You know… Even all these years later, Fukushima continues to get a bad rap due to the earthquake and subsequent tsunami that happened in 2011. Honestly, it breaks my heart whenever someone inevitably shows up in the comment section of a social media post to warn people against the dangers of traveling to Fukushima. Despite it being the third-largest prefecture in all of Japan and there being no real evidence of any elevated radiation levels, people around the world still seem to think that you’ll turn green the moment you step foot in Fukushima. As someone who has a lot of love for the prefecture and has been there over 50 times now, allow me to categorically dispel this stigma once and for all.
While I could never really pick just one prefecture of the 47 to be my all-time favorite, Fukushima certainly ranks high on the list of locales I like to return to. Located not too far from Tokyo and divided into three unique regions, this part of Japan is home to so many amazing attractions. Spanning a large expanse of land that extends westward from the Pacific Coast deep into the core of Tohoku, Fukushima Prefecture is rife with famous attractions. From the former castle town of Aizu-Wakamatsu to the coastal region of Iwaki, this prefecture is packed with history, hot springs, nature, and local crafts like lacquerware and great sake.
Though it’s true that many international visitors to Japan still feel a certain way about Fukushima Prefecture due to the fallout of the 2011 nuclear accident, recovery from the disaster is largely complete. While a small area immediately surrounding the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant remains uninhabitable still, the vast majority of the former evacuation zone is now considered safe, with many residents having already returned to their homes. Moreover, you could drive for hours away from the tragic site and still be within Fukushima — the prefecture is simply that vast.
So, don’t believe whatever undying myths you might hear online about Fukushima Prefecture. It’s one of my favorite destinations in all of Japan and a place I try to highlight on my social media pages as often as I can. Whether it’s for the fall foliage in early November, the solemn blanket of snow that comes in December and January, or even the breathtaking cherry blossoms that flower in late March or early April, there are a myriad of reasons that you’d want to visit this region. And with the Grand Van Gogh Exhibition currently in town at the Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art, there is no better time to plan a visit to this lovely part of Japan!
How to Get There
Okay, logistics time! First, know that Fukushima’s geography is divided into three distinct regions: coastal Hamadori, central Nakadori, and the mountainous interior that includes the Aizu region. How you approach the prefecture really depends on where you plan to base yourself. From Tokyo, most travelers make their way north by Shinkansen, typically arriving first at Fukushima Station in Fukushima City or Koriyama Station if they are heading toward Aizu. From there, local trains branch outward into the countryside. As always, I recommend using Jorudan or a similar service to calculate train times and connections, especially if you are transferring onto smaller regional lines.
Getting around Fukushima Prefecture is fairly straightforward once you arrive. While renting a car makes exploring much easier, particularly in rural areas, the train and bus infrastructure is solid even if it can feel a little sparse compared to major metropolitan hubs. That said, planning ahead is key, so be sure to read up on what to keep in mind when using Japan’s public transportation in the countryside, as rural railways like the photogenic Tadami Line do not run as frequently as you might expect. Missing a departure can mean waiting quite a while for the next one.
Additionally, if you are mapping out an itinerary, plan on spending at least a couple of nights in Fukushima. The prefecture is expansive, and distances between major attractions can be deceiving. Even combining Aizu-Wakamatsu and Ouchijuku into a single trip requires a few full days to appreciate them properly. Thankfully, Fukushima is home to many excellent ryokan with hot springs, including historic stays in Higashiyama Onsen and Bandai Atami Onsen, which make overnighting an allure unto itself rather than simply a logistical necessity.
For what it’s worth, my recommendation for where to spend a night in the region is actually Ashinomaki Onsen. It is conveniently located near Ouchijuku, making it an easy fit after a day exploring Aizu-Wakamatsu. The area is also home to Ashinomaki Onsen Okawaso, a striking ryokan said to have inspired the Infinity Castle in Kimetsu-no-Yaiba (or “Demon Slayer” in English). Especially for die-hard fans of the series, staying here adds a memorable cultural layer to your trip while positioning you perfectly for continued exploration of western Fukushima.
The Grand Van Gogh Exhibition
First things first, one of the most exciting cultural events happening in Fukushima right now is the Grand Van Gogh Exhibition. Being held at the Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art in Fukushima City (somewhere that is worth visiting during any time of the year, by the way), this major touring exhibition brings together an extraordinary selection of works by Vincent van Gogh from the renowned Kröller-Müller Museum in the Netherlands. The showcase in Fukushima focuses on some of Van Gogh’s most beloved and influential pieces, giving visitors a chance to experience his art in a setting far removed from the usual big-city venues.
Inside the exhibition, you can see approximately 60 pieces that span the early and formative years of Van Gogh’s career, including iconic works such as Café Terrace at Night and paintings by some of his contemporaries like Monet and Renoir. These works trace his artistic evolution from his time in the Netherlands through Paris and into the south of France, offering rich insight into how his style developed into the bold, expressive form we know today. Seeing these masterpieces up close is a compelling reason to make a trip to Fukushima while the exhibition is in town, especially for art lovers and those who appreciate seeing world-class art outside of Tokyo or Kyoto.
The exhibition will be at the Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art from February 21 to May 10, 2026, with opening hours generally from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM). The museum is typically closed on Mondays. Tickets vary by date and category, but general admission is typically around ¥2,800 on weekdays and ¥3,000 on weekends and holidays. To get there from Fukushima Station, you can take the Fukushima Kotsu Iizaka Line to Bijutsukan-Toshokan-mae Station and walk, or use local buses or taxis for easy access.
Seeing as the Grand Van Gogh Exhibition coincides perfectly with Fukushima’s ever-beautiful cherry blossom season, there truly is no better time to visit this southernmost part of Tohoku!
Fukushima City & Nearby Hot Springs
As the prefectural capital, Fukushima City does offer a handful of worthwhile stops, including seasonal favorites like Hanamiyama Parkand the aforementioned Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art. Hanamiyama Park in particular draws visitors during cherry blossom season, when its hillside walking paths explode with color. That said, while the city makes for a convenient base and a pleasant introduction to the region, much of the real depth of Fukushima Prefecture lies beyond the capital. After taking in the museum and enjoying a stroll through the parks, it is well worth venturing outward to experience the broader landscapes and historic towns that give Fukushima its character.
Fortunately, you do not have to travel far from the city center to find relaxation. Iizaka Onsen is one of the oldest hot spring areas in the region and is known for its traditional public bathhouses and characteristically hot waters. A bit further into the mountains, Takayu Onsen is celebrated for its high-quality, milky white sulfur springs that feel wonderfully therapeutic after a long day of travel. Meanwhile, Tsuchiyu Onsen offers a quieter, more tranquil atmosphere, with a compact hot spring town that retains a nostalgic charm. Any of these make for an easy overnight escape without straying too far from central Fukushima City.
For those craving dramatic scenery, the Bandai-Azuma Skyline delivers one of the most striking drives in Tohoku. This high-altitude mountain road winds through volcanic terrain, offering sweeping views of rugged peaks and otherworldly landscapes that feel almost alpine in nature. While it is technically possible to piece together transport options, having a rental car makes the experience far more practical and enjoyable. Even so, as impressive as these nearby highlights are, they ultimately serve as a reminder that Fukushima Prefecture rewards travelers who push further outward into its mountains, coastlines, and historic heartlands.
The Castle Town of Aizu-Wakamatsu
Often referred to as the samurai heartland of Fukushima, Aizu-Wakamatsu played a pivotal role in the final days of the Edo period (1603–1868). As a stronghold of Tokugawa shogunate loyalists during the Boshin War, the city contributed much to their defense and became one of the last bastions of samurai resistance before the dawn of the Meiji Restoration. Stories of loyalty and tragedy still echo through town, most famously in the tale of the Byakkotai, a group of young warriors who fought to defend their homeland. Walking through Aizu today, you can still feel that legacy in its preserved streets, traditional architecture, and deep-rooted pride in its samurai past.
By far, the city’s most iconic landmark is Tsuruga Castle, a striking ferro-concrete reconstruction of the former fortress that stands as a symbol of the region’s resilience. Nearby, the uniquely designed Sazaedo is also definitely worth visiting. This oddly shaped temple building features a rare double-helix interior ramp that allows visitors to ascend and descend without crossing paths. For a deeper look into samurai life, the preserved Aizu Samurai Residence near Higashiyama Onsen offers a chance to step inside a former warrior household and see how members of the ruling class once lived. Together, these sites make it easy to spend a full day immersed in Fukushima’s history.
Beyond its historic attractions like Tsuruga Castle, Aizu-Wakamatsu is also known for its enduring craft traditions. The region’s lacquerware, characterized by deep reds and blacks with intricate detailing, has been produced here for centuries and remains one of Aizu-Wakamatsu’s most defining cultural exports. Sake brewing is equally important to the local identity, with respected producers such as the Suehiro Brewery continuing to craft refined varieties that reflect the purity of the area’s mountain water. While in Aizu-Wakamatsu, visiting a brewery or browsing lacquerware shops adds another dimension to the experience, connecting past and present through living craftsmanship.
