Kitashiobara travel guide and discussion

Some lakes are so incredibly turquoise and emerald that they look heavily edited—but these colors are completely natural. Here are some of Asia’s most breathtaking emerald lakes. 🎒Jiuzhaigou National Park — China Often called China’s most beautiful national park. Crystal-clear lakes change color from emerald green to deep turquoise depending on the sunlight. 📍Sichuan Province ✨ Best time to visit: September–October for autumn colors or May–June for lush greenery. ✈️ How to get there: Fly to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, then take a shuttle or taxi to the park. 🎒Kayangan Lake — Philippines Hidden between dramatic limestone cliffs, Kayangan Lake is famous for having some of the clearest water in Asia. The emerald water is so transparent that you can see the rocks beneath the surface. 📍Coron, Palawan ✨ Best time to visit: November–May. ✈️ How to get there: Fly to Busuanga Airport, then take a boat tour from Coron. 🎒Kelimutu Crater Lakes — Indonesia One of the most fascinating natural wonders in the world. These volcanic crater lakes are famous for changing colors over time—from emerald green and turquoise to black, brown, or even red due to volcanic activity. 📍Flores Island ✨ Best time to visit: Sunrise for the most spectacular views. 🎒Lake Kaindy — Kazakhstan A surreal mountain lake known for its submerged forest. The tops of ancient spruce trees rise above the emerald water, creating one of the most unique landscapes in Central Asia. 📍Kolsai Lakes National Park ✨ Best time to visit: May–September. 🇯🇵 Goshikinuma Ponds — Japan A collection of volcanic ponds famous for their vibrant shades of emerald, turquoise, cobalt blue, and jade green. Every pond has its own unique color thanks to volcanic minerals. 📍Fukushima Prefecture ✨ Best time to visit: Spring and autumn. #travel2026 #naturalwonders #lakeview

#underratedspots Hidden in the mountains of Fukushima Prefecture, Goshikinuma (Five-Colored Lakes) is one of Japan’s most underrated natural wonders. At first glance, it feels as if someone has painted the lakes with different shades of blue, emerald green, turquoise, and even reddish hues. 🌋 A Masterpiece Created by Nature These colorful ponds were formed after the eruption of Mount Bandai in 1888. Volcanic minerals dissolved in the water give each pond its own unique color, and the shades change throughout the day depending on the sunlight, weather, and seasons.  🚶 A Scenic Forest Walk The best way to experience Goshikinuma is by following the 3.6-kilometer nature trail, which winds through peaceful forests and passes a series of crystal-clear ponds. The leisurely walk takes around 70–80 minutes, making it perfect for families and casual hikers.  📸 Every Pond Has Its Own Personality From the deep cobalt blue of Ao-numa to the emerald waters of Bishamon-numa, no two ponds look exactly alike. On calm days, the colorful waters mirror the surrounding trees, creating postcard-perfect scenery at every turn. Some ponds are even home to brightly colored koi swimming beneath the surface.  🍁 Beautiful in Every Season 🌸 Spring brings fresh mountain greenery. ☀️ Summer offers cool forest trails and vibrant colors. 🍁 Autumn transforms the landscape with fiery maple leaves reflected on the lakes. ❄️ Winter covers the area in snow, while some ponds remain unfrozen thanks to volcanic minerals, making their brilliant colors stand out even more.  ✨ Goshikinuma is proof that some of Japan’s greatest treasures are still hidden away from the crowds. If you’re searching for a destination that combines peaceful hiking, volcanic landscapes, and unbelievably colorful lakes, this is a place you’ll never forget. 📍 Goshikinuma (Five-Colored Lakes), Urabandai, Fukushima, Japan 💙 Around 30 volcanic ponds and lakes 🚶 3.6 km scenic nature trail 🏞️ One of Japan’s most underrated natural attractions #Goshikinuma #Fukushima #Japan #FiveColoredLakes #HiddenJapan #VisitJapan #NatureLovers #JapanTravel #TripMoments #ExploreJapan 💙🌿🏞️

Fukushima is an unexpectedly fun prefecture! Here are five spots I particularly enjoyed. I planned my trip to Fukushima with the main goal of visiting British Hills, which was used as a filming location for my favorite drama, 'Hana Yori Dango.' 🏰 Seeing the filming locations of a beloved drama is something that excites everyone, right? It was amazing to think, 'This is where that scene was shot!' 😍 Fukushima is also full of other attractions like Ouchi-juku and Tsuruga Castle! The blue hues of Goshikinuma (Five Colored Lakes) were so stunning that they are etched in my memory. 🌿 Be sure to visit! 🤍

Enjoy a breathtaking view of the sunset over Lake Hibara from your room window. The open-air hot springs ♨️ boast both lakeside and mountain views, blending seamlessly into the scenery for a truly relaxing soak! The Lake Hibara boat ride area is just three minutes away (hotel guests receive discounted rates for boat rides), a truly worthwhile experience! Delicious peaches can be purchased at the visitor center across from Lake Hibara. Further inside is the entrance to Goshiki-numa Lake, and a ten-minute walk to the Blue Pond. This itinerary is perfect for all ages, and those with a keen sense of foot can explore the entire Goshiki-numa Lake complex. #Goshiki-numaLakes# A hotel not to be missed.

