Fukushima Prefecture is a captivating region located in the Tohoku area of Japan, which offers visitors stunning natural scenery, rich history and culture, and exciting attractions. Fukushima is widely known for its stunning natural landscapes, including majestic mountains, picturesque lakes, and beautiful coastlines.
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Getting to Fukushima Prefecture from Tokyo
Getting to Fukushima Prefecture from Tokyo is relatively straightforward. The easiest way is to take the train, with both regular and high-speed trains departing from Tokyo Station and heading directly to Fukushima City. The journey takes approximately an hour and a half and is relatively affordable. Alternatively, it is also possible to catch a bus from Tokyo to Fukushima City, with buses departing multiple times a day.
The best season to visit Fukushima
The best season to visit Fukushima Prefecture depends on the activities and attractions that you want to experience. For skiing and winter sports, the best time to visit is between December and February, when the region is covered in snow. For hiking and outdoor activities, the best time to visit is in the spring or autumn between April and November, when the weather is mild and the scenery is stunning.
Must-see places in Fukushima
Inawashiro Lake
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Inawashiro Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the country. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and serene surroundings. The lake offers stunning panoramic views, especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the vibrant autumn foliage season. Visitors can engage in a range of activities, including boating, fishing, and lakeside picnics. Inawashiro Lake also serves as a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for windsurfing, sailing, and jet skiing. The tranquil atmosphere and picturesque landscapes make it a favorite spot for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation in the Fukushima region.
Aizu Region
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The Aizu Region is another must-see destination in Fukushima Prefecture, a region with a rich history and culture. Here, visitors can explore the historic streets of Aizu Wakamatsu, a town renowned for its samurai culture and history, including the famous Aizu Samurai Museum. The Tsuruga Castle, one of the few original castles in Japan, is another popular attraction in the area, offering panoramic views of the city.
Ouchijuku Historic Village
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Another popular attraction in Fukushima is the Ouchijuku Historic Village, which dates back to the Edo period. The village is renowned for its traditional thatched houses, which transport visitors back in time. The Iizaka Onsen, a historic hot spring town, is another popular destination in Fukushima, offering visitors a unique and authentic Japanese experience.
Abukuma Cave
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The Abukuma Cave is another must-see attraction in Fukushima, a natural limestone cave that stretches over six kilometers. The cave features impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, as well as a underground river. Viewers can enjoy a guided tour of the cave, which takes about an hour.
Cuisines you can enjoy in Fukushima
Fukushima is a prefecture located in the northern part of Japan, which is well-known for its beautiful nature, hot springs, and delicious foods. Fukushima is also referred to as the “Fruit Kingdom” because of its abundant and high-quality fruits. The prefecture’s location also enables it to have diverse seafood, vegetables, and meat options throughout the year.
Here are some of the cuisines you can enjoy in Fukushima, Japan:
Local Sake
Fukushima is one of the largest producers of sake in Japan. There are over 60 local sake breweries in Fukushima, and each of them produces unique flavors due to the quality of water in the prefecture. The water comes from the mountains and is rich in minerals, which gives the sake a distinctive taste. You can enjoy sake in a traditional cup, or you can try different varieties with a sake tasting set.
Tofu Dishes
Fukushima is a place where you can find high-quality and delicious tofu. Tofu is made from soybeans, and it is a staple food in Japan. In Fukushima, tofu is usually served boiled or with soy sauce. There is also a popular traditional dish called “soboro-tofu,” which combines tofu with ground meat or vegetables. It is a dish that has been around for centuries and is popular among locals and tourists alike.
Oysters
Fukushima is located on the coast, making it a great place to enjoy seafood. One of the most popular seafood dishes in the prefecture is oysters. Fukushima oysters are known for their size and taste. You can find oysters in many restaurants around Fukushima, and they are usually served grilled, raw or fried.