Geographically, Aizu-Wakamatsu sits in a valley basin that is surrounded by mountains, which helps explain both its historic defensibility and its distinct atmosphere. To the north rise the imposing slopes of Mt. Bandai and the towering peaks of the Iide Mountain Range, which dominate the skyline and shape the region’s climate. This dramatic natural setting enhances the feeling of stepping into a self-contained world, one where samurai heritage, traditional crafts, and alpine scenery come together in a way that feels uniquely Aizu.
The Post Town of Ouchijuku
Tucked away in the mountains of southern Fukushima Prefecture, Ouchijuku is a beautifully preserved post town that once thrived along the historic trade route connecting Aizu-Wakamatsu and Nikko. Many moons ago, travelers moving between these two important centers of Tokugawa authority would stop here to rest for the night, and the town developed accordingly, with inns, merchants, and teahouses lining its main road. Today, that same road remains the heart of Ouchijuku, flanked by traditional thatched-roof buildings that instantly transport visitors back in time. It is one of the most atmospheric places in all of Fukushima and feels like a living snapshot of Japan’s feudal past.
All things considered, wandering through Ouchijuku is the main attraction, as many of the rustic buildings now house small merchants selling local crafts, snacks, and souvenirs. One of the best things you can do is climb the short path up to the viewpoint at the edge of town, where you are rewarded with a sweeping panorama of the entire village. There is also a small shrine tucked slightly away from the main street that adds to the historic ambiance. And of course, no visit would be complete without trying the local specialty, negi soba, which is famously eaten using a long green onion instead of chopsticks.
While we are on the topic of Ouchijuku, allow me to urge you to also visit Honke Kanoya. Run by an 11th-generation owner named Abe-san, his family has cared for this shop for centuries, preserving both its structure and its spirit. Abe-san is easily one of the kindest souls you will encounter in Fukushima Prefecture, often handing out small souvenir gifts and local tsukemono samples simply out of generosity as thanks for coming this deep into the mountains. It is honestly a wonder he stays in business sometimes, given how freely he shares with visitors, but that warmth is precisely what makes stopping here so memorable. Just be sure to return the favor and throw some yennies his way.
In terms of logistics, getting to Ouchijuku does require a little bit of planning, but the journey is part of the charm. The nearest train access point is Yunokami Onsen Station, which is an attraction itself and is the only station with a thatched roof in Japan. From there, a local bus runs up into the hills toward the village. If you are driving, it is an easy addition to an itinerary that includes Aizu-Wakamatsu and the surrounding countryside. However you arrive, Ouchijuku rewards the effort with one of the most evocative historic streetscapes in the entire Tohoku region.
Western Fukushima & the Tadami Line
Few railways in Japan are as photogenic as the Tadami Line. Running through the remote mountains found in the westernmost parts of Fukushima, the line connects Aizu-Wakamatsu with Niigata Prefecture, tracing rivers, crossing steel truss bridges, and cutting through deep valley landscapes that feel far removed from the bustle of city life. Over the years, it has earned a reputation as one of the most scenic train routes in the country, especially during autumn foliage and the snowy winter months. Even if you are not a die-hard railway enthusiast, riding or photographing the Tadami Line is one of those quintessential Fukushima experiences that lingers long after you leave.
Beyond a shadow of a doubt, the most Instagrammable vantage point of the Tadami Line is the famous overlook of the First Tadami River Bridge, where the train appears to float above the river as it curves through the valley far below. This viewpoint is located near Aizu-Miyashita Station and requires either a short drive or a taxi ride followed by a brief uphill walk to reach the observation deck. Signage in the area helps guide visitors, but having a rental car makes the process significantly easier. Timing your visit with a scheduled train departure is essential, as services are infrequent and you will not want to miss the moment the train glides into frame.
Beyond capturing that iconic photograph, western Fukushima offers several rewarding stops of its own. For example, Enzo-ji is a venerable temple perched above the Tadami River and is known for its striking architecture and deep spiritual history. It is also regarded as the birthplace of Fukushima’s red cow, the Akabeko. The surrounding townscape only enhances the atmosphere, especially in the quieter months. Further along the line lies Kaneyama Onsen, a tiny hot spring settlement known for its rare naturally carbonated waters. Together, these destinations prove that the Tadami Line and the Oku-Aizu region offer far more than just a pretty train photo.
Drifting Through Nihonmatsu
While Fukushima’s capital might be a little sparse on attractions, the nearby cities are not. For instance, not too far to the south is Nihonmatsu, a historic castle town known for its deep samurai roots and strong sake brewing tradition. Much like Aizu-Wakamatsu, Nihonmatsu played a role during the tumultuous end of the Tokugawa shogunate, and remnants of that history can still be felt throughout the city. At the same time, it has built a modern reputation for producing some of the finest sake in the region, thanks in part to its pristine water sources flowing down from the surrounding mountains. The result is a destination that feels both grounded in the past and confidently rooted in the present.
Among the highlights is Nihonmatsu Castle, whose stone walls and elevated grounds offer sweeping views over the city below. Looming nearby is Mt. Adatara, a volcanic peak popular with both hikers and skiers and known for its dynamic seasonal scenery. Sake enthusiasts should not miss the Daishichi Sake Brewery, a long-established local producer celebrated for its traditional kimoto brewing methods. And if your visit happens to align with it, the Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival transforms the city with massive illuminated floats that showcase the area’s enduring cultural pride.
Then there is the unexpected wildcard that has put Nihonmatsu on the global automotive map—the Ebisu Circuit. Known worldwide among drifting enthusiasts, this multi-course complex attracts drivers from across Japan and beyond who come to test their skills on its challenging layouts. Even if you are not behind the wheel, you can often watch practice sessions from safe viewing areas, and there is even a drift taxi service for those who cannot drive or, like me, made the questionable decision to schedule a brewery tour earlier in the day. It is an adrenaline-fueled contrast to the city’s historic calm and yet another example of how diverse Fukushima Prefecture can be.
Shirakawa, the Gateway to Tohoku
Long regarded as the gateway to Tohoku, the city of Shirakawa has historically marked the cultural threshold between the Kanto region and Japan’s northern frontier. Travelers heading north would pass through this area, and even the famed haiku poet Matsuo Basho referenced Shirakawa in his writings as he journeyed deeper into the north. For centuries, crossing the Shirakawa Barrier symbolized entering a different world, one shaped by rugged landscapes and distinct regional traditions. Just be sure not to confuse it with Shirakawa-go in Gifu, the UNESCO-listed village famous for its thatched-roof farmhouses, as the two are entirely different destinations despite the similar names.
Located at the heart of the city is Shirakawa Komine Castle, one of the few castles in Tohoku with a fully reconstructed wooden keep that visitors can enter. The elevated grounds provide sweeping views of the surrounding city and countryside, with impressive views of the Nasu Mountain Range in Tochigi Prefecture. Not far from the castle is Nanko Park, considered one of Japan’s oldest public parks, along with the elegant Suiraku-en garden, which offers a refined strolling experience centered around a tranquil pond. For those interested in archaeology and regional history, the Fukushima Prefecture Cultural Properties Center adds further context to the area’s long and layered past.
Before moving on, know that Shirakawa is also closely associated with daruma dolls, the round, red effigies symbolizing perseverance and good fortune. The city has cultivated its own distinctive daruma tradition, and several workshops offer visitors the chance to paint one as a hands-on cultural experience. Creating your own daruma not only makes for a meaningful souvenir but also connects you to a craft that has been passed down through generations. It is yet another example of how Shirakawa quietly balances history, culture, artistry, and regional identity at the southern doorstep of Tohoku.
Iwaki & the Coastal Region
Thus far, we have covered much of the Aizu region and the central Nakadori corridor, but we have yet to explore the Pacific side of Fukushima. So, allow me to introduce the city of Iwaki. Stretching along the prefecture’s southeastern coastline, Iwaki offers a markedly different atmosphere from the mountainous interior, with ocean views, a milder climate, and a strong maritime identity. It is the largest city in Fukushima by population and has long served as an important coastal hub for industry, fishing, and leisure. So if you are looking to experience yet another distinct side of Fukushima, know that Iwaki delivers in full.
Among the standout attractions is Spa Resort Hawaiians, a sprawling hot spring theme park famous for its indoor pools, hula performances, and year-round tropical atmosphere. Families will also appreciate Aquamarine Fukushima, a thoughtfully designed aquarium that showcases marine life from both local waters and across the globe. For a quieter and more contemplative experience, Shiramizu Amidado offers a rare glimpse into Heian-period (794–1185) architecture, with its elegant wooden hall set beside a reflective pond. Together, these attractions highlight Iwaki’s versatility, blending entertainment, education, and cultural heritage.
Reaching Iwaki can be surprisingly straightforward, though geography plays a role. Because mountain ranges effectively bifurcate Fukushima Prefecture, traveling east from the Nakadori region can take longer than expected. In many cases, it is actually easier to head up from Tokyo via Shinagawa Station on the Hitachi or Tokiwa limited express trains, or even come down from Sendai, rather than crossing the mountains from central Fukushima. However you approach it, Iwaki is a city that rewards the journey with ocean air, fresh seafood, and a coastal energy that feels entirely distinct from the rest of the prefecture.
Other Nearby Attractions
When I say that I’ve been to Fukushima over 50 times, people always ask why I visit the prefecture so often. To me, this is such a weird question, as I am always uncovering more reasons to come back. For example, when I visited in the winter of 2026 to see the Grand Van Gogh Exhibition, I learned about Takayashiki Inari Shrine, a Shinto sanctuary with a stretch of 100 iconic torii gates winding through the forest. I am always finding something new in Fukushima and genuinely feel like I will never exhaust the endless options for discovery that exist across the prefecture.
Next, not too far from downtown Koriyama, there is Miharu Takizakura, one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom trees. Estimated to be well over 1,000 years old, this massive weeping cherry tree draws visitors each spring who come to witness its cascading pink blossoms illuminated against the night sky. Even outside of peak bloom, the surrounding countryside has a peaceful rural charm that makes the journey worthwhile. It is yet another reminder that Fukushima’s beauty often reveals itself in singular, unforgettable moments.
Back over in the Aizu region, Kitakata and neighboring Nishi-Aizu offer a completely different flavor of travel. Most notably, Kitakata is nationally famous for its ramen, with countless local shops serving up bowls characterized by thick, curly noodles and a soy-based broth. Moreover, Kitakata is also home to excellent sake breweries like Yamatogawa Brewery. Meanwhile, nearby Nishi-Aizu feels far more rural and introspective, known for its temple culture and bucolic atmosphere. Pairing the two together makes for a rewarding detour that blends culinary exploration with a slower, more contemplative pace.
Moving on, the Bandai region of Fukushima offers some of the most dramatic natural scenery in the entire prefecture. Centered around Mt. Bandai and the lakes formed by its historic eruption, this area is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, boating, scenic drives, and winter sports all define the rhythm of life here, and the views of volcanic peaks rising above reflective lakes are nothing short of breathtaking. It is a side of Fukushima that feels almost alpine in character and reinforces just how geographically diverse the prefecture truly is. If you are planning a visit to this part of Fukushima, autumn is especially rewarding when the leaves turn vibrant hues of red and orange.
Finally, there is the more sobering side of travel in Fukushima — the opportunity to learn about the events of March 11, 2011, and the nuclear disaster that followed. Visiting the affected coastal areas today is not about spectacle but about understanding. Places such as the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum, which opened in 2020, provide thoughtful context about the earthquake, tsunami, and reactor meltdown. Nearby, the preserved Ukedo Elementary School Earthquake Ruins stand as a powerful reminder of the tsunami’s force, the only structure in the surrounding area left standing after the waves tore through the town. These sites are emotional, yes, but they are also educational and deeply human.
And, to be perfectly frank with you, here is the part that many people in my comments section still somehow struggle to accept — even this part of Fukushima Prefecture is perfectly safe to visit. For years now, guided tours have been operating in the affected coastal areas, welcoming students, journalists, and curious travelers who want to understand what really happened and what recovery looks like today. Radiation levels in publicly accessible areas near the Fukushima Daiichi plant measure roughly the same as what you would encounter in Tokyo. To be blunt, this lingering image of Fukushima as some kind of permanently dangerous wasteland is largely a vampire myth that just simply refuses to die.
Meanwhile, life continues. Residents are rebuilding communities, reopening businesses, restoring farmland, and working tirelessly to reshape the narrative of their hometowns. Efforts to encourage visitors back to the region are ongoing, not as an act of denial but as an act of confidence in the future. Coming here and learning about what happened firsthand reinforces not fear but resilience. This section of Fukushima Prefecture is not defined solely by tragedy that struck it on March 11, 2011. It is defined by the strength of the people who continue to call it home and by the quiet, determined hope of a new chapter still being written.
Until next time travelers…
