Update-date: Sep 12 2024
Categories:
Japanese Cuisine
Fukushima
Autumn in Fukushima offers a wealth of attractions, from stunning fall foliage to vibrant festivals and seasonal fruits! This article provides a guide to the must-see spots for an autumn visit to Fukushima, along with recommendations for local dining.
Why Visit Fukushima Prefecture in Autumn?
Located in Japan's Tohoku region, Fukushima Prefecture is just a 1.5-hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo. The prefecture boasts a variety of captivating sightseeing destinations, including sites rich in history and breathtaking natural landscapes.
The autumn foliage, in particular, is truly breathtaking! In Urabandai, an area dotted with lakes and marshes formed by the eruption of Mount Bandai, hiking is a popular activity. Visitors can enjoy the stunning contrast between the crimson autumn leaves and the serene waters. The prime time for leaf-viewing is from mid to late October. During this period, Fukushima's average temperature hovers around 16°C (61°F), with clear, sunny days becoming more frequent from mid-October onwards, creating ideal conditions for outdoor exploration.
The autumn foliage, in particular, is truly breathtaking! In Urabandai, an area dotted with lakes and marshes formed by the eruption of Mount Bandai, hiking is a popular activity. Visitors can enjoy the stunning contrast between the crimson autumn leaves and the serene waters. The prime time for leaf-viewing is from mid to late October. During this period, Fukushima's average temperature hovers around 16°C (61°F), with clear, sunny days becoming more frequent from mid-October onwards, creating ideal conditions for outdoor exploration.
After a day of sightseeing, don't miss the opportunity to unwind in one of Fukushima's renowned "onsen" (hot springs). The prefecture is home to 132 hot spring resorts, each offering unique mineral compositions and picturesque settings. Among these, you'll find Higashiyama Onsen, with its impressive 1,300-year history; Noji Onsen, famous for its milky white, cloudy waters; and Ashinomaki Onsen, where numerous inns provide the chance to soak while admiring the beauty of the surrounding valley.
Furthermore, from September to November, Fukushima's signature fruits come into season, including peaches, pears, grapes, persimmons, and apples. This is an ideal time to visit local orchards where you can pick and savor freshly harvested fruit.
For a memorable keepsake, the "akabeko," a distinctive Fukushima handicraft, is recommended. These charming cow-shaped ornaments, traditionally crafted to invoke blessings for children's healthy growth, are known for their endearing, simple expressions. Constructed from layers of washi paper, they're lightweight and travel-friendly.
Furthermore, from September to November, Fukushima's signature fruits come into season, including peaches, pears, grapes, persimmons, and apples. This is an ideal time to visit local orchards where you can pick and savor freshly harvested fruit.
For a memorable keepsake, the "akabeko," a distinctive Fukushima handicraft, is recommended. These charming cow-shaped ornaments, traditionally crafted to invoke blessings for children's healthy growth, are known for their endearing, simple expressions. Constructed from layers of washi paper, they're lightweight and travel-friendly.
Experience Living History! Must-See Attractions for Visitors to Japan
Tsurugajo Castle and Ouchi-juku are among Fukushima Prefecture's most popular destinations for international tourists.
Dating back approximately 630 years, Tsurugajo Castle is renowned for its resilience. About 150 years ago, it famously withstood a month-long siege during the fierce conflict between the Shogunate forces and the new government army.
Though demolished in 1874 following the new government's rise to power, the castle was subsequently rebuilt. Its distinctive red tiles, introduced in the 17th century to withstand the harsh Tohoku winters, have become its hallmark. Today, Tsurugajo stands as Japan's sole castle boasting a red-tiled keep.
Each year in late September, the three-day Aizu Festival brings history to life. The highlight is a grand parade featuring around 500 participants dressed as warriors, marching from Tsurugajo through the town. The sight of these armored warriors is truly awe-inspiring!
The stunning interplay between Tsurugajo Castle and the autumn foliage is a sight not to be missed. The leaves begin their colorful transformation in late October, reaching their peak brilliance around early November. Typically, from mid-October to mid-November, the castle and its surrounding autumn landscape are illuminated at dusk. As night falls, the softly lit castle and the vibrant autumn leaves create a mesmerizing, almost magical spectacle.
Dating back approximately 630 years, Tsurugajo Castle is renowned for its resilience. About 150 years ago, it famously withstood a month-long siege during the fierce conflict between the Shogunate forces and the new government army.
Though demolished in 1874 following the new government's rise to power, the castle was subsequently rebuilt. Its distinctive red tiles, introduced in the 17th century to withstand the harsh Tohoku winters, have become its hallmark. Today, Tsurugajo stands as Japan's sole castle boasting a red-tiled keep.
Each year in late September, the three-day Aizu Festival brings history to life. The highlight is a grand parade featuring around 500 participants dressed as warriors, marching from Tsurugajo through the town. The sight of these armored warriors is truly awe-inspiring!
The stunning interplay between Tsurugajo Castle and the autumn foliage is a sight not to be missed. The leaves begin their colorful transformation in late October, reaching their peak brilliance around early November. Typically, from mid-October to mid-November, the castle and its surrounding autumn landscape are illuminated at dusk. As night falls, the softly lit castle and the vibrant autumn leaves create a mesmerizing, almost magical spectacle.
Ouchi-juku is a picturesque village that has preserved its thatched-roof houses for over four centuries. Once a thriving post town, it still boasts numerous shops, inns, and shrines lining its 450-meter main street.
In late October to early November, when autumn foliage reaches its peak, the surrounding mountains burst into a tapestry of fall colors. The vibrant reds and golds of the trees lining the street create a stunning contrast with the rustic thatched roofs, illuminating the historic townscape in a warm, seasonal glow.
After exploring the village, head to the elevated area at its northern end. From this vantage point, you'll get a breathtaking view of the town, with the massive thatched roofs clearly visible. It's an ideal spot to capture Instagram-worthy photos!
In late October to early November, when autumn foliage reaches its peak, the surrounding mountains burst into a tapestry of fall colors. The vibrant reds and golds of the trees lining the street create a stunning contrast with the rustic thatched roofs, illuminating the historic townscape in a warm, seasonal glow.
After exploring the village, head to the elevated area at its northern end. From this vantage point, you'll get a breathtaking view of the town, with the massive thatched roofs clearly visible. It's an ideal spot to capture Instagram-worthy photos!
Recommended Dining in Fukushima
For visitors from Tokyo, Fukushima Station serves as the main hub for local sightseeing. Here are some excellent restaurants near Fukushima Station worth trying.
Fukushima Shinobuyama Guest House Japanese food Kurosawa Ushiwakamaru (Fukushima / Japanese Cuisine)
This popular Japanese restaurant is renowned for its [Premium Beef Cutlet Set Using the Highest Grade Japanese Black Beef Aitchbone] (3,780 JPY). Limited to just 10 servings each for lunch and dinner, this dish often sells out within an hour during weekend lunches. To avoid missing out, making a reservation in advance is strongly recommended.
Aitchbone is a prized cut of beef, with only about 3 kg available from each cow. It offers an exquisite balance of lean meat flavor and the richness of marbled fat, with a surprisingly tender texture. The meat is lightly battered for a crisp exterior and served rare. You can then grill it to your preferred doneness on a small "teppan" grill at your table.
Aitchbone is a prized cut of beef, with only about 3 kg available from each cow. It offers an exquisite balance of lean meat flavor and the richness of marbled fat, with a surprisingly tender texture. The meat is lightly battered for a crisp exterior and served rare. You can then grill it to your preferred doneness on a small "teppan" grill at your table.
The restaurant boasts an elegant yet comfortable ambiance. Located just a 5-minute drive from Fukushima Station at the base of Mount Shinobu, it offers diners the chance to appreciate the changing seasons in the surrounding nature.
In addition to standard table seating, the restaurant offers six private rooms and a separate building that can accommodate up to 30 guests, making it suitable for various group sizes and occasions.
In addition to standard table seating, the restaurant offers six private rooms and a separate building that can accommodate up to 30 guests, making it suitable for various group sizes and occasions.
Fukushima Shinobuyama Guest House Japanese food Kurosawa Ushiwakamaru
Open: [Sunday - Wednesday,Friday,Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] Lunch 11:00 am - 3:00 pm (last order 2:00 pm)[Monday - Wednesday,Friday,Saturday,Holidays,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (last order 8:00 pm)
Closed: Sunday dinner time. Others available (please check our website)
Average price: [Dinner] 2,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: 5 minutes by car from Fukushima Station on each line
Address: 8-1, Daimyojin, Fukushima-shi, Fukushima Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: Sunday dinner time. Others available (please check our website)
Average price: [Dinner] 2,000 JPY / [Lunch] 2,000 JPY
Access: 5 minutes by car from Fukushima Station on each line
Address: 8-1, Daimyojin, Fukushima-shi, Fukushima Map
More Details Reservation
Charcoal-grilled free-range chicken Torinchu (Fukushima / Yakitori)
At [Torinchu], you can savor a variety of free-range chickens from across Japan, with a special focus on Fukushima's local Date chicken. The restaurant uses premium "binchotan" charcoal, known for its high-temperature grilling capability that imparts a fragrant aroma to the meat. Each order is grilled on demand, with cooking times carefully adjusted to enhance flavor while maintaining tenderness, ensuring that every bite releases succulent juices.
Various cuts of Date chicken are available, including [breast] (240 JPY), [chicken tenderloin] (240 JPY), and [liver] (240 JPY). For the full experience, try both the "tare" (sauce) and "shio" (salt) seasonings to compare flavors.
*All prices include tax.
Various cuts of Date chicken are available, including [breast] (240 JPY), [chicken tenderloin] (240 JPY), and [liver] (240 JPY). For the full experience, try both the "tare" (sauce) and "shio" (salt) seasonings to compare flavors.
*All prices include tax.
The restaurant offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere suitable even for solo diners. With an extensive selection of alcoholic beverages, including wine, cocktails, and sake, you can unwind and enjoy your favorite drink alongside delicious yakitori.
Notably, the restaurant boasts an impressive array of local Fukushima sake. They also offer an all-you-can-drink sake special, allowing you to sample a wide variety of sake at an excellent value.
Notably, the restaurant boasts an impressive array of local Fukushima sake. They also offer an all-you-can-drink sake special, allowing you to sample a wide variety of sake at an excellent value.
Charcoal-grilled free-range chicken Torinchu
Open: [Friday,Saturday,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 4:00 am (last order 3:00 am)[Sunday - Tuesday,Thursday,Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 2:00 am (last order 1:00 am)
Closed: Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY
Access: 5 minutes walk from East Exit of JR Fukushima Station
Address: FBS II 2F, 4-12, Okitama-cho, Fukushima-shi, Fukushima Map
More Details Reservation
Closed: Wednesday
Average price: [Dinner] 4,000 JPY
Access: 5 minutes walk from East Exit of JR Fukushima Station
Address: FBS II 2F, 4-12, Okitama-cho, Fukushima-shi, Fukushima Map
More Details Reservation
October to November, when autumn leaves are at their peak, is a perfect time for sightseeing, thanks to the crisp, refreshing weather. Make Fukushima Station your base as you explore the stunning natural and historical sites of Fukushima!
Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.
