Iwaki City, located in southeastern Fukushima Prefecture facing the Pacific Ocean, is a travel destination that combines hot springs, ocean scenery, and great food. It is also the setting of the classic film Hula Girls. With a mild climate and little snow in winter, Iwaki is suitable for independent travel throughout the year and is conveniently only about 2.5 hours from Ueno, Tokyo. From Spa Resort Hawaiians and Aquamarine Fukushima to the National Treasure Shiramizu Amidado, this guide introduces Iwaki through its attractions, food, and recommended accommodation.
What Is Iwaki City Like?
As Fukushima Prefecture's largest port city, Iwaki lies where warm and cold ocean currents meet, creating rich fishing grounds that attract many visitors for the fresh “Joban seafood.” In addition to excellent seafood, the city is home to the thousand-year-old Iwaki Yumoto Onsen, considered one of Japan's three ancient hot springs. Its sulfur-rich water is also known as a “beauty bath.” Iwaki enjoys abundant sunshine and a relatively mild climate, offering everything from family attractions such as aquariums and theme parks to outdoor activities including fruit picking and cycling. With its combination of natural scenery and cultural experiences, the city is an excellent destination for a relaxing trip.
Where Is Iwaki City and How Do You Get There?
For travelers departing from Taiwan, Hong Kong, or other parts of Japan, the usual recommendation is to travel to Tokyo first and then take a JR limited express train to Iwaki City.
Traveling from Tokyo to Iwaki City
After arriving in Tokyo, take the JR Joban Line Limited Express Hitachi from Shinagawa Station, Tokyo Station, or Ueno Station. The train runs directly to JR Iwaki Station without transfers in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. With frequent departures and comfortable seating, it offers flexible scheduling and is convenient even with large luggage, making it the most recommended transportation option.
Traveling from Fukushima Airport to Iwaki City
Taiwan Tigerair currently operates direct flights from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to Fukushima Airport (FKS) every Tuesday and Friday, with a flight time of a little over 3 hours. After arriving at Fukushima Airport, take the airport limousine bus to JR Koriyama Station, then transfer to the JR Ban-etsu East Line for JR Iwaki Station. (※ Please check the official timetable for the latest schedules.)
Getting Around Iwaki City
Because Iwaki covers a large area, renting a car is the most convenient option if you plan to visit several attractions. There are multiple rental-car companies near Iwaki Station, allowing you to explore the city flexibly after picking up your vehicle. Travelers who do not drive can use the “Aquamarine Park Shuttle” connecting the Yumoto Onsen area and Onahama area. The one-way fare is ¥1,000, with only two round trips per day, and reservations must be made at the hotel front desk no later than 30 minutes before departure. JR trains and local buses are also available, but services are less frequent, so be sure to check timetables before traveling.
Recommended Attractions in Iwaki City
Iwaki City covers a wide area and its major attractions are spread across different districts. For the most efficient trip, organize your itinerary by area and travel by rental car.
Spa Resort Hawaiians
One of Iwaki City's most iconic attractions is the large resort complex Spa Resort Hawaiians. The facility features expansive indoor and outdoor pools, open-air hot springs, giant water slides, and more. Even if you are not staying overnight, you can enter with a day pass. The daily hula and fire dance shows are also must-see highlights. For a more relaxing hot-spring experience, visit the Edo-style Yoichi Open-Air Bath, where you can soak in natural hot spring water amid a nostalgic atmosphere quite different from the water park.
Address: 50 Warabidaira, Joban Fujiwaramachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Iwaki City Coal & Fossil Museum HORURU
Iwaki City was once one of Japan's largest coal-producing regions, and the Iwaki City Coal & Fossil Museum HORURU documents this era of “black gold” while also displaying valuable prehistoric fossils excavated in the city. One of the museum's most distinctive features is its reconstructed mine tunnel, which recreates the interior of an old coal mine and makes visitors feel as if they have entered a real underground shaft. Another popular section is the fossil exhibition. The fully reconstructed skeleton of Futabasaurus suzukii, a long-necked marine reptile fossil discovered in Iwaki in 1968, is one of the museum's greatest treasures.
Address: 3-1 Mukoda, Joban Yumotomachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Shiramizu Amidado
Shiramizu Amidado, the only building in Fukushima Prefecture designated as a National Treasure, was built in 1160 and preserves the elegant, understated architectural style of the Heian period. The interior was originally covered with vivid painted decorations and features a raised coffered ceiling. Although most of the colors have faded, autumn nighttime illuminations use projection mapping to recreate its former splendor. Every November, the garden's ginkgo and maple foliage also attracts many photographers.
Address: 221 Hirohata, Uchigo Shiramizumachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Onsen Shrine
Located in the heart of Yumoto Onsen, Onsen Shrine has a history of more than a thousand years and serves as a spiritual symbol of Iwaki Yumoto Onsen. Although the grounds are compact, they are peaceful and offer different scenery throughout the seasons. Visitors can receive seasonal limited-edition goshuin, omamori, and ema, while nighttime illuminations create a magical atmosphere. In recent years, the shrine has also embraced local cultural diversity and has become a popular location for cosplay photography events.
Address: 322 Sanko, Joban Yumotomachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
JRA Racehorse Rehabilitation Center
Hot springs are not only for people—horses can enjoy them too. Located near Yumoto Onsen, the JRA Racehorse Rehabilitation Center is Japan's only specialized rehabilitation facility for racehorses that uses hot spring therapy. Many horses recovering from injuries or rebuilding their fitness come here for professional rehabilitation. The facility even has a “horse hot spring,” where horses soak in natural hot spring water after training to relieve muscle fatigue and support recovery. Individual visitors can usually enter free of charge without reservations, and cute miniature horses may greet guests from their paddocks. Most rehabilitation sessions and hot-spring bathing take place in the morning, so visitors hoping to see horses enjoying the baths should arrive early.
Address: 71 Uenohara, Joban Shiratorimachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Aquamarine Fukushima
Aquamarine Fukushima is one of the Tohoku region's most representative aquariums. Its central theme, the “Sea of Currents,” showcases the marine ecosystem created where warm and cold currents meet. In addition to more than 800 species of marine life, the biggest highlight is the enormous triangular tank, where visitors can watch schools of migratory fish pass overhead in an impressive display. It is also one of the aquarium's most photogenic spots. Opposite the tank is a dining area where visitors can enjoy sushi and sashimi while watching the fish, encouraging reflection on the cycle of life and marine sustainability. The aquarium also offers interactive experiences such as touch pools and guided explanations, while outdoor areas include fishing activities and exploration zones. The “Aquamarine Egg,” reopened in spring 2026, uses games, exploration, and interaction to encourage children to observe nature, making the aquarium especially recommended for families.
Address: 50 Tatsumicho, Onahama, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Misaki Park
For sweeping ocean views in Iwaki City, Misaki Park is a must-visit. Covering about 70 hectares, the park is home to the prominent Iwaki Marine Tower. After purchasing a ticket and heading up to the observation deck, visitors can enjoy 360-degree views over Onahama Port, the Pacific Ocean, and Iwaki City. Another highlight is the Misaki Shiomidai observation platform extending toward the sea. Standing on the openwork viewing deck, you can feel the sea breeze and listen to the waves, making it a popular photo spot. Families should also try the famous Dinosaur Roller Slide. At 75 meters long and built with rollers, the slide can be fairly fast, so take care when riding.
Address: 93 Osaku, Shimokajiro, Onahama, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Sunshine Seagull Sightseeing Cruise
For a different view of Onahama Port, take the Sunshine Seagull sightseeing cruise. Tickets can be purchased on the first floor of Iwaki La La Mew. The cruise lasts about 40–50 minutes and offers close-up views of the harbor, fishing boats, and large cargo ships. Seagulls may also fly alongside the boat. Seagull feed is sold on board, and many visitors enjoy feeding the birds during the cruise.
Address: 1F Roadside Station Iwaki La La Mew, 43-1 Tatsumicho, Onahama, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Shioyasaki Lighthouse
Standing on a cape along the Usuiso Coast, Shioyasaki Lighthouse is one of the relatively few lighthouses in Japan that visitors can climb and has been selected as one of the “50 Best Lighthouses in Japan.” During the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, the lighthouse went dark and was restored and relit about nine months later. It has since become one of the area's symbols of disaster recovery. The lighthouse is also famous because “Shioya Cape” is mentioned in the lyrics of the late singer Hibari Misora's well-known song Midaregami. From the top, visitors can enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean, especially beautiful around sunset.
・Address: 34 Shukuzaki, Taira Usuiso, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Iwaki City Flower Center
The Iwaki City Flower Center is located at the foot of Mount Ishimori and features a large greenhouse, wetland plant areas, and outdoor gardens where different flowers bloom throughout the year. In recent years, the spring fields of baby blue eyes have become especially famous because the scenery resembles a memorable scene from the anime Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, attracting anime fans and photographers.
