5 Carefully Selected Tourist Spots with Views of Mt. Tamura Fuji in Funahiki Town and Surrounding Areas of Tamura City

The Funahiki Town (Funehiki-machi) area of Tamura City used to be a town in Tamura District, Fukushima Prefecture, but it was merged into Tamura City in 2005. On the eastern side of Funahiki Town, the Abukuma Highlands stretch out, and in the southern part lies Mount Katasone, a well-loved destination among tourists.
One of the most famous features in the Funahiki Town area of Tamura City is the "Oningyosama" dolls, enshrined in three places: Yakata, Horikoshi, and Honokibashi. These are 4-meter-tall deities believed to ward off evil, and they attract many visitors.
With the JR Ban'etsu East Line running from the west to the southeast toward Iwaki, and expressways like the Ban'etsu Expressway well-developed, access from the Tokyo metropolitan area is convenient. This time, we will introduce some recommended sightseeing spots around Funahiki Town.

1. Abukuma Cave

One of Fukushima Prefecture’s most famous tourist destinations, Abukuma Cave is a limestone cave frequently visited by tourists heading to Funahiki. The main sightseeing route inside the cave is about 600 meters long, with a branch leading to an adventure course about 150 meters from the entrance—making the full route approximately 720 meters. The cave’s average temperature is around 14°C throughout the year, making it a refreshing escape during the summer.
Abukuma Cave is home to springtails, bat springtails, salamanders, and even the endangered Japanese long-fingered bat. The cave is illuminated to showcase the stalactites and ensure visitor safety, creating a mystical atmosphere that captivates many tourists. Located about 30 minutes by car from Funahiki Town, it’s a perfect addition to your Funahiki sightseeing plan.

2. Mt. Katasone

Mt. Katasone (Katasone-yama) stands at about 719 meters and serves as a symbolic mountain of Funahiki Town. It is one of the 100 Famous Mountains of Utsukushima and is also known as Tamura Fuji because of its beautiful shape. From the summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views extending from the Azuma mountain range to the Nasu mountain range, making it a popular destination for hiking tourists. It truly embodies the spirit of Funahiki Town.
Every year from mid- to late-May, mountain azaleas bloom at the summit, attracting many hikers during the mountain’s seasonal opening. The observatory at the top is also a night-viewing spot, offering magical views of city lights beyond Funahiki. Visitors can drive close to the summit, making it easily accessible. The area also features walking trails and a park where visitors can paraglide—offering something for both relaxation seekers and activity lovers. On snowy days, the mountain appears even more like Mt. Fuji, making it a recommended winter destination too.

3. Mt. Takashiba

Mt. Takashiba is located in the northwestern part of Ono Town and lies on the border between Funahiki Town and Okoshi Town in Tamura City. With a height of around 884 meters, its summit is covered with azaleas. During the blooming season, many tourists from across Japan come to admire the stunning scenery. There is also an observation deck at the top, offering breathtaking views. The vivid azalea blooms that dye the summit red are typically in full bloom from late May to early June, continuously delighting hiking tourists.
Tree species are labeled with plaques along the trail, allowing hikers to learn about them while enjoying the refreshing forest environment. Be sure to visit during your trip to Funahiki or Okoshi to see the azaleas in full bloom.

4. Licca-chan Castle

Licca-chan, the beloved Japanese doll, has a one-of-a-kind facility in Japan called Licca-chan Castle, where you can see how the dolls are made. It is one of Funahiki Town’s top tourist attractions. Visitors can see past generations of Licca-chan dolls and enjoy activities like the "Doll Classroom" where you can create your own original doll—offering fun for both kids and adults. Limited-edition Licca dolls, which are hard to find elsewhere, are also sold here, drawing fans from all over Japan.
You can try on dresses (available up to 160 cm in size) for free and even order a custom doll. Exhibits also trace fashion trends by release year, making it a dream destination for Licca fans. The facility is always bustling with female tourists. It’s about 30 minutes by car from Funahiki, making it a great stop after exploring Funahiki's attractions.

5. Abukuma Highland Inn “Kaiho Hana-no-Yu”

Abukuma Highland Inn “Kaiho Hana-no-Yu” offers a rare Dead Sea bath with mineral content 30 times higher than seawater, known for its deep relaxation effects. The Dead Sea bath is said to help with weight loss, skincare, atopy, and rheumatism. It’s also packed with minerals that soothe the nervous system, providing thorough relief from daily fatigue.
The inn offers both day-use bathing and affordable overnight or long-stay options, making it easy to add to your Funahiki travel itinerary. As a rare type of lodging in Japan, it attracts many visitors seeking the relaxing floating experience. The meals, prepared with carefully grown vegetables from their own garden, are also highly praised. Located just 10 minutes from Funahiki-Miharu IC and about 5 minutes by car from Funahiki Station, the inn is conveniently situated for Funahiki travelers.

Overview of Sightseeing Spots in Funahiki Town, Tamura City

Besides the tourist spots introduced above, Funahiki Town and its surrounding areas have many other attractions. For instance, there’s the “Tanemaki Sakura,” a cherry tree designated as a natural monument by the city, and the “Natsui Senbonzakura” with about 1,000 cherry trees planted along both sides of the Natsui River over a 5 km stretch—breathtaking during cherry blossom season and drawing crowds of visitors.
In addition, Funahiki offers delicious local dishes such as those made with egoma (perilla), a local specialty, and konjac. Whether you're an adult or child, you’re sure to enjoy your time in Funahiki Town. Come and discover your own perfect sightseeing experience!

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