Fukushima Travel Guide

Planning to travel to Fukushima? Read our comprehensive travel guide featuring all the essential information you need to know including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Fukushima

Located in the Tohoku region of Japan, Fukushima is a beautiful and culturally rich prefecture that offers visitors a plethora of adventurous activities, interesting historical sites, and scenic views. Despite being known for the devastating earthquake and subsequent nuclear disaster in 2011, the region has made significant progress towards rebuilding and is now considered safe for travelers.

This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your trip to Fukushima, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Fukushima

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Fukushima is steeped in history, and there are several museums and historical places that are worth exploring. The following are some of the must-visit cultural attractions:

  • Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art: A modern art museum that houses some of the best works of contemporary artists, as well as perennial exhibitions of local artists.
  • Tsuruga Castle: One of the top historical landmarks in Fukushima, Tsuruga Castle was built in the 14th-century and is widely regarded as one of the “100 Famous Castles of Japan”.
  • Sazaedo Temple: A unique temple named after its double helix wooden structure, Sazaedo temple is also one of the popular tourist attractions in Fukushima.

Natural Attractions of Fukushima: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Fukushima boasts of some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Japan and provides an ideal opportunity for anyone who appreciates outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some natural attractions worth exploring:

  • Mount Bandai: A dormant volcano in the Urabandai region known for its exceptional scenery and a popular spot for hiking and skiing.
  • Ouchi-juku: A quaint, traditional village located in the mountains of Fukushima, and famous for its thatched roofs and beautiful landscapes.
  • Goshiki-numa: A cluster of five beautiful volcanic lakes in the Bandai Asahi National Park, located in Aizu Wakamatsu.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fukushima

Fukushima has impressive hiking and biking trails suited for visitors of all levels of experience. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Bandai-Azuma Skyline: A 28km mountain range route popular among car enthusiasts, bikers, and hikers, offering breathtaking views of autumn foliage, winter snow, and blooming flowers in spring.
  • Mt. Adatara: A hiking trail that offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, including Adatarayama Ski Resort.
  • Shiramizu Amidadori Path: A 3.5km walking path surrounded by lush greenery and water, starting from Fukushima Station and covering significant shrines, temples and historical sites, and points of interest.

Best Things to Do in Fukushima: Activities and Tours

Apart from cultural and natural attractions, there are plenty of things to do and experience in Fukushima. Here are some of the top activities and tours to consider:

  • Sake Tasting: Fukushima is famous for its delicious sake and provides a unique opportunity to sample some of the best brands.
  • Onsen (Hot Springs): There are numerous onsen resorts in Fukushima, making it the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a long day exploring the prefecture.
  • Experience Traditional Japanese Culture: Learn about Japanese culture through calligraphy, tea ceremony, or dressing up in kimono
  • Attend Festivals: Fukushima hosts several festivals throughout the year, including Aizu Festival, which is famous for its traditions and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fukushima

If you are wondering how to plan a trip to Fukushima, here is an itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day 1: Arrive in Fukushima, check into your hotel, and explore the city. Day 2: Visit Tsuruga Castle and Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art. Day 3: Head to Ouchi-juku Village and explore the traditional village. Day 4: Take a hiking trip to Mount Bandai. Day 5: Visit Goshiki-numa and spend the day trekking the five lakes. Day 6: Take a day trip to Shiramizu Amidadori Path. Day 7: Relax in one of the hot springs before heading back home.

Food and Drink Scene of Fukushima

Fukushima’s food and drink scene is diverse and offers visitors an opportunity to indulge in some delicious local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kitakata Ramen: A popular noodle dish in the region, Kitakata Ramen is renowned for its soy sauce-flavored soup and handmade noodles.
  • Mochi Rice Cakes: Made from glutinous rice, these traditional Japanese sweets are a popular snack in Fukushima.
  • Oyaki: A steamed bun filled with vegetables, mushrooms or pork, Oyaki is a winter staple in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Fukushima is Japan’s second-largest producer of sake, and you should definitely try some while you’re there.
  • Cider: Cider is a popular non-alcoholic drink in Fukushima, and you will find several flavors, including apple, grape, and peach.

