Things To Do
in Iwaki

Iwaki, Japan, located in Fukushima Prefecture, is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. The city offers a blend of urban and rural landscapes, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the nearby mountains. Iwaki is also famous for its hot springs, local seafood, and historical sites.

The city's vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by its local festivals and warm hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day at the Iwaki City Art Museum, where you can admire both modern and traditional Japanese art.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Spa Resort Hawaiians, a theme park with hot springs, pools, and Hawaiian shows.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, enjoying fresh seafood dishes and experience the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike up to the scenic Iwaki Mount for panoramic views of the city and the ocean.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic area of Sensho-ji Temple, one of the oldest temples in the region.

evening
:

Stroll along the coast and enjoy a sunset at the beautiful Shiramizu Amida-ji Temple.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$20
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$4
🍺Draft Beer$6
🏨Hotel Stay (1 night)$90

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal views and beaches
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Limited English signage and language barriers
  • Occasional weather disruptions due to typhoons
  • Public transportation may be less frequent outside urban areas
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Iwaki

Visit one of these nice places.

Shiramizu Amida-ji Temple

A picturesque temple surrounded by beautiful gardens, perfect for capturing tranquil moments.

Iwaki's Coastal Line

The stunning coastline offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is ideal for sunset photography.

Iwaki City Art Museum

The museum's modern architecture and surrounding landscape provide a great backdrop for artistic photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Iwaki

Iwaki is a culinary delight, known for its fresh seafood and traditional Japanese cuisine, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Iwaki Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

IWAKI Sashimi

Freshly caught fish served raw, showcasing the rich flavors of the Pacific Ocean.

Must-Try!

Nukazuke

Pickled vegetables fermented in rice bran, a traditional side dish that complements many meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Iwaki Seafood Market

A lively market where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies straight from the ocean.

Street Food Stalls at Iwaki Station

Various stalls offering snacks like yakitori (grilled chicken) and takoyaki (octopus balls), perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Iwaki experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters average around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is abundant, particularly in late spring and summer months, so bringing an umbrella is advisable. The city is also prone to typhoons, especially from August to September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a traditional greeting in Japan, showing respect; a slight bow is appropriate.

Shoes Off Indoors

It's customary to remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Behavior

Maintaining a low voice in public spaces shows respect for others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Iwaki is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep their belongings secure. It's also important to be aware of natural disaster risks such as earthquakes, as Japan is located in a seismically active region.

Tipping in Iwaki

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may be seen as rude; instead, excellent service is expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly common in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings cherry blossoms to life, making it a beautiful time for picnics and outdoor festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and ideal for beach activities, but be prepared for occasional typhoons.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, making it perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the hot springs are particularly enjoyable during this season, offering warmth and relaxation.

Nightlife Guide

Iwaki at Night

Iwaki's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with plenty of izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to meet locals. Many establishments feature live music or themed nights, providing a unique experience for visitors. Whether you prefer a quiet drink or a lively night of entertainment, Iwaki has something to offer.

Hiking in Iwaki

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Iwaki Mount Trail

A popular hiking route that offers scenic views and diverse flora and fauna, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Sukagawa Mountain Trail

Located nearby, this trail provides a more challenging hike with rewarding vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Iwaki by plane.

Fukushima Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Iwaki, Fukushima Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient access point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Iwaki is generally walkable, especially in the downtown area where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, some areas may require public transportation or taxis to access more remote attractions and natural sites.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Iwaki's population consists of Japanese residents, deeply rooted in traditional customs and community values.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations come to Iwaki for its attractions, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Iwaki, with local teams and amateur leagues playing regularly.

Soccer

Soccer has a strong following, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Iwaki is generally manageable, with major roads connecting different parts of the city. Public transportation options include buses and trains, with services running regularly. However, during peak hours, congestion can occur, especially near commercial areas and schools.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Iwaki.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes fish, there are vegetarian-friendly options such as vegetable tempura and soba noodles.

Gluten-Free Choices

Rice-based dishes are commonly available, but it's advisable to ask about soy sauce, which often contains gluten.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Iwaki has several hospitals and clinics providing quality healthcare services. Emergency services are available, and most medical facilities have English-speaking staff. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare costs can be high for non-residents.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide