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Fun in the Powder Snow in Japan

The silvery world of snow-covered ski slopes and mountains sparkling in reflected light is a typical sight in Fukushima Prefecture during winter. The altitude is high in the western part of Fukushima, which includes the areas of Inawashiro, Aizu, and Adatara Kogen, and the snow is deep during winter months from December through March. The many ski resorts in these areas are recommended for first-time visitors experiencing snow for the first time because, in addition to winter sports such as skiing, these resorts are great places for sledding, making snowmen, and snowball fights.Reaching FukushimaEase of access and the unstinting hospitality unique to Japan are among the many reasons why Fukushima Prefecture’s ski resorts are so popular. These features make these resorts of particular interest to families with children. Koriyama, which serves as the main transportation hub for Fukushima Prefecture, is only 90 minutes from Tokyo on the Tohoku Shinkansen. Travelers will arrive in Koriyama before they know it, entertained en route by the views of mountains adorned in snow juxtaposed with the speed of the shinkansen itself which particularly fascinates children.Numerous shuttle buses operate between the ski slopes and stations including Koriyama. There are also shuttle buses that run between ski resorts and other facilities. This means driving the unfamiliar snowy roads won’t be necessary.Getting to FukushimaGear & ClothingWhile the temperature here is typically near freezing in winter, it’s possible to rent all manner of cold weather clothing and gear, from jackets and pants, to accessory items such as gloves, all available in sizes from child to adult. Staff will pick out the right outfit for your planned snow activities. Perhaps one of the greatest appeals of Fukushima is that it’s possible to come to our snow-covered mountains on a whim any time you feel the urge to play in the snow during winter time in Japan.Photo: Urabandai Tourism Association https://www.urabandai-inf.com/en/Let’s hit the ski slopes!Go ahead and dive right into the snow. The soft snow will take you in and wrap you in its gently chilly sensation. Fukushima is known for its powder snow, which is low in water content. Powder snow does not melt right away when you touch it, but rather falls away like a dry powder. The sensation of this dry powdery snow that can only be enjoyed in the winter mountains is itself more than enough reason to visit.The various ski resorts each provide open areas where it is safe for children to play in the snow, and where there is no need to be concerned about being crashed into by skiers.First, why not try sledding across the surface of the snow? The sleds are ridden in a seated position, and the sense of acceleration is very exciting. You can even experience a sensation of floating as you zip across the surface of the powder snow.Next, try making snow balls. Here, snowball fights are never painful due to the fluffy nature of the powder snow. The photos you take of your family covered in snow after everyone has had their fill will likely provide fond memories for years to come.Finally, don’t miss the chance to make a snowman. Starting with a small ball of snow, you can create a surprisingly large ball simply by rolling it around to collect more snow. For a Japanese style snowman, you need only make two large balls of snow, one for the body and one for the head, to complete the snowman. You can then try decorating it with small branches and other objects. Perhaps you can make a face that looks just like someone in your family.Tips1) Don’t overdo it if you get cold If you start to feel tired, why not head back indoors and lazily enjoy the snowy vistas from a comfy warm room? Another way you can enjoy the Fukushima with your family is to warm up at one of the many hot springs after playing in the snow together.2) Always watch your feet as you move aboutPowder snow is ideal for winter sports, but it also makes the ground very slippery. Make sure to wear waterproof shoes with non-slip soles.3) Bring appropriate clothing.We also recommend bringing ample changes of undergarments for your children. The temperature is typically below freezing, so you will become cold quickly when you sweat.Ski resorts are located in high-altitude mountainous areas, and there are times even in April when the cold weather begins to thaw when the sudden arrival of a blizzard can quickly drop the temperature and change the climate at short notice. Thus it is important to be ready for the cold weather even at the end of the season.Useful Links6 Reasons To Go Skiing In Fukushima (& Where To Go)Yuki-Matsuri: Fukushima’s Snow FestivalsJapan's Lesser-Known Ski Resorts

Fun in the Powder Snow in Japan
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The Sunken Village of Hibara

The mystery beneath the surface of Lake Hibara...  Today, if you visit Lake Hibara, you’ll see a beautiful lake with pebble beaches and forested banks. In winter the lake freezes over, making it a popular destination for ice fishing! However, beneath the surface of the water, or ice, lies traces of the areas mysterious past. Prior to 1888, this was the location of Hibara Village, a small but lively village surrounded by rivers and natural beauty. The last trace of the village’s existence is a partially submerged set of Torii gates and a set of stairs that leads up to Ooyama Sumi Shrine.  So what happened?  I visited the Mt. Bandai Eruption Memorial Museum to learn more and speak to Mr. Satou, a local expert on volcanoes and the area surrounding Mt. Bandai and the . He showed us an old map of Hibara Village, pointing at the spot where his great great grandfather’s home once stood. At the center, you can even see some rare photographs from people evacuating the village back in 1888.  Today there are one two peaks on Mt. Bandai, however, there used to be three. On July 15th, 1888, on a beautiful summer day the Kobandai peak of Mt. Bandai suddenly erupted, changing the landscape forever. When Kobandai exploded, that side of the mountain collapsed into the valley below, burying entire villages and homes under 100 meters of mountain. Although some managed to escape, around 500 lives were claimed beneath the volcano. The environment beneath the fallen mountain peak, known as the Urabandai area, was changed forever. Rivers and streams that once covered the area changed dramatically, lakes and ponds began to form, these bodies of water became known as the Goshikinuma Lakes and Ponds due to their unique colors. This is also how Lake Hibara was formed. Fortunately, for the people of Hibara village there were no casualties! However, people had to quickly evacuate and relocate to surrounding villages and towns when it became clear that the water would not recede.  An ever changing natural environment. Visiting today is safe, thankfully, today we have tools that allow us to predict when volcanoes will erupt that give us time to evacuate. Although it is a tragedy that so many lost their homes or lives to the eruption, we can also be reminded of the enormous power of nature. Despite the destruction that the eruption caused, it also gave birth to new, unique habitats for indigenous plants and animals, creating unique new landscapes for us to discover. Visit the sunken village of Lake Hibara, and explore the other lakes and ponds of the Urabandai area!

The Sunken Village of Hibara
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2023 Cherry Blossom Full Bloom Forecast & Spots in Fukushima

