Things To Do
in Fukushima

Fukushima, Japan, is a captivating region known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and resilient spirit following the 2011 disaster. Nestled in the Tohoku region, it boasts majestic mountains, hot springs, and beautiful coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The area is also home to historic sites, including temples and traditional villages, providing visitors with a glimpse into Japan's past.

Additionally, Fukushima is famous for its local cuisine, particularly its sake and fresh seafood.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Fukushima City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Fukushima City Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to Hanamiyama Park, famous for its cherry blossoms, and enjoy a picnic surrounded by beautiful flowers.

evening
:

Visit a local izakaya (Japanese pub) to experience traditional Japanese dining and sample local sake.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a morning trip to Aizuwakamatsu Castle, a historic site with beautiful gardens and views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Relax at the Iizaka Onsen hot springs and enjoy a soothing soak in the mineral-rich waters, followed by a traditional kaiseki lunch.

evening
:

Explore the local night market in Iizaka for street food and handmade crafts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
🍵Matcha Tea$5
🏨Hotel Night$60
🚌Public Transport Fare$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine and beverages.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent in rural areas.
  • Some regions may still be recovering from the 2011 disaster.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "お手洗いはどこですか" - Where is the restroom?
  • "英語を話せますか" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Fukushima

Visit one of these nice places.

Hanamiyama Park

Known for its breathtaking cherry blossom views, especially during spring, making it a perfect spot for photography.

Aizuwakamatsu Castle

Capture stunning images of this historic castle set against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.

Lake Inawashiro

The beautiful lake, with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains, offers fantastic landscape photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fukushima

Fukushima is a culinary paradise that celebrates its local ingredients and traditional cooking methods, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Fukushima Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kozuyu

A traditional soup made with vegetables and fish, often enjoyed during special occasions.

Must-Try!

Fukushima Sake

Renowned for its high quality, Fukushima sake is made from locally grown rice and pure mountain water.

Miso Ramen

A flavorful noodle soup made with a rich miso-based broth, often topped with fresh vegetables and pork.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Fukushima Station Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food vendors offering a variety of tasty snacks.

Iizaka Onsen Street Food

Try local treats like yakitori and sweet mochi from vendors lining the streets of this famous hot spring town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Fukushima experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters can be cold, with heavy snowfall, especially in the mountains, and temperatures dropping to around -5 to 5°C (23-41°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and shrines.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Maintain a quiet demeanor in public transport and places like restaurants to respect others' peace.

Proper Disposal of Waste

Dispose of waste properly, as littering is frowned upon and recycling is encouraged.

Safety Guide

Safety

Fukushima is generally safe for travelers. However, it's advisable to stay informed about local regulations and any areas that may still be affected by the 2011 disaster. Emergency services are reliable, and it's wise to familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures.

Tipping in Fukushima

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered rude; instead, excellent service is the norm.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash, and credit cards are becoming more common; however, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, especially in Hanamiyama Park. Enjoy mild temperatures perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and humid, ideal for hiking and exploring nature, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning fall foliage, particularly in the mountains and parks, making it a picturesque time for photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold with heavy snowfall, offering opportunities for skiing and enjoying hot springs, especially in the Iizaka Onsen area.

Nightlife Guide

Fukushima at Night

Fukushima's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with various izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots lining the streets. The Iizaka Onsen area offers unique nightlife experiences, combining hot springs with local entertainment. Many places serve local sake and craft beers, and live music can often be found in some establishments, creating a lively atmosphere for socializing.

Hiking in Fukushima

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Bandai

This iconic mountain offers various trails with stunning views and access to unique geological features.

Ouchi-juku

A historic post town with preserved thatched-roof houses, providing a scenic hiking experience through beautiful rice paddies.

Airports

How to reach Fukushima by plane.

Fukushima Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Fukushima City, this airport offers domestic flights and some international services, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Fukushima's urban areas, particularly Fukushima City, are quite walkable, with pedestrian-friendly streets and well-marked sidewalks. Attractions, restaurants, and shops are generally within walking distance, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. However, rural areas may require transport to reach certain destinations.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists largely of Japanese nationals, who are known for their hospitality and community spirit.

Tourists

Fukushima attracts both domestic and international tourists interested in nature, history, and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Fukushima, with local teams and schools participating in nationwide tournaments.

Skiing

During winter, skiing becomes a favored pastime, with many residents frequenting nearby ski resorts.

Transportation

Traffic

Fukushima has a well-developed public transportation system, including trains, buses, and taxis. The trains run frequently, connecting major cities and towns, while local buses provide access to more rural areas. Traffic can be moderate, especially during peak hours, but is generally manageable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fukushima.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it is advisable to check for fish-based broths in soups.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free choices may be limited; it's best to inform restaurant staff about dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Fukushima offers good healthcare access, with hospitals and clinics available in urban areas. Emergency services are reliable, and many healthcare providers can speak some English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical costs.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide