Lake Inawashiro Aquamarine Fukushima

Scroll

Welcome to the Lucky Island

Located only 90 minutes north of Tokyo, Fukushima Prefecture is the third-largest prefecture in Japan, split into three unique regions that each offer a different way to experience Japanese culture.

Access to Fukushima Prefecture in Japan.
Aizu Area
Central Area
Coastal Area

Start Planning

Instagram

  • Connect with us

Activities in Fukushima

Once in a Lifetime Experiences

EXTREME FUKUSHIMA
UNIQUE IN FUKUSHIMA

Sightseeing Spots in Fukushima

Isasumi Shrine
History & Culture

Isasumi Shrine

Isasumi Shrine's history is thought to be connected to how the Aizu region got its name - a story that has been recorded in two of Japan’s most legendary books of folklore. According to the tale, around 2000 years ago, four shogun were entrusted with uniting the four areas of land which would become Japan. Two of these shogun happened to be father and son. One was sent to the northeast, and the other to the northwest.When the father and son had completed their work uniting the towns in their respective areas, they met in the middle. They named the area “Aizu” (会津), which can be translated as “The riverbank (津) where we met (会)”. The father and son travelled to Mt. Mikagura-dake, a mountain that borders Niigata Prefecture and Aizu, and prayed to the Shinto god of pioneering new lands to protect Aizu, and the rest of Japan. Isasumi Shrine is thought to be built where they met.In spring, the shrine grounds become decorated with the blossoms of one of the most prized cherry trees in Aizu. It is said that this tree, which is named Usuzumi Sakura (“Diluted-Ink Sakura”), has been the sacred tree of Isasumi Shrine since it was brought down from Mt. Mikagura-dake and planted in the shrine grounds as a way of commemorating the efforts of the father and son. The lovely, light scent of the cherry blossom welcomes visitors each spring.Aizu Misato Town’s historic Isasumi Shrine, known as a great spot for viewing beautiful irises, holds a festival to celebrate the splendor of these flowers every year.

Sannokura Plateau Sunflower Field
Nature & Scenery

Sannokura Plateau Sunflower Field

In summer, the 5.4 hectares of land within the Sannokura Ski Resort grounds become painted yellow with 1.5 million sunflowers. The sunflower field consists of 3 main areas, which can be enjoyed from early August to early September. Also, visitors to Sannokura Plateau between March and June can enjoy impressive views of fields of bright, yellow canola flowers. What's more, no matter the season, the panoramic views overlooking the Aizu basin from an elevation of 650 m make a visit to Sannokura Plateau very worthwhile. 

Goshiki-numa Ponds
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, the area is popular for snowshoe trekking, with tours run by local guides. 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.

Takayashiki Inari Shrine
History & Culture

Takayashiki Inari Shrine

Located just east of Koriyama City, Takyashiki Inari Shrine is one of Fukushima's most striking shrine complexes. Roughly one hundred red torii gates line rows of stairs leading to the main shrine building, which features both a grey marble torii in the rear and a small koi pond. A family of chickens roost in a nearby hutch and roam free around the grounds during the day. The shrine is distinctive as an inari shrine thanks to its myriad fox statues, each of which represents a messenger of the kami Inari, said to be the watchful protector over rice farmers.The shrine grounds are free to enter and offer pleasant views over the surrounding countryside.

Trips in Fukushima

Ultimate Tadami Line Winter Tour
Ultimate Tadami Line Winter Tour
Ultimate Tadami Line Winter Tour
Nature

Ultimate Tadami Line Winter Tour

This tour itinerary, combining bus and train travel on one ticket, allows visitors to explore the best spots along the famous Tadami Line, showcasing breathtaking winter views and rich local heritage. On this tour, you’ll visit the historic Enzoji Temple, home to the famous ‘akabeko’ legend, and visit a museum showcasing local folk art. You’ll also capture stunning photos from the viewpoint above the Tadami River Bridge and learn about the fascinating history of the river area, before taking a ride on the iconic Tadami Line train itself. A traditional meal made from local ingredients is included in the price. Tickets can be purchased on the Fukushima Travel website. Tour Details: Dates: Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays between January 24, 2026 - March 22, 2026 Price: ¥7,230 for adults (¥6,500 + processing fee), ¥6,120 for children (¥5,500 + processing fee) Includes: Bus ticket, Tadami Line train ticket from Aizu-Kawaguchi to Aizu-Yanaizu, lunch fee, Japanese guide Departure/Arrival: Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (guests at Higashiyama Onsen can disembark there)

Fukushima’s Revitalization Educational One-Day Trip
Fukushima’s Revitalization Educational One-Day Trip
Fukushima’s Revitalization Educational One-Day Trip
Culture

Fukushima’s Revitalization Educational One-Day Trip

This is a model itinerary for visitors who would like to learn about Fukushima’s revitalization. The coastal area of Fukushima is the only place in the world to have survived a triple disaster: an earthquake, a tsunami and a nuclear disaster. Following extensive decontamination efforts and a great deal of demolition and reconstruction, several areas that were once designated as ‘difficult to return’ have started welcoming both residents and visitors again, with many residents eager to share their stories with the world. This itinerary centers on the towns of Futaba and Namie, both of which were severely affected by the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear accident in 2011.  The first stop is Futaba station and the surrounding Futaba Art District, a mural art initiative that pays homage to the residents and folk art of the town. From there, you’ll visit the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum, which has a detailed account of the area before, during, and after the disaster. At the museum, you’ll learn about the stories and testimonies of locals, as well as the plans and ideas for the future of Fukushima. The last stop is the remains of the Ukedo Elementary School in Namie town. Although the school building, located only 300 meters from the sea, sustained great damage from the tsunami, students, teachers and staff were able to evacuate from the school safely, for which it is known as a ‘miracle’ school.  This is a one-day itinerary, but we recommend staying somewhere in the coastal area of Fukushima after your visit.  

Aizu Winter Bus: Tsurugajo Castle & Ouchi-juku
Aizu Winter Bus: Tsurugajo Castle & Ouchi-juku
Nature

Aizu Winter Bus: Tsurugajo Castle & Ouchi-juku

Experience the beauty and history of Aizu this winter with a special one-day sightseeing bus tour. The Aizu region, known for its stunning seasonal landscapes and rich history, offers a unique opportunity to explore its top landmarks in comfort. The Aizu Winter Sightseeing Bus takes you to two of the region's most iconic spots: Tsurugajo Castle, the historic fortress that was once the pride of the Aizu samurai clan, and Ouchi-juku, a traditional village that once played host to samurai travelling between the castle and the southern capital. Along the way, enjoy a traditional lunch of negi-soba (green onion soba) in Ouchi-juku, and benefit from a knowledgeable Japanese-speaking guide. Bookings are made via the Fukushima Travel website. Tour Details: Dates: 14 January 2026 – 22 March 2026 Price: ¥7,230 for adults (¥6,500 + ¥730 processing fee), ¥5,450 for children (¥4,900 + ¥550 processing fee) Includes: Bus ticket, Tsurugajo Castle entrance fee, lunch (negi-soba) at Ouchi-juku, Japanese-speaking guide Departure/Arrival: Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (guests at Ashinomaki Onsen can disembark there) The tour may be canceled in case of bad weather. The winter bus departs from Bay 2 of the bus plaza at Aizu-Wakamatsu Station.

Two Days, One Night in Fukushima Prefecture
Two Days, One Night in Fukushima Prefecture
Two Days, One Night in Fukushima Prefecture
Culture

Two Days, One Night in Fukushima Prefecture

Looking to visit the best of Fukushima Prefecture in only a short time? This itinerary aims to cover some of the prefecture's most popular spots in the space of a two day, one night stay, including lunch options and potential activities. The transport hub of Koriyama, served by both shinkansen (bullet train) services from Tokyo and local trains, is an excellent place to start your trip. The journey from Tokyo Station to Koriyama Station takes as little as 1 hour and 15 minutes on the shinkansen. On this trip, you'll visit, among others: The ethereal thatched-roof village of Ouchi-juku Tsurugajo Castle, samurai fortress of the Aizu clan The double-helix architecture at Sazaedo Temple Goshikinuma Ponds, one of northern Japan's most beautiful natural areas The astonishing colours along the Bandai-Azuma Skyline sightseeing road The Fukushima 'Fruit Line' with dozens of orchards This itinerary can also be combined with a beautiful cherry blossom spot like Hanamiyama or the thousand-year-old cherry tree Miharu Takizakura, if your trip falls in mid-April. These spots are most easily traversed by car, so this article recommends renting a car at Koriyama Station. There are four rent-a-car spots near the station with English support and online bookings available:  Toyota Times Car Rental ORIX JR Rent-A-Car However, much of the course can be accessed by public transport. The sights towards the mountainous Inawashiro region (Goshikinuma Ponds, Bandai-Azuma Skyline etc.) can be more difficult without a car.

Seasons on Fukushima

Latest Posts

Diamond Route Japan

FUKUSHIMA

Top