Things To Do
in Inawashiro
Inawashiro is a serene lakeside town in Fukushima Prefecture, perched on the northern shore of Lake Inawashiro with views of the Bandai mountain range. The area blends outdoor adventure with traditional Aizu culture, featuring hot springs, farms, and scenic lakefront promenades. Throughout the year, visitors can ski in winter and hike or cycle in summer, all while sampling regional cuisine.
Its quiet streets and approachable access make Inawashiro a peaceful base for exploring northern Fukushima.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Inawashiro’s historical center, where the streets are lined with traditional wooden buildings. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café, sampling regional specialties like 'Inawashiro's rice.' As you stroll, take in the charming atmosphere and stop by small shops selling artisanal crafts.
In the afternoon, head to the Inawashiro Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the lakeside, enjoying the serene views of Lake Inawashiro and the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the chance to capture some stunning photographs as the sun casts reflections on the water.
As the sun sets, dine at a lakeside restaurant where you can savor fresh fish dishes and local sake. The ambiance is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration, with the sound of gentle waves lapping at the shore. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the promenade, soaking in the tranquility of the lake under the stars.
Kick off your day at the beautiful shores of Lake Inawashiro, where you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the crystal-clear waters. The morning sun glistens on the lake, creating a perfect setting for some fun and adventure. Enjoy the thrill as you glide across the water, with breathtaking mountain views surrounding you.
After a morning of water sports, relax at one of the beach areas, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch or sample local snacks from nearby vendors. Spend the afternoon sunbathing on the beach or swimming in the refreshing waters of the lake. Alternatively, join a guided boat tour to learn more about the lake's ecology and its significance to the region.
As the day winds down, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the sunset over the lake, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beachside grill, where you can taste grilled seafood and seasonal vegetables. The evening atmosphere is lively, with locals sharing stories and laughter around bonfires.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $3-6 |
| 🍣Lunch or bento in mid-range spot | $12-20 |
| 🥗Dinner at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery around Lake Inawashiro and Bandai.
- Year-round outdoor activities and easy access to hot springs.
- Limited nightlife and English signage in rural areas.
- Some services and signage may be sparse outside main towns.
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "こんにちは" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "お願いします" - Please / Thank you in advance
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you very much
- "これはいくらですか" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Inawashiro
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm water, soft light, and Mt. Bandai in the distance create ideal reflections for landscape photography.
A group of vividly colored ponds set in a volcanic landscape, perfect for vibrant nature shots.
Wide panoramas of forests, lakes, and distant peaks, especially striking in autumn.
Old town lanes and preserved buildings provide atmospheric street photography and cultural portraits.
High viewpoints around Mt. Bandai offer sweeping views of valleys and the lake below.
Food in Inawashiro
Inawashiro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Buckwheat noodles served hot in a soy-based broth or cold with a dipping sauce, a staple of the region.
Must-Try!
Dishes feature robust miso from the Aizu region, used in soups, stews, and grilled items.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls near the lake offering fresh produce, local snacks, and small eats from nearby farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional inns and temples.
Maintain a calm demeanor in public spaces; avoid loud conversations on trains and in enclosed areas.
Wash thoroughly before entering baths; no swimsuits in most onsen; follow posted rules.
Stay on marked trails, dispose of trash properly, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Inawashiro
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan; polite service is expected without extra gratuity. In high-end ryokan or special tours, service charges may be included.
Cash is widely accepted in rural areas; many shops and hotels also take credit cards. IC cards (like Suica) can be used on trains and some stores in larger towns; confirm acceptance in smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures rise gradually; early greenery appears and cherry blossoms along the lakefront brighten the scenery.
Warm days with cool evenings; ideal for lake activities, hiking, and photography around the Bandai region.
Colorful foliage paints the hills and lakeside paths; a favorite season for scenery and sunset shots.
Heavy snowfall transforms the area into a winter wonderland; excellent for skiing, snowshoeing, and serene snowy landscapes.
Inawashiro at Night
Hiking in Inawashiro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate to challenging routes with alpine scenery and crater lake perspectives.
Short, scenic loop around the volcanic ponds with vibrant pond colors.
Gentle to moderate trails weaving through forests and lakeside overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Inawashiro by plane.
Closest regional airport with domestic connections; typical transfer point to rail or car for Inawashiro.
Major northern Tohoku gateway with broader domestic and some international connections; access by train or road to Inawashiro.
Alternative option to the west; connections to the region and onward travel to Aizu via rail or road.
Major international gateways; travel by Shinkansen or highway to Fukushima and then to Inawashiro.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Popular for weekend trips and school excursions, attracted by safe outdoor spaces and calm scenery.
Rural communities with deep ties to agriculture, forestry, and traditional crafts.
Domestic and international visitors drawn to lake views, hot springs, and seasonal activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winter sport with reliable snowfall and slopes suitable for all levels.
Complementary to skiing with family-friendly and beginner-friendly runs.
Seasonal treks in the Bandai and Urabandai regions with forest and lake scenery.
Road cycling and scenic loops around the lake and surrounding countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Inawashiro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes rely on dashi and meat stock; ask for vegetarian options or broth-free items, and try Tempura soba with vegetable toppings.