Let’s Explore Iizaka Onsen in Fukushima Prefecture – 5 Recommended Tourist Spots to Experience Art and History

Fukushima City in Fukushima Prefecture is famous as a tourist destination for its fruits such as cherries and apples, the Tanabata Festival, and attractions like Hawaiians. Among them, Iizaka Onsen is one of the leading old hot springs in the Tohoku region and attracts many visitors. In the Iizaka Onsen area, there are tourist spots where you can experience Japan’s history and culture. In this article, we introduce five tourist spots around Iizaka Onsen that you can enjoy alongside a relaxing hot spring bath.

1. Former Horikiri Residence

The “Former Horikiri Residence” offers a chance to experience the history of Iizaka Onsen and enjoy a relaxing foot bath. This tourist spot is housed in the restored residence of a prosperous farmer family dating back to the Edo period, located just a 5-minute walk from Iizaka Onsen Station. “Horikiri” refers both to the name of the Horikiri family and to the old local place name.

In 1578, Ume-yama Tarōzaemon Sugawara Hijizen, who moved from the Wakasa Province to Kami-Iizaka Village, cut through and filled in the riverbank embankment to prevent the overflowing river during heavy rains. As a result, the area came to be known as “Horikiri,” and Hijizen himself became known as “Horikiri.” The estate once covered approximately 4,000 hectares, but before the 13th year of the Meiji era, it is said to have been twice as large as it is today. This vast area testifies to the prosperity of the Horikiri family in the region. The “Jūkan-Kura” (ten-room storehouse) of the Former Horikiri Residence was built in 1775 and is considered the oldest and largest earthen storehouse remaining in the prefecture.

Also, the main house, which is considered a modern Japanese-style residence, is a must-see. Inside, there are exhibition spaces and a video corner, as well as an area where you can enjoy a foot bath. Towels can be borrowed for free, so you can visit without needing to bring your own. Additionally, you can admire plants with an estimated age of over 260 years.

2. Iizaka Onsen Hanamomo no Sato

“Iizaka Onsen Hanamomo no Sato” opened in 2009 under the guidance of former Utsunomiya University Faculty of Agriculture professor Masao Yoshida. At its opening, about 200 Hanamomo trees were planted on an area of approximately 4,000 square meters; now, the area has doubled, and about 300 Hanamomo trees are present.

The blooming period lasts for roughly one month, from early April to early May. In addition to the standard varieties such as Yaguchi, Kanpaku, and Kikutomo, there are also rare varieties like Juboshi-momo and Yamamomo. The unique softness of the peach and the expansive view create a utopian “peach paradise” that is sure to leave you in awe.

Every year in early April, the “Iizaka Onsen Hanamomo no Sato Festival” is held. Traditional music played on Iizaka shamisen and taiko drums is performed, and Iizaka gyoza is served, drawing many tourists every year. Be sure to plan your visit around this festival.

3. Fukushima Kataoka Tsurutaro Art Garden

Located about a 3-minute walk from Kasuisaka Station, the “Fukushima Kataoka Tsurutaro Art Garden” displays around 70 pieces, including prints by Tsurutaro Kataoka, as well as his early dynamic works, delicate ceramics, and calligraphy.

You can experience a unique sense of healing as you glimpse into his talent. The Kataoka Tsurutaro Art Goods Corner also sells postcards and replica prints, making it an excellent spot for souvenirs from your Iizaka Onsen visit.

4. Iō-ji Temple

“Iō-ji Temple” is a tourist spot where you can experience the history of Iizaka Onsen. Founded in the 3rd year of Tenchō (826 AD) by Kūkai, Iō-ji Temple houses a Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha) statue, revered for its healing powers. In fact, it also served as the family temple for Sato Tsuetin and Tadashin, who were retainers of Minamoto no Yoshitsune.

They fought as part of the campaign to defeat the Taira clan, with Yoshitsune’s elder brother dying in the Battle of Yajima and his other brother committing suicide. It is said that Matsuo Bashō visited Iō-ji Temple to honor these fallen heroes.

Within the temple grounds, you can see the main hall, the Yakushi Hall, a monument inscribed with Bashō’s haiku, family graves, and the “Otoha no Tsubaki” (a type of camellia) which was named after the mother’s sorrow over the loss of her children. The Ruriko-den houses nationally designated Important Cultural Properties such as the “Kijikura,” the “Arrow Root of Resentment,” and the “Oi.”

5. Nakano Fudōson

“Nakano Fudōson” is recommended for those seeking a calm, quiet time. It enshrines three Fudō Myōō: Yakujo Fudō Myōō, Megamori Fudō Myōō, and Sankagetsu Fudō Myōō, and is known as one of Japan’s “Three Great Fudō Temples,” alongside Narita Fudōson and Meguro Fudōson. It was founded approximately 820 years ago. Within the temple grounds, there is a cave lined with numerous Buddhist statues.

◎ Summary

The area around Iizaka Onsen in Fukushima Prefecture offers tourist spots where you can truly experience the history and culture. After soaking in the hot springs of Iizaka Onsen, make sure to visit these attractions. Create a sightseeing plan that immerses you in the history, art, and nature of Iizaka Onsen—a unique experience you won't find anywhere else.