Kaiseki Cuisine
Kaiseki cuisine is a traditional Japanese multi-course meal that is usually served in high-end restaurants. It is a meal that is designed to highlight the season and the local ingredients. Kaiseki cuisine in Fukushima is famous for its fresh seafood, vegetables, and meat. Some of the most common dishes included in kaiseki cuisine in Fukushima are sashimi, tempura, and pickled vegetables.
Fruit Parfait
As mentioned earlier, Fukushima is known as the “Fruit Kingdom” of Japan because of its high-quality fruits. The prefecture produces a wide range of fruits, including strawberries, peaches, and cherries. One of the most famous and delicious desserts you can try in Fukushima is a fruit parfait. A fruit parfait is a combination of fresh fruits, ice cream, and cream. It is a refreshing and delightful treat that you can enjoy as a dessert or a snack.
Wagyu Beef
Wagyu beef is a premium beef that is famous for its marbled texture and taste. Fukushima is one of the few prefectures in Japan where you can find high-quality wagyu beef. The beef is usually served in high-end restaurants as a steak, sukiyaki, or shabu-shabu. The beef is expensive, but it is worth trying once to experience its unique taste and texture.
Recommended Accommodations in Fukushima
Hotel Metropolitan Fukushima
Conveniently located in the heart of Fukushima city, Hotel Metropolitan Fukushima offers exquisite accommodations that combine style, elegance and modern amenities. Rooms and suites are beautifully decorated and feature breathtaking views of the cityscape. The hotel offers a range of facilities including a fitness center, indoor pool, spa and wellness center as well as several on-site restaurants serving Japanese and international cuisine.
Nihonkai Yamanaka Onsen Hotel
Located in the picturesque town of Yamanaka Onsen, this hotel offers guests a unique and authentic Japanese experience. Rooms are traditional in style and feature tatami mat flooring, futon bedding, and private hot spring baths. The hotel boasts several hot spring baths, both indoor and outdoor, where guests can relax and rejuvenate.
Urabandai Lake Resort
Situated in the Urabandai highlands, this resort offers stunning views of Lake Hibara and the surrounding mountains. Rooms and suites are modern and elegantly decorated, with some featuring private outdoor hot spring baths. The hotel offers a range of facilities including a fitness center, sauna, indoor pool and several on-site restaurants serving seasonal and local cuisine.
Hotel Hananoyu
This hotel is located in the scenic town of Aizu-Wakamatsu, known for its samurai culture and castles. Rooms are traditional in style featuring tatami mat flooring, futon bedding and private hot spring baths. The hotel has a range of facilities including several hot spring baths, both indoor and outdoor, as well as a spa and wellness center.
Hotel Abukuma Jouei
Located in the lush mountainous region of Motomiya, Hotel Abukuma Jouei offers luxurious accommodations surrounded by natural beauty. Rooms and suites are elegantly decorated and feature floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the surrounding scenery. The hotel has a range of facilities including a spa and wellness center, indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, as well as several on-site restaurants serving Japanese and international cuisine.
Sansuiso Tsuchiyu Spa
This hotel is located in the famous hot spring town of Tsuchiyu, known for its healing waters. Rooms are traditional in style featuring tatami mat flooring, futon bedding and private hot spring baths. The hotel has a range of hot spring baths, both indoor and outdoor, as well as a sauna and spa.
Aizuwakamatsu Washington Hotel
Located in the center of Aizu-Wakamatsu city, this hotel offers comfortable and modern accommodations with a range of facilities. Rooms are tastefully decorated and feature free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. The hotel has a range of facilities including a fitness center, sauna and on-site restaurant serving Japanese and international cuisine.
Fukushima Grand Hotel
Located in the center of Fukushima city, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations with a range of amenities. Rooms are elegantly decorated and feature free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. The hotel has a range of facilities including several on-site restaurants serving Japanese and international cuisine, a fitness center and spa.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Fukushima Prefecture is a stunning destination that offers visitors a unique and authentic Japanese experience. With its stunning natural scenery, rich history and culture, and exciting attractions, Fukushima Prefecture is a must-visit destination for all travelers visiting Japan.
ピンバック: Tohoku – You have a friend in Japan