Spots List | V-Trip Japan

Shirakawa City

Known as the gateway to the Tohoku region, this former castle town is steeped in samurai history. It offers many attractions, including Komine Castle with its beautiful stone walls and Nanko Park, said to be the oldest public park in Japan. The food culture is also rich; "Shirakawa Ramen," characterized by its hand-kneaded curly noodles, is immensely popular as a signature Fukushima gourmet dish. This well-balanced tourist city allows you to enjoy history, gardens, and exquisite food all at once.

Fukushima
Area Info
Sightseeing
Food
Activities
Nature
Festivals & Events
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Aizubange Town

Located on the western side of the Aizu Basin, this town is famous for its "Sake" and "Horse Meat" nurtured by the rich land. The sake produced from high-quality rice and water is internationally acclaimed, and the local horse sashimi is exceptionally fresh—loved since the days of samurai culture as a source of stamina. The area is also dotted with ancient sites, such as the Kamegamori Kofun, one of the largest burial mounds in Northeast Japan. This town is highly recommended for savvy travelers seeking deep history and traditional food culture.

Fukushima
Area Info
Sightseeing
Food
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Handayama Nature Park

Located at the foot of Mt. Handa, this park showcases beautiful nature across all four seasons. A walking trail circles Lake Handa at its center, where visitors can enjoy thousands of cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in early summer, and vibrant foliage in autumn. The view of the surrounding trees reflecting in the mirror-like lake is particularly spectacular. It is a perfect healing spot for refreshing the mind and body while strolling to the sound of birds chirping in the silence.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring

Fukushima

Koori Town

This town in northern Fukushima is famous as the producer of "K獻ojo-momo" (Peaches for the Imperial Court). In mid-April, the entire town turns pink with peach blossoms, creating a landscape so beautiful it is called a "Shangri-La" against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The town also features charming historic architecture, including streets that retain the atmosphere of Edo-period post stations and the former Date District Office, a Western-style building from the Meiji era. It is a place where you can experience the beauty of rural Japan and world-class fruit with all five senses.

Fukushima
Area Info
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Kamegamori Kofun (Kamegamori Burial Mound)

Located in the Aizu Basin, this is one of the largest "keyhole-shaped" burial mounds in Northeast Japan, dating back to the late 4th century. It is a historical legacy that conveys the power of the leaders who once ruled this region, lying majestically amidst peaceful rural scenery. From the top of the mound, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Aizu mountains. It is a place that stimulates intellectual curiosity, allowing you to enjoy stunning views while reflecting on ancient Japanese history.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Takase River Gorge

This majestic valley was carved by the Takase River flowing through the Abukuma Highlands. Visitors can enjoy the striking contrast between sheer rock faces, clear streams, and colorful foliage. The autumn leaves are particularly spectacular; walking through the valley as it turns brilliant red and yellow allows you to feel the energy of Fukushima's deep wilderness firsthand. It is a hidden gem where you can experience both silence and the dynamic pulse of untouched nature.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Nanko Park

Built in 1801 by a local lord, this is said to be the oldest park in Japan created for people of all social classes to enjoy. Its charm lies in the garden’s beauty, featuring pine trees, cherry blossoms, and autumn maples skillfully arranged around a graceful lake. We recommend enjoying the famous "Nanko Dango" (sweet dumplings) at a lakeside teahouse while gazing at the scenic views once loved by samurai. It is a beautiful park where the historical spirit of Japanese hospitality lives on.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Lake Hatori

Surrounded by deep forests, this beautiful man-made lake is located at a high altitude and filled with crisp mountain air. It is a popular outdoor hub for cycling, golf, and winter snow resorts. Standing by the lakeshore, you will be enveloped by a silence that makes you forget the city's hustle, the scent of lush greenery, and an endless blue sky. It is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a relaxing time in harmony with nature.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Otsujigataki Falls

This brave waterfall pours across the full width of the Abukuma River in the shape of the kanji character "Otsu" (乙). Due to its powerful appearance, it is often called the "Miniature Niagara." The famous haiku master Matsuo Basho once visited here and praised its scenery in his poetry. With cherry blossoms in spring and irises in early summer, the combination of roaring spray and seasonal flowers offers a refreshing view that blends classical Japanese aesthetics with natural energy.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Lake Inawashiro

Also known as "Heaven’s Mirror Lake," this is Japan’s fourth-largest lake and is famous for its incredible clarity. The sight of the majestic Mt. Bandai reflected in the mirror-like water is spectacular. Visitors can enjoy dynamic nature year-round: lake swimming and camping in summer, autumn colors, and thousands of swans migrating from Siberia in winter. The "shibuki-gori" (splash ice) sculptures created by the intense winter cold are a world-renowned natural wonder.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Sukagawa Peony Garden

Boasting over 250 years of history, this is the only peony garden in Japan designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty. The vast grounds feature 7,000 large, magnificent peonies across 290 varieties. Visitors can admire these flowers, each as beautiful as a work of art, while reflecting on their history of being brought from China for medicinal use. It is a premier destination to experience the height of traditional Japanese horticultural culture and its overwhelming color.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Ishikawa Sakuradani (Ishikawa Cherry Blossom Valley)

Centered along the Imaide River flowing through the heart of town, this stunning area features approximately 2,000 cherry trees. The trees lining both banks reflect on the water's surface, creating a spectacular "Valley of Cherry Blossoms." At night, paper lanterns are lit, casting a magical glow over the evening blooms. Walking along the riverside path through a flurry of falling petals offers a luxurious and traditional experience of a Japanese spring.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring

Fukushima

Akiyama no Koma-zakura (Akiyama’s Koma Cherry Tree)

Standing tall in a mountain valley, this majestic cherry tree is over 500 years old. Legend says it is connected to the horse of the famous samurai Minamoto no Yoshitsune. The tree spreads its branches wide in all directions, gently coloring the hillside when in full bloom. Its overwhelming vitality, having survived centuries of harsh nature, combined with the quiet satoyama landscape, is deeply moving. It is a powerful yet beautiful landmark where Japanese spirituality meets natural mystery.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring

Fukushima

Koori Togenkyo (Koori Peach Paradise)

Located in one of Fukushima’s premier peach-growing regions, this is a "Peach Blossom Shangri-La" available only in spring. In mid-April, vast orchards burst into a sea of pink blossoms, creating a dreamy landscape that feels like walking through pastel-colored clouds. The contrast between the brilliant flowers and the distant snow-capped mountains is truly breathtaking—a scene that perfectly represents the idyllic beauty of rural Japan.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring

Fukushima

Shiramizu Amidado Temple

This is the only building in Fukushima Prefecture designated as a National Treasure, built in the late Heian period. Its elegantly curved roof and the surrounding "Jodo-shiki" (Pure Land style) garden transport visitors to a 12th-century vision of paradise. The sight of lotus flowers in early summer and vibrant maples in autumn reflecting on the pond is like a glimpse of heaven on earth. It is a serene space where the essence of Japanese Buddhist art harmonizes with the changing seasons.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Yonomori

This famous site is known for its stunning "cherry blossom tunnel" created by approximately 420 Somei Yoshino trees over a length of 2.2km. Having overcome the hardships following the disaster, the sight of these trees blooming beautifully once again touches many hearts as a symbol of regional revitalization and hope for the future. The corridor is illuminated during full bloom in spring, allowing visitors to walk through a dreamlike path of light. It is a place where you can feel the story of Japanese strength and rebirth through the resilient blossoms.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring

Fukushima

Nicchu Line Memorial Cherry Blossom Walking Path

Utilizing a former railway site, this 3km walking path features approximately 1,000 weeping cherry trees that create a pink tunnel covering the sky. Along the way, a steam locomotive (SL) that once ran on the line is on display, providing a nostalgic contrast between the cherry blossoms and the black locomotive body. Since the path is flat, visitors can leisurely stroll or cycle while enjoying one of Japan's premier rows of weeping cherry trees. It is an essential spot for sightseeing in Kitakata, the city of ramen.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring

Fukushima

Ogawa Suwa Shrine

This shrine is famous for its majestic, giant weeping cherry tree, which is over 500 years old. Its branches droop so beautifully that they almost reach the ground, and at full bloom in spring, it creates a dreamlike vision of cascading pale pink flowers. Illuminated at night, the tree radiates a sacred aura that has quietly watched over the area's long history. In the mild climate of Iwaki, you can fully enjoy a landscape where traditional Japanese faith and the vitality of nature merge.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Oguninuma Marshland

Located at the foot of Mount Bandai in a volcanic crater 1,000 meters high, this is a treasure trove of alpine plants. The density of Nikki-kisuge (daylilies) that bloom from late June to early July is said to be the highest in Japan, turning the entire marshland yellow into a "heavenly paradise." You can enjoy the contrast between the high-mountain silence and the vivid flowers while walking along the wooden paths. Although it requires a shuttle bus or a hike to access, a mystical and beautiful sight awaits that makes the effort well worth it.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn

Fukushima

Furosan Park

Located on a hill overlooking the town center, this scenic spot features approximately 3,000 azaleas that dye the hillside bright red in early summer. Selected as one of the "100 Best Landscapes in Fukushima," the contrast between the fiery red covering the slopes and the fresh greenery is spectacular. Well-maintained walking trails lead to the summit observatory, where you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view while on a light hike. It is a hidden gem that offers dynamic colors while remaining a peaceful place for locals.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Oze Ohe-shitsugen Marshland

Located at an altitude of over 1,600 meters, this high-altitude marshland remains untouched by modernization. In summer, yellow Nikki-kisuge (daylilies) bloom like a sea, and in autumn, the "Kusamomiji" (grass autumn colors) turn the entire marshland golden. Walking the wooden paths toward Lake Oze, you are enveloped by endless silence and the beauty of alpine plants. Far from the city bustle, this place is loved by hikers seeking a true dialogue with nature as one of the most sacred and beautiful spots in Japan.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn

Fukushima

Nihonmatsu Castle Ruins

One of Japan's 100 Finest Castles, it features massive stone walls and the beautifully reconstructed Minowa Gate. It holds significant historical weight as a stage of the Boshin War and is now enjoyed as "Kasumigajo Park." In autumn, the "Nihonmatsu Chrysanthemum Dolls" festival is held, where life-sized dolls "wearing" thousands of chrysanthemum flowers are arranged by skilled craftsmen—a must-see. It is a spot where you can enjoy the dignity of a castle town, traditional gardening culture, and samurai history from spring blossoms to winter snow.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Soma Nomaoi (Wild Horse Chase)

Boasting a history of over 1,000 years and designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, this is a globally rare festival originating from military exercises. Hundreds of samurai on horseback, clad in armor and carrying ancestral banners, march through the streets and compete for flags in open fields, looking as if the warring states period has returned to the modern day. The pride and spirit of the samurai, combined with the dynamic movement of man and horse as one, is a breathtaking sight for international tourists seeking to experience true Bushido culture.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fukushima

Miharu Takizakura (Waterfall Cherry Tree)

This giant weeping cherry tree is over 1,000 years old and is counted as one of the "Three Great Cherry Trees of Japan." Its powerful branches stretch out in all directions, with small light-pink flowers cascading toward the ground like a "waterfall." Designated as a National Natural Monument, this ancient tree is a symbol of Japanese vitality and beauty. The nighttime illumination captivates visitors with its mystical presence emerging from the darkness, allowing one to feel the profound weight of a thousand years of history.

Fukushima
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring