Day Trip Around Nihonmatsu

Article from the October 2015 Issue of Style Koriyama

You can experience the “real sky” in Fukushima—wide, open, and breathtaking.

From delicious local cuisine and vast green fields to soothing hot springs, there’s so much to enjoy.

Here are some lovely spots around the Adatara Highlands that are well worth a visit!

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Chieko Memorial Hall / Birthhouse

 

In the poem “Adokenai Hanashi” (Innocent Story), Chieko’s husband wrote that she once told him the blue sky above Mount Adatara, which she saw every day, was the “real sky” to her.

 

Chieko Takamura is widely known as the wife of poet and sculptor Kotaro Takamura and as the muse behind his poetry collection Chieko-sho.

At the house preserved as her birthplace, visitors can discover another side of her life. She was born here in Nihonmatsu as the eldest daughter of a sake brewery owner. Later, she pursued the path of a Western-style painter—an ambition that was quite rare for a woman at that time.

▲Her birthhouse built in early Meiji era (around 1870), and the modern made memorial hall. It is quiet and calm, which allows us to tranquilly enjoy their exhibits.

↓ Inside of the brewery shop is full of retro atmosphere.

↑ The power of silence exudes from her artworks.

Chieko Takamura broke new ground with her paper art, which she created during a period of deep pain and hardship. After the failure of her family’s business and the onset of mental illness following her marriage, she endured tremendous emotional struggles.

Her paper art, distinct from her earlier Western-style paintings, reveals a powerful new dimension of her creativity and marks her transformation into a fully matured artist.

The museum also displays rare and valuable items, including letters handwritten by her husband, Kotaro Takamura, his bronze sculptures, photographs of the couple, and other precious materials that offer insight into their lives and artistic legacy.

Nihonmatsu City Chieko Memorial Hall／Birthhouse

Address: 36 Aza Urushibara-machi, Yui, Nihonmatsu City, Fukushima, Japan
Tel: +81-243-22-6151

Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
(Last admission at 4:00 p.m.)

Closed: Wednesdays
(Closed on Thursday if Wednesday falls on a national holiday)

Admission Fees:
Adults (including high school students)
• ¥410 (individual)
• ¥360 (groups of 20 or more)

Children (elementary and junior high school students)
• ¥200 (individual)
• ¥150 (groups of 20 or more)

※ Group rates apply to parties of 20 or more.
※ Visitors with a Physical Disability Certificate, Mental Disability Certificate, or Intellectual Disability Certificate receive a 50% discount (please present your certificate at the entrance).

※Details may subeject to change. We appreciate your understanding.

 

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Stop by here. Why not having fun together?

Ashidake no Yu ― Hot bath [湯:Yu] only for feet [足だけ: Ashidake] ― at Dake Onsen

“Ashidake no Yu” is a free hot spring foot bath located along Sakura-zaka, the sloping path that connects the Dake Onsen area with Kagamigaike Park.

The water is acidic, clear, and colorless, with no noticeable scent, and is known for being gentle on the skin. Soaking your feet while enjoying the surrounding scenery is so relaxing that you may find yourself wanting to stay longer than planned.

As it is an outdoor facility, it’s a good idea to bring a small towel or pad to sit on.

Why not take a short break during your drive and stop by for a soothing rest?

↑ Warm spring water keeps flowing out.

 

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Sora no Niwa [Sky Garden]

Enjoy the view of Abukuma Highland during your drive.

A perfect place for women to relax and unwind. Many visitors say, “I never knew there was such a lovely place like this in Fukushima!”

At the resort facility, you can enjoy a soothing onsen spa experience. In addition, the annexed petit hotel features baths filled with pure underground water sourced from the Abukuma Mountains, offering another refreshing way to relax.

It’s an ideal escape for anyone looking to treat themselves to a peaceful, rejuvenating stay.

 

▲Veggies for the restaurant are raised from seeds by local farmers at chef’s request. They serve excellent dishes cooked with delicious ingredients, offering you a relaxing space surrounded by greens.

 

Both the Japanese-style and Western-style guest rooms are beautifully designed with charming interiors that especially appeal to women. Anyone who loves cute and elegant details will absolutely adore them.

Each room features large windows that frame the scenery like a painting. Gazing at the green leaves glistening in the rain, you may feel as if you’ve stepped into another world.

 

▲From linens to wallpapers and door handles, women would definitely love the taste.

The “Violet Flower Ice Cream” is a quietly popular treat at the restaurant.

Some visitors even stop by just for this hidden gem of a dessert ♡

 

▲They sell various items purchased from overseas, such as knick-knacks, clothes, bags, etc. Just window shopping would be fun!

 

Sora no Niwa, Dake Onsen, Adatara Highland

Address: 2-56, Dake Onsen, Nihonmatsu City, Fukushima
Main Phone Number: 0243-24-2217

 

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Fūka

Genuine Cheesecake at Dake Onsen

Driven by a passion to create truly delicious food, the owner has crafted a menu without compromise.

Every dish is prepared with carefully selected ingredients and a great deal of time and dedication. The attention to detail is evident in every bite—and of course, the results are exceptional.

▲Organic blended coffee brewed with natural well water, and cheese cake with ice cream.

The warm wooden interior creates a cozy and charming atmosphere.

Their signature dishes—available exclusively at the restaurant—are especially recommended, as you can enjoy them while taking in the beautiful view. Some of their products are also available for purchase online.

Their cheesecakes are made without flour, resulting in an incredibly smooth and creamy texture. Rich and indulgent, yet surprisingly light—they simply melt in your mouth.

▲Recommendable for everyone from kids to adults.

The yogurt ice cream served alongside the cheesecake is refreshingly light, with a gentle balance of sweetness and tanginess. It pairs perfectly with the rich cake.

The dessert is beautifully plated with fresh-cut fruit and a touch of whipped cream, adding both color and flavor.

We hope this delightful treat brings a smile to your face.

Mori no Koubou [Craft Studio in Woods]

They offer a wide variety of items, including clothing, accessories, small gifts, and jewelry. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back again and again.

Their wooden crafts are especially popular—not only for practical everyday use, but also as beautiful interior pieces that bring warmth and comfort to any space. Each type of wood has its own unique color and natural scent, adding to their charm and character.

 

↑ Full of unique items. Nice as a gift too!

 

Cheesecake Studio Fūka／Mori no Koubou

Address: 438-7 Ozeki, Nihonmatsu City, Fukushima, Japan
Tel: +81-243-24-2965

Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Closed: Occasionally (generally open year-round)

※Details may subject to change. We appreciate your understanding.

 

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