Fukushima Guide

14/06/2024

Doaidate Park is located in Matsukawa-machi, in the southern part of Fukushima City. It is also known as "Hydrangea Park" with approximately 40 varieties and 5,000 hydrangeas planted on both sides of the park's promenade.
The park is also known as "Hydrangea Park." Many tourists visit the park every year from early to mid-July, making it one of Fukushima City's most popular places to view hydrangeas.
On June 28 and 29, 2024, "Matsukawa-machi Ajisai Komichi" (Matsukawa-machi Hydrangea Alley) will be held, and on the 28th, a part of the park will be lit up and an eve festival will be held to enjoy the hydrangeas.

https://www.f-kankou.jp/pickup/27409　(Japanese only)

【MAP】
https://maps.app.goo.gl/9ZtJiCkkPu5neeBq7

28/05/2024

Bandai-Azuma Skyline reopened on Friday, April 23, 2024. This winding road, approximately 30 km in length, offers a truly heavenly driving experience. Situated at an altitude of 1600 meters, it attracts many tourists every summer seeking a cool escape. Highly recommended for a summer drive!

https://www.f-kankou.jp/en/discover/nature/347/

18/05/2024

This is the Fukushima City Fruit Picking Guide.
Please check the link below.

This is the Fukushima City Fruit Picking Guide page for Fukushima Guide (Fukushima City Tourism and Convention Association). It contains English information for visitors in Fukushima City including Hanamiyama and Bandai-Azuma Skyline. Enjoy a range of model courses, workshops, tours,local cuisine, p...

18/05/2024

“TOHOKU JAPAN Tourism Fair 2024” has started today! A large number of people have visited the Fukushima City booth as of now. Many of them got Momorin key chains. The fair runs until tomorrow. Please come to Central World if you are in Thailand!

14/05/2024

Fukushima City Tourism and Convention Association will be at the “TOHOKU JAPAN Tourism Fair 2024” in Bangkok, Thailand on May 18-19! Come discover the best of Japan's Tohoku region. See you there! We can't wait to meet you in Thailand!

11/11/2023

***Important Announcement***
【 Bandai-Azuma Skyline Road Closed】
Due to snowfall and icy road, the Bandai-Azuma Skyline will be closed to traffic all day Saturday, November 11, 2023.

In addition, the winter closure schedule has been changed, closing from today till next April.

Those who had planned to pass through the area are advised to change their plans.

24/10/2023

【Road closure Bandai-Azuma Skyline】
Road closure during nightime and winter season
Please see below;

*During the winter season*
Term: Wednesday, November 15, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. (to be lifted in mid-April 2024 or later)
*Overnight road closure:*
Term: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 -starting at 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. the following morning.
Closed section: Old Takayu gate - Old Tsuchiyu gate L＝28.7km
Even during the period and hours when the road is open to traffic, it may be closed due to snowfall or icy road.

22/10/2023

***Updates***
Bandai-Azuma Skyline will re-open starting at 12 noon today.

22/10/2023

【Important Announcement】
Bandai-Azuma Skyline is currently remain closed till 12 Noon today(TDB) due to the icy road conditions.
Re-opening time might be subject to changed.

20/10/2023

【Important Announcement】
Bandai-Azuma Skyline will be closed at night due to the risk of snow fall and icy road conditions.
Please see below;
(Nighttime closure dates and times)　
Saturday, October 21, 2023 (5:00 p.m.) to Sunday, October 22, 2023 (8:00 a.m.) (TBD)
(Closed area)
Old Takayu Gate - Old Tsuchiyu Gate
*The lifting time of the nighttime road closure may be delayed depending on road surface conditions

18/10/2023

🍎Night Fruit Garden 2023 at Marusei Orchard✨
✨Thursday, October 26 - Sunday, October 29
Fukushima City's strongest SNS spot appears again this year!
Marusei Orchard's "Night Fruit Garden" event, which has been held since 2018, takes advantage of the orchard's previously unused nighttime hours to create a fantastic space in some of the fruit fields, offering a fun experience that can only be had at the orchard. The collaboration of the red-fruited apple fields just before harvest and the lights creates a beautiful space that is sure to impress. Please come and experience it!

------------------------------------------------
✨"Night Fruit Garden 2023" event details🍎.
------------------------------------------------
Date: Thursday, October 26 - Sunday, October 29, 2023, 16:00 - 20:00
Place: Marusei Orchard (Iizaka-machi, Fukushima City)
　　　https://maps.app.goo.gl/pVzrJwhhm5nf9LJq9
Fee: 2,000 yen per person.
　　 Includes one drink
Free for elementary school students and younger
　　 Admission ticket is half price for those who enter the venue in Halloween costume.
Parking: Available
Others: Handmade workshops and concerts will be held.
　　 Jumbo cab pick-up service is available (advance reservations required).
　　 Please come dressed warmly!
Tickets: Peatix "Night Fruit Garden 2023"
https://yorukaju.peatix.com/

18/08/2023

Enjoy a stunning view of starry skies from 1,600 m above sea level: Jododaira Astronomical Observatory
Jododaira is subalpine plateau renowned as a popular tourist spot located halfway along the Bandai-Azuma Skyline road in the Azuma Mountains, but did you know there is a full-scale observatory in Jododaira? Situated at an altitude of about 1,600 meters above sea level, the Jododaira Astronomical Observatory is the highest altitude public observatory in Japan. Despite the Observatory’s high-altitude location blessed with crisp, clean air, access is also convenient, being only about one hour’s drive from central Fukushima City.
The Jododaira Astronomical Observatory opens to the public during the season that the Bandai-Azuma Skyline road is open. Every year, the Observatory opens to the public from around mid-April, and normally remains open until mid-November when the Skyline is closed for the winter. The daytime opening hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Nighttime observation sessions are held every Wednesday and Saturday from mid-May, when the nighttime closure of the Skyline is lifted. The sessions are provided from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in May, September, and October, and from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. from June to August.
Visitors can view star clusters and other deep sky wonders through this 40-centimeter reflector telescope in the dome!
Why not visit the Jododaira Astronomical Observatory this summer to view breathtaking starry skies, marveling at the Milky Way Galaxy and passing shooting stars?

https://www.f-kankou.jp/en/experience/trip-ideas/1270/

Google map: https://www.google.co.jp/maps/place/%E7%A6%8F%E5%B3%B6%E5%B8%82%E6%B5%84%E5%9C%9F%E5%B9%B3%E5%A4%A9%E6%96%87%E5%8F%B0/@37.7282281,140.2951328,12.12z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f8a9736cb528bc3:0x9378e9007a7ac3b6!8m2!3d37.7234526!4d140.2541923!16s%2Fg%2F11f2wb_5jw?hl=ja&entry=ttu

09/08/2023

The "Bon Dance" is a cherished summer tradition in Japan that has captured the hearts of people of all ages, and it has now gained global popularity, transcending borders as the "Bon Dance" phenomenon.
This August 11th, an exciting first is set to unfold – the "Fukushima BON-DANCE Festival." This extraordinary event promises a joyful experience for both locals and visitors from abroad. If you're from another country, you're welcome to slip into a yukata at no charge and dive right into the festivities! So, let's come together and revel in the shared joy of "BON-DANCE"!

https://fukushima-bondance.com/

28/07/2023

The 45th Fukushima Fireworks Festival, a summer tradition in Fukushima City, will be held tomorrow, July 29th, with an increased volume compared to last year! Please come and enjoy the powerful and colorful fireworks at the venue.
https://www.f-kankou.jp/event/27427

24/07/2023

"Experience the Delight of Fukushima Peaches! 🍑✨
Join the "Fukushima Peach Holiday 2023" campaign, showcasing the pride of "Fruits Kingdom Fukushima" - the delicious peaches! Following last year's huge success, we're back again, ready to charm the entire nation with the sweetness of our peaches!

For the next two months, from July to September, when our peaches are at their juiciest peak, Fukushima City will transform into a peach paradise 🌸🍑. Restaurants, hotels, and orchards across the city will offer delectable peach-infused treats and menus, alongside exclusive peach-themed accommodations and trendy peach-picking experiences. You can savor the delightful taste of peaches anywhere you go in Fukushima City!