In addition to Lake Inawashiro, Mount Bandai offers many hidden forest trails that are worth discovering. For nature lovers, the Goshikinuma trail across from Lake Hibara is highly recommended. This 3.6-kilometer-long "Goshikinuma Nature Trail" takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to walk and allows visitors to admire a series of ponds, each with its own unique color. The ponds, such as "Aonuma" (Blue Pond), "Akanuma" (Red Pond), "Midoronuma" (Green Pond), "Rurinuma" (Lapis Lazuli Pond), and "Bishamonnuma" (Bishamon Pond), display different hues. The colors of the water change due to variations in light, seasons, weather, and the volcanic minerals present, resulting in shades of blue, green, reddish-brown, milky white, and more. This is why they are collectively called "Goshikinuma" (Five-Colored Ponds). In addition to the seasonal changes in scenery, the views during early morning and dusk also shift with the light, making a walk along the trail not only comfortable but also a visual feast~

Think Japan’s best snow is only in Hokkaido? Think again. Nekoma Ski Resort in Fukushima surprised us with soft, dry powder and empty runs that felt like our own private mountain. No lift queues, no stress—just pure snow bliss. 🎿 Our base? A cozy private lake villa with uninterrupted views of a frozen lake and the surrounding mountains. Waking up here felt like living inside a snow globe. Mornings on the slopes, evenings curled up in the sauna and at the fire with mulled wine. It was everything a winter escape should be. On the way back, we made a dreamy detour to Ouchijuku Village—an Edo-period post town frozen in time. Picture snow-covered thatched roofs, sizzling skewers by the street, and warm soba in an irori hearth. It was like stepping into a folktale. How to get there from Tokyo: · By public transport: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Koriyama Station (~1h 15m), then a direct bus or taxi to Nekoma Ski Resort (~1h 30m). To reach Ouchijuku Village, take a taxi or local bus from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (~30 min). · By car: Drive from Tokyo to Nekoma Ski Resort in about 3¼ hours (approx. 300 km). Parking is available near the resort and at Ouchijuku Village. Tip: Stay at the villa for the views, hit Nekoma’s tree runs, and don’t skip Ouchijuku—it’s a perfect cultural add-on to your ski trip. \#FukushimaSnow #NekomaSkiResort #OuchijukuVillage #LakeVillaViews #SkiJapan #WinterWanderlust #HiddenJapan #TripMoment

#Japan Travel Strategy The Inawashiro/Bandai area, located almost in the center of Fukushima Prefecture, is a highland area rich in nature with Mt. Bandai to the north and Lake Inawashiro to the south. Inawashiro is characterized by a basin that spreads at the foot of Mt. Bandai and a topography centered around Lake Inawashiro in the center of the basin. This is an introduction to a 1-night, 2-day gourmet trip while enjoying a drive. If you are planning a trip to Fukushima, I hope you will read to the end and use it as a reference for sightseeing efficiently. 🔸Area: Fukushima, Bandai area ───────────────── 🔸Time required: 2 days ───────────────── 🔸Transportation method: Car ─────────────── This time we visited 5 spots. 🔹Day 1 ❶ 11:30 Okubo Shoten, a specialty store of Aizu brand horse sashimi ↓ ↓ 🚗About 4km, about 5 minutes ↓ ❷ 12:40 Tenkyokaku ↓ ↓ 🚗About 27km, about 40 minutes ↓ ❸ 14:30 Lakewood Cafe, a sweets shop in Hilo ↓ ↓ 🚗About 6.5km, about 15 minutes ↓ ❹ 15:30 HOTELLI aalto · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · 🍴Gourmet spot 🔹Aizu brand horse meat specialty store Okubo Shoten 📍1110-1, Mitsuwa, Habakameme, Inawashiro-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima 969-3284 🔹Hiro's Sweets Shop Lakewood Cafe 📍1095-47, Soharayama, Hibara, Yama-gun, Fukushima 969-2701 ☘️Tourist Spots 🔹Tenkyokaku 📍1048, Okinazawa Gotenyama, Inawashiro-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima 969-3285 🏨Accommodation 🔹HOTELLI aalto 📍1073-1, Obuhira, Hibara, Kitashiobara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima 969-2701 5 3 · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • • ✤ • • • · · 🔹Day 2 ❶ 10:00 Morohashi Museum of Modern Art ↓ ↓ 🚗Approx. 16km, approx. 25 minutes ↓ ❷ 12:00 Inawashiro Herb Garden · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · ☘️Tourist Spots 🔹Morohashi Museum of Modern Art 📍1093 Hiharakenga Mine, Kitashiobara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima 969-2701 🔹Inawashiro Herb Garden 📍2-4-14 Kawageta Tennozaka, Inawashiro-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima 969-2663 · 1-6 #Domestic Travel #Fukushima #Museum #Cafe

I went to Goshikinuma Lake District in Fukushima Prefecture. It's relatively close to Lake Inawashiro and Mount Bandai. As the name suggests, there are many lakes and swamps. It's 4km one way, so I did some trail running while sightseeing! The autumn leaves were at their best along the way. (Although I didn't get many because I was just running.) There are many views that stand out against the green and blue of the water! #autumnleaves #outdoors

Active Resorts Urabandai is located at the foot of Mount Bandai in Fukushima Prefecture. A hotel located in a perfect location for a stroll, 7-8 minutes walk from Bishamon Lake in Goshiki-numa. The hotel has a large public bath and an open-air bath, and you can enjoy Goshiki Onsen. There is a souvenir shop, vending machines, and massages. You can relax in nature. *Active Resorts Urabandai 1093-309 Hibarakenga Mine, Kitashiobara Village, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture 969-2701 #East Japan #Hot Springs #Fukushima Prefecture #Goshiki Onsen

I stayed overnight at the adjacent Urabandai Grandeco Tokyu Hotel and enjoyed skiing❣️ Guests can ski directly from the hotel, but everyone else can enter through the front entrance. Unfortunately, the day I visited, it had rained, and it was December, so the snow hadn't piled up yet, and only some of the courses were open, but on days with good conditions, you can experience the powder snow that is also called divine snow❄️I still had a lot of fun, but the timing was bad...😅 The ski center also has a restaurant, shop, and rental and school reception, so it looks like you can enjoy it comfortably even for day trips! 📍Grandeco Snow Resort 〒969-2701 Hibara Arasunazawayama, Kitashiobara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture #ski resort #trip2022

Recommended for skiers and snowboarders‼️ The Urabandai Grandeco Tokyu Hotel is directly connected to the Grandeco Snow Resort, so you can ski straight from the hotel⛷ On the first floor of the hotel, there are ski lockers and changing rooms for guests only, as well as rental and school reception, so you can complete everything in the hotel without having to go outside in the cold✨ Once you're ready in the warm hotel, you can start skiing right away. You can ski back on the way back, so there's no need to carry your skis! Once you're done skiing, head straight to the hot springs♨️ After experiencing such a comprehensive experience, you'll never be able to go back to a normal ski resort😅 📍〒969-2701 Hibara Arasunazawayama, Kitashiobara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture #ski #resorthotel #trip2022

Introducing the breakfast and dinner I had at Urabandai Grandeco Tokyu Hotel 😋🍴 · Breakfast "Dining Room Claire" It seems to be a buffet usually, but perhaps because there were few guests, you could choose between Japanese or Western food at check-in. Both were very filling and filled you up. You can have refills of the set menu drinks. The restaurant has a large window from which you can see the snowy scenery outside, which was a great way to start the day ☀️ · Dinner "Japanese Cuisine Azuma" I had a Japanese kaiseki course! The staff brought each dish to me one by one, so I was able to eat calmly. Everything was delicious with a strong dashi flavor ♫ 📍〒969-2701 Hinohara Arasunazawayama, Kitashiobara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture #Hotelstay #trip2022

I stayed at the Urabandai Grandeco Tokyu Hotel, located in the nature-rich Urabandai Plateau! It's adjacent to the ski resort, so it's very convenient for skiers and snowboarders in the winter🏂 The lobby is Tokyu, with an unadorned, calm resort hotel atmosphere. On the first floor, there is a craft corner, a small library, a ski facility where you can ski directly from the hotel, and a hot spring. The room was a standard twin, but it was a chic room with a spacious sofa and a blue base. The hot spring seemed a little far away because it was beyond the ski locker area for guests, but I was able to warm up in the open-air bath. The hot spring after a cold ski is the best! ♨️ It was a recommended resort hotel that can be enjoyed all year round, with hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter♫ 📍〒969-2701 Hibara Arasunazawayama, Kitashiobara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture #ski resort #resort hotel #trip2022

#bucketlistdestinations I drove the Bandai-Azuma Skyline (closed Nov–April for snow) from Fukushima City, parked free at the Lake Hibara (Hibara-ko) north shore, and walked the 3 km lakeside boardwalk through a mossy forest of birch and spruce. The Bandai-Azuma Skyline toll is 1,570 JPY per car (cash or ETC; no card at the booth). Lake Hibara itself is free, open year-round, but the boardwalk gets slick with sphagnum after rain—I wore trail runners and slipped at the Sengokuhara overlook. A better call: waterproof shoes + trekking poles. I took the Bandai Tōge bus from Inawashiro Station (¥1,000 round trip, IC card accepted) on a second trip—easier than driving the hairpins in fog. The moss here isn’t delicate; it’s a thick carpet on fallen logs, glowing green in June’s “tsuyu” humidity. A local angler shared his smoked char and pointed to the band of cloud that hangs on the ridge by 3 pm—“that’s your signal to leave.” Mistake: I arrived at 1 pm in July—midges and tour buses. Go before 9 am or after 4 pm. No permits, no entry fee, pack out trash (bins are sparse). Is a toll road into a mossy lake still “wild” if the car window is rolled down?

#bucketlistdestinations The Bandai-Azuma Skyline is a 29 km scenic toll road (May–November) connecting Tsuchiyu Onsen to Inawashiro. I drove it in a rental car (toll 520 JPY, ETC card or cash) in early June. The highlight is Lake Hibara—a crater lake surrounded by mossy fir forests. I parked at the Hibara Lake Viewpoint (free) and hiked the 1.5 km lakeside trail (30 min). The moss here is thick on fallen logs and the base of fir trees, creating a “fairy tale” atmosphere. No permit, no fee. The road closes December–April for snow. I bought a 600 JPY “Bandai-Azuma Pass” at the Tsuchiyu Onsen tourist office (card accepted), which covers tolls and onsen discounts. Carry snacks; the only café at the lake closes by 16:00. Mistake: I underestimated the altitude (1,200 m)—it was 10°C in June. Bring a light jacket. Kindness beat: a local hiker shared his wild strawberry harvest and explained why the moss only grows on the north-facing slopes. “Kaze to kage ga kessei suru” (Wind and shade create it), he said. Should a scenic road be free, or should the toll protect the moss it passes through?

#easytravelpost The Bandai-Azuma Skyline is a 29 km toll road (¥1,470/car, closed Dec–Apr) from Fukushima City up to Azuma-Kofuji (1,705 m), parallel to the Bandai-Azuma Long Trail. I rented a car in Fukushima (¥8,000/day), drove the skyline, parked at the Fuboji lookout, then dropped to Lake Hibara (Kitashiobara) on the west side. The cliff moss is the skyline's north wall: Sphagnum and Pleurozium in the snowmelt stripes below Azuma-Kofuji (a mini-Fuji cone), Racomitrium on the pumice where the 1888 Bandai eruption scoured it, and Lake Hibara's east shore (free, 3 km loop) has Fissidens on the fallen beech logs. I walked the Fuboji→Kofuji 40 min boardwalk at 07:30 in July, the moss glowing, the lake behind me a flat mirror, a white-throated needletail over the rim. Hibara has a free auto-campground and a ¥500 canoe rental. Mistake: I drove the skyline in a 2WD in June and a late snowpatch on the north bend needed chains—May is too early, Jul–Oct safe. Another: I paid the ¥1,470 toll and thought Lake Hibara was also paid—lake shore is free, only the skyline road charges. Would you drive the Bandai-Azuma Skyline for the Kofuji moss rim and descend to Lake Hibara, or skip the toll and hike the Long Trail from Fukushima City side?

#easytravelpost The Bandai-Azuma Skyline runs 28.7 km Takayu Onsen→Tsuchiyu Pass, free since 2013, open ~April 21–mid-November (2026 opening Apr 21), closed in snow. I drove Fukushima City→Takayu (30 min), paid nothing at the gate, and stopped at Jododaira (1,350 m) for the Azuma-Kofuji crater rim walk (30 min loop, free). Then continued west, dropped to Lake Hibara (Urabandai side), parked at the Goshikinuma visitor centre (free), and walked the 3.6 km Goshikinuma nature trail—five colored ponds, birch and cedar, moss on the north boards. The "mossy ridge" is the Jododaira→Kofuji stretch where the dwarf pine and alpine rose (Rhododendron brachycarpum) grow on volcanic ash and the fog rolls in by 11:00. I did Jododaira at 08:00, Hibara + Goshikinuma at 13:00. Trailhead parking ¥500–700 elsewhere, but the Skyline itself is toll-free. Mistake: I drove the Skyline Nov 10 once and hit a snow gate at Tsuchiyu—mid-April to early Nov only, no exceptions. Another: I skipped the Kofuji rim walk thinking "small crater" and missed the best 360°; 30 min, do it. Would you drive the full Takayu→Tsuchiyu Skyline westbound and end at Goshikinuma, or reverse it for the Hibara morning light?

I tried out Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) for the first time, something I've been wanting to do in Urabandai during the summer🏄♀️ The plan I joined this time was the "SUP Lesson & Rental" held at Lake Onogawa. First, you get a 30-minute lesson from an instructor, and then you have 1.5 hours of free time to enjoy Lake Onogawa with this plan🏕️ Unlike the ocean, there are no big waves, so even though it was my first time, I was able to stand up surprisingly quickly🏄♂️ I didn't fall in this time, getting only my feet slightly wet and catching a few splashes💦 Slowly paddling across the lake while taking in the nature of Urabandai felt absolutely amazing🌿 Even in midsummer, the high elevation keeps the lake area cool, making it a perfect summer retreat activity☀️ 👕 What I Wore ・Swimsuit ・Swim-material hoodie and leggings ・Water shoes ・Regular hat ・Sunglasses I bought the hoodie, leggings, and water shoes cheaply online🛍️ Some people participated barefoot, but since there are rocks and gravel on the shore, it's safer to bring water shoes if you're worried about your feet hurting👌 🎒 What Was Available to Rent ・SUP board and paddle ・Life jacket ・Waterproof bag for valuables ・Glasses/sunglasses strap Even as a beginner, the polite instruction and rental gear made it super easy to join without needing to prepare a bunch of specialized equipment🙆♂️ There were even parents riding tandem with young elementary school kids, which surprised me by showing just how accessible this is😳 🚿 On-site Facilities ・Changing rooms ・Coin showers ・Restrooms All available, so even if you fall in, you can clean up nicely before heading home😂 This time, I was staying at EN RESORT Grandeco, so after SUP, I headed back to the hotel for a soak in the large public bath♨️ I could still use the bath even after checking out, which was super convenient to freshen up after playing in the lake before moving on to the next sightseeing spot✨ 🚗 Access Drove my own car to Lake Onogawa this time. ⏰ Experience Time 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM After taking the ~30-minute lesson, it's totally fine to finish up early if you want. 💰 Pricing Adults (Junior high and older): 5,000 yen Children (Ages 3 to elementary school): 3,000 yen Dogs: 3,000 yen 📅 Operating Season July to September Since there's a 30-minute lesson right at the start, "I've never done SUP before, will I be okay?" it's a very welcoming setup even for beginners who might be thinking this🙆 In Urabandai, ✔︎ You want to play somewhere cool even in summer ✔︎ You are looking for an activity that beginners can do ✔︎ You want to enjoy beautiful lake scenery Highly recommended for people like this🏄♀️🌿

