About Fukushima

Fukushima Prefecture is known as a region where beautiful nature and rich culture thrive. Located in the southern part of the Tohoku region, this prefecture offers stunning seasonal landscapes that attract many tourists from both Japan and abroad. Some of its most famous attractions include Mount Bandai, Goshikinuma (the Five-Colored Lakes), and Tsuruga Castle in Aizuwakamatsu, showcasing its blend of abundant natural beauty and historical landmarks.

Fukushima also preserves a rich history and strong traditional culture, with cultural highlights like the Aizu Festival and Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival. Additionally, Fukushima is renowned for its fruit production, particularly peaches, apples, and pears, which are beloved by many.

When visiting Fukushima, here are three carefully selected luxury hotels that promise an extraordinary stay.

Top 3 Luxury Hotels in Fukushima: Oukawaso Ryokan

 1. Oukawaso 

出典：大川荘  公式HP

• Official Website: https://www.ookawaso.co.jp/
  
• Access: Approximately 5 minutes by complimentary shuttle bus from Ashinomaki Onsen Station
  
• Address: 984 Shimodaira, Ootomachi, Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, 969-5147
  
• Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/bCpThgVEW1PmvWZy

 2. Onyado Kawasemi 

出典：御宿　かわせみ　公式HP

 ■ The Charm of "Onyado Kawasemi"

Onyado Kawasemi is a luxury ryokan located in Iizaka Onsen, Fukushima Prefecture. Its charm lies in its luxurious fusion of traditional Japanese beauty and modern comfort. Surrounded by rich nature, guests can enjoy seasonal scenery, high-quality hot springs, and exquisite cuisine. Below is a detailed description of its main attractions:

　1. A Gourmet's Retreat

One of the most appealing aspects of Onyado Kawasemi is its seasonal kaiseki cuisine, crafted with carefully selected ingredients. The ryokan sources premium ingredients from all over Japan and the world, creating a monthly changing kaiseki menu. One standout feature is the “Ginmi Tokusen,” a selection of luxurious and creative dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. Delicacies such as Wagyu beef, abalone, and truffles tantalize the taste buds, attracting many repeat guests.

　2. Breathtaking Views Surrounded by Nature

Onyado Kawasemi is nestled in a vast 10,000-square-meter forest within Iizaka Onsen. The natural beauty of the garden is one of its highlights, with cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn foliage providing spectacular views. Guests can enjoy a relaxing time amidst the sounds of birds and rustling leaves, experiencing a serene escape from everyday life.​

　3. Hot Springs and Post-Bath Service

The ryokan offers both indoor and outdoor baths, with the outdoor bath allowing guests to relax in nature. It also features a "kamakura sauna" that uses far-infrared radiation to promote a comfortable sweat and refresh the body. After soaking in the hot springs, guests are treated to yogurt and cold drinks in the lounge, enhancing their relaxation experience.

　4. Unique and Comfortable Rooms

Onyado Kawasemi offers 12 unique rooms, each designed with its own individual style. All rooms are equipped with ancient hinoki wood baths, allowing guests to enjoy a private hot spring experience. The special rooms on the first floor feature open-air baths, where guests can step out onto a veranda to take in views of the garden and bamboo grove while enjoying a peaceful moment with the sights of wild birds.​。

 ■ Access to "Onyado Kawasemi"

• Official website: https://www.hisuinosato.com/
  
• Access: 10 minutes by shuttle from Iizaka Onsen Station
  
• Address: 2-14 Hisuinosato, Iizaka Onsen, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, 960-0201
  
• Google Maps：https://maps.app.goo.gl/gkLPMifRMkMUXFx48
  

 3.  Jikagensen no Yado Harataki 

出典：自家源泉の宿　原瀧  公式HP

 ■ The Charm of "Jikagensen no Yado Harataki"

Jikagensen no Yado Harataki is an onsen ryokan located in Aizu Higashiyama Onsen in Fukushima Prefecture, surrounded by rich natural beauty. This inn offers a luxurious and relaxing experience, blending local cuisine with its serene environment. Below are the key attractions of Harataki:

　1. Natural Hot Spring with a Private Source

The main attraction of Harataki is its use of a rare private hot spring source within the Higashiyama Onsen area. The outdoor baths and private baths are all fed by the natural spring, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh, unaltered hot spring water. The experience is particularly special when soaking while gazing at the natural waterfall "Harataki." The sound of the waterfall and the gentle breeze create a serene atmosphere, giving guests a sense of unity with nature. Private baths feature large cypress tubs from Aomori or Shigaraki ceramic tubs, each offering a unique bathing experience.

 

　2. Guest Rooms with Stunning Gorge Views

The guest rooms at Harataki provide a special space to enjoy the beautiful gorge views throughout the seasons. The special rooms with private baths offer scenic vistas that change with each season: fresh greenery in spring, lush foliage in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and a winter wonderland of snow. The combination of private hot springs, spacious bathtubs, and comfortable Japanese-Western style rooms offers guests a relaxing escape from daily life.

 

　3. Aizu’s Culinary Delights

At Harataki, guests can savor dishes that feature fresh, seasonal ingredients from the Aizu region. Dining at the riverside "Mizube no Dining Kawadoko" offers a unique experience, where guests can enjoy local delicacies such as Aizu Jidori (local chicken) and Fukushima beef grilled over charcoal, while surrounded by nature. The meals are prepared in an open kitchen, ensuring the flavors of the fresh, locally sourced ingredients are brought to life. Dining in a setting that includes a foot bath adds to the special culinary experience.

 

 ■ Access to "Jikagensen no Yado Harataki"

• Official website: https://www.yumeguri.co.jp/index.php
  
• Access: Shuttle service available from ‘Aizu Higashiyama Onsen Station’ and ‘Aizu Samurai Residence’
  
• Address: 235 Yumoto, Higashiyama Town, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture, 965-0814
  
• Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/VoatJjfZ2G1ko5R18