Izumizaki(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Izumizaki Village, the top choice for families is Yamakaze Minshuku, a traditional wooden farmhouse converted into a cozy guesthouse with tatami rooms, private onsen baths, and a garden with a koi pond. The hosts offer hands-on experiences like rice planting workshops and local craft-making sessions using natural materials. Located in a quiet valley surrounded by mountain forests, it’s perfect for children to explore nature safely. Stays include farm-to-table meals made with organic ingredients from nearby fields, creating a true rural immersion.

The ideal time to visit Izumizaki Village is during autumn (September to November) when the hillsides blaze with maple foliage. The Oyama Ridge Overlook offers panoramic views of crimson and gold landscapes, especially at sunrise. Another highlight is the Izumizaki Autumn Festival held mid-October, featuring drum performances, bonfire rituals, and traditional Kagura dances. In spring, the wild cherry blossoms near the village shrine bloom gently, making it a peaceful alternative for those who prefer fewer crowds.

Yes, Izumizaki Village is a paradise for photographers. The Shirakawa Vista Point provides breathtaking views of terraced rice fields wrapped in morning mist—perfect for golden hour shots. For more adventurous captures, the Deep Valley Trail runs through ancient cedar forests beside a crystal-clear stream, offering reflections of red leaves and sky. Bring a tripod and wide-angle lens. Early mornings or late afternoons deliver soft light and minimal visitors, ideal for capturing the village’s serene, timeless beauty.

At Seiryu Onsen Inn, guests enjoy outdoor open-air baths overlooking snow-capped peaks and pine trees. The resort features a signature forest bath ritual, where guests are treated to herbal compresses made from local plants. Dine on a kaiseki dinner crafted with wild mountain vegetables, fresh trout, and homemade sake. Some suites come with private onsen pools and complimentary natural face masks. HopeGoo ahead is essential, especially during peak season.

From Tokyo Station, take the Shinkansen to Fukushima Station (about 2 hours), then transfer to a Fukushima Kotsu bus heading to Izumizaki Village (approx. 1.5 hours). Buses run infrequently, so check schedules online in advance. Alternatively, rent a car at Fukushima Station for greater flexibility. For scenic travel, consider the East Japan Rail Pass, which covers most rail segments. Once there, bicycles are available for exploring the countryside, passing through old farm paths and historic shrines.

Must-try foods include wild vegetable soba noodles, made with foraged bracken ferns and dandelions, served in a light dashi broth. Another highlight is the Rice Ear Rice Ball, filled with pickled plum and kombu, crafted from locally grown non-GMO Koshihikari rice. Don’t miss the sansho salt-grilled trout, caught from the village’s pristine streams and slow-roasted over charcoal. These dishes are best enjoyed at Denwa Restaurant, a family-run eatery with stories behind every recipe.

The Ozawa Plain area offers the most tranquil retreat. Stay at Seiran House, a secluded cabin nestled among cedars and rice paddies. With only six rooms and no road access, it ensures complete quiet. Each room features a wood-burning fireplace, private garden, and direct access to a star-gazing platform. This region is part of Japan’s designated Dark Sky Preserve, making it ideal for stargazing—especially in winter when the Milky Way shines clearly.

Recommended trails include the Ozawa Loop Trail (8 km), winding through ancient cedar forests and wetlands, with stops at waterfalls and sacred stone shrines. For a more immersive experience, try the Shirakawa Gorge River Trail, a moderate hike along a clear stream where you can spot Japanese salamanders and rare ferns. Well-marked paths, rest stations, and local guides are available. Start early to avoid afternoon fog and enjoy the changing light filtering through the canopy.

Visitors can join traditional rice planting lessons, learning how to use bamboo poles to plant seedlings in flooded fields. At the Washi Paper Workshop, you’ll make handmade paper from mulberry bark under the guidance of a master craftsman. There’s also an urushi lacquer painting session, where you decorate wooden trays using natural pigments. All experiences include materials, instruction, and a small souvenir—ideal for connecting with local heritage.

Yes, Izumizaki Village is highly suitable for self-drive travelers. Roads are narrow but well-maintained, with clear signage. Use a compact car due to steep grades and tight turns. Rentals are available at Fukushima Station or the village’s Visitor Center. Be prepared for winter snow—carry snow chains and check road conditions daily. Limited cell signal means download offline maps. Also, some roads have no traffic lights, so watch for pedestrians and farming vehicles.