Escaping the Tokyo summer heat with a 2-day, 1-night road trip to Fukushima for summer vacation 🚗🌿 From fresh seafood to Lake Inawashiro, a highland resort in Urabandai, paddleboarding (SUP), and Aizu gourmet food, this was the perfect itinerary for a summer getaway! 🚙 The Urabandai area was especially amazing ⛰️ Temperatures around the hotel stayed in the 20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit) even in midsummer. Taking the lift up to the ski resort area was even cooler—almost chilly in short sleeves! ❄️ We spent plenty of time around the lakes and highlands, making it an incredibly comfortable retreat from the heat 🙌 · Day 1 | Tokyo → Iwaki → Inawashiro → Urabandai First, we headed to Iwaki 🌊 For lunch, we went to Sakanaya Shokudo Urokoju 🐟 We ordered the small tempura bowl and the sashimi set meal 🍚 Even though it was called a "small" tempura bowl, it came with shrimp, three kinds of fish, and kakiage (mixed tempura)—definitely a satisfying portion for one person! 😳 The sashimi was, of course, incredibly fresh and delicious 😋 The seafood bowls and simmered fish looked amazing too 🐟 We arrived around 1:30 PM during the peak summer holiday season and waited about 30 minutes inside 🏃‍♀️ After eating, we bought some souvenirs at Iwaki Lalamew 🛍️ Then, we drove toward the Inawashiro area 🚙 Enjoying a scenic drive with views of Lake Inawashiro, we stopped to buy some pastries at MINATOYA BAKERY INAWASHIRO 🥐 Next up was Michi-no-Eki Inawashiro (roadside station), where we stocked up on: ・Fukushima souvenirs ・Late-night snacks for the hotel ・Alcoholic drinks before heading up to the higher elevation of Urabandai ⛰️ We stayed at EN RESORT Grandeco for the night 🏨 It was significantly cooler than Tokyo and Iwaki, and we had a relaxing time in the large public bath and sauna ♨️ · Day 2 | Urabandai → Aizu-Wakamatsu → Tokyo After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we headed to Lake Onogawa 🏄‍♀️ We joined a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tour partnered with our hotel. The lake was pristine and quiet, and the air was cool even in midsummer—making it the perfect spot for our first SUP experience ☀️ After paddleboarding, we headed back to the hotel for a quick dip in the hot springs ♨️ Next, we took the lift up to the ski resort area 🚠⛰️ The higher elevation made it even cooler, dropping the temperature to around 20°C (68°F) despite it being summer ❄️ We enjoyed some tea at the top while taking in the views, savoring the cool mountain air for a while ☕️ This was the spot where we really felt that "escaping to a cool place in midsummer" vibe the most ⛷️ In the afternoon, we drove to Aizu-Wakamatsu 🚙 For a late lunch, we went to Aizu Yamashio Shokudo near Aizu-Wakamatsu Station 🍜 Here you can get Aizu's famous ・Yamashio (mountain salt) Ramen ・Sauce Katsudon (breaded pork cutlet rice bowl) and enjoy both! 🍜 Surprisingly few restaurants are open between 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM, and since this is a popular spot, we had to wait about 30 minutes 🏃‍♀️ After our meal, we squeezed in a quick visit to Tsuruga Castle before heading home 🏯 We didn't do a long sightseeing tour; instead, we just took a brief stroll around the castle grounds. Finally, we drove back to Tokyo while gazing at the lovely townscape of Aizu 🚗 📍 This Trip's Route Tokyo ↓ Iwaki - Sakanaya Shokudo Urokoju ↓ Iwaki Lalamew ↓ Lake Inawashiro ↓ MINATOYA BAKERY INAWASHIRO ↓ Michi-no-Eki Inawashiro (Roadside Station) ↓ EN RESORT Grandeco ↓ Lake Onogawa SUP ↓ Grandeco Lift ↓ Aizu-Wakamatsu Station - Aizu Yamashio Shokudo ↓ Tsuruga Castle ↓ Tokyo Packing the ocean, lakes, highlands, hot springs, and delicious Fukushima food into a 2-day, 1-night trip— and being able to travel while stopping at delightfully cool places even in midsummer was the best part of this itinerary ◎ "A summer retreat accessible by car from Tokyo" "I want to do outdoor activities even in summer" "I want to enjoy hot springs and great food" I highly recommend this Fukushima road trip for anyone looking for these things! 🌿

Took a spontaneous 2-day, 1-night road trip to Fukushima during the Obon holidays🚗🌿 This time, I stayed at "EN RESORT Grandeco" in Urabandai. Grandeco is typically known as a winter ski resort, but it's also incredibly comfortable as a summer getaway! Even just around the hotel, it's significantly cooler than the lowlands, with temperatures in the 20s (°C) during my stay. Taking the lift further up to the ski area, it dropped to around 20°C (68°F), making it feel almost chilly in short sleeves❄️ 🏨 Hotel Facilities ・Spacious guest rooms with separate bath and toilet ・Large public bath (including an open-air bath) ・Sauna ・Indoor/Outdoor pools ・Breakfast and dinner buffets featuring local gourmet dishes ・Various activities On the grounds, you can enjoy table tennis, badminton, soap bubbles, rental bikes, and hiking, making it a highly convenient option for traveling with kids👦 This time, I joined the "Lake Onogawa SUP Tour" affiliated with the hotel🏄♀️ The lake was so peaceful, and the scenery was absolutely beautiful. It was cool even in midsummer, creating an environment that's easy to enjoy even for SUP beginners🙌 I was also planning to join a night tour, but it was unexpectedly canceled due to a bear sighting🐻 Experiencing things unique to a mountain resort like this just added to the memories...! I drove there this time, but there's a hotel shuttle bus available, so it's accessible by public transit too🚌 When you want to escape the Tokyo heat for a bit, Urabandai in summer is a fantastic choice with its "cool weather, hot springs, and activities"◎

✨ Welcoming the sunrise at Lake Sohara in Fukushima Prefecture was my most stunning travel experience this year! The sheer awe and power of it was simply incredible! 💫 📍【Detailed Address】 969-2701, Sohara-yama-harunuma, Kitashiohara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan (Japanese: 福島県耶馬郡北塩原村苏原山懧原969-2701) 🚌【Transportation Guide】 Super convenient from Tokyo: ① Shinkansen 🚅 to Koriyama Station ② Transfer to the Bankoshi West Line to Inawashiro Station ③ Transfer to a bus (approx. 30 minutes) Even faster by car 🚗: Tohoku Expressway → Inawashiro-Bandai-Kogen IC Exit → Approx. 15-minute drive 🌄【Sunrise Experience Tips】 Arrive 1 hour early! Arrive around 5:00 AM for best viewing time ⏰ Bring a thick coat & hot drinks to keep warm ☕ A tripod is essential for time-lapse photography 📸 🌊 As dawn breaks, the inky black lake resembles exquisite glass 🌅 The orange-red horizon gradually transforms into a blaze of golden light ⛰ The sharp edges of Mount Bandai are instantly sculpted by the morning light ✨ A stunning reflection perfectly floats on the mirror-like lake The breathtaking moment... words fail me! 😭 💭 Although it's chilly in the early morning 🥶 This magnificent sunrise is worth the wait! 👑 ⚠️ Tips: ▪ Best viewing season: Spring and Autumn ▪ Parking is available nearby 🚗 ▪ Remember to bring a power bank and snacks ▪ The temperature difference is significant in the early morning, dress warmly! 🧥 ✨ Welcoming the sunrise at Lake Sohara in Fukushima Prefecture was my most amazing travel experience this year! This pure, breathtaking feeling is absolutely amazing! 💫 📍【Detailed Address】 969-2701, Soharayama-jinuma, Kitashiohara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan (Japanese: 福島県耶馬郡北塩原村苏原山懧原969-2701) 🚌【Transportation Guide】 Super convenient from Tokyo: ① Shinkansen 🚅 to Koriyama Station ② Transfer to the Bankoshi West Line to Inawashiro Station ③ Transfer to a bus (approx. 30 minutes) Even faster by car 🚗: Tohoku Expressway → Inawashiro-Bandai-Kogen IC Exit → Approx. 15-minute drive 🌄【Sunrise Experience Tips】 We recommend arriving 1 hour early! Arrive around 5:00 AM for best viewing time ⏰ Bring a thick coat & hot drinks to keep warm ☕ A tripod is essential for time-lapse photography 📸 🌊 At dawn, the inky black lake resembles exquisite glass 🌅 The orange-red horizon gradually transforms into a blaze of golden light ⛰ The sharp edges of Panti Mountain are instantly sculpted by the morning light ✨ A stunning reflection perfectly floats on the mirror-like lake The breathtaking moment... words fail to describe it! 😭 💭 Although it's chilly in the morning 🥶 This magnificent sunrise is worth the wait! 👑 ⚠️ Tips: ▪ Best viewing season: Spring and Autumn ▪ Parking is available nearby 🚗 ▪ Remember to bring a power bank and snacks ▪ The temperature difference is significant in the morning, so dress warmly! 🧥

Onsen and sauna… so good

Skiing in Inawashiro over the New Year is seriously an amazing bang for your buck! No need to fight the crowds at all, and the experience totally exceeded our expectations! We kicked off our trip in Sendai. 📅 Itinerary Skiing in Inawashiro over the New Year is seriously an amazing bang for your buck! No need to fight the crowds at all, and the experience totally exceeded our expectations! 🤩⛷️ We first spent two days and one night in Sendai, hitting the shops and stuffing ourselves with their famous thick-cut beef tongue 👅🛍️. After that, we took an approximately two-hour drive down to Inawashiro. This time around, we stayed at the Mercure Urabandai Resort & Spa for about $700 a night with breakfast included, which is a total steal! The breakfast spread was decent enough, but the hotel really shines with its stellar facilities. They've got a massive hot spring and even offer massages ♨️💆‍♂️. Soaking and chilling out there after a day on the slopes is straight-up heaven! Later, we hit up Nekoma Ski Resort. It was uncrowded with beautiful runs and top-tier powder snow—absolutely perfect for powder hounds ❄️🏂. While there aren't many big chain restaurants around downtown Inawashiro, we lucked out and found a super authentic, local izakaya run by an elderly gentleman. It had great vibes and comes highly recommended. Overall, Inawashiro is an absolute god-tier, budget-friendly spot to level up your ski game! 💯👍 🏨 Recommended Accommodations Daiwa Roynet Hotel Sendai-nishiguchi PREMIER Mercure Urabandai Resort & Spa 🍴 Recommended Food Beef Tongue Izakaya Name: Taishu Kappo Kiraku or Izakaya Don Charcoal Grilled Beef Tongue Zenjirou (Tan-ya Zenjirou) 📌 Practical Tips

Spanish painter Salvador Dalí. He is a globally beloved artist known for his truly one-of-a-kind style. Surprisingly, one of the world's largest collections of Dalí's works is actually located right here in Japan. Why not embark on a journey across Japan to chase Dalí? You can visit a hidden gem of a museum in Fukushima Prefecture, Tohoku region, and a special exhibition currently taking place in Tokyo. June is your chance to go! 🎨 Morohashi Museum of Modern Art @ Fukushima Prefecture → A magnificent Western-style mansion that suddenly appears in the lush, nature-filled area near Goshikinuma. This museum is famous for its Salvador Dalí collection, boasting an incredible 300-plus pieces. The stunning gardens are also a must-see. 🎨 Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery @ Tokyo → Located at Hatsudai Station, this gallery is hosting the "Expanding Surrealism: From Visual Arts to Advertising, Fashion, and Interior Design" exhibition until June 24. Along with Dalí's masterpieces, you'll find spectacular works by de Chirico and Schiaparelli, making it well worth the visit. The art gallery is super easy to get to, and the Morohashi Museum of Modern Art features breathtaking architecture and gardens, so I highly encourage you to visit even if you aren't an art expert. A trip to experience the Spanish painter Dalí in Japan is highly recommended!

#japanhotel Urabandai Lake Resort offers a serene retreat in the heart of nature, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Fukushima’s highlands. Overlooking the beautiful Lake Hibara, the resort provides a perfect balance of relaxation and scenic beauty. The changing seasons add a unique charm, from vibrant autumn foliage to peaceful snow-covered winters. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, many featuring stunning lake or mountain views that create a calming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy soothing hot spring baths, which are a highlight of the stay, offering relaxation after a day of exploring the outdoors. Nearby trails, boating activities, and sightseeing spots make it ideal for nature lovers. The dining experience is satisfying, with a variety of local and international dishes. Urabandai Lake Resort is perfect for travelers seeking peace, fresh air, and a deeper connection with nature in a quiet, picturesque setting.

#winterescape Nishigo might not be on every traveler’s radar, but that’s exactly why it hits different 😊🍃. This little town in Fukushima Prefecture is perfect for anyone wanting a quiet escape, clean air, and serious countryside views. Here are the top spots you gotta check out if you’re heading there! Must-Visit Attractions in Nishigo: 1. Nasu Mountains’ Panoramic Spots Hit up the scenic viewpoints along Route 43—the early morning clouds make the peaks extra dreamy and there’s barely another soul around. 2. Nishigo Onsen Nothing beats soaking in a steaming hot spring here after wandering the forests. Local run-onsens (like “Nishigo Yu” in central town) feel super authentic and cost under ¥500. 3. Mt. Bandai Day Trip It’s an easy train or car ride; spend the day hiking or bring your camera for some epic lake shots at Goshikinuma Ponds! Practical Tips · Transport: If you can, rent a car to make the most of this rural region. Buses are sparse and trains only hit the main stations. · Food: Grab soba noodles at a local family-run shop (ask for “Nishigo soba”—super fresh and earthy). Many places are cash-only, so do hit up an ATM in advance. · Best Time to Go: Spring and autumn are gorgeous for cherry blossoms or fiery maple leaves. Overall, Nishigo is about slow travel—wander the tiny streets, chat with friendly locals, and take in the peace. It’s a slice of authentic Japan most folks skip! #NishigoFinds #JapanCountryside #SobaLover #OnsenTime

Hidden in the Bandai region of Fukushima Prefecture in northeastern Japan lies a gemstone sculpted by nature—Goshikinuma (Five-Colored Lake). Often called "Japan's Jiuzhaigou," it's a fantastical landscape woven from volcanic activity and the passage of time. For those who love natural scenery and seek a tranquil, healing journey, Goshikinuma is undoubtedly a secret paradise you'll want to return to again and again. The Origin and Naming of Goshikinuma Goshikinuma isn't a single lake, but rather the "Goshikinuma Lake Group," comprised of dozens of lakes and marshes. This dreamlike landscape was created in 1888 when the eruption of Mount Bandai blocked rivers with ejected debris, forming hundreds of lakes and marshes. Due to the rich volcanic minerals (such as iron and manganese) in the water, and the reflective properties of plant matter, the water in each lake displays a variety of unique colors depending on the weather, viewing angle, and sunlight, such as emerald green, cobalt blue, and turquoise. Therefore, it is collectively known as "Goshikinuma" (Five-Colored Lake). Must-Visit Highlights: Exploring Nature's Palette A leisurely hike along the famous "Goshikinuma Nature Trail" is approximately 3.6 to 4 kilometers long, taking about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1.5 hours one way. This route will take you to several of the most iconic lakes and marshes: · **Bishamonuma:** As the largest lake in the Goshikinuma group, this is the starting point for many visitors. The lake displays a beautiful cobalt blue-green hue. Most notably, you can rent a rowboat to admire the stunning reflection of Mount Bandai in the center of the lake. Legend has it that heart-shaped carp inhabit the lake, and seeing one might bring good luck in finding love. · **Akanuma:** As its name suggests, due to the high iron content in the water, the lake often displays a unique sheen with reddish or brownish hues, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding greenery. It is said to be one of the filming locations for the popular anime "Detective Conan." · **Aonuma and Rurinuma:** These represent the ultimate expression of blue. Aonuma's lake boasts a dreamlike cobalt blue hue, while Ruri-numa, true to its name, radiates a jewel-like sheen that shifts with the viewing angle, making it a popular spot for photographers to capture breathtaking moments. · Benten-numa: This lake offers expansive views, providing an excellent vantage point for gazing at Mt. Bandai and the surrounding mountains. In autumn, it's a must-visit for admiring the reflections of vibrant red leaves. The stunning scenery changes with the seasons. The charm of Goshikinuma lies in its ever-changing beauty, offering a refreshing change no matter when you visit. · Spring (April-May): With lingering snow and newly sprouted greenery, cherry blossoms dot the lake and mountain landscape, creating a vibrant scene. · Summer (June-August): In the height of summer, the forest trails are cool and pleasant, and the lake water, bathed in direct sunlight, displays a dazzling array of colors, making it a perfect time for hiking and escaping the heat. · Autumn (October-November): The most beautiful season of the year. Maple and larch trees along the lake don their autumn attire of red and yellow, weaving a dreamlike, painterly world against the backdrop of the turquoise lake. · Winter (December-March): Snow blankets the land, transforming Goshikinuma into a serene, silvery-white world. You can snowshoe on the soft snow, exploring the unique winter scenery, and perhaps even spotting wildlife along the way. Detailed Transportation Information · Address: 1093-1055, Kenmine, Hinohara-ji, Kitashiohara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture. · Public Transportation: 1. First, take the JR Ban'e West Line to "Inawashiro Station". 2. After exiting the station, transfer to the "Bandai Toto Bus" towards Ura-Bandai. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Get off at "Goshikinuma Ichimon" and walk for about 5 minutes to reach the entrance to the Tanshoji Trail. · By Car: Exit at the "Inawashiro-Bandai Kogen IC" interchange on the Bantetsu Expressway and continue driving for about 20 minutes. Free parking is available nearby. Travel Tips · Admission: Free admission, open year-round. · Equipment Recommendations: The trail is well-maintained and mostly flat; regular sneakers are sufficient. If visiting in winter, joining a local snowshoeing tour is highly recommended for safety. #travel2026

Located in the "Lakewood Area" of Fukushima Prefecture's Urabandai region, which is dotted with various lakes and ponds, Hiro's Confectionery Shop originally started as a handmade sweets shop by the previous generation, who ran a pension. The shop offers homemade sweets made with local ingredients. Its signature menu item, "Hanamame Mont Blanc," is a Mont Blanc dessert made with hanamame beans, a specialty of Kitashiobara Village. Similar to chestnut Mont Blanc, the hanamame beans are made into a paste. Hanamame beans are difficult to cultivate unless grown at altitudes above 800 meters and have traditionally been eaten as preserved food in the local area. · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · · · • • • ✤ • • • · · Access 📍 Address: 1095-47 Soharayama, Hibara, Kitashiobara Village, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture, 969-2701 🔸 Business Hours (Regular) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (May close earlier if sold out) · Winter hours and days may vary; checking the official website or calling is recommended. 🔸 Closed Days Regular: Tuesdays and Wednesdays · During winter, may only operate on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays.