What tourist spots in Fukushima Prefecture do locals recommend to foreigners? [Top 10 reader survey]
What tourist spots in Fukushima Prefecture do locals recommend to foreigners? [Top 10 reader survey]
We’re excited to share the top 10 picks from the many responses we received from Style Koriyama readers! From nature and leisure spots to shopping destinations and restaurants, we’ve gathered the places that stand out the most—and some received multiple mentions. Which spots are capturing everyone’s attention?
No.1 Ouchi-juku (Shimogomachi, Minamiaizu)
During the Edo period, this village flourished as a lively post town along the Aizu Nishi Kaidō route. In 1981, it was designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
Strolling past rows of beautifully preserved thatched-roof houses feels like stepping back in time. Visitors can also enjoy local specialties such as handmade soba noodles and freshly prepared mochi rice cakes, which are especially popular.
No.2 Tsuruga Castle (Aizuwakamatsu)
The castle traces its origins to Higashikurokawa Castle, built by Ashina Naomori in 1384. In 1593, Gamo Ujisato constructed the first full-scale castle tower in eastern Japan, naming it Tsuruga Castle.
Today, Tsuruga Castle is a symbol of Aizuwakamatsu and a beloved public park, popular with locals for morning walks and jogging. It’s also one of the city’s most famous spots for cherry blossom viewing.
No.3 Goshiki-numa Ponds (Urabandai)
Goshiki-numa refers to the many lakes and ponds formed by the eruption of Mt. Bandai. Located in the heart of Bandai-Asahi National Park, the lakes are famous for their ever-changing colors, which shift with the season, weather, viewing angle, and surrounding vegetation. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails in the scenic area around the lakes.
No.4 Lake Inawashiro
Located in the heart of Fukushima Prefecture, this is Japan’s fourth-largest lake. Also known as “Tenkyo Lake” (Lake Mirror of Heaven), its calm surface beautifully reflects nearby Mt. Bandai.
In summer, the lake is a popular spot for swimming, while in winter, swans migrate from Siberia, creating a picturesque scene. Visitors can also enjoy a sightseeing boat cruise to take in the stunning views from the water.
No.5 Miharu Takizakura (Miharumachi, Tamura)
5th to 6th place (same number of votes)
This weeping cherry tree, a Nationally Designated Natural Monument, is estimated to be over 1,000 years old and is considered one of Japan’s three most famous cherry trees. Its name comes from the delicate pale pink flowers that cover the branches, cascading like a waterfall in full bloom.
No.5 Urabandai
5th to 6th place (same number of votes)
Urabandai is a scenic highland resort area located at the northern foot of Mt. Bandai in Kitashiobara, Fukushima. Part of Bandai-Asahi National Park, it attracts hikers from spring to autumn and skiers in winter. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of seasonal activities, from nature observation to outdoor sports.
No.7 Abukuma Cave (Takinemachi, Tamura)
Located in Tamura, Fukushima, this limestone cave is one of Japan’s premier caves and is said to be the largest in the Orient in terms of the variety and number of stalactites and stalagmites. It was discovered in 1969 during limestone mining.
The cave features two adventure courses, allowing visitors to explore an underground world formed naturally over 80 million years.
No.8 Kaiseizan (Koriyama)
This area includes Kaiseizan Park and is centered around Kaiseizan Daijingu Shrine, originally established as a spiritual home for workers involved in the Meiji-era national project, “Asaka Development”, which laid the foundations of modern Koriyama City.
Within Kaiseizan Park, visitors can enjoy Lucky Park, a playground spread across four cities and towns in Fukushima Prefecture. The playground features equipment inspired by “Lucky,” the Fukushima-supporting Pokémon, making it a fun destination for families.
NO.9 Mt. Bandai Geopark
This area, centered around Mt. Bandai in Fukushima Prefecture, is recognized as a Japanese Geopark. It’s a natural park where visitors can explore the topography, geology, and unique flora and fauna of Mt. Bandai and its surroundings.
Known as Aizu Fuji, Mt. Bandai is one of Japan’s 100 most famous mountains. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities year-round, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
No.10 To-no-hetsuri Crags (Shimogomachi, Minamiaizu)
Hetsuri is a scenic spot in Shimogomachi, Minamiaizu, Fukushima. The name “Hetsuri” comes from the local Aizu dialect, meaning “cliff” or “steep slope.”
The site is famous for its striking rock formations, shaped over time by the river, wind, and rain. These towering, uniquely sculpted rocks create a truly impressive and dramatic landscape that captivates visitors.