Tamura Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Tamura, Fukushima, Japan, through this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Tamura

Tamura is a scenic town located in the Fukushima prefecture of Tohoku, Japan. It is a hidden gem consisting of ancient temples, magnificent mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Tamura’s serene beauty, cultural significance, and traditional Japanese atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for travelers in search of a unique experience.

With this comprehensive travel guide to Tamura, you will learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and other valuable tips to help you make the most of your trip to Tamura.

List of Places to Visit in Tamura

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Tamura is steeped in history, and you can explore this heritage by visiting museums and historical sites. Some of the best places to visit in Tamura include:

  1. Tamura Castle Ruins: This site was once home to Tamura Castle. Even though the castle is no longer standing, you can explore the ruins and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding areas.

  2. Furusato no Ie: This museum features the history of Tamura and showcases the local culture, including traditional Japanese buildings, crafts, and tools.

  3. Kirifuri Kogen Observatory: This observatory offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Tamura, including Mount Azuma-Kofuji, the Hanawa Mountains, and the nearby towns.

Natural Attractions of Tamura: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Tamura is surrounded by mountains, forests, and rivers, offering some of the best outdoor adventures and scenery in Japan. Here are some outdoor attractions that should be on your list:

  1. Mount Azuma-Kofuji: With a height of 1,705 meters, this mountain offers stunning views of the Tamura valley, the Hanawa mountains, and the nearby towns. The hiking trail to Mount Azuma-Kofuji takes about three hours but is quite challenging.

  2. Kirifuri Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall is one of the must-see attractions in Tamura. The falling water creates a cool mist, offering a refreshing break on a hot day.

  3. Tsuchiyu Onsen: Tamura is home to many hot springs, but Tsuchiyu Onsen is one of the most popular ones. This onsen is known for its soothing waters and tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for relaxation after a day of exploration.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tamura

If you love outdoor activities, Tamura is the perfect destination. The town has several hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of expertise. Here are some of the best routes:

  1. Kamafuta Hiking Trail: This trail is perfect for beginners and provides stunning views of the town’s central area. The trail is approximately three kilometers long and takes about one hour to complete.

  2. Hanawa Hiking Trail: This trail is quite challenging and takes approximately five hours to finish. The trail offers scenic views of the Hanawa mountains, beautiful forests, and stunning waterfalls.

  3. Tamura Cycling Road: This road spans approximately 10 kilometers and is perfect for cycling enthusiasts. It is a flat, paved road and offers breathtaking views, including Mount Azuma-Kofuji and the Tamura valley.

Best Things to Do in Tamura: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are many other activities and tours that will make your trip to Tamura a memorable one. Here are some of the best things to do in Tamura:

  1. Participate in Local Festivals: Tamura has several local festivals that are a must-attend for visitors. During these festivals, you can experience the local culture, try Japanese street food, and watch traditional performances.

  2. Learn to Make Traditional Crafts: Tamura is known for its traditional crafts, such as kokeshi dolls and paper lanterns. Many workshops offer lessons on how to make these crafts, making it a unique experience.

  3. Enjoy Local Food: Tamura’s local cuisine is something that every visitor should try. From ramen to soba noodles, there are many dishes that are unique to the town.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tamura

If you plan to spend a whole week in Tamura, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Tamura Castle Ruins, Furusato no Ie, and Kirifuri Kogen Observatory
2 Hike Mount Azuma-Kofuji
3 Explore Tsuchiyu Onsen and Hanawa Hiking Trail
4 Cycle the Tamura Cycling Road
5 Participate in a local festival
6 Take a traditional craft-making class
7 Explore shops and buy souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Tamura

Must-Try Dishes

Tamura has its own unique culinary culture, and you should not miss out on the following dishes:

  1. Tamura Ramen: This dish consists of thin noodles served in a pork broth and topped with vegetables and meat.

  2. Tamura Soba: This dish features buckwheat noodles served in a hot or cold broth, depending on the season.

  3. Tamura Yakisoba: This dish is a stir-fried version of noodles with vegetables and meat.

Local Beverages

Tamura has several local beverages that visitors should try, including:

  1. Sake: Tamura is known for its sake production, and you can find many varieties in local bars and restaurants.

  2. Shochu: This is a distilled drink made from barley, rice, or sweet potatoes.

  3. Green Tea: Tamura has its own brand of green tea, known as Kirifuri Tea, which you can find in local tea shops.

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

Tamura offers a range of accommodation options for travelers, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  1. Tamura Washington Hotel - This hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms and is within walking distance to local shops and restaurants.

  2. Simple Stay Azuma - This hostel is perfect for budget travelers and offers both dormitory and private rooms.

  3. Tabori-no-Yado Kura - This guesthouse is a traditional Japanese-style accommodation that offers a unique experience for visitors.

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

Tamura has many unique souvenirs and local products that you can bring back home. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Kokeshi dolls: These dolls are traditional Japanese figurines made from wood and are unique to Tamura.

  2. Kirifuri Tea: This is Tamura’s own brand of green tea and makes for a perfect gift for tea lovers.

  3. Hanawa Sansho Pepper: This is a type of Japanese pepper that is highly prized for its unique flavor and aroma.

Local Culture and Customs of Tamura

Tamura has a rich cultural heritage, and you can experience this by following local customs and traditions. Here are some tips:

  1. Respect local customs: Tamura has many cultural customs and practices, including bowing, that you should follow to show respect to the locals.

  2. Wear appropriate attire: When visiting temples or other cultural sites, you should dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.

  3. Learn basic Japanese: Knowing basic Japanese phrases will help you communicate with the locals and show appreciation for their culture.

Best Time to Visit Tamura

The best time to visit Tamura is from March to May and October to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the autumn foliage is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tamura

Do:

  1. Be polite and respectful: Japanese culture places great importance on politeness and respect. Be polite to the locals, bow when greeting them, and remove your shoes when entering homes or temples.

  2. Learn some Japanese: Knowing a few basic Japanese phrases will make it easier for you to communicate with the locals.

  3. Try the local food: Tamura has a unique culinary culture, and you should try the local dishes and drinks to get the full experience.

Don’t:

  1. Be loud or disruptive: Japanese culture values quietness and harmony, so avoid being too loud or disruptive in public places.

  2. Tip service staff: Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, and it may be seen as an insult to some service staff.

  3. Smoke in public places: Smoking in public places is illegal in Japan, and you should only smoke in designated areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tamura

Tamura is a safe place to visit, and crime rates are low. However, visitors should take common safety precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Tamura

Visitors to Tamura do not need any special vaccinations. However, it is advisable to bring your own prescription medications and any over-the-counter medications that you may need.

Getting to Tamura: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tamura is easily accessible by various transportation options.

Airports Near Tamura

The nearest airport to Tamura is Fukushima Airport, which is approximately an hour’s drive from the town. Alternatively, visitors can arrive at Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda airports and take the train to Tamura.

Bus Stations Near Tamura

Tamura has a central bus station, from where visitors can take buses to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Tamura by car, taxi, or bicycle.

How to Get Around in Tamura

Tamura’s public transportation system is reliable and affordable, with bus services to nearby towns and cities. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Tamura: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time, there are many nearby destinations that you can explore, including:

  1. Kitakata: This town is known for its delicious ramen and traditional sake breweries.

  2. Adatara: This nature park features unique rock formations, lofty mountains, and scenic hiking and biking trails.

  3. Aizuwakamatsu: This town offers insight into Japan’s samurai heritage and offers a glimpse into the Edo period.

Conclusion

Tamura is a hidden gem that offers a unique experience for travelers. From its ancient temples and museums to its stunning natural beauty and culinary culture, there is something for everyone in Tamura. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Tamura and make the most of your visit to this charming town.

"The Silver Frost" in Abukuma-do Cave in Takine Town