Aizu Lacquerware Painting Experience
The art of "Maki-e" involves decorating lacquer items with metallic lacquer or lacquer-like paint. During this experience, you can decorate an Aizu lacquerware item using Maki-e techniques. Suzuzen, a wholesaler and museum, has been honing the craft for over 180 years and is one of Japan's most emblematic spots for Aizu lacquerware and maki-e. First, you will explore the Suzuzen exhibitions and deepen your knowledge of Aizu lacquerware, which originated in the Aizu region of Fukushima prefecture over 600 years ago. Then, you will choose an Aizu lacquer item (a rice bowl, spoon, glass, etc.) and decorate it as you choose under the guidance of a seasoned craftsperson. Aizu, a region surrounded by mountains and famous for having been one of the last enclaves of the samurai, has been creating lacquer crafts for centuries and is a great destination to learn more about this art form. Please note that there are written explanations in English at the site, but this experience will be led in Japanese with limited to no English guidance available. If you would like to have an English interpreter come along with you, please check our Interpreter Guide: https://fukushima.travel/guide-interpreter/en/ ① Deepen your understanding of lacquer and Aizu lacquerware at “Suzuzen”, which has lacquerware pieces on exhibit. ② Learn more about Aizu lacquerware by watching professional craftspeople at work. ③ Paint your own “maki-e” lacquerware under the guidance of a pro. The lacquer-like paint is formulated to not cause itching.
Days of week: Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
JPY 8,000
Akabeko Painting Experience
Paint your own akabeko, Fukushima's 'lucky cow'! First, we recommend exploring the historic Tsurugajo Castle, one of the stages of the Meiji Restoration which shaped Japanese history as we know it (the fee for entering the castle is not included in this experience). Take in its gorgeous views, then take a breather with some freshly-made warm matcha green tea in the tea room, and move on to paint your very own akabeko at the Tsurugajo Kaikan. More information about the akabeko painting experience here: https://fukushima.travel/destination/paint-your-own-akabeko/88 Please note that this experience will be led in Japanese language with limited to no English guidance available. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter for a separate fee.
Days of week: Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
JPY 1,430
Bamboo Fishing Experience
During this experience,you will try the traditional way of fishing in Soma City using bamboo. You’ll make the fishing rods out of bamboo sticks, then use the leftover bamboo grass to try your hand at traditional “sasabitashi” fishing. The joy of catching a fish with a fishing rod you made yourself will surely become unforgettable memories! Please note that this experience will be led in Japanese language with limited to no English guidance available. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter for a separate fee.
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日本、福島県相馬市尾浜追川 松川浦漁港
Burari Bus One-Day Unlimited Pass
The Tadami line is famous in Japan and abroad for its astounding visuals and taking visitors to places off the beaten track. However, in the past guests have been concerned that, even if they’re interested in seeing the beautiful views, it’s impossible without a car. But now, with the Burari Bus One-Day Unlimited Pass, the viewpoints of the Tadami Line are accessible via a special loop bus that departs from and returns to the bus terminal opposite Aizu-Wakamatsu Station. Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fa3TcxNTWV6bimLQ6 With this pass, you’ll be able to ride the Burari Bus as much as you like, with the bus running on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Combining it with local train routes will allow you to broaden your scope and visit all of the sights that the region has to offer. The pass can be bought from the Fukushima Travel website. The adult fare is 3,080 yen (2,800 yen plus a handling fee of 10%). The fare for children (12 years old and below) is 1,375 yen (1,250 yen plus handling fee). The bus will run on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays between October 5th 2024 and November 30th 2024. (Schedules for winter are currently being prepared.) This pass allows you to hop on and off the bus and prepare your own itinerary. For an example course that encompasses the major sights on offer, please see below: https://fukushima.travel/itineraries/tadami-viewpoint-bus-trip/45 For larger versions of the timetable and calendar, please view them here: Calendar: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LNukocB4l5C2_-ygW_QA0ZOQYD1ljdl4/view?usp=sharing Daily timetable: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jEzkb0B9Tk-_EhbnncLox03Bqz9FYjFu/view?usp=drive_link Please be aware that we cannot accept bookings made within 3 days of your trip. We kindly ask for bookings to be made in advance. (Also, we unfortunately cannot provide refunds if the e-ticket has already been provided.) If for any reason the booking page displays in Japanese, the language can be changed using the menu in the upper right-hand corner.
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Coast Horseback Riding
This beginner-friendly tour is recommended even for those who have never been horseback riding before! Explore the coast of Minamisoma City by horse. Minamisoma is a city located in the coastal area of Fukushima prefecture, where the famous Soma Nomaoi festival is held every year. You will ride along the beach with the support of a trained guide. This experience is available in English or Japanese. After riding, you will have time to interact with the horses and take pictures. This is a recommended tour for horse lovers and those who want to try horse riding!
Days of week: Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
日本、福島県南相馬市小高区東町1丁目 小高駅
JPY 15,000
Drift Taxi Experience
NOTE: The Ebisu Circuit Drift Taxi Experience is extremely popular and reservations cannot be accepted at this time. The course is fully booked through December, and the track will be closed during winter on account of snow. Drift with a pro! Experience thrilling speeds and discover the secrets of pro drifters. Ebisu Circuit in Nihonmatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, is a paradise for drifting, a technique where a car is oversteered to the point where the rear tires lose their grip on the road. Petrolheads from around the world come together to experience the unique opportunity of drifting in the stunning mountainous backdrop and unique atmosphere of the circuit. During this experience, you will sit in a car designed like a taxi, and a drift school teacher will take you blazing through the circuits. Even if you can’t drive, you can still enjoy the thrill of drifting! Please note that this experience will be conducted in English with limited proficiency. Thank you for your understanding. ① Put on a helmet and experience drifting in the passenger and back seats ② Navigate three courses with a pro drifter and experience top speeds and techniques ※ Up to three passengers per car. More information about the Drift Taxi Experience: https://fukushima.travel/blogs/drift-taxi-experience-at-the-ebisu-circuit-/148 Access & more information about the Ebisu circuit: https://fukushima.travel/blogs/ebisu-circuit-a-drift-paradise/11
Days of week: Tue,Thu,Fri,Sat
JPY 50,000
Experience private tea ceremony - Oyakuen Garden (Aizu-Wakamatsu City)
"EXPERIENCE PRIVATE TEA CEREMONY WHILE TAKING IN THE SAME VIEWS THAT WERE ONCE ENJOYED BY THE LORD OF THE AIZU DOMAIN." Oyakuen Garden is a villa area loved by successive feudal lords of Aizu, and its interior is a spectacular sight in winter. Why not wear Aizu Momen and enjoy the tea ceremony culture of Aizu from the Ochaya Palace, where successive feudal lords soothed their fatigue?
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Extreme Onsen Experience
On this tour, you will hike the active volcano of Mount Adatara, then jump into a natural hot spring. Being able to both climb a mountain and soak in hot springs is a one-of-a-kind experience rarely seen even in Japan. This is a rare opportunity to experience a wild onsen first-hand. After your hike, you'll have a chance to relax with coffee and snacks at a nearby rest station. More information: https://fukushima.travel/blogs/japans-best-wild-onsen-taking-the-extreme-onsen-challenge/100 Note: For safety reasons, this tour is only available from spring-early autumn (approximately from May to November, depending on the year), when there is no snow on the mountains. Thank you for your understanding. Depending on the day, this activity might available in English or Japanese. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter.
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日本、福島県猪苗代町蚕養沼尻山甲2864
Fox Mask Painting Experience
Dive into the centuries-old world of Fukushima’s “hariko” papier-mâché crafting technique and make your very own one-of-a-kind fox mask! On this tour, you’ll learn about the characteristics and process of making hariko dolls using Japanese washi paper, a craft that has been practiced since the Edo Period (1603-1868). You’ll then get to see experienced craftspeople work on their own creations! Lastly, you’ll make your very own hariko fox mask under the tutelage of a professional craftsperson. Please note that this experience will be led in Japanese language with limited to no English guidance available. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter for a separate fee. ① Learn about the characteristics and process of making hariko dolls at Takashiba Dekoyashiki ② Pick what type of fox mask you want to paint (male or female) ③ Create your own original fox mask using a wide array of colors
Days of week: Tue,Thu,Fri,Sat
JPY 1,540
Fruit Picking Experience
Pick delicious seasonal fruits in the fruit kingdom of Fukushima! Enjoy picking fruits and a 30-minute all-you-can-eat course at Marusei Orchard, which grows cherries, peaches, apples, and more depending on the season. When you’re done, we recommend heading next door to Farm Cafe Forest Garden to savor super photogenic fruit parfaits. They also have a souvenir shop where you can buy seasonal fruits and fruit products such as juices and compotes. Please note that this experience will be led in Japanese language with limited to no English guidance available. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter for a separate fee. ① Learn how to pick and choose the best fruits from fruit farmers ② Pick seasonal fruits and eat as many as you can in 30 minutes on an 8-hectare orchard! ③ (Optional, not included in the price) Savor exquisite parfaits while admiring nature at the cafe next door! For a full guide to Fukushima fruit picking, including how to get to the Fruit Line, visit our website below: https://fukushima.travel/blogs/how-to-enjoy-fruit-picking-in-fukushima-the-ultimate-guide/155 Cherries 2024/06/30-07/16 Peaches 2024/07/17-09/29 Apples 2024/10/01-12/22 Please contact us for details about other fruits.
Days of week: Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
Japan, Fukushima, Iizakamachi Hirano, Morimae−50-1 まるせい果樹園
JPY 770
Fukushima Taxi: Disaster Memorial Course (伝承館コース)
The Great East Japan Earthquake of March 11, 2011 devastated huge swathes of the Tohoku region; in Fukushima Prefecture alone, over 4,000 people lost their lives. Known by many locals as the triple disaster – earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear power plant failure – the events of 2011 stand as one of the most severe disasters in modern history. Although citizens of coastal areas were ordered to evacuate in the aftermath of the disaster, extensive revitalization efforts have allowed people to come back, and as of 2024, the ‘difficult-to-return’ zone covers just 2.2% of Fukushima Prefecture. On this route, you’ll visit some of the most important places for learning more about the disaster and the effect it had on the local community.
Days of week: Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
JPY 67,000
Fukushima Taxi: Skyline Mountain Course
As the third largest prefecture in Japan, Fukushima is an excellent choice for visitors looking to escape the crowds of Tokyo and lose themselves in nature. The mountainous regions of Fukushima offer astonishing views that change and evolve with the seasons; in this trip, you’ll visit two of the most beautiful, both located just west of Fukushima City. First you’ll be whisked up the Bandai-Azuma Skyline sightseeing road, voted one of the best 100 roads in Japan, on your way to the rocky Jododaira Plateau. From there you’ll be able to access Mt. Azuma-Kofuji and its iconic crater, and witness the beautiful foliage and pristine waters of Lake Okenuma.
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Japan, Fukushima, Tsuchiyuonsenmachi, 鷲倉山1 浄土平ビジターセンター
JPY 49,500
Fukushima Taxi: Traditional Garden Course
No trip to Japan is complete without experiencing the serenity of a traditional Japanese garden. Often the exclusive property of great lords in years past, wandering their sandy paths can easily transport you back hundreds of years, since their designs have stood largely unchanged ever since. On this course, you’ll visit two of Fukushima’s most eye-pleasing and historically significant locations; Minka-en Open-Air Museum with its traditional architecture, and Jorakuen, the splendid garden with an abundance of greenery and a calm, peaceful atmosphere.
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JPY 50,000
Fukushima Taxi: Tsurugajo Castle Course (鶴ヶ城コース)
The western region of Fukushima Prefecture, centred around the city of Aizu-Wakamatsu, is known for being the prefecture’s most ‘traditional’ wing. Featuring castles, gardens, architecture, food and scenery that can’t be experienced anywhere else, there is a reason why this region is so popular not only with tourists from abroad but Japanese people too. This trip will take you to two of Fukushima’s most popular spots -- the regal Tsurugajo Castle with its peerless architecture, and Ouchi-juku, a well-preserved thatched-roof village straight from the samurai age. In between you’ll experience wappa-meshi, a famous local dish served in special wooden containers, to complete a day trip that showcasing one of northern Japan’s most beautiful regions.
Days of week: Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
JPY 86,000
Hiking tour on frozen lake using traditional folk tool "Kanjiki"
Experience the culture of snow country Aizu ・Enjoy hiking on the snow wearing ”Kanjiki"", a traditional folk tool from snowy countries ・Enjoy cosplay photo shoots wearing snow costume ・Safe tour guided by an experienced professional nature guide
Days of week: Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
JPY 15,000
Japanese Archery (Kyudo) Experience
The samurai academy at Nisshinkan was once the premier training ground for the upper classes of the Aizu Domain, which ruled over the region for centuries before the Meiji Restoration. Here you can learn about what a young samurai recruit would have studied to become a warrior of their clan, a curriculum that heavily featured study of topics like culture, art and philosophy long before their first swordsmanship and gunnery classes. This is the perfect locale to try your hand at kyudo, a form of Japanese archery that has existed for hundreds of years since the first dawn of samurai culture. Taught by expert teachers in the very dojo that students would have once used here, you'll quickly get the hang of one of Japan's most enjoyable and accessible martial arts. There is some English support for this experience and for most visitors a guide or translator is unlikely to be required. If you would like one, please contact us directly.
Days of week: Sat
JPY 4,500
Mugenkyo Ferry Experience
Glide through Fukushima’s Tadami River on a boat paddled by a ferryman and take in the mystical surroundings! Depending on the season and time, fog can entirely cover the Mugen Valley, which is reflected in its Japanese name. On this tour, you’ll cross the Mugen Valley’s Tadami River on a traditional Japanese boat with the help of a kind ferryman. The journey through the Tadami River takes around 45 minutes, and you’ll find yourself constantly enthralled by the mystical surroundings. Please note that this experience will be led in Japanese language with limited to no English guidance available. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter for a separate fee. ① Ride on a small Japanese boat that is steered by a ferryman through the Mugen Valley ② Enjoy an outdoor bath while gazing at the Tadami River after returning to the jetty The Mugenkyo Ferry Terminal is located close to JR Hayato Station on the Tadami Line, or is roughly a 50min drive from Aizu-Wakamatsu City. A Google Maps pin can be found here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Gu4mxUu4iJ6Ao8LW8
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Ouchi-juku Kimono Experience
On this tour, you’ll dress in a traditional kimono and stroll the quaint streets of Ouchi-juku, a former post town, which is incredibly well preserved from its heyday during the Edo period. At the rows of souvenir stores, you can browse local goods while sampling pickled foods and local sake. You’ll get to take stunning panoramic pictures from the Ouchijuku viewpoint and relax with some warm tea and Japanese sweets at a traditional teahouse! Visit the townscape exhibition hall, where you can experience what life was like back during the Edo period. If you adore magnificent, historical scenery and nature, then this is the trip for you! Please note that this experience will be led in Japanese language with limited to no English guidance available. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter. More information about the Ouchi-juku Kimono Experience: https://fukushima.travel/blogs/ouchi-juku-kimono-experience/123 Information about access to Ouchijuku: https://fukushima.travel/blogs/getting-to-ouchi-juku/93
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日本、福島県下郷町大内 大内宿
Ramen-Making Experience
On this tour, you will have the opportunity to make Kitakata ramen under the guidance of an expert who once ran their own ramen restaurant. Starting from the broth and pork, you’ll cook your own ramen from scratch while hearing fascinating stories about ramen and the ramen industry. While it takes a long time to make ramen the authentic way, the final taste will not disappoint! Please note that this experience will be led in Japanese language with limited to no English guidance available. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter for a separate fee.
Days of week: Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
日本、福島県喜多方市熊倉町雄国字大谷地乙310 おぐに交流の郷
JPY 33,000
Scenic Cycling Experience Along The Coast With Local Guide
Ride along the seaside trails with spectacular views alongside a bike rental owner who knows the local area like the back of their hand! ・Perfectly maintained and modern bicycles are available. ・Even beginners can enjoy the well-maintained course along the seaside. ・You can see the magnificent Pacific Ocean from high ground, along with many other photogenic spots."
Days of week: Thu,Fri,Sat
福島県いわき市四倉町東4丁目133ー9
JPY 13,500
Snowmobile Riding Experience
Drive your own snowmobile in spectacular snowy mountain scenery! On this experience, you'll drive a snowmobile through a snowy mountain under the watchful eye of an instructor. This experience is perhaps a more thrilling version of the sledding that you might have done as a child. First you'll practice on flat land under the instructor's guidance, and then you'll get the chance to drive through curved roads and slopes. Please note that this experience will be led in Japanese language with limited to no English guidance available. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter for a separate fee. ①Learn how to safely operate a snowmobile ②Practice driving the snowmobile after the instructor turns on the engine ③Drive your snowmobile through the curved slopes of the snowy mountain
Days of week: Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
JPY 6,000
Snowshoe Hiking at Goshiki-numa
Put on snowshoes and hike amongst gorgeous mountainside and Goshikinuma pond scenery! On this tour, you'll hike through Urabandai's Goshikinuma area in snowshoes to take in its gorgeous winter scenery. You'll be guided by an English-speaking local guide with extensive knowledge on the outdoors as well as Urabandai's nature, culture, and history, making for a safe and thoroughly enjoyable trip.
Days of week: Wed,Thu,Fri
JPY 25,000
Soba Noodles Making Experience
Take a stroll along the beautifully preserved streets of Ouchi-juku, a picturesque remote village that was a post town during the Edo period of Japanese history (1603-1867). During this experience, you’ll make your own soba noodles from scratch! 'Negisoba', which are soba noodles eaten with a green onion, are a specialty of Ouchi-juku. Soba is a beloved Japanese dish that few know how to make. Take the opportunity to master it! Please note that this experience will be led in Japanese language with limited to no English guidance available. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter for a separate fee. After the experience, you'll explore Ouchi-juku. We recommend climbing to a viewpoint where you can get a panoramic view of the townscape and checking out a museum (the townscape exhibition hall [大内宿町並み展示館]) where you'll learn about the fascinating way of life of the people of Ouchi-juku during the Edo period.
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日本、福島県下郷町大内薬水1053 下郷町観光公社 大内宿食の館そば道場
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) Experience
On this tour, you will try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) at Menuma pond, one of the most renowned ponds in Fukushima. The nature surrounding the pond is stunning, especially during autumn when the leaves change color. If you've never tried SUP before, do not worry! The staff will support you every step of the way. The experience is available in English or Japanese, but English-language support is only available on certain days. If you'd like to take part in English, please contact us directly and we will confirm the availability of the English-speaking staff. Thank you for your understanding.
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福島県福島市土湯温泉町女沼頭
Tatami Making Experience
Learn about tatami, which is gaining popularity worldwide, and try making mini tatami mats that can be used for interior decoration! The location of the experience is something you don't want to miss! The modern facility was opened by a long-established tatami store with the desire to "spread tatami culture around the world," and is home to a tatami factory, store, and café.
Days of week: Thu,Fri,Sat
Japan, 福島県須賀川市仲の町55
JPY 7,000
Washi Paper Making and Lamp Decorating Experience
Learn about 'washi' paper, an Intangible Cultural Heritage, and then dive deeper by using washi to make a postcard and decorate a lampshade. On this experience, you’ll first compare and learn about the differences between Japanese washi paper and Western paper. Afterwards, you’ll wade deeper into the world of washi by viewing the "kozo" (paper mulberry), the material used to make washi, that are grown onsite. Finally, you’ll try your hand at making washi paper as well as designing a washi lampshade! Please note that this experience will be led in Japanese language with limited to no English guidance available. Please contact us if you would like to hire an interpreter for a separate fee. ① Learn all about washi paper at Nihonmatsu’s Washi Traditional Crafts Gallery, including its characteristics, materials, and production method ② Make your own washi paper postcard ③ Decorate a washi lampshade ④ Take home your washi items
Days of week: Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat
JPY 4,000
Wellness Tour for a Clean Mind and Body - Yoga and Fermentation
Treat yourself to a relaxing and luxurious time at a spot surrounded by nature near the sea. Immerse yourself in the sea, sky, and wind, while enjoying yoga and eating healthy food in a peaceful atmosphere. ・Have a relaxing yoga session surrounded by nature with a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. ・Enjoy a healthy lunch made with plenty of rice and vegetables grown by the owner of the facility himself. It will be deliciously seasoned with his signature fermented seasonings. ・Make two of the fermented seasonings eaten at lunch yourself to take home as souvenirs.
Days of week: Tue,Thu,Fri,Sat
Japan, 福島県いわき市勿来町関田関山59
JPY 12,000〜