Where to Stay in Fukushima: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fukushima has a wide array of accommodations, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Fukushima:

  • Zao Fox Village Inn: A unique hotel situated near the popular Zao Fox Village and offers guests an opportunity to interact with the animals while enjoying comfortable accommodation.
  • Kutsurogijuku Chiyotaki: A traditional Japanese ryokan located in Aizu Wakamatsu that offers guests an authentic cultural experience.
  • Butterfly Guesthouse: A cozy, locally run guesthouse situated in the heart of Fukushima city.

What to Buy in Fukushima: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Fukushima is famous for several products that make great souvenirs or gifts. Here are some of the most popular items:

  • Sake: Fukushima is well-known for its high-quality sake, and there are several brands that make excellent souvenirs.
  • Traditional Craftsmanship: Fukushima is famous for its ceramics, Aizu lacquerware, and Aizu cotton, all of which make great souvenirs.
  • Local Snacks: Fukushima is also famous for its sweets, including Mochi rice cakes, Manju Buns, and Kashiwa Mochi,

Local Culture and Customs of Fukushima

Fukushima’s long history has furnished it with an abundance of customs and cultural practices that are still observed today. Here are some of the customs and practices you should know before visiting:

  • Respect: Respect for others is vital in Japanese culture, and you should always be polite, courteous, and never litter.
  • Onsen Etiquette: When visiting an onsen, remember that it’s a communal space and observe the customs, which include bathing nude and washing yourself off before entering.
  • Gift-giving: Gift-giving is a common practice in Japan, and when visiting someone, it’s customary to bring a small gift.

Best Time to Visit Fukushima

Fukushima has four distinct seasons, and the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. If sightseeing is your main objective, visit in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the landscapes are breathtaking. For winter sports, head to Fukushima during the winter, and for outdoor adventures, visit in the summer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fukushima

Do:

  • Take off your shoes before entering a traditional Japanese building or someone’s home.
  • Use public transportation, walk, or ride a bike whenever possible to reduce air pollution.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages; they are delicious and unique.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places, as it is illegal in most parts of Fukushima.
  • Take photographs of individuals or sensitive areas unless permitted to do so.
  • Tip in restaurants or cafes, it is not a practice in Japan.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fukushima

Although Fukushima experienced a nuclear disaster in 2011, the region has made significant progress towards rebuilding and is considered safe for tourists. However, it’s always best to stay informed about the situation and follow any safety warnings or guidelines.

Health in Fukushima

Fukushima is generally safe regarding health issues, but like any other destination, it’s wise to take precautions. Here are some tips:

  • Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers illnesses, medical emergencies, and accidents.
  • Always carry a sufficient supply of medication if you have any medical conditions.
  • Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and a hat when venturing out on sunny days

Getting to Fukushima: Transportation Options and Logistics

Fukushima is accessible by various transportation modes, including air, rail, and road.

Airports Near Fukushima

The closest airport to Fukushima is Fukushima Airport, which is served by domestic airlines that connect to major domestic destinations.

Bus Stations Near Fukushima

Buses are an affordable and convenient way of getting to Fukushima. There are several bus companies that operate services to Fukushima from major cities like Tokyo, Sendai, and Aomori.

Other Options

Fukushima is well-connected by rail, with high-speed trains like the Shinkansen that stop at Koriyama Station.

How to Get Around in Fukushima

Fukushima is a relatively small prefecture and is best explored by rental car, public transportation, or bicycle. There are several rental car companies, and public transportation is also affordable and reliable, with buses and trains that run throughout the region.

Where to Go Next from Fukushima: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Fukushima is well-connected to nearby regions and provides an ideal opportunity for excursions. Here are some of the nearby destinations that are worth visiting:

  • Sendai: Known for its unique culture and great cuisine, Sendai is accessible by train from Fukushima.
  • Aizuwakamatsu: Rich in history and culture, Aizuwakamatsu is famous for its Samurai culture and is easily reachable by train.
  • Nasushiobara: A popular hot spring town in nearby Tochigi prefecture, easily accessible by train from Fukushima.

Conclusion

Fukushima is a fascinating and culturally rich destination that is well worth a visit. The prefecture offers a diverse range of activities, from exploring museums and historical sites to hiking and hot springs. By following this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll have all the essential information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Fukushima.

One of Five Colored Lakes: Bishamon-numa Pond One of Five Colored Lakes: Bishamon-numa Pond Sabakoyu Onsen in Iizaka hot springs Sabakoyu Onsen in Iizaka hot springs