Address: 116 Ishimori, Taira Yotsunami, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Hattachi Coast and Benten Island
Hattachi Coast is a rare shoreline made up of rounded pebbles and is known for its expansive Pacific Ocean views and coastal erosion formations. It is also a famous local sunrise spot. In the early morning, the sun slowly rises above the horizon and turns the sea golden. Benten Island, which rises from the sea and features a red torii gate, is connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge that visitors can cross. Across from the coast stands Hattachi Temple, which has a history of around a thousand years. Nestled between the mountains and sea, the temple becomes filled with hydrangeas along its paths in early summer, earning it the nickname “Hydrangea Temple.” Whether for ocean scenery, sunrise photography, or a temple visit, the area is well worth exploring.
Iwaki Nanahama Cycling Road / Hayate Cycle
Cycling enthusiasts visiting Iwaki can challenge the approximately 53-kilometer Iwaki Nanahama Cycling Road. In July 2026, it was selected as a national-level cycling route. The route stretches from Nakoso in the south to Hisanohama in the north and connects several of Iwaki's best-known attractions, making it suitable for a half-day or full-day ride. Hayate Cycle, located near Yotsukura Station on the JR Joban Line, is a popular local bicycle rental shop offering electric-assist bikes, geared bicycles, and other models. The shop also partners with several local businesses, and presenting proof of rental may provide access to discounts. A convenient one-way rental service allows you to pick up a bike at one location and return it at another, so ask the friendly owner for details before setting out.
Address: 4-133-9 Higashi, Yotsukuramachi, Iwaki
Wonder Farm
Wonder Farm is a tomato-themed sightseeing farm that grows more than 10 varieties of tomatoes. Its biggest attraction is that visitors can enjoy tomato picking for most of the year. In addition to fruit-picking experiences, the farm has a restaurant, direct-sales market, and BBQ area. Creative dishes made with fresh tomatoes include tomato pizza, tomato curry, and popular tomato soft-serve ice cream. Before leaving, stop by the market for house-made tomato juice and tomato jam, along with various Fukushima agricultural products and souvenirs.
Address: 1 Hirocho, Nakajima, Yotsukuramachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Must-Try Food in Iwaki City
Shogetsuso
With a history of more than 200 years, Shogetsuso began as an inn and is now one of Iwaki City's most representative long-established kappo restaurants. Following the principle of local production for local consumption, it makes extensive use of seasonal Fukushima ingredients and local sake. Even after the disaster, the restaurant continued working closely with local farmers and fishers, supporting regional industries through its daily operations and expressing its deep connection to the land in every seasonal dish. The restaurant regularly stocks more than 10 renowned Fukushima sake labels as well as wines from wineries established in the Hamadori area after the disaster and local craft beers, offering a deep taste of Fukushima's diverse food culture.
Address: 33 Taira Omachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Iwaki La La Mew
The tourism and local-products center Iwaki La La Mew is located next to Aquamarine Fukushima and combines a seafood market, food court, and souvenir shops. It is convenient whether you want to sample local seafood, buy Fukushima specialties, or do all your shopping in one place. On the first floor, Seafood Market Street sells the day's fresh catch and also has a BBQ area where visitors can buy seafood and grill it immediately. The second floor features multiple restaurants serving dishes made with fresh seafood from the Joban coast. Also on the second floor is the Live Iwaki Museum, which documents the recovery process following the Great East Japan Earthquake and combines waterfront tourism with disaster-prevention education.
Address: 43-1 Tatsumicho, Onahama, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Roadside Station Yotsukura Port
Roadside Station Yotsukura Port, located on the northern coast of Iwaki City, combines local agricultural and seafood products, dining, and travel information and is a popular stop for self-driving travelers touring Iwaki. The first floor sells fresh local vegetables and fruit, prepared foods, and a variety of Fukushima souvenirs. The second floor has a seafood-focused dining area serving seafood rice bowls, set meals, and other dishes. Outdoor seating facing the Pacific Ocean allows visitors to enjoy their meal while taking in the expansive sea view.
Address: 5-218-1 Yotsukuramachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Recommended Souvenirs from Iwaki City
AEON MALL Iwaki Onahama
As the largest AEON MALL in Fukushima Prefecture, AEON MALL Iwaki Onahama is located next to Aquamarine Fukushima and the Iwaki La La Mew local-products center. With a supermarket, specialty shops, food court, cinema, and other facilities, it works well as the final shopping stop of your itinerary for local souvenirs and everyday goods. The Onahama Dining area on the fourth floor brings together several distinctive restaurants and is also a convenient place to rest after exploring Onahama Port before continuing to your next destination.
Address: 79 Tatsumicho, Onahama, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Jelly House
One of Iwaki's most famous souvenirs is Jelly House. Every jelly sold here is handmade fresh each day. Their crystal-clear appearance, combined with flavors such as milk, black tea, and fruit, creates colorful sweets that look like jewels. Beyond their eye-catching appearance, their smooth and delicate texture is equally impressive. Because daily production is limited, they often sell out soon after opening. Although the official business hours extend until 3:00 p.m., products are generally sold out before noon. To help customers secure a place in line, the on-site ticket machine opens at 8:30 each morning and online numbered tickets become available at 8:40. If you want to try these jewel-like jellies, arrive early.
Address: 3F Iwaki FC Park, 1-1 Kamanomae, Joban Kamiyunagayamachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Jyangara mini
Jyangara mini is one of Iwaki City's representative wagashi sweets and has a long local history. Its compact packaging makes it easy to carry, and many visitors choose it as a traditional sweet souvenir from Iwaki. The outer cake is made with eggs and milk for a rich aroma, while the filling is sweet red bean paste made from Hokkaido azuki beans. It is sweet without being overwhelming and pairs well with tea or coffee.
Hawaiian Curry Senbei
Hawaiian Curry Senbei is one of Iwaki City's popular souvenirs. Unlike ordinary rice crackers that are simply dusted with seasoning powder, these crackers are soaked directly in concentrated curry sauce during production and then dried. As a result, every bite has a rich curry aroma and a savory, crisp texture.
Recommended Accommodation in Iwaki City
Kotakiya Onsen Ryokan
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Founded in 1695, Kotakiya is a long-established hot-spring ryokan with more than 300 years of history. It preserves a strong traditional Japanese atmosphere while incorporating modern design and offers a variety of room types. The baths use 100% natural sulfur spring water. In addition to a large public bath and Showa-style private baths, the most famous feature is the “Sky Open-Air Bath” on an upper floor, where guests can look out toward the sky while enjoying the sensation of soaking high above the ground. The ryokan is also home to the privately established Furusato Nuclear Disaster Archive, which preserves extensive materials related to the Great East Japan Earthquake and nuclear disaster, giving the property unusual historical depth and warmth.
Address: 208 Sanko, Joban Yumotomachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Koito Onsen Ryokan
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Koito Onsen Ryokan combines the character of a traditional hot-spring inn with a modern accommodation style. In addition to natural hot springs, it actively promotes an environment that is gender-friendly, bicycle-friendly, and cosplay-friendly. The owner is also a cosplay enthusiast and has developed extensive cosplay support services, opening several spaces within the ryokan for photography and compiling nearby shooting locations such as shrines, forests, and beaches. This has made the property a preferred choice for many cosplayers. Cyclists can bring their bicycles inside for secure storage before setting off on their rides, while LGBT travelers can also enjoy a comfortable and inclusive stay.
Address: 1 Kasai, Joban Yumotomachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Fukinoyu Onsen Ryokan
Fukinoyu is a long-established hot-spring ryokan with more than a century of history. Located at the highest point of the Yumoto Onsen district and surrounded by mountains, many rooms offer lush green views, allowing guests to relax in a natural setting. The property features large public baths for men and women as well as open-air observation baths overlooking the entire Yumoto Onsen town. Dining is another major highlight. Dinner is an elegant kaiseki meal featuring seasonal Fukushima ingredients, fresh seafood, and dishes inspired by the flavors of the season, with warming hot-pot dishes served in autumn and winter. Carefully selected tableware that changes with the seasons adds another visual expression of Japan's seasonal beauty.
Address: 48 Fukiya, Joban Yumotomachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Spa Resort Hawaiians
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As the real-life inspiration for the classic film Hula Girls, Spa Resort Hawaiians is a must-visit landmark in Iwaki. To fully experience the resort, staying at one of its on-site accommodations is highly recommended. Monolith Tower is themed around Hawaiian culture and art and offers a resort atmosphere with Western-style, Japanese-style, and Japanese-Western rooms. Its buffet restaurant serves a wide range of Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes suitable for both adults and children. Hotel Hawaiians, the largest property, connects directly to the amusement area through indoor passageways and is well suited to families. ViR Port is located in the center of the resort and is the closest hotel to the water park, making it easy to return to your room after swimming. For travelers who want to be closer to nature, Mauna Village combines glamping with comfortable accommodation for a different kind of resort experience.
Address: 50 Warabidaira, Joban Fujiwaramachi, Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture
Iwaki City brings together thousand-year-old hot springs, beautiful ocean scenery, and renowned Joban seafood, making it a destination suitable for travelers of all ages in every season. The next time you plan an independent trip to Japan's Tohoku region, consider adding Iwaki to your itinerary and experience its distinctive culture and natural landscapes for yourself. First-time visitors can also follow a selected two-day, one-night itinerary to discover the classic highlights of each area and experience the city's appeal in greater depth.