We extend a warm welcome to visitors from Japan and abroad, inviting you to relish our precious resource - the Fukushima peaches. We hope this experience will inspire a deep love for Fukushima City and its delightful peaches.

Don't miss out on the latest updates for the Fukushima Peach Holiday! Click below for more information (Japanese website only). 👇
https://www.f-kankou.jp/special/9695

26/06/2023

Lake Shonan Bio Park: Discover the World of Beautiful Paintings
🌸 Lake Shonan Bio Park is a captivating destination in the Tsuchiyu Onsen Hot Spring Resort area of Fukushima City. With 500 water lilies adorning the lake's surface, it resembles the enchanting paintings of renowned French artist Monet. On clear days, the vibrant greenery surrounding the lake reflects on its waters, creating a picturesque view that is perfect for photography. The ideal time to capture the beauty is in the morning when the flowers are in full bloom, and the water is crystal clear. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of stunning paintings!
🌺 The water lilies can be enjoyed until late August, including rainy days when they exhibit a unique charm. Step outside and experience the captivating allure of this picturesque landscape.

[Access]
🚌 By Bus: A 20-minute walk from Tsuchiyu Onsen Iriguchi bus stop, take the bus bound for Tsuchiyu Onsen, Fukushima Kotsu.
🚗 By Car: Just a 20-minute drive from Fukushima Nishi IC. Check Google Maps for directions.
Google map: https://www.google.co.jp/maps/place/%E7%85%A7%E5%8D%97%E6%B9%96%E3%83%93%E3%82%AA%E3%83%91%E3%83%BC%E3%82%AF/@37.6803838,140.3343423,15.56z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x5f8a99675ed57de1:0xa1ca930f56f66e63!8m2!3d37.6781138!4d140.3332814!16s%2Fg%2F11cnbv_f9n?hl=ja&entry=ttu

Sora Cafe: A Nostalgic Old Folk House Cafe in the Forest
🏡 Located approximately 1 kilometer further down the mountain road from Lake Shonan Bio Park, nestled within the forest, you'll discover the charming Sora Cafe. This 100-year-old house has been beautifully renovated and transformed into a cozy cafe.
🌱 Sora Cafe offers a menu that exclusively features plant-based ingredients, excluding meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Step inside this nostalgic cafe with its earthen floor, large windows, high ceilings, and wood-burning stove, all contributing to its warm and inviting atmosphere. The sunlight streaming through the windows and the lush greenery surrounding the cafe create a delightful ambience for a relaxing time.
🍽️ The lunch menu changes monthly, featuring dishes made with freshly harvested seasonal vegetables. Each meal is carefully prepared with handmade ingredients and seasonings, showcasing the owner's commitment to providing nourishing and soulful dining experiences. Even the dishes used in the cafe are handmade, adding an extra touch of authenticity.

ℹ️ Sora Cafe Information:
📞 Phone: 024-595-2515
⌚ Business Hours: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last Order: 4:00 PM)
📅 Closed: Wednesdays and Thursdays (subject to change), closed in winter

Indulge in the flavors and serenity of Sora Cafe while surrounded by the beauty of nature. Let the nourishing meals and soothing atmosphere replenish your body and soul.

Official HP: https://www.soracafe2006.jp/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sora_cafe2006/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soracafe2006
Google map: https://goo.gl/maps/sAf9mzzo2PQLZRoYA

16/06/2023

Join in celebrating "UFO Day" on June 24th at the Home of UFOs in Iino Town!

International UFO Laboratory has organized three exciting events for "UFO Day" on June 24th: (1) "One Day Free Admission to UFO Fureai Kan," (2) "Senganmori Mystery Tour with Director Mikami," and (3) "Iino Good Food Market." They can't wait to see you there!


Enjoy free admission to UFO Fureai Kan all day long in honor of UFO Day on Saturday, June 24th.


