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.
Top spas
Curated picks for treatments and day spas.
Wellness retreats
Multi-day immersive experiences.
Higashiyama Onsen Ryokan Stay (2 nights)
Forest Bathing at Tsuchiyu Gorge
Signature treatments
Local specialties worth seeking out.
Items
Yoga & meditation
Studios, classes, and meditation centres.
Wellness travel tips
Get the most from your wellness experience.
Most traditional onsen do not allow entry with tattoos — confirm policy when booking, especially for public communal baths
The recommended onsen schedule is evening soak (after dinner, 20:00–21:30) and morning soak (before breakfast, 6:00–7:30) for the most restorative effect
Drink a glass of water before entering a hot spring bath (45°C+ water causes fluid loss)
'Soto-yu meguri' (visiting multiple different hot springs in one day) is a popular local ritual — Higashiyama has 5 different inns with day-bathing access