Things To Do
in Koriyama

Koriyama is a vibrant city located in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. It serves as a gateway to the scenic Bandai-Asahi National Park, offering easy access to stunning natural sites. The city is also famous for its historical landmarks and local festivals, showcasing traditional Japanese culture.

With a blend of modern amenities and historical significance, Koriyama provides a unique experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day at the Koriyama City Museum of Art, where you can explore local art and exhibitions.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Koriyama Castle ruins and enjoy a picnic in the surrounding park.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya to experience traditional Japanese cuisine and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning hike in the nearby Bandai-Asahi National Park, enjoying the beautiful natural scenery.

afternoon
:

Explore the Koriyama City Center, visiting local shops and tasting street food.

evening
:

Relax at a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after a day of exploration.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$3
🚍Bus Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Access to stunning natural landscapes.
  • Diverse culinary offerings and local delicacies.
  • Limited English signage and language barriers.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent during off-peak hours.
  • Some tourist attractions can be crowded during peak seasons.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Koriyama

Visit one of these nice places.

Koriyama Castle Ruins

Capture stunning views of the surrounding city and landscape from the castle grounds.

Bandai-Asahi National Park

Photograph breathtaking natural scenery, including mountains, lakes, and wildlife.

Fukushima Prefectural Museum

A beautiful architectural site perfect for capturing both art and nature.

Culinary Guide

Food in Koriyama

Koriyama offers a delightful culinary experience with its diverse range of local dishes and vibrant food markets.

Koriyama Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Katsu-don

A rice bowl topped with a deep-fried pork cutlet and egg.

Must-Try!

Fukushima Sake

Local sake known for its smooth flavor and aromatic profile.

Yaki-soba

Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat, often sold at street stalls.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Koriyama Station Market

A bustling market near the station offering a variety of fresh produce and street food.

Kita no Yatai

A street food festival showcasing local delicacies, especially during summer.

Climate Guide

Weather

Koriyama experiences a humid continental climate. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with average temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures ranging from -2 to 5°C (28-41°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) provide mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

A common greeting and sign of respect; bow slightly when greeting others.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public places, especially on public transport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Koriyama is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to stay alert in crowded areas and secure your belongings. In the event of an earthquake, follow local safety guidelines, as Japan is located in a seismically active region. Emergency services are reliable, and public hospitals are well-equipped.

Tipping in Koriyama

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected without extra compensation.

Payment Methods

Cash is commonly used, though credit cards are accepted in many places; ensure to have cash on hand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect cherry blossoms in full bloom, particularly in late March to early April.

Summer

Warm temperatures and festivals, ideal for outdoor activities and street food.

Autumn

Fall foliage provides stunning landscapes; visit parks for vibrant colors.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snowfall; enjoy winter sports and hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Koriyama at Night

Koriyama's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, featuring a variety of izakayas, bars, and karaoke establishments. The city has a friendly atmosphere, making it easy to socialize with locals. Popular areas include the Koriyama Station district, where you can find numerous entertainment options, from casual pubs to more upscale dining experiences. Late-night eateries serve delicious ramen and other local dishes, allowing you to indulge in a satisfying meal after a night out.

Hiking in Koriyama

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Adatara

A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the surrounding region, with trails suitable for different skill levels.

Inawashiro Lake Trail

A scenic trail along the shores of Inawashiro Lake, perfect for leisurely hikes with beautiful lake views.

Airports

How to reach Koriyama by plane.

Fukushima Airport

Located about 60 km from Koriyama, this airport serves domestic flights and some international routes, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Koriyama is a walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, especially around the city center. The compact layout makes it easy to explore local shops, parks, and dining options on foot. However, public transport is also readily available if you wish to travel further out.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Koriyama's population consists of Japanese citizens, contributing to a homogenous cultural atmosphere.

International Visitors

In recent years, Koriyama has seen an increase in tourism, attracting visitors from various countries who come to explore its cultural and natural attractions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A beloved sport in Japan, with many local teams and parks dedicated to the game.

Soccer

Soccer has a strong following in Koriyama, with local clubs and youth teams actively participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Koriyama is generally manageable, with main roads connecting to neighboring cities. Public transportation includes buses that run frequently throughout the day, although schedules may vary during weekends. Bicycles are commonly used, and there are designated lanes for cyclists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Koriyama.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's best to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Koriyama is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and most medical facilities are equipped to handle a variety of health issues. English-speaking medical staff may be limited, so it's advisable to have a translation app or phrasebook handy.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide