Popular Tours & Experiences in Fukushima

Fukushima offers a diverse range of culinary delights. "Kitakata Ramen" is renowned for its clear broth and chewy noodles, making it a local specialty. Additionally, "Enban Gyoza" (round plate dumplings) are a must-try snack, featuring thin wrappers and generous fillings, typically served arranged in a circle and pan-fried to a crisp. In the Aizu region, you can savor unique "horse meat dishes," including sashimi or hot pot. Summer is the season for Fukushima's peaches, which are sweet and juicy, a must-try seasonal fruit. Enjoying local "junmai sake" (pure rice sake) is also a great pleasure.

Fukushima boasts numerous attractions perfect for family outings. For instance, "Aquarium Fukushima" (アクアマリンふくしま) is the largest aquarium in the Tohoku region, allowing children to observe marine life up close. In Aizuwakamatsu City, "Tsuruga Castle" (鶴ヶ城) is not only a historic landmark but also offers rich cultural experiences in its surroundings. The "Noguchi Hideyo Memorial Museum" near Lake Inawashiro can introduce children to this renowned Japanese bacteriologist. The nature trails of "Goshikinuma" (五色沼) are gentle and easy to walk, ideal for families exploring the fascinating color-changing lakes. Furthermore, many tourist farms offer fruit-picking experiences, which are popular family activities.

For a day trip from Tokyo, both Fukushima and Sendai have their unique appeal. Fukushima is closer to Tokyo, with Shinkansen (bullet train) rides taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you wish to experience the natural scenery, historical culture, or hot springs of Tohoku, certain areas in Fukushima, such as Koriyama, Fukushima City, or some spots in Aizuwakamatsu, are more suitable for a relaxed day trip. Sendai, as the largest city in Tohoku, is convenient for transportation. However, due to its urban scale and diverse attractions, a day trip might feel quite rushed. If you prefer to deeply explore a specific theme or enjoy a more leisurely itinerary, Fukushima would be a good choice, allowing you to focus on one or two main attractions.

The cherry blossom season in Fukushima typically begins in early April and extends to early May, varying by region's latitude and cherry blossom varieties. Among them, the "Miharu Takizakura" (三春瀧櫻), one of Japan's three great weeping cherry trees, is a must-visit, usually blooming around mid-April. "Hanamiyama Park" (花見山公園) in Fukushima City is famous for its vibrant landscape created by a mix of various cherry blossoms and spring flowers, with mid-April being the optimal viewing period. Cherry blossoms around "Tsuruga Castle" (鶴ヶ城) in Aizuwakamatsu bloom a bit later, typically from late April to early May. It's advisable to check the annual cherry blossom forecast before your trip.

The most primary and convenient public transportation from Tokyo to the Fukushima region is by JR Tohoku Shinkansen. From Tokyo Station, you can take the "Hayabusa" or "Yamabiko" trains. The destination stations are usually Fukushima Station or Koriyama Station, with a total travel time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. After arriving at Fukushima or Koriyama, you can transfer to local JR lines, private railways, or buses to reach various tourist spots. Shinkansen trains run frequently, offering a fast and comfortable travel experience, making it the preferred choice for visitors traveling between Fukushima and Tokyo.

Fukushima is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Must-visit attractions include the historic "Aizuwakamatsu Castle" (also known as Tsuruga Castle), where you can delve into the history of the Aizu domain. "Ouchijuku" (大内宿), with its charming old post town atmosphere, allows you to experience the Edo period. For natural landscapes, "Goshikinuma" (五色沼) is famous for its lakes whose colors change with the light, making it a paradise for hikers. You can also explore the wonders of stalactites in "Abukuma-do" (阿武隈洞) or enjoy Pacific Ocean views from the "Iwaki Marine Tower" (磐城海洋塔). Special activities include experiencing the local "onsen" (hot spring) culture and trying "Kitakata Ramen," which are not to be missed.

Iwaki City in Fukushima Prefecture is located along the Pacific coast and offers a variety of seaside activities. The most prominent is "Aquarium Fukushima" (アクアマリンふくしま), the largest aquarium in Tohoku, where visitors can get up close with marine life. Along the coastline, you can visit the scenic "Shiomisaki" (塩屋岬) to admire the lighthouse and the vast ocean views. During summer, some beaches are open for swimming and other sand activities. Furthermore, Iwaki's harbors and fish markets are great places to experience the local seafood culture, where you can taste fresh catches and feel the charm of this coastal city.

When traveling in Fukushima, you can choose from various types of accommodation. Hot spring inns (ryokan) are a top choice for many tourists, especially in areas like Iizaka Onsen, Tsuchiyu Onsen, Dake Onsen, or Higashiyama Onsen in Aizuwakamatsu, offering traditional Japanese experiences and hot spring bathing. For convenience, there are many business hotels in the city centers of Fukushima City or Koriyama City. Guesthouses or traditional inns can provide a more local living experience. When choosing accommodation, consider your main travel destinations and opt for areas near transportation hubs or attractions. Additionally, check if the facilities meet your needs, such as whether they offer hot springs, family rooms, or special dining options.

Fukushima has a rich heritage of traditional crafts, offering a variety of hands-on experiences. In Aizuwakamatsu City, you can personally paint the local iconic mascots "Akabeko" (red cow) or "Okiagari Koboshi" (roly-poly doll) to create unique souvenirs. Furthermore, Aizu lacquerware is a renowned traditional craft of Fukushima, with some workshops offering lacquerware making or "makie" (lacquer decoration with gold or silver powder) experiences, allowing you to appreciate exquisite craftsmanship. In the Shirakawa region, you can participate in a painting experience for "Shirakawa Daruma" (Shirakawa Dharma dolls), bringing life and color to the dolls, symbolizing perseverance.

For a 3-day, 2-night trip to Fukushima, we suggest an itinerary focusing on the Aizu region or a combination of nature and hot springs. For example: Day 1: After arriving in Fukushima, head to Aizuwakamatsu. Visit "Tsuruga Castle," stroll through "Ouchijuku" to experience the atmosphere of an old post town, and stay overnight at a Higashiyama Onsen inn. Day 2: In the morning, hike in "Goshikinuma" to admire the changing lake colors. In the afternoon, you can enjoy water activities at Lake Inawashiro or visit the "Noguchi Hideyo Memorial Museum," returning to the hot spring area in the evening. Day 3: In the morning, visit "Hanamiyama Park" (spring season only) in Fukushima City or try "Akabeko painting." In the afternoon, savor Kitakata Ramen before taking the Shinkansen back. This itinerary combines history, culture, natural beauty, and hot spring experiences, offering a rich and distinctive journey.