visiting is Lake Inawashiro, which is the prefecture’s largest body of fresh water. In winter time, you can enjoy seeing swans here, which gives the entire scene a wonderland, dream-like quality. Still, it’s beautiful to visit any time of year, and is relaxing as well.

Tadami Bridge

The JR Tadami Line that runs between Fukushima and Niigata has recently made headlines for its successfully revitalization of a formerly loss-making local train route. Ironically, this has meant that many fewer trains travel along its picturesque tracks. Make sure to time you visit to the Tadami Bridge viewpoint more precisely than I did!

BONUS: Miharu Takizakura

The bad news? The Miharu Takizakura (aka “waterfall cherry”) tree in Miharu just east of Fukushima’s Koriyama city only blooms for a week or two each year, and often at times that are different from other cherry blossoms in the area. The good news? If you do happen to catch it, this thousand-year old tree is a sight you’ll almost certainly never forget.

TIP: Even if you miss the bloom of Fukushima’s “waterfall” sakura tree by a bit, you can still enjoy another season spectacle: The momo (peach blossom) trees that populate this prefecture more than anywhere else in Japan.

How Many Days Do You Need in Fukushima?

As I mentioned earlier in this article, many travelers (particularly those who hold a Japan Rail Pass ) opt to see Fukushima on a day trip from Tokyo. It’s less than two hours each way by bullet train from Tokyo to Koriyama or Fukushima, from which you can easily explore all the attractions I’ve listed in less than a day, at least assuming you have your own set of wheels.

If you decide against a Fukushima day trip, meanwhile, you can cover a lot of ground in 2-3 days, even if you decide to get around via public transportation. Having a car over this span out town, meanwhile, may allow you to explore coastal Fukushima prefecture, which is even more undiscovered than its inland reaches, largely due to lingering anxiety about radiation.

Other FAQ About Visiting Fukushima

Is fukushima safe to visit.

Fukushima is 100% safe to visit, particularly when you consider that most of the prefecture’s tourist destinations are inland, dozens of kilometers away from the Fukushima Daiichi Power Plant. As of this writing in late 2022, more than 10 years have passed since the incident, such as that residents of the former “exclusion zone” are now allowed to return home, if they want.

Can you visit Fukushima now?

Most of Fukushima prefecture has never been off-limits to visitors, even in the days and weeks immediately following the 2011 disaster. While certain places in the immediate vicinity of the nuclear power plant may be intermittently restricted, you can—and should—visit Fukushima now. 

Why should I visit Fukushima?

You should visit Fukushima, first and foremost, because it’s amazing. From the castle town of Aizuwakamatsu, to the picturesque farm village of Ouchi-juku, to the large cities of Koriyama and Fukushima, this is one of Japan’s most underrated prefectures! Secondarily, you should visit because after more than a decade of bad, hysterical press, the good people of Fukushima could use the tourist dollars (as well as the good press you’re sure to share!).

The Bottom Line

If you’re wondering whether Fukushima is worth visiting, I can spare you the suspense: It’s one of the most underrated parts of Japan, and certainly of the country’s Tohoku region. Some travelers will stay here overnight, and explore the prefecture over the course of two or more days. Others will take advantage of its location along the Shinkansen route and come on a day trip from Tokyo. No matter what form your trip to Fukushima takes, I hope the advice I’ve given you has been helpful and inspiring. Need some extra help transposing your travel dreams into reality? Commission a custom Japan itinerary , and let me do the hard part.

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Leveraging Fukushima’s “Hope Tourism” for a Disaster-Resilient Future

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November 10, 2023

Fukushima Prefecture is the only place on Earth to have encountered the compound disaster of a powerful earthquake, a devastating tsunami, and a nuclear accident. The prefecture-wide endeavor Hope Tourism takes visitors to afflicted areas to learn from this disaster with their own eyes and ears, offering a personal experience that redirects their behavior toward building a more sustainable future.

ENDO Miku is a staff member and “storyteller” at the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum. She often speaks to children born after the disaster, feeling that she can help them better understand it because she is closer to them in age.

