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

In Futami, the standout accommodation is Mizuno-Go Hotel, a serene ryokan nestled along the Abukuma River, offering natural hot springs, traditional Japanese design, and seasonal kaiseki meals featuring local Fukushima beef and mountain vegetables. For convenience, Futami City Tourist Inn provides easy access to Futami Castle Ruins and Shirayama Park, with family-friendly rooms and on-site breakfast. Both hotels offer excellent value, combining cultural authenticity with modern comfort, making them ideal for travelers seeking an immersive experience in rural Fukushima. They also feature staff fluent in English and welcoming service tailored to international guests.

The best area for accommodation in Futami is the city center near Futami Station, which offers convenient access to major attractions like Futami Castle Ruins, Shirayama Park, and Oishi Shrine. This district hosts a mix of small guesthouses, family-run inns, and budget-friendly lodges, many of which incorporate traditional machiya-style architecture. Staying here ensures proximity to local restaurants, markets, and public transport. For a quieter stay, consider areas near the Abukuma River or Shirayama Park, where you can enjoy peaceful surroundings while still being within a 10-minute walk to key sights—perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility amidst rural charm.

Visitors to Futami can immerse themselves in the Futami Festival held annually in August, featuring vibrant taiko drum performances, elaborate floats, and lantern-making workshops that reflect deep-rooted local traditions. A must-visit is the Futami Castle Ruins, where history comes alive through guided tours detailing the region’s role in the Edo period under the Date clan. At Oishi Shrine, guests can participate in purification rituals and write wishes on wooden ema plaques. Additionally, hands-on experiences like washi paper crafting at local workshops allow travelers to create authentic souvenirs while learning about Japan’s heritage craft techniques passed down through generations.

Mizuno-Go Hotel stands out as a premier hot spring destination due to its mineral-rich, naturally sourced baths drawn from deep underground aquifers. The hotel features both indoor and outdoor onsen pools, including private couples’ baths with views of the Abukuma River and surrounding mountains. Guests enjoy panoramic sunsets over the river and cozy tatami rooms with sliding shoji screens. Each evening, the hotel serves exquisite kaiseki cuisine crafted from regional ingredients like Fukushima beef, wild mountain greens, and fresh river fish. The blend of authentic atmosphere, scenic beauty, and attentive service makes it a true gem for wellness-focused travelers.

Yes, Futami City Tourist Inn is highly recommended for families, offering spacious rooms, a dedicated play area, and interactive programs such as rice paddy tours and bamboo weaving workshops designed for kids. Located beside the Abukuma River, children can safely explore nature trails, observe dragonflies and minnows, and enjoy the nearby Shirayama Park with its mini-zoo and playground. The inn also provides child-sized meals and bilingual staff who assist with family needs. With its warm hospitality and engaging activities, this inn creates a memorable, stress-free experience for parents and young travelers alike.

Begin your day at Futami Castle Ruins, exploring the historical grounds and learning about the Edo-period Date clan. Head to a riverside restaurant for lunch featuring Fukushima beef bowls and mountain vegetable tempura. In the afternoon, stroll through Shirayama Park, visit Oishi Shrine, and enjoy a quiet moment by the lake. Return to Mizuno-Go Hotel for a relaxing evening soak in the onsen, followed by a candlelit kaiseki dinner. End the day with a peaceful walk along the riverbank under the stars. This balanced itinerary blends culture, nature, and rejuvenation—perfectly capturing the essence of Futami’s tranquil charm.

Must-try dishes in Futami include Fukushima beef, known for its rich marbling and tender texture, often served grilled or in rice bowls. Another highlight is Abukuma River fish cuisine, such as steamed carp or river fish sushi, showcasing the region’s fresh aquatic bounty. Don’t miss wild mountain vegetable tempura, made with seasonal greens like fiddlehead ferns and yamabushitake mushrooms. For dessert, sample Futami mochi, a sweet rice cake filled with red bean paste, often enjoyed during festivals. These dishes are widely available at local eateries, inns, and roadside stalls, offering an authentic taste of Fukushima’s agricultural and culinary heritage.

Photography enthusiasts will love the Abukuma River walking path, especially at dawn when mist rises above the water, creating ethereal reflections of trees and sky. The Futami Castle Ruins offer dramatic compositions with weathered stone walls against cherry blossoms or autumn foliage. Shirayama Park is ideal for fall photography, with its fiery maple trees mirrored in the pond. Capture the energy of the Futami Festival during night parades with illuminated floats and drummers in motion. Bring a wide-angle lens and tripod for golden hour shots; these locations deliver stunning visuals that reflect Futami’s harmonious blend of nature, history, and tradition.

Couples will cherish the couple’s suite at Mizuno-Go Hotel, complete with a private balcony overlooking the Abukuma River at sunset and a shared onsen bath. The hotel offers personalized candlelit dinners with Fukushima beef and seasonal vegetables, paired with local sake. Take a twilight walk through Shirayama Park, hand-in-hand beneath the trees, or write wishes together at Oishi Shrine. In the morning, enjoy a quiet breakfast by the river before returning to the room. These intimate moments, set against the backdrop of serene landscapes and cultural depth, make Futami an unforgettable destination for couples seeking connection and calm.

Futami is well-connected via public transit: Futami Station lies on the JR East railway line, providing direct trains to Fukushima Station (30 minutes) and Koori Station (45 minutes). Local bus services link the station to key sites like Futami Castle Ruins, Shirayama Park, and Oishi Shrine, with frequent schedules throughout the day. International travelers can reach the city via Shinkansen from Tokyo (approx. 90 minutes to Fukushima), then transfer to a local train or taxi. The city’s compact layout and pedestrian-friendly zones make it easy to explore without a car, ensuring hassle-free travel for independent and group visitors alike.