Exploring Fukushima & Surrounds.

#Fukushima

Fukushima is the principal city of Fukushima Prefecture and offers a variety of sightseeing opportunities. It also makes a handy base for people wishing to explore further afield.

Highlights: Bentenyama Park (cherry blossom viewing), Ogura-tei House, Mt. Shinobu Park, Fukushima-ken Gokoku Shrine (pictured), Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art, Henshoin Temple,

#Iizaka Onsen

An easy side trip from Fukushima, picturesque Iizaka Onsen is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.

Highlights: Kyu Horikiri Tei, Sabako Shrine (pictured), Nishine Shrine, Hakoyu Park, Totsuna Bridge.
Transport: Fukushima Transport operates commuter trains between Fukushima Station and Iizakaonsen, which take less than 30 minutes.

#Aizuwakamatsu.

Aizuwakamatsu not only has much to see and do but also makes for an excellent base point for anyone planning to journey on the scenic Tadami Railway. Be sure to pick up a souvenir of the legendary Akabeko Cow before leaving. For something different, you can also paint your own Akabeko at the Akabeko Crafter Bansho.

Highlights: Kogaikuni Shrine, Sazae Temple (pictured), Nanokamachi Dori, Akabeko Crafter Bansho, Oyakuen (garden and tearoom), and Aizuwakamatsu/Tsuruga Castle Ruins.
Transport: Between JR Fukushima and JR Aizuwakamatsu, a train will take just under 2 hours with a change at JR Koriyama.

#Ononiimachi.

Highlights: The fairytale-like Licca Castle (pictured) is the town's major drawcard. Visitors may also like the Ono Town Hometown Culture Hall, which features a small history museum.
Transport: Trains from JR Fukushima take around 90 minutes to JR Ononiimachi with a change at JR Koriyama along the way.

#Nihonmatsu.

With an impressive hilltop castle, historic temples and shrines, and sweeping countryside views to be enjoyed, the city of Nihonmatsu is sure to delight anyone who visits. Travellers who plan to visit during the first Saturday, Sunday and Monday of October will be able to experience the Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival. Like any major event, be sure to book accomodation well in advance.

Highlights: Nihonmatsu Shrine (pictured), Kasumigajo Castle Park, Nihonmatsu Castle, Ryusenji, Adachigahara Hometown Village (bus).
Transport: Direct trains run from JR Fukushima to JR Nihonmatsu, taking just over 20 minutes.

#Aizu-Yanaizu & Aizu-Kawaguchi.

From Aizuwakamatsu, consider taking a scenic train ride along the Tadami Rail Line to Aizu-Yanaizu and Aizu-Kawaguchi. Badly damaged by the 2011 earthquake, the Tadami Line came back into operation in late 2022 and has once again been rewarding passengers with impressive scenery along the way.

Highlights - Aizu-Yanaizu: Alight at Aizu-Yanaizu Station for Enzoji Temple, Yanaizu Onsen, Zuikoji Bridge and Park, Kiyohome Park, and Koike Confectionery Shop.
Highlights - Aizu-Kawaguchi: Kaneyama Fureai Hiroba (scenic lookout - pictured), Kamiigusa Bridge.
Transport: This journey is best done as a day trip from Aizuwakamatsu rather than Fukushima City. Trains run along the scenic Tadami Line from JR Aizuwakatsu to JR Aizu-Yanaizu, and take about an hour. Trains also head along the Tadami Line to JR Aizu-Kawaguchi, taking about 2 hours from Aizuwakamatsu.
Note: Services along the Tadami Line are generally few and far between, so be sure to check schedules ahead of time.