Visitors learning that the tsunami reached a height of 4 meters in the spot where the Memorial Museum stands today.

Canadian-born Associate Professor McMichael came to Fukushima entirely by chance. He was assigned to Fukushima as a Coordinator for International Relations of the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme, and fell in love with the warmth of its people and its beautiful nature. “I was frustrated by the world’s misconceptions about Fukushima after the nuclear accident,” he said. That is why he started study programs for international students making sure that the reality of the situation can be made known. THE FUKUSHIMA MINYU SHIMBUN

  　“When you hear the term Hope Tourism, it may be misunderstood as solely emphasizing recovery, but that’s not the case. Participants look at both the light and dark sides of Fukushima, feel hope in the resilience of Fukushima, and leave with a newfound affection for the region. As a result, the increase in people who understand Fukushima becomes a source of hope for the local residents,” says William McMichael, associate professor at Fukushima University’s International Center.   　McMichael was a step ahead of the prefecture when he launched the Fukushima Ambassadors Program in 2012. This is an innovative short-term study-abroad program in which international students spend 10 days in Fukushima first learning the reasons for the nuclear accident and the details of the compound disaster, then discussing the issues involved, and finally considering Fukushima’s future. Activities may include visiting the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station or helping plant cherry trees in disaster-affected communities. The content of the program has evolved along with the situation, but the primary aim is to show the world what is actually taking place in the region.  

In McMichael’s study program, students discuss in groups the lessons learned and the knowledge they wish to share at the end of their tour.

A visit by international students to the Naraha Center for Remote Control Technology Development, which is developing remote robots to conduct the decommissioning of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station.

  　The program has been conducted 15 times, with more than 200 international student participants. “Many students continue to hold Fukushima in their hearts even after returning home,” said McMichael. “For example, students studying nuclear energy are left with a profound impact the moment they arrive in Fukushima. Despite the immense challenges the region has faced, they witness the resilience of its people and gain knowledge beyond what textbooks can offer. This experience inspires them to take on their responsibilities with a strong commitment to safety. In essence, they come to Fukushima to learn about the disaster, but end up learning invaluable life lessons from their experience. I find it truly heartening to see this level of dedication.” 　McMichael is presently training English-speaking guides to expand Hope Tourism. A certain phrase is deeply etched in his memory—words shouted out at a series of outdoor rock festivals held in the prefecture half a year after the disaster: “Nothing beats Fukushima, does it?!” True to these words, the people of the prefecture gain encouragement by spinning threads of hope with the help of visitors who learn from the Fukushima experience. Together, they are taking steps into a bright future.

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Fukushima’s “Hope Tourism”: Reconstructing after the 3/11 Disaster

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FUKUSHIMA Fukushima City A bustling city famed for spectacular and seasonal flowers

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• Destinations
• Fukushima City

A bustling city famed for spectacular and seasonal flowers

• Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art and its excellent collection, from local artists to Gauguin and Monet
• The Iwaya Kannon carvings on Mt Shinobu which contain around 60 Buddhist figures
• Tsuchiyu Onsen, the artisan neighborhood with studios selling Japan's famous kokeshi dolls

How to Get There

From Tokyo, take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen Line to Fukushima Station (about 90 minutes).

There is an express bus to Fukushima from Shinjuku Bus Terminal in Tokyo. The trip takes a little over six hours, including rest stops.

Explore the city by bike

Get your bearings and finalize your plans with a quick stop to the Fukushima City Tourist Information Center, situated at the west exit of Fukushima Station. The English-speaking staff can tell you how to use the "Share Cycle" rental bikes to explore the city.

Ancient carvings and modern art

One of the key areas of the city is Mt Shinobu. The Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art sits at the foot of the mountain and boasts a collection of around 3,800-pieces ranging from 20th century American Realism and modern Japanese works. There's also a small but well-curated selection of French Impressionist and post-Impressionist works by Monet, Gauguin, and Pissarro.

On the east side of the mountain, you will find the Iwaya Kannon carvings. There are over 60 Buddhist figures that are believed to have been carved into the stone cliffs around 300 years ago. Climb up to Haguro Shrine on the mountain summit, where a 12-meter-tall waraji straw sandal greets you. It is the largest straw sandal in Japan, weighing around two tons. You can also see it paraded around by strong locals in February's Mt Shinobu Dawn Procession and the Waraji Festival in August.

Local specialties and souvenirs

There are shopping malls around Fukushima Station that are convenient for shopping.

The Fukushima Product Promotion Center in the Corasse Fukushima building sells crafts and produce from all over the prefecture including locally made wooden kokeshi dolls, Kinsuisho sake and Fukushima craft beer made with local apples and peaches.

Soak in the local hospitality

Relax at one of Fukushima city's three hot spring areas in the surrounding mountains.

Just 40 minutes by bus from Fukushima Station, Tsuchiyu Onsen is a charming hot spring town with cafes, workshops selling handpainted kokeshi dolls, and hot spring footbaths. The charm of the mismatched buildings, surrounding greenery of the mountains, and the clear river rushing through the middle of the town create a scene resembling an artist's palette.

You can reach Iizaka Onsen hot spring by local train from Fukushima City in just over 20 minutes. View one of Japan's oldest surviving steel-arch bridges and take a dip in the historic Sabakoyu, a hot spring visited by haiku poet Matsuo Basho. The locals like their baths super hot, but you can add cold water to reach an ideal temperature.

In early October, you can witness the evening mayhem of the Iizaka Kenka Matsuri (Fighting Festival). This rowdy festival features huge portable shrines slamming into each other.

Seasonal wonders

Feel the rush and excitement at one of Tohoku's largest horse racing tracks. The Fukushima Racecourse has a century of history. Cheer on your favorite horse and jockey during major races held every season, except winter.

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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A robot will soon try to remove melted nuclear fuel from Japan’s destroyed Fukushima reactor

The robot will be tested inside one of the damaged reactors by October, for the first time since the plant’s meltdown after the magnitude 9.0 quake and tsunami in 2011. The target is two years behind schedule due to multiple delays. During Tuesday’s demonstration at the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ shipyard in Kobe, western Japan, where the robot has been developed, the device, equipped with tongs slowly extended from the tip of the telescopic pipe down to a heap of gravel. TEPCO plans to remove less than 3 grams (0.1 ounce) of debris in the actual test at the Fukushima plant.

Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, also known as TEPCO, the operator of Japan’s wrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, reveals a robot to be used to retrieve debris at the power plant in Kobe, western Japan, Tuesday, May 28, 2024. (Kyodo News via AP)

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TOKYO (AP) — The operator of Japan’s destroyed Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant demonstrated Tuesday how a remote-controlled robot would retrieve tiny bits of melted fuel debris from one of three damaged reactors later this year for the first time since the 2011 meltdown .

Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings plans to deploy a “telesco-style” extendable pipe robot into Fukushima Daiichi No. 2 reactor to test the removal of debris from its primary containment vessel by October.

That work is more than two years behind schedule. The removal of melted fuel was supposed to begin in late 2021 but has been plagued with delays, underscoring the difficulty of recovering from the magnitude 9.0 quake and tsunami in 2011.

During the demonstration at the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ shipyard in Kobe, western Japan, where the robot has been developed, a device equipped with tongs slowly descended from the telescopic pipe to a heap of gravel and picked up a granule.

TEPCO plans to remove less than 3 grams (0.1 ounce) of debris in the test at the Fukushima plant.

“We believe the upcoming test removal of fuel debris from Unit 2 is an extremely important step to steadily carry out future decommissioning work,” said Yusuke Nakagawa, a TEPCO group manager for the fuel debris retrieval program. “It is important to proceed with the test removal safely and steadily.”

About 880 tons of highly radioactive melted nuclear fuel remain inside the three damaged reactors. Critics say the 30- to 40-year cleanup target set by the government and TEPCO for Fukushima Daiichi is overly optimistic. The damage in each reactor is different, and plans must accommodate their conditions.

Better understanding the melted fuel debris from inside the reactors is key to their decommissioning. TEPCO deployed four mini drones into the No. 1 reactor’s primary containment vessel earlier this year to capture images from the areas where robots had not reached.

AP video journalist Ayaka McGill contributed to this report.

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Fukushima Pref. firm employee used solvent to erase part of snack items' expiry dates

June 3, 2024 (Mainichi Japan)

Japanese version

FUKUSHIMA -- A sweets sales company in the city of Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, falsified some of their products' expiration dates, the prefectural government announced on May 30.

An employee of "Suzucho shiino" reportedly used a solvent to erase the "day" from expiration date labels of products such as rice-based snacks and biscuits sold on May 24.

The matter came to light after a customer became suspicious and reported it to the Aizu Public Health Center on May 27. The Fukushima Prefectural Government ordered the company to make necessary corrections on May 30.

The company is voluntarily recalling the affected products. There have been no reports of any health problems so far.

(Japanese original by Yuichi Nishigori, Fukushima Bureau)

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Swarmed with tourists, Japanese town blocks off viral view of Mount Fuji

FUJIKAWAGUCHIKO, Japan — Japan ’s majestic M oun t Fuji was some 700,000 years in the making, but on one sultry May morning, it was gone.

At least on one side of a busy road, views of the 12,388-foot symbol of Japan and the Lawson convenience store beneath it have vanished, as officials finished a 65-foot-by-8-foot barrier to obstruct a photo spot that had become viral among tourists.

For locals, the mass of visitors and their refusal to obey rules on littering and parking had become a nuisance and traffic hazard.

“I’m really happy that foreigners are coming to our town,” said Kikue Katsumata, 73, a lifelong resident of Fujikawaguchiko. “But when it comes to taking pictures from the Lawson, the road is a bit narrow and it can be dangerous when people dash across without using a crosswalk.”

March and April set all-time records for visitor arrivals, driven by pent-up demand after the pandemic and as the yen’s slide to a 34-year low made Japan an irresistible bargain. That’s been good news for the economy, with travelers spending a record 1.75 trillion yen (US$11.2 billion) in the first three months of 2024, according to the tourist agency.

The drastic decision to block the view of Mount Fuji symbolizes tensions across the country as Japan reckons with the consequences of its tourism boom. The western metropolis of Osaka and the hot spring resort town Hakone are among municipalities considering new tourism taxes to deal with the deluge of visitors.

Cyril Malchand, a 45-year-old visitor from France, found out about the fence online and made a special trip to be among the last to take in the view. He said he empathized with the locals.

“When I see that there could be problems with people crossing the road without watching cars, I don’t find it that bad that they’re setting up that fence,” he said.

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Strong quake shakes Japan's hard-hit Noto Peninsula area

A strong earthquake registering an upper 5 on the Japanese seismic intensity scale struck the Noto Peninsula area of Ishikawa Prefecture early Monday, the Meteorological Agency said, just over five months after a powerful temblor rocked the area spurring widespread damage.

Monday's quake, which hit at around 6:30 a.m., registered an estimated magnitude of 5.9 and occurred at an estimated depth of 10 kilometers, the agency added, jolting the hard-hit cities of Wajima and Suzu near the northern tip of the Noto Peninsula.

According to Tokyo Electric Power, no abnormalities have been observed at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant located in Kashiwazaki City and Kariwa Village in Niigata Prefecture, which observed a seismic intensity of 4.

East Japan Railway Co said that the Joetsu and Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train services were temporarily halted due to power outages.

The quake triggered special early warning alerts on smartphones as far away as the Kanto region, and strong tremors were felt widely, including in Niigata, Fukushima and Toyama prefectures.

The Noto area was severely damaged by a massive earthquake that struck on New Year’s Day this year.

The New Year’s Day quake has reportedly triggered a major exodus of young people , leaving the region struggling to rebuild. A recent survey found that quake damage has lead to the closure of more than 100 businesses in four municipalities in Ishikawa Prefecture.

Info from Jiji added.

More information:

• Detailed information about the location of the earthquake, from the Japan Meteorological Agency website
• An explanation of shindo, Japan's earthquake intensity scale
• A guide to what to before, during and after an earthquake
• Our portal for disaster-related information

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