Visa requirements vary by nationality; many get 90-day tourist visa on arrival.

Is Fukushima safe from radiation?

Yes, Fukushima City is safe; radiation levels are normal and monitored.

What is the best way to get from Tokyo?

Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Fukushima Station (about 1.5 hours).

Can I visit the nuclear plant area?

No, the restricted zone is off-limits; tours to some areas are available but limited.

What local food should I try?

Try Kitakata ramen, fresh peaches, sake, and grilled river fish.

Is English widely spoken?

Limited; learn basic Japanese phrases or use translation apps.

Are credit cards accepted?

Increasingly, but cash is still preferred in smaller shops and restaurants.

What souvenirs are popular?

Local sake, lacquerware, and Fukushima peaches.

Fukushima

CityFukushima, Japan

Fukushima is a CITY in Fukushima, Japan.

Fukushima City, the capital of Fukushima Prefecture, blends resilient spirit with natural beauty. Nestled in a basin surrounded by mountains, it offers serene landscapes, hot springs, and historic sites like the restored Fukushima Castle. The city is a gateway to the scenic Bandai-Asahi National Park and the charming samurai town of Aizu-Wakamatsu. Visitors can explore local sake breweries, enjoy fresh fruit picking (especially peaches and apples), and relax in the therapeutic waters of Iizaka Onsen. The city's recovery from the 2011 disaster is evident in its vibrant markets and welcoming atmosphere. Fukushima is a destination for those seeking authentic Japanese culture, outdoor adventures, and a taste of Tohoku's warm hospitality.

Best time to visit Fukushima

Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms and mild weather; Autumn (October-November) for stunning foliage. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid but offers festivals. Winter (December-February) is cold with snow, ideal for hot springs and skiing nearby.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 11-20°C, crisp

Travel notes

Crowds: Medium
Prices: Medium

Autumn foliage starts

Know before you go

Getting there

FKS

Fukushima Airport

Domestic

60 km away

SDJ

Sendai Airport

International

80 km away

NRT

Narita International Airport

International

230 km away

Getting around

"Fukushima City is walkable in the center. Buses cover the city and suburbs. The JR Tohoku Shinkansen connects to Tokyo (about 1.5 hours). Taxis are available but expensive. Renting a car is best for exploring rural areas. A local bus pass is economical."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in city centre, hotels, and cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport or electronics stores from $10

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Very safe overall; minor risk of scams targeting tourists.

Night safety

7/10

Very safe overall; minor risk of scams targeting tourists.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Fukushima City is very safe with low crime rates. Petty theft is rare. Exercise normal precautions, especially at night. Be aware of natural disasters like earthquakes; know evacuation routes. The city has recovered well from the 2011 disaster, and radiation levels are within safe limits. Avoid areas near the nuclear plant (restricted zone)."

Police

110

Ambulance

119

Fire

119

Entry and health

Health information

"No special vaccinations are required. Tap water is safe to drink. Medical facilities are modern, with English-speaking staff limited. Travel insurance is recommended. For minor issues, pharmacies are available. In case of emergency, dial 119 for ambulance. Note that radiation levels in Fukushima City are safe and regularly monitored."

Culture

Local customs

"Remove shoes when entering homes or traditional inns. Bow when greeting. Tipping is not customary. Dress modestly when visiting temples. Public bathing etiquette: wash thoroughly before entering the onsen. Avoid loud conversations on public transport."

Japanese (official)AinuRyukyuanEnglishChineseKoreanPortugueseSpanishJapanese

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$8-15 | a cheap local meal costs ~$8-15

Hotels

$50-100 | budget hotels range $50-100/night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ride ~$2

Cost notes

Slightly cheaper than Tokyo; onsen stays can be pricier.

Timezone

Asia/Tokyo
Local time 15:14

More facts

Population

294,237

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: FKS, Fukushima, Fukushima-shi, Fukushimashi, Fukusima, Furukawa, Hukusima, fu dao, fu dao shi, fukushima, fukushimashi, Фукусима, ふくしま, ふくしまし, フクシマ, フクシマシ, 福島, 福島市, 072010, Fukušima, Fukuŝimo, 후쿠시마시, ฟูกูชิมะ, 福岛市, فوكوشيما, Fukuşima, Фукусіма, Φουκουσίμα, Fukuŝima, فوکوشیما, פוקושימה, Ֆուկուսիմա, ಫುಕುಷಿಮಾ, Фукушима, ഫുക്കുഷിമ നഗരം, फुकुशिमा, ဖူကူရှီးမားမြို့, புகுசிமா, Fuzdauj Si

Capital CityMajor HubHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingHot SpringsNature