Update (2023/03/14): This article was originally published in February 2023. Cherry blossoms are blooming earlier than expected this year, so most of the dates that were originally included in this article are inaccurate as per current predictions. Please find the updated dates (as of March 14, 2023) in red. Fukushima prefecture is the ultimate cherry blossom destination—home to Miharu Takizakura, said to be one of the oldest waterfall sakura trees in Japan, and the idyllic Hanamiyama Park in Fukushima City, a park on a hill with countless varieties of flower trees and shrubs, to name only two of its most famous spots. Miharu Takizakura in Miharu Town. Photo: （株）三春まちづくり公社 When to See Cherry Blossoms in Fukushima Hanamiyama Park in Fukushima City You may have heard (or experienced) that the cherry blossom season is painstakingly short. The blooming period typically lasts for about two weeks—flowers usually reach full bloom about a week after blossoming and keep blooming only for an additional week. Ozawa Sakura in Tamura City Fukushima prefecture boasts a long sakura season, however, with flowers sprouting along the prefecture from late March to early May. How Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Fukushima Cherry blossom tunnel at Sakura Hill in Dake Onsen Although the exact dates vary by year, cherry blossoms are known to bloom in an ‘m’ shape across Fukushima prefecture.  The coastal area, on the east side, sees the first blossoms between late March and early April, going from South to North. Next, flowers start sprouting in the central and western areas from North to South. The last blossoms can be seen sometime up until mid-May in South-West Aizu. Sakuratoge Pass in Kitashiobara Village For more information about how sakura blooms in Fukushima, please refer to this guide. Because it is best to see sakura in full bloom (or near full bloom), we recommend picking destinations according to the dates you have available.  2023 Forecast Dates Per Area Yonomori Sakura in Tomioka Town It is difficult to predict the exact date when cherry blossoms will bloom, as weather conditions in the prior weeks and months directly affect when the blooming starts and for how long it lasts. But there are ways to know a rough estimate. The following information is based on the website of the Japan Meteorological Corporation “Sakura Navi” (please note, however, that this is simply a forecast and actual blooming dates may vary).   As of February 2023, here are the projected dates for cherry blossoms in different areas of Fukushima in 2023 (Dates in red are as of March 2023): Coastal Area Iwaki City: Early April (Late March) Soma City: Early to Mid-April (Early April) Central Area Fukushima City: Early to Mid-April (Early April) Koriyama City: Mid-April (Early to Mid-April) Shirakawa City: Mid-April (Early to Mid-April) Aizu Area Aizu-Wakamatsu City: Mid to Late April (Mid-April) Yanaizu Town: Mid to Late April Full Bloom Forecasts Per Area The flowers are most beautiful when in full bloom, and for a few days to a week later. Cherry blossoms in Inawashiro Town Here are the Japan Meteorological Corporation's 'Sakura Navi' estimated dates for full bloom in Fukushima in 2023 (forecast as of mid-February; actual blooming dates may vary depending on future temperatures and the weather). Coastal Area’s Sakura Spots Full Bloom Forecast for 2023 (Dates in red are updated as of March 2023) Iwaki Flower Center (Iwaki City): April 5 (March 30) Miyukiyama Park (Iwaki City):  April 5 (March 29) Matsugaoka Park (Iwaki City): April 7  (April 1) Soma Odaka Shrine (Minamisoma City): April 8 (March 31) Tenjin Misaki Sports Park (Naraha Town): April 11 (April 5) Baryo Park (Soma City): April 11 (April 3) Cherry blossoms at Soma Odaka Shrine in Minamisoma City Central Area’s Sakura Spots Full Bloom Forecast for 2023 (Dates in red are updated as of March 2023) Hanamiyama Park (Fukushima City): April 9* (April 3)* Kasumigajo Castle Park (Nihonmatsu City): April 12 (April 6) Komine Castle (Shirakawa City): April 12 (April 6) Kaiseizan Park (Koriyama City): April 12 (April 6) Fujita River Fureai-Zakura (Koriyama City): April 14 (April 7) Natsui Senbon-Zakura (Ono Town): April 20 (April 16) Although it is difficult to predict the exact date as of yet, Miharu Takizakura is expected to be in full bloom in early to mid-April.  *Hanamiyama Park has different varieties of cherry blossom trees, each blooming at different times. More information here. Heidodan Cherry Tree in Miharu Town Aizu Area’s Sakura Spots Full Bloom Forecast for 2023 (Dates in red are updated as of March 2023) Tsurugajo Castle (Aizu-Wakamatsu City): April 16 (April 11) Miyagawa Senbon-Zakura (Aizu-Misato Town): April 17 (April 13) Yunokami Onsen Station (Shimogo Town): April 19 (April 15) Enzoji Temple (Yanaizu Town): April 20 (April 17) Kannonji-gawa River (Inawashiro Town): April 27 (April 24) Tenkyodai Showa-No-Mori Park (Inawashiro Town): May 7 (May 5) Although it is difficult to predict the exact date as of yet, the Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Blossom is expected to be in full bloom around mid-April. Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Blossoms in Kitakata City For information about hanami spots, itineraries, and more visit our section Spring in Fukushima. Cherry blossoms at Yunokami Onsen Station in Shimogo Town (close to Ouchi-juku) The information contained in this post is a rough forecast based on the information provided on the Japan Meteorological Corporation’s website ‘Sakura Navi’ as of February 2023 (dates in red are updated as of March 2023). Actual blooming dates may vary depending on future temperatures and the weather. To access the latest information about the status of cherry blossoms in Fukushima in 2023, visit Japan Meteorological Corporation’s website Sakura Navi (the website is in Japanese but you can change the language to English from the drop-down menu).   Arakawa Sakura Tsuzumi River Park in Fukushima City

2023 Cherry Blossom Full Bloom Forecast & Spots in Fukushima
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Discover Samurai History

Japan is a land where samurai walked the streets with swords at their hips as recently as 150 years ago. However, those samurai disappeared into the annals of history as the country modernized. The Aizu region in Fukushima is known as the home to samurai who held out to the very end against the new westernized government army during the civil war that triggered the modernization of Japan. Follow in the footsteps of these true ‘Last Samurai’ through the numerous surviving sites in Aizu and feel for yourself the samurai spirit that Aizu still embodies today. Aizu was the site of the final large scale battle as part of the resistance to Japan’s revolution of modernization known as the Meiji Restoration. Countless samurai from Aizu gave their lives in battle despite having full knowledge that the war would soon be lost. The history of this civil war, known as the Boshin War, describes how not only the young men, but also the elderly, women, and children gave their lives in battle as samurai. Among them, one battle unit called the Byakkotai, or ‘White Tiger Force,’ formed of the teenage sons of samurai became legendary during the Boshin War. The boys committed seppuku (ritual disembowelment) together after observing what they believed to be the sight of their castle burning from their vantage point on Mt. Iimoriyama to the east of their town. If you visit Mt. Iimoriyama today, try and spot the castle that those young warriors watched from the same viewpoint. Tsurugajo Castle, located in central Aizu-Wakamatsu City, was rebuilt after the war. The seven storied central structure of the castle is one of the largest in Japan, and the red roof tiles further accent the beauty of its white walls. It is difficult to describe the beauty with words, particularly during the winter snowfall and when the cherry blossoms bloom in springtime, making Tsurugajo Castle a rare example of medieval Japanese architecture that is both impressive and beautiful in form. It may be possible to begin to understand the samurai spirit of self-sacrifice as you . Looking down on Tsurugajo Castle from Mt. Iimoriyama through the eyes of the young men of the White Tiger Force, and pondering what they must have felt when they decided to take their lives, visitors can begin to understand the samurai spirit of self-sacrifice. You can further deepen your knowledge of the White Tiger Force through the many historical records and videos available at the nearby Byakkotai Memorial Hall. Within walking distance, you will find the Former Takizawa Honjin, a building which served as a rest stop for feudal lords and was used as a headquarters during the Boshin War. Here you can still find bullet holes and damage left by swords, evoking the raw violence of the battle fought there. After seeing Tsurugajo Castle from your vantage point on Mt. Iimoriyama, head straight to the castle keep. The castle features many exhibits including suits of armor and katana swords, and there is a lot of English-language information available about the history and lifestyles of the people of Aizu. By learning of the traditions and culture from the age of the samurai, you will be able to understand more about the samurai spirit that still lives on today in the Fukushima Prefecture’s Aizu region. Inspired by that spirit, next climb to the observation deck on the top floor of the castle to enjoy an uninterrupted 360 degree view of the city. What will your thoughts be as you take in the view once observed by the feudal lord who lived in this castle? The Tsurugajo Castle grounds also feature a tea house and Japanese garden that provide yet a deeper sense of Japanese culture. Sipping green tea accompanied by Japanese sweets as you view the seasonal trees decorating the garden will likely sooth your mind and body of the fatigue of your journey, while giving you a taste of the times in which the samurai lived. Guides can sometimes be found dressed in samurai armor near the main tower of Tsurugajo Castle. If you see them, it is a great opportunity to have your picture taken with a samurai, so don’t hesitate to ask. And if you ask nicely, they may even strike an impressive Samurai pose. There’s no doubt that the photo will make your trip all the more memorable!

Discover Samurai History
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Harvest Seasonal Fruit

Fukushima Prefecture is one of the leading fruit production regions in Japan, to the extent that Fukushima City is often called the 'Fruit Kingdom,' and there is a road within the city limits with the nickname 'Fruit Line.' As hinted at by the name, the road is surrounded by fruit orchards on both sides for a distance of over 14 kilometers. If one looks closely, they will see different fruits growing during the year, with cherries in the springtime (early June to early July), peaches in the summer months (from mid-July to early September), pears (late August through early October) and grapes (early September through early October) in autumn, and finally apples in early winter (early October to early December). During each season, the nearby fruit orchards bustle with activity as families and tourists come to buy the fresh, high quality fruit. Fruit-Picking Experience One pleasant way of enjoying the Fruit Line is to pick some fruit yourself, a popular pastime in Japan known as fruits-kari, meaning 'fruit-picking.' Fruit-picking is a luxury in Japan, available only in fruit-producing regions. In Japan, it's typical to be able to pick as much fruit as you'd like within a set time and enjoy it fresh on the spot. However, unlike some orchards abroad, many Japanese orchards don't allow fruit picked as part of the fruits-kari experience to be taken out of the orchard. Fruit can be bought separately of course. You need not bring or prepare anything to participate. You need but set out on an adventure that promises satisfaction with the deliciousness of the fresh fruit and the instinctive enjoyment of harvesting it. Here we will describe how to go about fruit hunting using the example of an apple orchard. When you arrive at the orchard, sign up for the fruit-picking experience. After signing up, you will be provided with any necessary tools, such as instruments for cutting fruit from the branch or buckets. The staff will then give a brief introduction in Japanese on how to pick the fruit and how to tell the difference between ripe and unripe fruit, but the topic is one that is easy to grasp even just by watching their gestures as they explain, so Japanese language skills are not a requirement. Then, after entering the orchard itself, there will be nothing but apples wherever you look. Your job is now to find the ones that look the tastiest from among all the others. Fukushima’s apples are known for being quite juicy and for a taste with a good balance of sweetness and tartness, the result of Fukushima’s uniquely wide temperature variation in the local climate. Take a bite of the apple and your mouth will be filled with the fresh juice accompanied by the appealing crisp sound. And if you really want to experience the taste, we recommend eating the apple as is without removing the peel first. You can also experience a variety of textures and sweetness levels depending on the variety of apple. Fukushima City's Orchards Many types of fruit are grown within the Fukushima City limits, and the volume of pears in particular is the second highest for Japan. Thus, the local farmers have plenty of opportunity to constantly improve their skills. Whereas the norm is to wrap individual fruits in little bags in Japan when they are still on the tree to protect them against pests, the orchards of Fukushima City more commonly grow fruits without using these bags, ensuring that each fruit receives more direct sunlight giving them a higher natural sugar content and richer taste. There is also a recent and growing trend to design new confections that make use of these high quality fruits. These delicious desserts are possible specifically because the orchard farmers know what they’re doing when it comes to flavorful fruit. So if you have the time, we recommend combining your fruit-picking with a culinary tour of the available confections as well. The production of jams and juices using the fruits is also quite popular at Fukushima orchards, and those products make great gifts to take home with you. The Fruit Line provides numerous ways to enjoy yourself depending on the season. When visiting, we recommend coming by car. That way you can enjoy the surrounding scenery as you drive, and the ability to stop by at any local farmer’s markets you may come across will further increase the charm of your trip. Enjoy this luxurious experience and the tastes of the season to the fullest at your own pace, surrounded by the bounty of nature. Read here for more.

Harvest Seasonal Fruit
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Rotenburo Heaven – Private Open-air Baths In Fukushima

In this article, I’m going to introduce you to a number of traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) in onsen towns throughout Fukushima where you can experience the magic of private rotenburo outdoor baths. WHAT ARE ROTENBURO? 'Rotenburo' translates as ‘open-air bath’. The word refers to onsen baths that are located fully or partially outside. Depending on the location, bathers might be sheltered from the elements to some extent by roofs and bamboo walls, trees, glass windows etc. Rotenburo are very popular in Japanese onsen towns, especially during the winter months, when guests can enjoy bathing in a hot bath whilst surrounded by snowy mountains. WHY USE PRIVATE BATHS? At ryokan hotels in Japan, it is common to bathe together with other guests of the same sex, and in some cases, together with guests regardless of sex. There are, however, many people who prefer to bathe alone, or in the company of friends, family and loved ones. This is one of the main reasons why people use private baths, or ‘kashikiri buro‘. Another reason is that Japan has a long history of tattoos being associated with gangsters known as yakuza. Of course, the majority of tattoo designs don’t resemble those traditional ones sported by yakuza, but even so, it has remained taboo to enter a public (or shared) bath if you have a tattoo. Although many ryokan turn a blind eye to this rule, it’s still the official policy of many ryokan and hotel in Japan to turn away guests with tattoos from using baths shared with other guests. In order to avoid any drama, and any potential stares, many tourists from overseas choose to use private baths when they stay at ryokan hotels. Private baths can usually be booked at the front desk of the ryokan hotel, and guests are usually asked to choose a specific time to bathe. WHICH RYOKAN IN FUKUSHIMA PREFECTURE HAVE PRIVATE OPEN-AIR BATHS? There are around 130 hot springs in Fukushima Prefecture and hundreds of ryokan hotels. In order to make a list of suggestions, I’ve had to cut this number down quite a lot. I’ve decided to highlight the ryokan hotels in Fukushima Prefecture where guests can book private rotenburo, giving priority to those with English websites or associated websites which make it easy to book even if you don’t speak Japanese. There are so many amazing ryokan in Fukushima Prefecture, and this list is by no means extensive. Ryokan Hotel Private Rotenburo (Overnight Guests) Private Rotenburo (Day Guests) English Website Price 1) Harataki   (Higashiyama Onsen, Aizu) 2000 yen (50 min) 2) Takinoyu   (Higashiyama Onsen, Aizu) No extra cost for overnight guests 3) Seifutei   (Bandaisan Roku Onsen, Inawashiro) (Computer translation) No extra cost for overnight guests 4) Okawaso   (Ashinomaki Onsen, Aizu) 3240 yen (45 min) 5) Yoshikawaya   (Iizaka Onsen, Fukushima City) 2160 yen (45 min) + 1000 yen per person for day visit 6) Kikuya Ryokan   (Iizaka Onsen, Fukushima City) (Computer translation) 30 min for free 7) New Ougiya   (Tsuchiyu Onsen, Fukushima City) No extra cost for overnight guests 8) Sansuiso   (Tsuchiyu Onsen, Fukushima City) 1080 yen (60 min) 9) Yumori Onsen Hostel   (Tsuchiyu Onsen, Fukushima City)   (Responds in English to Facebook  messages) 2000~4000 yen per bath for overnight guests. 10) Furutakiya   (Yumoto Onsen, Iwaki) (Computer translation) 1000 yen (45 min) + 800 yen per person   AIZU AREA Aizu is known for its very snowy winters and long history. 1) Harataki A tattoo-friendly ryokan hotel in Higashiyama Onsen, Aizu-Wakamatsu City. Day-guests and overnight-guests can use the private open-air baths. When I stayed a couple of years ago, they even had CD players so you could play music while you bathed! More information on Fukushima.Travel English website here 2) Takinoyu Also located in Higashiyama Onsen. Private rotenburo open-air baths are free to book for overnight guests at Takinoyu Ryokan Hotel. More information on Fukushima.Travel English website here 3) Seifutei Every room at this ryokan in Inawashiro Town has its own en-suite open-air private bath so you don’t even have to worry about booking time-slots for going in the bath. Their homepage has an automatic translation function. Seifutei can also be found on Booking.com & other booking sites. 4) Ookawaso Ookawaso ryokan is in Ashinomaki Onsen town (the town is known for it’s cat station master)! Ookawaso has a great selection of food at its dinner buffet, which is really good for those who don’t want to be forced into eating a specific, Japanese-style meal. Overnight guests can book and pay an extra price to use the open-air private baths, but only 4 groups can make a booking each night, due to time and space restrictions. Reservations in English can be made directly via email, or through a booking website. More information on Fukushima.Travel Here is their homepage. NAKADORI AREA Ryokan hotel in the central region of Fukushima Prefecture. 5) Yoshikawaya Large ryokan hotel in Iizaka Onsen, near central Fukushima Station. Yoshikawaya Ryokan welcomes guests during the day and evening to use its open-air baths. It costs 2160 yen for each group to book the private bath for 45 minutes, as well as a 1000 yen charge per person. They’re featured on a number of booking sites. More information on Fukushima.Travel English homepage 6) Kikuya Ryokan Ryokan in Iizaka Onsen. Kikuya Ryokan offers guests who stay the night a free 30 minutes in the private open-air bath, as well as the chance to dip in all the other baths. Their website is machine translated but is ok to understand. They are also featured on some booking sites where bookings can be conducted in English. Machine-translated English homepage 7) New Ougiya New Ougiya Ryokan in Tsuchiyu Onsen, Fukushima City has private open-air baths free for overnight guests to use. They’re featured on a couple of English-language booking sites. They also have an English website. 8) Sansuiso Large ryokan hotel in Tsuchiyu Onsen. Overnight guests can bathe for 1 hour in a private half-covered open-air bath for 1080 yen. Featured on English-language booking sites. More information on Fukushima.Travel See their English homepage here. 9) Yumori Onsen Hostel Recently-opened hostel in Tsuchiyu Onsen with very reasonable prices. Tattoo friendly onsen. They have English-speaking staff who can answer any questions you might have via their Facebook Page (See here). See their homepage here. IWAKI AREA Iwaki has much milder winters than the western and central part of Fukushima Prefecture, so visit Iwaki if you want to avoid the snow as much as possible!   10) Furutakiya In scenic Iwaki Yumoto Onsen town by the coast. Private open-air baths can be reserved by overnight guests and day-guests. This ryokan has private open-air baths that can be rented for 1000 yen per 45 minutes (plus 800 yen per person for day-guests). Featured on English-language booking websites. Automatic-translation available on their website

Rotenburo Heaven – Private Open-air Baths In Fukushima
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Fukushima’s Soma Nomaoi Festival!

November 2023 Update: The dates of the Soma Nomaoi Festival have been changed to Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of the last week of May from 2024 onwards.Soma Nomaoi Festival is a horse-centric samurai festival that dates back to over 1000 years ago!The festival honors and celebrates the tradition of raising horses for military strength and as a part of life for people in the area. Although the festival has changed over the years (for instance allowing women to participate and adding new events!), the original feeling of the festival is still strong and alive.The history and heart of the region shine through at this incredible Japanese festival that you won’t want to miss! Day one (Saturday): The Local Favorite DayI reached out to my friend, Satou Shouko, who is from Kashima-ku, an area that is a part of the region that was ruled by the Soma clan. She offered to take me and my coworker Rin around to see the events on Saturday. Ecstatic, we gathered our cameras (and a small gift for Satou-san of course) and headed off.Satou-san was incredibly kind and explained the events that we would be seeing that day. I was surprised to hear from her that Saturday is the favorite day for most locals, so much so that many will enjoy the festival on Saturday but skip out on Sundays celebrations! The Festival Begins!We watched as a screen showed live footage from around Soma clan. The events of the day are separate but occur simultaneously across the areas. So, depending on which town’s festivities you choose to see, you can witness a variety of events. 2022 was the first year that they were able to conduct a livestream of the event on this scale, and it was absolutely incredible. Once you finish reading, go check it out. Thanks to the livestream we got a close look at the home of the Supreme Commander where pre-departure ceremonies were taking place. The live feed showed us prayers and toasts at three shrines: Soma Nakamura Shrine, Soma Ota Shrine, and Soma Odaka Shrine. One toast I saw on screen was followed by a smashing of the glass sake cup, an action that is intended to bring good luck supposedly. The breaking of glass, shouting in tough-sounding samurai words, and the sounding of conch shell horns is an intimidating series of sounds to take in. How terrifying it must have been to face a samurai warrior on the battlefield! Soutaishou-omukae (Reception of the Supreme Commander)Warriors on horseback marching through the town and racing down narrow paths through the rice field travel back and forth, announcing updates to the leaders who are already seated, waiting to receive the Supreme Commander. This year, the Supreme Commander role was filled by the firstborn grandson of the reigning Supreme Commader! At 14 he has now reached the historical age of manhood, his debut at the festival was only days after his coming-of-age ceremony. Next year his grandfather will return to the position where he will stay until his son will permanently take over.While waiting, there are dance performances, conch shell blowing, and warriors on horseback rushing in to provide information.There was a short break in the action, and suddenly visitors were permitted to enter the square and mingle with the Samurai leaders, warriors, conch shell horn bearers, and more. Taking photos with them as they sat in character was so much fun. I turned to thank one of the leaders for the photo when he suddenly offered me some sake and a snack from his tray of traditional snacks (umeboshi and cucumbers!) which was a big surprise. It was so much fun to connect with such a high-ranking warrior and glimpse behind the character and see he is actually a really nice old man! When the break time ended, the tough shouting and samurai acting began again!Suddenly the conch shell horn bearers stood to attention and sounded their horns to announce the arrival of the Supreme Commander. Flanked by more tough-looking men on horses, the procession was impressive!More dancing, toasts, and speeches ensued! My favorite part? When they began to sing the ancient anthem of the Soma clan, the same song that their ancestors sang, the crowd joined in. It was absolutely magical to be in the midst of a community that retains such strong links to its history and culture.As the group began to prepare for their march through the streets, people rushed off to find the ideal place to view the parade. As the procession of samurais on horseback marched down the street. Gyouretsu (Samurai Procession)We rushed down the street to a little intersection in the road and waited with others to catch a glimpse of the parade.The parade here is a small version of the parade that happens on Sunday when all the districts of the Soma Clan join together in a massive procession of roughly 350 horses! (Not including the many more people who join the procession on foot.) The ornate decorations on the horses and the beauty of each set of armor are amazing to view up close. Various flags represent the family crests or different subgroups of the Soma clan and are carried proudly through the streets. Every once in a while you will notice the procession come to a halt, and the sounding of the conch shell horns as well as the occasional sound of a drum.The intricate historic style of the procession provides a stark contrast to the telephone lines and traffic lights that look so modern it feels almost alien. This parade really gives you a feeling of Japan’s wonderful way of preserving history so that ancient cultural traditions can exist among the modern culture, a perfect blend of the old and new. Shinki-soudatsusen (Flag Competition)After the parade, the horses are transported to a large open field on a hill overlooking the sea. In the field, samurai warriors sit with their families (who look strange in comparison in modern clothes) to enjoy a snack and drink. Watching moms pull out homemade rice balls (onigiri) and Fukushima peaches to feed to their little warriors was extremely cute. The horses were relaxing near their families, munching on some tall grasses.Once all of the horses and participants have arrived, the game can begin!The sounding of the conch shell horns is followed by a loud BANG as fireworks are launched into the sky and colorful flags fall slowly dancing through the sky. The explosions sound like what I imagine a battlefield may have sounded like. Some horses naturally got spooked, while other were braver, heeding the commands of the riders and rushing into the thick of battle to capture the quickly falling flag.In some cases, the spooked horses launched their riders into the air sending them tumbling across the grass. Those who were ejected from their seat seemed to be okay, however, I quickly became aware of the ambulance and health professionals who were standing by on site - just in case! What a relief.The joy on their faces as they successfully captured a flag was really beautiful, as the families of the riders cheered from the sidelines.The close & intimate setting of Saturday’s event was wonderful and there were a lot of opportunities to chat with people, take photos, and witness these incredible events up close. Sometimes too close! At one point I had to dash away from the sidelines as one nervous horse stomped a little too close. In a moment of panic, I dropped my GoPro camera a little too close, fortunately, it wasn’t stomped into oblivion! So please be cautious when experiencing the event up close on Saturday and be prepared to dash away with your equipment in case a nervous horse wanders into your personal space. Day two (Sunday): The Main EventDespite the heat and exhaustion of Saturday, I went to Sunday’s event as well! Unfortunately, Satou-san and Rin couldn’t join me, but I set out with some other friends to check it out.This is the day when all of the Soma clan gathers to compete against each other in large-scale versions of events that took place on Saturday! This event is more tourist-friendly with food stalls, and souvenirs stands. Plus, it is pretty easy to know where to go as all you need to do is follow the crowd!A huge parade marches through the streets, this year there were around 350 horses participating- and even more human participants of course! The parade ends at a large arena and amphitheater with many seats of horses gather at the end of the parade. Dance performances, a horse race, and a massive capture-the-flag event take place here and it is absolutely incredible.Flanking either side of the seating area are shaded horse stables where horses are brought to relax and wind down if they get too hot and stressed, or if they just need a rest. I was able to chat with the owners of the horses and find out a bit more about these sweet babies. One three-year-old horse I met was going to be in the racing event later, so it was a lot of fun to meet him and then later recognize him by his flag. Like cheering for a friend, I was so happy to see him win third place in his race. What a champion!Due to the large number of horses the falls were a bit more intense on this day creating an exciting atmosphere similar to a rodeo. Everyone on the edge of their seats to see what would happen! Shocked and amazement echoes across the audience, especially in one instance where a rider was tossed off his horse but he managed to hold onto the reigns and calm the horse down all on his own! Now that is some next level horse whispering.The area is so much bigger, some spooked horses would race by at jaw dropping speeds to the edges of the area or to the area where they knew they could get water and snacks while their rider frantically held on. Fortunately, there didn’t seem to be any injuries that were too bad, but there were definitely some limping samurai warriors by the end of the day! Day three: Nomakake (The Ancient Horse capturing ritual) I wasn’t able to make it to the third and final day of the festival but I imagine that it is smaller and more intimate like the first day.On this day the event takes place where people capture a wild horse without using any tools and then take the horse to the shrine as an offering. This event is the most ancient and traditional event of the festival, existing since ancient times.I hope that you will go experience this incredible festival for yourself!This was Reagan from the Fukushima Prefecture Tourism and Local Products Association, thank you for reading and joining along on this story. Please contact us if you want to visit or have any questions about the festival or visiting Fukushima.Want to experience a horseback ride through the region that was ruled by the mighty Soma Clan?Click here for tour information.

Fukushima’s Soma Nomaoi Festival!
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Extreme Sports through the Four Seasons

Fukushima Prefecture offers nature on a massive scale, including the sea, mountains, rivers, and lakes, and has many locations where one can enjoy extreme sports. It is now gaining attention from hardcore fans in addition to beginners. Lake Inawashiro, which is located in the central region of Fukushima Prefecture, is protected from strong winds by the surrounding mountains, allowing people to freely create their own waves. In the summer, the lake bustles with intermediate-level wakeboard and jet ski enthusiasts. In the winter, powder snow, which is a light, fine snow with very little moisture content, falls on the mountains in the northern area of central Fukushima, and skiers and snowboarders flock to the slopes from both in Japan and overseas to enjoy the exquisite conditions. These conditions combine to make Fukushima one of the premier spots in Japan offering extreme sports experiences in all four seasons. Washikura Onsen in the northern region of Fukushima Prefecture is known as a secret hot spring at the lofty elevation of 1,230 meters, and a massive snowmobile course is located in the mountain slopes behind the onsen facility, and is famous among snowmobilers throughout the world. The area is the private property of the onsen, making it a well-hidden secret from ordinary pedestrians, allowing snowmobilers to enjoy the exquisite feeling of having a world of powder snow all to themselves. Furthermore, there are no fixed courses on the slopes, which makes choosing one’s own course freely another point of enchantment. Snowmobilers can enjoy a luxurious time of practicing their riding without worrying about their surroundings. When one asks why Lake Inawashiro is gaining popularity among wakeboarders and jet skiers, the first and foremost reason is the ease of riding the waves. The surrounding mountains protect the lake from strong winds, allowing boats to use their wake to easily create waves, creating the ideal conditions for enthusiasts who want to challenge themselves with acrobatic techniques such as jumps and spins. The water of Lake Inawashiro is also known for containing the least organic matter among all of Japan’s lakes, and for being of very high quality. There are few tall buildings surrounding the lake, making stretching out in a boat or on a surfboard while enjoying the gentle waves, a perfect way to enjoy the majestically beautiful mountain vistas, starting with the famous Mt. Bandai. The exquisite views that weave together Fukushima Prefecture’s two great natural symbols, Lake Inawashiro and Mt. Bandai, are so beautiful they take the breath away from not just marine sports enthusiasts, but also local residents. Anyone can enjoy the snowmobile experience at Washikura Onsen as long as they prepare a helmet, goggles and snow wear. An experienced guide will take you on a 2–3 hour journey that allows time to enjoy a lunch break and photo sessions of the incredible scenery. The winter air of February and March is the most clear throughout the entire year, allowing you to see distant mountains such as Mt. Adatara and Mt. Azuma. Enjoying the grand scale of nature on a snowmobile is the real thrill of this experience. The snowmobile experience can also be enjoyed as a set including a stay at Washikura Onsen, and being able to enjoy a leisurely bath in the beautiful hot spring after a snowmobile ride in the frigid mountains is one of the exceptional appeals of this location. S.A.Y is one of the recommended spots for those who want to enjoy wakeboarding and jet skiing on Lake Inawashiro. All the necessary equipment for wakeboarding can be rented at S.A.Y. There are also activities for large groups, such as banana boats, allowing you to devote your entire day to marine fun. S.A.Y also offers BBQ facilities. Enjoying a barbeque in the cool lakeside breeze is an unforgettable summer experience.

Extreme Sports through the Four Seasons
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Japan's Lesser-Known Ski Resorts

The number one reason why the ski resorts of Fukushima are popular with skiers throughout the world is, without a doubt, the quality of the snow itself. The ski resorts featuring Fukushima’s quality powder snow, which is silky and dry due to the low water content, are magnets for the snow connoisseur.Just as an example, the snow quality in Australia during the peak ski season is only at about the level of Fukushima’s snow at the very end of the season. The sense of floating one gets while skiing on powder snow can become addictive to any skier visiting Fukushima for the first time.SKI SEASONThe winter sports season in Fukushima Prefecture lasts from December through the following April. There are numerous ski resorts in the western part of the prefecture in areas such as Urabandai and Minamiaizu, and each resort has unique characteristics to enjoy. The diversity of slopes with access to the ultimate quality snow is another feature of Fukushima’s ski resorts.The heights can often be reached easily via chair lifts and roofed gondolas, making it easy to access the numerous courses available. Fukushima's ski resorts feature long courses for beginners with gentle grade slopes, mogul courses featuring well-groomed (compacted) snow, and natural courses for advanced skiers with obstacles such as rocks and trees. Furthermore, the Minamiaizu area has a long history of being open to snowboarders from early in the season, so many resorts include halfpipes, rails, and kickers to satisfy the most active snowboarders. Night-time skiing is also possible at a number of them, allowing you to keep skiing long after the sun goes down.ACCESSIn order to enjoy the Fukushima ski resorts, there is no need to prepare equipment to deal with winter mountains at a 2,000-meter altitude, or to rent a car to travel over long distances. Instead, shuttle buses run between the ski resorts and train stations including Koriyama Station, the transportation hub of the prefecture. This means visitors from Tokyo can be skiing down the slopes before noon if they take an early shinkansen.How To Access FukushimaThere are also numerous options available depending on schedule and group size for those travelers wishing to enjoy skiing for several days. Ski resorts have on-site hotels for those wishing to focus their time on skiing and snowboarding, while large groups or those looking to stay for longer periods can try a cottage or private inn.The hot springs located near the resorts are recommended for those wishing to experience a taste of Japan. When it comes to local cuisine we recommend ramen, a soul food that warms both body and mind, and the sake of Fukushima which is ranked high in quality nationally, for a fully satisfying and relaxing winter experience.Things to keep in mindIn recent years, so-called backcountry skiing, or skiing on new snow outside established courses and in untouched forests, is growing in popularity, and many from inside and outside Japan also come to Fukushima for this reason. However, due to the high frequency of accidents, such as collisions with trees or getting lost, the number of places in Fukushima where this is allowed is very limited. In order to enjoy backcountry skiing, it is absolutely essential for you to take precautions for safety by employing a guide, bringing the right equipment, and keeping aware of the weather.While Western culture typically places responsibility for behavior on the individual, in Japan, facility managers and communities are typically held responsible for any accidents that happen nearby. Therefore, skiers are asked to adhere to the local manners and rules so that they can continue to come back and enjoy Fukushima’s world-class quality powder snow in the future.For more information, check out our page on ski resorts, or the Aizu Ski Japan website.Useful LinksIdeas for Winter Trips in FukushimaYuki-Matsuri: Fukushima’s Snow FestivalsA Complete Guide to Visiting Fukushima During Winter

Japan's Lesser-Known Ski Resorts
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A Complete Guide to Visiting Fukushima During Winter

The coldest months of the year bring beautiful scenery to Fukushima Prefecture. From snow-capped mountains and thatched-roof houses in the Aizu area to the refreshing view of the sunrise over the iconic Bentenjima Shrine in the Hattachi coast, there is a wide variety of attractions and activities to enjoy during winter in Fukushima.Kaneyama Fureai Hiroba ViewpointThis is a compilation of useful information to make your winter getaway smooth and enjoyable! For recommended winter attractions, check out this post.Yanaizu TownTransportationChecking the Status of the Roads Before DepartureEspecially in the Aizu and Central areas, a snowstorm could occasionally block some roads or affect visibility (a phenomenon known as a whiteout).Checking the status of the roads makes your trip safer and can help you foresee potential delays. This webpage shows camera footage of the status of the roads (available only in Japanese).Click or tap on the camera button in the area you are planning on visiting. Select the road you would like to see on the new pop-up window.In most rent-a-car facilities, you will be asked where you are going and be given a vehicle equipped with what you need (winter tires, chains, etc.).Preparing for Longer Travel TimesBecause road conditions change unexpectedly, it is best to expect longer travel times, particularly if you are traveling by bus or car.As an example, check the following estimates: Aizu-Wakamatsu City to Ouchi-juku: normally takes around 45 min. (90 min on snow-covered roads) Ouchi-juku to Tadami: normally takes around 90 min. (150 min. on snow-covered roads) Tadami to Kaneyama Town: normally takes around 40 min. (90 min. on snow-covered roads) Kaneyama Town to Mishima Town: normally takes around 30 min. (90 min. on snow-covered roads) Mishima Town to Aizu-Wakamatsu City: normally takes around 50 min. (120 min. on snow-covered roads).Finding the Public Transportation Winter ScheduleSome buses or trains, like the Saruyuugou loop bus in Ouchi-juku, have different schedules in the winter. The service can either become reduced or extended for special events.If you will be relying on public transportation, take a close look at the time schedule for any notations of changes during the winter. If it is only in Japanese and you cannot read it, inquire at the closest station or local tourist information office (or send us a message and we will do our best to assist you).Some hotels and ski resorts offer shuttle bus services to and from the closest station, such as the Minowa Ski Resort's free shuttle bus service from Fukushima Station. Be sure to make a reservation in advance.ActivitiesWould you ride a snowmobile in the snowy hills of Tsuchiyu Onsen in Central Fukushima? Check the Snowmobile Riding Experience page for more information.Extreme Onsen ExperienceThe Extreme Onsen Experience is a popular activity during the so-called 'greens season', but, for safety reasons, it is not possible to climb Mount Adatara when it is covered with snow, so the tour becomes temporarily unavailable until the snow melts in the spring. Write us a message if you would like to be notified once the tour becomes available again!Alternatively...Soaking in the hot springs while contemplating a snowy landscape is a truly magical experience that you can enjoy in many other onsen towns, like the nostalgic Tsuchiyu Onsen Town.Tsuchiyu Onsen TownGoshiki-numa PondsIf you would like to visit the Goshiki-numa ponds during winter, we recommend booking a snowshoe tour and going with an experienced guide, as travelers are discouraged from visiting independently.Goshiki-numa Ponds Snowshoe Experience Booking & More InformationOther Places That Are or May Become Closed for the WinterHere are some sightseeing spots, experiences, and tours that are only (or mostly) available from spring to fall (usually April to November) and could thus become unavailable during the winter: Unavailable In the Winter Still available, but... The Bandai-Azuma Skyline Crossing Mugenkyo Ravine by Ferry (Mugenkyo no Watashi) Extreme Onsen Experience, Soma City Bamboo Fishing Tour, SUP Experience at Menuma Pond and the Ouchi-juku Time Slip & Soba Making Experience. Ebisu Circuit closes during most of winter due to heavy snowfall (check the live camera and contact Ebisu Circuit directly for more information). Goshiki-numa and Oze National Park are closed to individual travelers and some of their facilities become unavailable. For safety reasons, it is advised for travelers to only visit as part of a guided tour organized by a reputable company or with an appropriate permit.  Experiences that are still available during the winter months:The Ouchi-juku kimono experience,  Kitakata Ramen-Making Experience, the Minamisoma Coast Trekking and more! Finding Winter DestinationsWhile some places and experiences enter a hibernation of sorts, others take center stage. Ski slopes, with powder snow and lots of activities for the entire family, become one of the main attractions in Fukushima (access our 2-day skiing itinerary here).Winter festivals, illuminations, and other events enliven several spots around Fukushima (check our calendar for winter events in Fukushima in 2023).If You Are Planning The Ultimate Winter Road Trip...Bring snacks and drinks with you!Japanese convenience stores and vending machines are spread out in remote rural areas. It is always safer to bring snacks and drinks with you, particularly if you are traveling with children.If you would like to know where to go for pit stops, roadside stations, known in Japanese as 'Michi no eki' (道の駅) usually have local specialty foods and souvenirs.Prepare for the Unexpected—and the BeautifulWe recently visited the famous No. 1 Tadami River Bridge Viewpoint with my coworker.In the morning, we were told that the JR Tadami Line, which famously runs over the scenic bridge, had canceled operations for the day due to heavy snowfall, but we decided to go anyway. When we arrived at the viewpoint, it was snowing heavily and there was zero visibility—the iconic view was nothing but an indistinguishable mass of white and gray.We decided to drive to another scenic point (the Kaneyama Fureai Hiroba Viewpoint) hoping the sky would clear up.It finally did and we were lucky to get beautiful shots of both places.You never know when you can enjoy a snow-covered landscape with clear skies.Winter is a delightful season to travel around Fukushima and take in the views of its many scenic towns, winter festivals, and glistening lakes nested in the mountains.Miyakoji Area in Tamura City The coastal area is also worth a visit during this time; its famous sunshine and tropical feel make it a perfect getaway from the harsher cold inland.If you have any questions about traveling in Fukushima, please send them our way using the contact form you can find on our website.We hope you enjoy your stay!

A Complete Guide to Visiting Fukushima During Winter
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360 Degrees Onsen Hot Spring Video

While on a tour of Fukushima Prefecture, John made some 360-degree videos that make you feel like you're right there with him; you’ll be able to join him in his travels and see what kind of adventures he embarked upon. You will be able to feel real moments, such as how far above you the ceiling of the bathroom is, and stunning views that regular pictures just cannot do it justice. Please use these videos to enjoy hot springs, ryokan hotels, and cuisine - all part of Fukushima’s wonderful onsen culture. Ookawaso (Ashinomaki Onsen) The outdoor baths of Ookawaso are known for their tiered layout. The styles and temperature of the water differ depending on the bathtubs, so you can find your ideal bath, with the perfect temperature and location for you. As you can see in the video, the outdoor bath faces the river, and is not covered with a roof. Listening to the river and looking up at the vast sky make you feel as if you are enveloped in nature. Tamagoyu (Takayu Onsen) Tamagoyu is a historical hot spring inn that was opened a hundred and fifty years ago in Takayu Onsen, in the Meiji period. Blueish cloudy white spring water called tamagoyu, (which means 'egg bath') gained its name for two reasons. First, there is the unmistakable, egg-like sulfurous smell, and second, after taking a bath in this water, your skin becomes smooth, like a boiled egg. The hot spring water gushes out naturally at this 100% free-flowing hot-spring. What’s more, the water flows into the baths via naturally-occurring contours in the rocks. Neither hot nor cold water is added to adjust the temperature of the baths, which means the water in the bathtubs is pure spring water. There is a large garden, where you can enjoy a variety of styles of bath, such as an elegant bath with a thatched roof on top and a spacious outdoor bath. About Onsen Although the Japanese word 'onsen' is often translated as 'hot spring,' that’s not 100% accurate. The onsen experience encompasses not only the baths, but everything that goes along with them, such as seasonal food, hotels where you can spend time relaxing, and hot spring towns that you can enjoy strolling around. Some onsen resorts are lively towns, while others are located in remote mountainous areas that are so quiet that the only sounds you hear are those of flowing rivers. The wonders of onsen differ depending on the regions; thus, onsen is loved by so many people for so many different reasons, including therapeutic purposes and spending leisure time with family. The onsen experience also varies from season to season. Please visit, and discover how relaxing, rejuvenating, and fun onsen is if for yourself.

360 Degrees Onsen Hot Spring Video
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Ryokan Hotels and Local Cuisine

You can often see Japanese traditional inns, known as 'ryokan,' in towns which have hot springs. Most of these inns have rooms with beautiful tatami mats and futons, accompanied by scenic views of mountains, forests or a calm and relaxing hot spring town across a river. What’s more, these inns often house restaurants that serve amazing Japanese cuisine. Their chefs provide fresh, delicious and outstanding dishes, made using seasonal local ingredients.   The rooms in ryokan hotels often have their own names. Each ryokan is quite unique, and may have some aspects that make your stay there unforgettable. In fact, each room can be an attraction by itself! Once you stay in one of these rooms, you may feel like spending your whole stay just in your room! We strongly recommend that you endeavor to experience this small part of Japanese culture. Seiryunoyado Kawachi (Yanaizu Onsen) Yanaizu Onsen, surrounded by mountains, is not a flashy onsen town, but is known for its abundant hot spring water. The inside of Seiryunoyado Kawauchi ryokan is bright and clean, and a friendly landlady will welcome you at the entrance. The inn lies alongside the Tadami River, and offers splendid views of the sun setting over the mountains in the evenings. The river, and the beautiful nature around it, changes appearance according to the season. Seiryunoyado Kawauchi is located close to a historical shop that serves awamanju, a local speciality, and a temple called Enzoji, which has been standing for more than twelve hundred years! This is an idyllic place for a relaxing walk down a mountain valley after you enjoy a hot spring bath. Harataki (Higashiyama Onsen) The historical hot spring town Higashiyama Onsen, founded about 1300 years ago, is located about ten minutes away from central Aizu-Wakamatsu City. Harataki, a hotel located next to a pleasant river, amazes people with its riverside balcony and outdoor bath. The shared balcony is called Kawadoko, and has a foot bath that you can enjoy while taking in the wondrous nature all around you. Just outside the lobby, there is a small, beautiful ravine that you can see through a huge window. The beautiful nature of Aizu invigorates you, with its fresh green leaves in spring, rich green forests in summer, red autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter. Regarding food, there is a popular charbroiled dish in this area called sumibiyaki. It is a local delicacy that, when you eat it, you will feel the warmth and hospitality that this place has to offer. Harataki has English-speaking staff members who are on hand to help put you at ease and enjoy your Japanese ryokan experience. Enjoying Ryokan to the Full Experiencing hot springs and ryokan hotels in Fukushima is a quintessential experience that you do not want to miss on a trip to Japan. It may change some misconceptions or impressions that you previously had of Japanese culture. Please enjoy our way of life, food, hospitality, style and, of course, hot springs while you stay in Japan. Since Japan has four beautifully distinct seasons, seasonal food is one of the attractions of Japanese ryokan hotels. During fall, you will be able to enjoy meals decorated with colorful ingredients and leaves, with colors such as red, green, orange and yellow.

Ryokan Hotels and Local Cuisine
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The Sake Brewing Process at Niida Honke

Niida Honke Sake BreweryFounded in 1711, Niida Honke has seen eighteen generations of master brewers, each bringing their own personality and subtle changes to the company and its sake. The current head brewer is Yasuhiko Niida, an incredibly nice person with an awe-inspiring passion for making Sake.Under Mr. Niida’s supervision, Niida Honke has seen many changes. In 2011 the brewery celebrated its 300th anniversary and the achievement of using 100% natural rice in its brewing process. Unfortunately, this was the same year as the Great East Japan Earthquake and the following nuclear disaster. Despite the difficulties, Niida Honke worked hard to return the health of the rice fields.After the fields were cleaned and returned to their healthy status, a decision was made to move the company into a more sustainable and natural direction with the goal of creating its sake with 100% natural and organic ingredients. They currently grow much of the rice used to create their sake in the fields that surround the brewery. Working with local farmers to create healthy, high-quality rice that is grown without the use of pesticides or harmful chemicals.In the future, Niida Honke aims to brew all of its sake in natural wooden tanks, switch entirely to solar power, and grow 100% of its own rice. For each bottle that you buy, Niida Honke takes one step closer to these goals.

The Sake Brewing Process at Niida Honke
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7 Ways to Enjoy the Goshiki-numa Ponds

1. Rent a boat for a unique perspective!At one of the ponds there is a small boat house where you can rent a row boat to explore the water up close and personal! The vibrant color of the water is beautiful and so fun to paddle around. If you paddle over to the banks of the pond, you can relax on the water beneath the shade of low-hanging branches and listen to the birds singing.Please note: Boat services are not available in the winter months due to ice and snow.2. Locate the koi fish of loveLiving in the main pond is a very special koi fish, the koi fish of love? This is a special koi fish with a heart-shaped spot on its side. Some believe that if you see this fish then you will have good luck in love. So if you’re having trouble landing a date, maybe it’s time to come search for this mysterious koi fish!3. Hike the trailIf you are the adventurous type, then I recommend exploring the trail around the Goshiki-numa ponds to get a look at more of the lakes and ponds in the area. There are many dotted around the area, all formed sometime after the eruption in 1888. There is a spectacular 3.6 km walking route that takes about 70 minutes to complete and wanders through the forest, taking you to see some of the different vibrantly colored bodies of water in the area.If you are visiting in winter, you should look into a snow-shoe trekking tour. They are a lot of fun, but be sure to bring some warm clothes! 4. Ponder the Geological History of the areaIf you look in the distance your will see the back side of Mt. Bandai, however, only the trained eye will be able to notice the remaining evidence of the massive eruption that occurred in 1888. Mt. Bandai is actually a type of volcano! Prior to the eruption, the area around the Goshiki-numa ponds was an area covered with rivers and streams. The eruption greatly altered the surrounding area, including forming the Goshiki-numa lakes and ponds, as well as sinking an entire village! If you are interested in the geology of the area, I recommend a quick visit to the Mt. Bandai Eruption Memorial Museum. Thankfully various tools are used to predict volcanic eruptions here, so you don’t need to worry about that when visiting! 5. Enjoy a pond-colored ice cream!If you like weird foods, or have a sweet tooth, I recommend trying the pond-colored Goshiki-numa ice cream. The vibrant blue ice cream is made using frozen water from the ponds, the unique minerals create an interesting taste. (Just Kidding) The ice cream does not contain any water from the ponds, it is flavored like a lightly salted vanilla. It’s delicious and great for photos!6. Visit during your favorite season! Goshiki-numa has something different and special to offer depending on the season. In late April or early May you can catch a glimpse of some wild cherry blossoms. In summer the vibrant green colors will wow you! In autumn the contrast of the warm autumn leaves and the cool colored ponds is breathtaking. Finally, in winter the bright white snow makes the vibrant color of the ponds really pop!7. Take it slowIf this all sounds a bit too active for you, then I recommend grabbing some snacks or a coffee at the food stand and sitting at one of the benches to admire the scenery at a more leisurely pace. The air here is very fresh and relaxing, so it is a really great place to sit and just be calm for a little while, especially in the mornings.Published 2022/05/12

7 Ways to Enjoy the Goshiki-numa Ponds
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Meaningful Travel Experiences in Fukushima

Apart from exploring Fukushima’s extraordinary landscapes and indulging in its cuisine, plenty of travelers seek opportunities to engage with local communities through hands-on experiences. Japan’s third-largest prefecture, Fukushima, has a diverse and rich history, which is reflected in the variety of activities that visitors can enjoy. Here are some meaningful travel experiences unique to Fukushima.1. Explore the Extreme Side of Fukushima: Ebisu Circuit Drift Taxi Experience & Extreme Onsen (available April-November)Fukushima’s central area is home to active volcanos and mind-bending cliffs that make even experienced hikers jitter with adrenaline. It is no surprise, therefore, that two of the most extreme activities in the prefecture can be enjoyed in this region.The Drift Taxi Experience at the Ebisu Circuit in Nihonmatsu is a thrilling drift ride by a seasoned driver who takes participants through several courses full of twists, turns, and speed. It is the most popular experience on our website and offers a rare opportunity to drift in Japan alongside famous drivers.The Extreme Onsen Experience at Numajiri Onsen is another unique and popular activity. Alongside a guide, you will hike through volcanic terrain to reach a wild hot springs river source where you can soak in and contemplate the surrounding mountain peaks. This experience is perfect for those looking for an adventure, as it combines outdoor sports and relaxing in wild hot springs. Additionally, participants enter the hot springs in a swimsuit (and those with tattoos are also welcome!). 2. Get Creative and Make Your Own SouvenirsBy participating in a craft workshop, you can learn about traditional crafts hands-on by making your own. This helps craftspeople continue to develop their industry while encouraging others to learn about and appreciate their work—plus, you get to take home a unique souvenir. Here are some craft workshops you can join in Fukushima: In Aizu-Wakamatsu, you can paint your own Akabeko (Fukushima’s lucky red cow) at a souvenir shop a short walk away from the Tsurugajo Castle, or paint on lacquerware using traditional techniques at Suzuzen, a lacquerware shop and museum. Takashiba Dekoyashiki, also known as Takashiba Craft Village, is a traditional crafts-making village that looks suspended in time. Here, you can paint a papier-mâché fox mask, and explore the fascinating history of its close-knit community. Even today you can make washi, traditional Japanese paper, by hand in Nihonmatsu. The area has a history of over 1,000 years producing Kami-Kawasaki Washi paper, a local variety of Washi paper. At its Washi Denshokan (Washi Traditional Crafts Gallery) you can make a postcard out of washi and decorate a lampshade. You can assemble a tatami coaster at Tatami Village in Sukagawa City. Kuboki Tatami is a centuries-old family business that has honed the skill of producing and manufacturing tatami mats.3. Pick Your Own Fruit at Japan’s ‘Fruit Kingdom’Eating locally-grown food is a great option to make your travel more sustainable, and there is a wide variety of locally sourced produce to try in Fukushima. Apart from the many restaurants that use local ingredients, several farms and orchards offer a 30-minute all-you-can-pick course in which you can taste seasonal fruit (typically available from late June to December). You can book a fruit-picking experience at Marusei Orchard, for instance, and afterward, visit their cafe to try their delicious fruit parfaits.4. Traverse the Mugenkyo Ravine by Ferry BoatMugenkyo no Watashi is a ferry boat that traverses the Tadami River in Western Fukushima Prefecture. The ride is the brainchild of a local man, Hoshi-san, whose hometown disappeared due to a landslide. Refusing to let the beauty of the area disappear forever, he decided to craft an experience for others to see the stunning natural scapes while traversing the Tadami River, which often gets misty, creating a mysterious atmosphere. During this peaceful boat ride, you can sit back and relax to the sounds of nature as Hoshi-san and/or someone from his team takes you on a relaxing ride. The experience is only offered from spring to autumn each year (roughly from April to November) due to heavy snowfall in the area during winter.5. Enjoy (or Make!) the Local Noodle SpecialtiesNoodles are a key ingredient in some of the most famous dishes in Japanese cuisine, and a few signature foods in Fukushima. Kitakata ramen is considered one of Japan’s big three ramen varieties, and visitors to Kitakata City can not only taste this delicious dish but also try their hand at making it under the guidance of a local expert (and then enjoy a delicious bowl of handmade ramen complete with toppings). The city is all about ramen, to the point that they famously have a tradition of enjoying ramen for breakfast (known as asa-ra!).Also famous is Ouchi-juku’s negi-soba, a bowl of buckwheat noodles eaten with a whole green onion as a utensil. At Ouchi-juku’s soba dojo, you can make the noodles from scratch, after which the staff will boil them for you and prepare the rest of the ingredients. Wait a few minutes, and you can enjoy a steamy bowl of negi-soba of your own making before you go back to exploring the town.Note: The Ouchi-juku buckwheat (soba) noodles are typically made using a mix of buckwheat and wheat flour, but it is possible to request an alternative version using only buckwheat flour (which would make the noodles gluten-free). Please note, however, that there may be cross-contamination, as regular noodles are prepared in the same space.More Experiences AwaitFrom learning samurai martial arts to riding a horse along the coast, there are many more activities to try in Fukushima, which you can request directly through our website. Once you place your booking, we will contact the provider and let you know within a few days whether the date and time you requested are available. If you have any questions about visiting Fukushima or booking experiences through our website, please feel free to send us a message!

Meaningful Travel Experiences in Fukushima
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