Fukushima Prefecture, set in Japan's Tohoku region, is a destination of striking contrasts — from the samurai castle towns of Aizu in the west to rugged volcanic highlands around Mt. Bandai and the Pacific coastline of Hamadori in the east. Centuries of feudal history live on in Tsuruga Castle, the thatched-roof post town of Ouchi-juku, and the stirring legacy of the Byakkotai teen warriors. Nature lovers find five-colored volcanic ponds, pristine highland lakes, and world-class sakura viewing at Miharu Takizakura. Fukushima's culinary identity is rich with Kitakata ramen, Aizu kozuyu soup, sake brewed from volcanic-spring water, and some of Japan's finest peaches.
Fukushima Prefecture is overwhelmingly safe for travelers. Japan consistently ranks among the world's lowest crime-rate countries, and Fukushima is no exception. The primary concern unique to Fukushima is public perception around the 2011 nuclear accident; however, all major tourist areas (Fukushima City, Aizuwakamatsu, Koriyama, Lake Inawashiro, Bandai Plateau, Iwaki City) are cleared by Japanese government and independent international monitoring and pose no radiation risk above normal global background levels. The former exclusion zone around the Daiichi plant covers a small section of the eastern Hamadori coastline and is clearly signposted; travelers should verify current boundaries before visiting that specific coastal strip.
Current safety advisory
High — Fukushima's Major Tourist Areas Rank Among Japan's Safest Destinations
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Food Safety
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- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Fukushima. Fukushima agricultural produce undergoes Japan's strictest monitoring standards since 2011; all products sold commercially meet or exceed legal safety limits. Fresh produce and rice from Fukushima is tested and cleared before distribution.
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- Radiation — Factual Information
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- The average annual dose from background radiation in Fukushima City is approximately 1.0–1.5 millisieverts (mSv)/year — comparable to Tokyo (about 1.5 mSv/year) and lower than Rome (2.0 mSv/year) or Denver (3.1 mSv/year). A flight from New York to Tokyo exposes passengers to about 0.1–0.2 mSv — similar to several months of residence in Fukushima City.
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- Hospitals
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- Fukushima Medical University Hospital (024-547-1111) is the top referral center with some English capacity. For non-emergency GP visits, city health centers (hokenjo) are available. Travel insurance with medical repatriation coverage is recommended.
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- Pharmacy
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- Matsu-Kiyoshi and Welcia pharmacy chains are widespread; most medications require Japanese prescription. Common OTC remedies (pain relief, cold medicine) are available without prescription.
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- Heat and Humidity
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- July–August temperatures reach 30–34°C (86–93°F) with high humidity. Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and take rest in air-conditioned spaces during peak afternoon hours.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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