winter

Only see it now! 4 spots in Fukushima Prefecture where you can see spectacular winter views

Snow, ice, and cold winds... Fukushima Prefecture is hit by bitterly cold winters, but it is precisely because of this cold that some beautiful scenery .

This time, we'll introduce four carefully selected "winter scenic spots" that will thrill anyone who sees them. Be sure to bundle up before heading out

Ouchijuku: A snowy landscape that makes you feel like you've traveled back in time

Ouchi-juku
Snowy scenery of Ouchijuku

Ouchijuku in Shimogo Town, Minamiaizu District, known as a post town where Japan's original landscape remains .

This village retains the atmosphere of an Edo period post town and has been designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings by the national government. The winter scenery of Ouchi-juku, with its thatched roofs covered in thick snow, is somehow nostalgic

During the Edo period, Ouchi-juku was located on the Shimotsuke Kaido road, a road that connected Aizu-Wakamatsu and Shimotsuke Imaichi-juku (a post town in present-day Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture). As a key transportation hub, it was a place where many people passed through. In order to preserve the vestiges of that time for future generations, Ouchi-juku has established a Residents' Charter of "Do not sell, rent, or destroy." The town is working to preserve the landscape. Furthermore, thatched roofs require specialized skills. Therefore, the local residents themselves are participating in thatched roof preservation activities and working to pass on the techniques

Ouchijuku holds a snow festival every February. In addition to a variety of events, you can enjoy the fantastic scenery of snow lanterns lit up at night. Be sure to check it out

Ouchi-juku＜Information＞

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The frozen surface of Lake Hibara is a mecca for smelt fishing

Lake Hibara
Lake Hibara with its frozen surface

The Urabandai area is dotted with lakes of various sizes, including Lake Hibara, Lake Onogawa, and Lake Akimoto, all of which were created by the eruption of Mount Bandai. Lake Hibara in particular is a popular winter leisure spot

During the harsh winter, Lake Hibara's surface freezes completely, revealing a dignified world. A vast expanse of pure white ice that seems to go on forever. Beyond it stands the towering, snow-capped Mount Bandai. Many people are shocked by this sight, experiencing the grandeur of nature and something out of the ordinary

Smelt fishing a winter activity that is synonymous with Lake Hibara . Ice fishing can only be enjoyed once the lake has completely frozen over (usually from mid-January onwards). At other times of the year, you can try fishing from a dome boat or houseboat, which are recommended even for beginners. The indoor facilities are fully heated, so you can stay warm and comfortable. Some facilities even offer a service where they will cook the smelt you catch on the spot. Savoring freshly fried smelt tempura or karaage is a one-of-a-kind experience.

Lake Hibara <Information>

  • Name: Lake Hibara
  • Address: Kitashiobara Village, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture
  • Website (Urabandai Tourism Association): https://www.urabandai-inf.com/

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Takayu Onsen: Enjoy the ultimate snow-viewing bath

Takayu Onsen
Takayu Onsen in winter

hot spring with a history of about 400 years since it first opened .

It is a hidden place nestled in the mountains at an altitude of 750m. The milky white water has long been known as one of the prefecture's leading hot spring resorts, with a dedicated following

Takayu Onsen is located at a high altitude, and the winters are exceptionally cold. The snow that falls stays on the ground and remains until early spring. It is precisely because of this bitter cold that the snow scenery seen from the open-air bath is exceptional. While enjoying the snow-viewing bath, you will be warmed to the core. You can have an unforgettable hot spring experience

In addition to inns and lodges, Takayu Onsen also offers day trips to the public bathhouse "Attakayu." Please be careful of icy roads and drive safely when visiting

Takayu Onsen＜Information＞

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Spray ice: a work of art carved by nature

Splash ice
Spray ice on Lake Inawashiro

you can see the spectacular winter scenery of spray ice

Spray ice is formed when lake water is stirred up by the wind and slams against the trees and rocks on the shore. The way it reflects the colors of the sky and sparkles is a true work of nature

It can only be seen when the natural conditions of cold, wind, and waves are just right. Whether you can see it or not is up to luck. Be sure to visit for a photo opportunity with the majestic Lake Inawashiro and Mount Bandai in the background

Lake Inawashiro <Information>

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Fukushima Prefecture is also attractive for its winter scenery!

This time, we introduced some spectacular views of Fukushima Prefecture that can only be seen in winter

During the bitterly cold season, it's tempting to stay indoors. However, when you come across beautiful scenery that can only be seen in winter, you might find yourself thinking, "Huh? Maybe I actually like winter?"

This winter, why not enjoy a special trip to Fukushima, where you can experience the beauty of silvery white snow?

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