Date and Time: June 24th (Saturday), 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Meeting Point: UFO Fureai Kan Senganmori Park
Embark on a tour to climb Senganmori with Mr. Takeharu Mikami, the director of International UFO Laboratory (and chief editor of "Mu Monthly"). Experience an intriguing UFO story at the summit and enjoy a delightful local lunch box.
Participation fee (Advance reservations)
Adults: ¥3,000 (includes lunch box, tea, and a Pinkaraishi can)
Elementary school students and younger: ¥1,500 (includes meal ticket ¥500 and a Pinkaraishi can)
Participation on the day: ¥2,000 (includes ¥500 meal ticket and a Pinkaraishi can)
Capacity: 100 people
To participate, please provide your name, date of birth, address, and phone number directly to the following email address:
Email: [email protected]

09/06/2023

Fukushima City Retro Spot Walking Courses
Recommended Course 1: Ogura-tei Course
The area around Fukushima Station—which is only about 90 minutes from Tokyo Station by Tohoku Shinkansen bullet train!🚅—offers special experiences that can only be found in the city’s central district. This Ogura-tei Course gives you the chance to appreciate old Japanese-style architecture, enjoy the view of the Abukuma River, and stroll and shop in the streets around the station at a leisurely pace, within only two hours. 💁
-------------------------------------------------------
🚶Ogura-tei: Admire Japanese-style architecture and spend an elegant, relaxing time on the deck overlooking the Abukuma River💕
-------------------------------------------------------
Ogura-tei (the former Ogura Residence) is a traditional Japanese residence built for the head of the Fukushima branch of the Bank of Japan in 1927. The tatami-mat hallways and handmade glass windows exude a nostalgic ambience. The house is open to the public, so you can freely wander around it and its well-cared-for Japanese garden. Gazing at the fantastic view of the Abukuma River from the garden, you may lose track of time!

-------------------------------------------------------
🚶Komadaya-hompo: a retro confectionery store offering traditional sweets🍡
-------------------------------------------------------
After Ogura-tei, stop by at Komadaya-hompo, a long-established confectionery store opened in the late Edo Period, to buy miso-pan, a simple, additive-free, miso-flavored steamed bun. Miso-pan is a rustic, nostalgia-inducing, tasty treat that will delight your palate with the mild sweet flavor of locally produced miso paste. Miso-pan can be heated in a microwave to regain its freshly steamed taste, and pairs well with cream cheese filling.

-------------------------------------------------------
🚶iGETA: a specialty store offering a selection of unique Fukushima souvenirs 🎁
-------------------------------------------------------
To conclude the course, visit iGETA, a specialty store opened in 1861, to enjoy shopping for items carefully selected and collected from Fukushima and indeed all over Japan. There is such a fantastic collection that simply browsing is a real treat!
The selection includes cutlery made from peach and apple tree wood, specialty fruits of Fukushima; embroidery bearing a motif of Hanamiyama Park, Fukushima City’s highly popular flower-viewing spot; and vessels crafted near the Azuma Mountains. All these items are unique yet can be used in everyday life. Find your favorite Fukushima souvenirs in this store! After purchasing souvenirs, return to Fukushima Station! iGETA to Fukushima Station is about a 5-minute walk.

　＊　＊　＊　＊　＊
📖For more details, please check out the article on Fukushima Guide.
https://www.f-kankou.jp/en/experience/tours-workshops/1244/

25/05/2023

🌹✨ Discover the Beauty of Roses in Fukushima City! (3)🌹✨
📍3) Azuma Fragrant Rose Garden
Discover the heavenly Azuma Fragrant Rose Garden nestled within the Azuma Sports Park. This captivating garden is a collaborative effort with local volunteer groups, resulting in a mesmerizing display of 1,700 roses encompassing approximately 300 aromatic varieties. Prepare to be enchanted by the seven distinctive rose fragrances that grace this exquisite garden.
For an ultimate sensory experience, we recommend visiting in the morning when the fragrance is at its peak. Delight in the invigorating scents of the freshly bloomed roses, and embark on an adventure to uncover the seven fragrances, including the alluring damask and classic old rose varieties.
Don't miss the exciting "Rose Festival" on June 3 (Sat.) and 4 (Sun.), held jointly with the "S**i no Sato Rose Garden." It's a celebration you won't want to miss!

Closed: Tuesdays, year-end and New Year holidays
Opening hours: 9:00-17:00
Admission fee: Free
Access: [Bus]
Weekdays
From JR Fukushima Station East Exit, take Fukushima Kotsu Bus (platform 7) bound for Sabara (approx. 30 min.).　　　　　　　　
(30 min.) from East Exit of JR Fukushima Station to Sabara Bus Stop. 5 min. walk from the bus stop.
Weekends and Holidays
(1) From JR Fukushima Station East Exit, take Fukushima Kotsu Bus (platform 7) bound for Sabara (approx. 30 min.), get off at Azuma rikujo kyogijo, and walk approx. 5 min.
(2) From JR Fukushima Station East Exit, take Fukushima Kotsu Bus (platform 7) bound for Shikinosato via Sabara (approx. 30 min.), get off at Azuma rikujo kyogijo, approx. 5 min. walk from the bus stop.

https://www.f-kankou.jp/en/discover/sport-culture/483/

25/05/2023

🌹✨ Discover the Beauty of Roses in Fukushima City! (2)🌹✨
📍2) S**i no Sato Rose Garden
Immerse yourself in the charm of the English-style Shikinosato Rose Garden, boasting a breathtaking collection of 400 roses from 200 different varieties. This enchanting garden showcases roses arranged in various styles, offering a mesmerizing three-dimensional view for visitors to explore.
Save the dates: June 3 (Sat.) to 4 (Sun.), as the "Rose Festival" will be held in collaboration with the " S**i no Sato Rose Garden " and the "Azuma Fragrant Rose Garden." Two glorious days celebrating the beauty of roses await you!

Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays and facility inspection days
Opening hours: 9:00 - 21:00
Admission fee: Free
Access: [Bus]
Weekdays
From JR Fukushima Station East Exit (platform 7), take the Fukushima Kotsu bus bound for Tsuchiyu Onsen and get off at "Shikinosato Iriguchi" (approx. 30 min.), then walk 10 min.
Holidays
(1) From JR Fukushima Station East Exit (platform 7) to Shikinosato Iriguchi Bus Stop on the way to Tsuchiyu Onsen by Fukushima Kotsu (approx. 30 min.), 10 min. walk from the bus stop.
(2) From JR Fukushima Station East Exit (platform 7) to Shikinosato Bus Stop on the Fukushima Kotsu Line bound for Shikinosato via Sabara (approx. 40 min.), 1 min. walk from the Shikinosato Bus Stop.

https://www.f-kankou.jp/en/discover/sport-culture/463/

25/05/2023

🌹✨ Discover the Beauty of Roses in Fukushima City! (1)🌹✨
Late May to early June is the peak season for breathtaking roses, and Fukushima City is home to three remarkable rose gardens that you simply can't miss!

📍1) Fukushima Racecourse Rose Garden
Immerse yourself in the captivating "Rose Garden" at Fukushima Racecourse, a symbol of hope and reconstruction after the earthquake. This enchanting garden boasts over 300 varieties of roses, offering a soothing oasis for visitors.
Mark your calendars for May 27 (Sat.) and 28 (Sun.), as the "Rose Garden Event" will take place! Join in on exciting workshops, engaging talk shows, and indulge in delicious delights from kitchen cars. Come and revel in the vibrant splendor of the fully bloomed Rose Garden! 🌸💖

Open: Saturdays and Sundays (closed in winter from December to March)
Opening hours: 9:15-16:50
Admission fee: Free
Access: [Bus] Take the Fukushima Kotsu Bus (bus stop #2 or #3) from the East Exit of JR Fukushima Station, get off at "Keiba-mae" bus stop (about 15 minutes), and walk 5 minutes.

02/05/2023

Iino Town in Fukushima City, has been known as the "Home of UFO" for over 30 years. Through its annual UFO festival and UFO-related landmarks, the town has created a unique identity that has boosted its economy and brought a sense of pride to its residents. This is their story.

https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/21887447/ufo-sightings-home-of-aliens/

A TINY town has dubbed itself the world’s “home of aliens” as it reports hundreds of UFO sightings and even has a lab that claims to have fragments from crashed spaceships. Japane…

27/04/2023

2023.4/27(Thu) The Bandai-Azuma skyline road closure was lifted at 9:40.

27/04/2023

2023.4/27(Thu) as of 7:00 AM [Bandai-Azuma Skyline Road Closed]
Due to icy road conditions, the Bandai-Azuma Skyline (Prefectural Road No. 70) is closed to all traffic. The road closure will be lifted after road patrols check the road surface conditions. Please be careful if you plan to visit today!

14/04/2023

🌸 Hanamiyama Park Update 🌸

If you were hoping to catch the peak of the flower season at Hanamiyama Park, we regret to inform you that it has already passed. However, there are still some of beautiful flowers in bloom that are sure to delight your senses.

13/04/2023

Attention all nature and driving enthusiasts! We are thrilled to announce that the Bandai-Azuma Skyline is reopening at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 14! Come and experience the spectacular drive at an elevation of 1,600 meters above sea level!
https://www.f-kankou.jp/en/discover/nature/347/

This is the Bandai-Azuma Skyline page for Fukushima Guide (Fukushima City Tourism and Convention Association). It contains English information for visitors in Fukushima City including Hanamiyama and Bandai-Azuma Skyline. Enjoy a range of model courses, workshops, tours,local cuisine, products and ev...

22/02/2023

Spring will arrive in about a month!
Hanamiyama is a barrier-free floral utopia accessible by visitors with disabilities and small children. Please visit Fukushima City during the flower season!

Visit Hanamiyama Park (Fukushima), a spectacular floral viewing spot accessible by visitors with disabilities and small children.

04/11/2022

Following on the heels of this summer's very popular "Fukushima Peach Holiday," "Fukushima Apple Holiday" has started!
The Fukushima-grown apple is as good as peaches, and is a specialty that attracts many repeat customers due to its delicious taste. The apples are harvested in their fully ripe state, bathed in sunlight, and are characterized by their sweetness and well-balanced acidity.
Restaurants and lodging facilities in the city have devised delicious menus using these apples. Everyone can enjoy a wide range of dishes from sweets to dishes that go well with alcohol.
For a look at the delicious apple menus and restaurant information, click here! (Sorry, Japanese only)
https://peachholiday.jp/archives/category/apple-menu

05/10/2022

The Bandai-Azuma Skyline is a 29 km alpine road with a maximum elevation of 1622 m that winds through the Azuma Mountains west of Fukushima City. Every year, many tourists enjoy the dynamic scenery along this spectacular driving route.
The autumn foliage season begins in late September, and visitors can enjoy the vivid red and yellow colors for about a month.
However, the Bandai-Azuma Skyline is often closed due to construction work or icy road conditions in some sections, so it is recommended to check the official website and SNS before heading out.
The Fukushima City Tourist Information Center also provides information on road conditions and highlights of the autumn foliage. Please contact us for more information.

TEL：+(81)-24-531-6428
E-mail：[email protected]

[Bandai-Azuma Skyline]
https://www.f-kankou.jp/en/discover/nature/347/

30/09/2022

Fukushima City Tourism and Convention Association exhibited for the first time at Tourism Expo Japan 2022 held at Tokyo Big Sight from September 22 (Thu) to 25 (Sun). As a farmer support project, we sold pears damaged by the hail in June and tasted and sold 100% Fukushima peach juice, which was a huge hit with long lines of visitors. The event was a great success, with 1.8 tons of hail-damaged pears (about 5,000 pears) and 680 bottles of peach juice sold out before the end of the event.
In response to the favorable reception in the Tokyo metropolitan area, we will continue to promote tourism utilizing Fukushima City's strengths such as fruits and onsen (hot springs)!

[Tourism Expo Japan 2022 Exhibition Report]
https://www.f-kankou.jp/pickup/16615