Tsuchiyu-Onsen, located in the mountains of rich nature in the western part of Fukushima City, is a busy tourist spot, yet it is still a hidden spot with many undiscovered attractions. From traditional kokeshi doll culture and relaxing footbaths to local gourmet cuisine made with regional ingredients, Tsuchiyu Onsen offers countless delights for visitors.
In this article, we’ll introduce some of the best sightseeing spots in Tsuchiyu Onsen and explain how to get there.
Access Guide to Tsuchiyu Onsen
How to access from Tokyo and Sendai
Accessing Tsuchiyu Onsen is surprisingly convenient from both Tokyo and Sendai.
From Tokyo, the most common route is by bullet train. Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Fukushima Station—the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Fukushima Station, transfer to a local bus bound for Tsuchiyu Onsen, which takes about 40 minutes. Along the way, you can enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
From Sendai, the route is just as simple. Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Sendai Station to Fukushima Station—this leg of the trip takes around 40 minutes. From there, hop on the same Tsuchiyu Onsen-bound bus. Additionally, there are direct bus services from Sendai to Tsuchiyu Onsen, eliminating the need to transfer at Fukushima Station, making the journey even more convenient.
If you prefer to travel by car, Tsuchiyu Onsen is also accessible from both cities. From Tokyo, the drive takes about 3 hours, and from Sendai, about 1.5 hours. Simply take the Tohoku Expressway, exit at Fukushima-Nishi IC, and follow the signs toward Tsuchiyu Onsen. There are multiple parking lots available around the hot spring area, making it a stress-free option for drivers.
With such easy access from both major cities, Tsuchiyu Onsen is a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Surrounded by nature, it offers a peaceful retreat where you can relax and recharge both your body and mind.
Bus Information from Fukushima Station to Tsuchiyu Onsen”
Taking the bus from Fukushima Station to Tsuchiyu Onsen is a very convenient option. Buses bound for Tsuchiyu Onsen depart regularly from the East Exit of Fukushima Station, with a travel time of about 40 minutes. There are many buses throughout the day, making it especially easy to use during the busy tourist seasons.
The bus leaves from a stop located just outside the East Exit of Fukushima Station. Since the bus schedule varies by season, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance. On weekends and holidays, when many travelers head to Tsuchiyu Onsen, the buses can get crowded, so it’s a good idea to take an earlier bus if possible.
The buses are comfortable, and passengers can enjoy beautiful views of the mountains and natural scenery along the way. When you arrive in Tsuchiyu Onsen, the peaceful atmosphere of the hot spring town welcomes you, setting the tone for a rejuvenating visit. Traveling by bus also frees you from the stress of driving, so you can fully immerse yourself in the relaxing hot spring experience.
Access by Car and Parking Information
Accessing Tsuchiyu Onsen by car is very convenient. From Fukushima City, you can take Route 115, which leads to the hot spring town in about 30 minutes. Alternatively, if coming via the Tohoku Expressway, exit at Fukushima-Nishi IC, and it’s approximately a 20-minute drive from there. Driving through the surrounding natural scenery provides a pleasant experience for visitors.
Regarding parking, several public parking lots are available within Tsuchiyu Onsen. Many ryokan and tourist facilities offer either free or paid parking spaces for guests and visitors. In particular, there is a large parking area in the center of the hot spring district, providing easy access to popular sightseeing spots. During busy seasons, parking lots can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
Since many sightseeing spots are scattered around the area, having a car makes it easier to explore efficiently. Visiting Tsuchiyu Onsen by car is highly recommended for those who want to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural sites nearby.
Hidden Sightseeing Spots in Tsuchiyu Onsen
Anna Garden
One of Tsuchiyu Onsen’s hidden charms, Anna Garden is a beautiful garden offering visitors a place of healing and tranquility. Throughout the year, the garden bursts into color with seasonal flowers—cherry blossoms and tulips in spring, sunflowers and hydrangeas in summer, and vibrant autumn leaves in fall. Well-maintained walking paths allow guests to enjoy a leisurely stroll, making it a popular spot for families and couples.
Anna Garden also features a cozy café where you can savor light meals and sweets made with local ingredients. Especially noteworthy are the seasonal menus, which bring new delights with each visit and keep repeat guests coming back. Enjoying a treat while overlooking the garden provides a refreshing break for both body and mind.
In addition, Anna Garden regularly holds events and workshops, offering valuable opportunities to experience local culture and nature. By stopping by between sightseeing tours, you will be able to experience the charm of Tsuchiyu Onsen more deeply. Why not spend a heartwarming moment while getting in touch with nature?
Yume-Butai
Yume-Butai is a cultural attraction located in the Tsuchiyu Onsen area of Fukushima City. It highlights the rich history and traditions of the region, particularly the Tsuchiyu Kokeshi—a traditional wooden doll that is a local craft unique to the area. With nearly 2,000 kokeshi dolls on display, the facility gives guests a chance to explore the artistry and cultural significance behind each piece.
One of the most popular features of Yume-Butai is the kokeshi painting experience, where guests can create their own original doll. This hands-on activity is especially loved by families and tourists, making it a perfect way to take home a personalized souvenir and a special memory of Tsuchiyu Onsen.
In addition to the kokeshi displays, the facility also includes exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Tsuchiyu Onsen, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the area. There’s also a gift shop that offers a variety of local products and souvenirs, making it a convenient stop during your visit.
Yume-Butai is a unique destination where you can experience the authentic traditions and cultural heritage of Tsuchiyu Onsen. It’s sure to leave a lasting impression and become one of the most memorable parts of your trip.
Orara no Komise: A Community Market in Fukushima
One of the spots that further enhances the charm of Tsuchiyu Onsen is ORARA no Komise. This is a direct sales shop selling local specialties and handmade handicrafts, giving visitors a taste of Tsuchiyu’s culture and traditions. In particular, it offers a wide variety of fresh vegetables and fruits grown by local farmers, as well as handmade processed goods, and is loved by locals as well as tourists.
At ORARA no Komise, visitors can enjoy seasonal specialties and discover something new each time they visit. The shop also offers a large selection of handcrafted goods and souvenirs made by local artisans, so you are sure to find the perfect item to remember your trip. In particular, handmade Kokeshi dolls, a specialty of Tsuchiyu Onsen, are a popular item among tourists.
Inside the facility, there’s also a cozy cafe space, where you can relax with light meals and sweets made from local ingredients. A great place to recharge after a bath, where you can also enjoy delicious local food. If you’re visiting Tsuchiyu Onsen, be sure to drop by Orara no Komise and experience the local warmth, creativity, and culture that make this area truly special.
Exploring Tsuchiyu’s Footbaths
One of the most attractive features of Tsuchiyu Onsen is its footbaths. Scattered throughout the hot spring town, these relaxing spots are beloved not only by tourists but also by local residents. Immersing your feet in the warm waters while surrounded by tranquil nature is a soothing experience that will soothe your body and calm your mind.
Footbaths in Tsuchiyu Onsen have different features in each location. For example, at “Ashiyu Hiroba” located in the center of the hot spring resort, visitors can enjoy a relaxing footbath in a spacious area. There are also many stores selling local specialties in the surrounding area, where visitors can choose from a variety of souvenirs while enjoying the footbath.
In addition, if you go a little further, a footbath near the “Yuaibutai” is also recommended. Here, you can spend some quiet time while admiring the beautiful nature around you. The warmth of the footbath combined with the pleasant breeze of nature will allow you to experience a moment of peace and tranquility.
Footbaths are ideal for quick stops between sightseeing or before heading back to your accommodation. They’re casual, easy to enjoy, and leave you feeling refreshed. Taking a footbath stroll through Tsuchiyu Onsen is sure to become one of your most heartwarming memories of the trip.
Road Station Tsuchiyu | Tsuchiyu Road Park
When visiting Tsuchiyu Onsen, a must-stop spot is Michi-no-Eki Tsuchiyu (Tsuchiyu Road Park). This roadside station offers a wide selection of local specialties, fresh vegetables, and handmade crafts, making it a beloved place not only for tourists but also for local residents. Especially popular are the fresh fruits and vegetables grown by nearby farmers, which are a major draw for visitors.
The facility also includes a restaurant serving dishes made with local ingredients, offering unique flavors you won’t find elsewhere. Highly recommended are the set meals featuring seasonal produce and creative dishes inspired by local specialties. After enjoying your meal, taking a stroll around the beautiful natural surroundings is a great way to relax. The scenic mountains that envelop the area provide a soothing atmosphere sure to refresh your mind.
Furthermore, Michi-no-Eki Tsuchiyu also functions as a tourist information center, where you can obtain information on nearby tourist spots and events. Using it as a base for your sightseeing will allow you to discover even more of what makes Tsuchiyu Onsen special. Be sure to stop by this roadside station and fully enjoy the local charm when you visit Tsuchiyu Onsen.
Fukushima City Minka-en (Traditional Japanese Houses)
Fukushima City Minka-en is a cultural facility located in an easily accessible location from Tsuchiyu Onsen, and is a valuable spot to experience local history and traditions. Here, old private houses from the Edo and Meiji periods have been relocated, allowing visitors to learn about the lifestyle and culture of those times. In particular, the exhibits of farming tools and daily necessities give visitors a sense of the wisdom and ingenuity of the people of the past.
Visitors can also enjoy strolling in the expansive grounds surrounded by nature in each of the four seasons. The scenery, which changes each time you visit, will soothe your soul: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter. In addition, local events and workshops are held regularly, providing a great opportunity to deepen your interaction with the locals.
Fukushima City Minka-en is a particularly good spot for those who want to spend some quiet time while still having the bustle of a tourist attraction. You will be able to further deepen your appreciation of Tsuchiyu Onsen while experiencing its history and culture. When you visit, be sure to stop by.
Shiki no Sato | Nature and Culture All Year Round
Located near Tsuchiyu Onsen Hot Spring, Shikinosato is a place where visitors can fully enjoy the beauty of nature. Here, visitors can enjoy the flowers and plants of the four seasons in a garden that offers a relaxing experience to visitors. In particular, visitors can stroll through the garden to experience the changes of the four seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter.
Shiki no Sato also features a local farmers’ market, where you can purchase freshly harvested vegetables and fruits grown in the region. A cozy dining area on-site serves delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients — a perfect way to experience the authentic flavors of Fukushima. Many visitors find these dishes to be one of the most memorable parts of their trip.
Throughout the year, Shiki no Sato hosts seasonal events that celebrate the area’s culture and traditions, making it a great place to connect with the local community. Whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or friends, this scenic spot is an ideal stop on your journey. Be sure to visit when exploring Tsuchiyu Onsen — and let the natural beauty and warmth of the area soothe your soul.
Ebisu Circuit
Located near Tsuchiyu Onsen, Ebisu Circuit is a hidden treasure for motorsport fans. Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the four seasons, this circuit offers an exciting experience for both drivers and spectators. Various racing events are held throughout the year, including kart and motorcycle races, allowing visitors to enjoy a wide range of motorsport activities.
One of the most unique features of Ebisu Circuit is its diverse course design. It is designed to be enjoyable for drivers of all levels, from beginners to experts. The circuit is also equipped with spectator seating, allowing visitors to watch powerful races up close. Especially during the racing season, the circuit attracts a large number of spectators, creating an atmosphere of excitement.
In addition, Ebisu Circuit offers a driving school and hands-on driving experience, making it the perfect place for those interested in motorsports. Not only can visitors experience the fun of driving a car for themselves, they can also receive instruction from professional instructors. When you visit Tsuchiyu Onsen, why not visit Ebisu Circuit and enjoy this special experience?
Tohoku Safari Park
Located about 30 minutes by car from Tsuchiyu Onsen, Tohoku Safari Park is a must-see destination for families and animal lovers. This safari park offers visitors the experience of observing a wide variety of animals up close on its expansive grounds. The drive-through area, where visitors can observe the lives of the animals without leaving their cars, is a particularly special experience for visitors.
The Safari Park is home to a wide variety of animals, from large animals such as lions, tigers, and giraffes to cute little animals. There is also a petting area and an experience where visitors can feed the animals, providing a valuable learning experience for children. Furthermore, the park is equipped with a restaurant and a store, where visitors can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients in between animal watching sessions.
The park also offers seasonal events and special exhibits, so you can discover something new each time you visit. This is one of the places you should definitely stop by when you visit Tsuchiyu Onsen. Why not spend a heartwarming time interacting with the animals?
Gourmet Spots in Tsuchiyu Onsen
Local specialty “Sansai Soba”
When visiting Tsuchiyu Onsen, be sure to try the local specialty, “Sansai Soba” (buckwheat noodles with wild vegetables). This soba, made with an abundance of fresh wild vegetables nurtured by the rich nature of Fukushima, is so flavorful that it will captivate anyone who eats it. Especially in spring, wild vegetables such as cod roe, koshirabara, and udo are in season, and they go especially well with soba.
Sansai soba is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that combines handmade soba noodles with tender mountain vegetables. Many local soba restaurants serve it with either lightly fried tempura sansai or simmered vegetables as toppings, resulting in a beautifully presented meal that reflects the seasons.
There are many eateries around Tsuchiyu Onsen that offer their own versions of sansai soba, each with unique twists and a commitment to quality. Taking a break during your sightseeing to enjoy a bowl of this local favorite is highly recommended. After a relaxing soak in the hot springs, a warm serving of sansai soba is sure to leave a lasting impression on your journey.
Onsen manjuu (steamed bun) tour
When visiting Tsuchiyu Onsen, one delightful local treat you won’t want to miss is the onsen manju—a traditional steamed bun that’s deeply loved by both locals and visitors. Steamed using the natural heat and steam from the hot springs, these soft, fluffy buns are filled with mildly sweet red bean paste, either smooth (koshian) or chunky (tsubuan). Its mild sweetness will soothe your mind and body.
There are several stores specializing in onsen manju in the surrounding areas of Tsuchiyu Onsen. One particularly popular store sells original manju made with local ingredients and loved not only by tourists but also by locals. For example, one store offers an onsen manju with flavors that change with the seasons, allowing visitors to enjoy a new taste each time they visit.
Onsen manju is also a great souvenir. The packaging is cute and will surely be appreciated as a gift. Why not purchase a few to take home with you as a reminder of your visit to the hot spring? Tasting onsen manju together with the warm atmosphere of Tsuchiyu Onsen will make your experience even more special.
Accommodations in Tsuchiyu-Onsen
Sansuiso | A long-established ryokan
To fully enjoy the charms of Tsuchiyu Onsen, a stay at the long-established ryokan “Sansuiso” is essential. This ryokan, which has been in business for several decades, is located in the center of the hot spring resort area and offers warm hospitality to visitors. The guest rooms have a relaxing Japanese-style atmosphere, and the beautiful mountain views can be enjoyed from the windows.
The highlight of Sansuiso is its natural hot spring baths, which draw water directly from the source. Guests can unwind in the spacious indoor baths or relax under the open sky in the outdoor baths, experiencing true tranquility as they soak in the healing waters. In the evening, guests are treated to a kaiseki dinner(traditional multi-course Japanese cuisine) made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients, allowing them to savor the flavors of Fukushima.
Another unique feature of Sansuiso is its exhibition and shop featuring traditional kokeshi dolls, giving visitors a chance to connect with the region’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural immersion, or a convenient base for exploring the area, Sansuiso offers an unforgettable stay in the heart of Tsuchiyu Onsen.
「YUMORI ONSEN HOSTEL」
YUMORI ONSEN HOSTEL is a hot spring accommodation combining tradition and modernity, located in Tsuchiyu Onsen, Fukushima City. It opened in 2017 after renovating a 50-year-old ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). As the name “Yumori” (meaning “guardian of hot springs”) implies, the hostel offers a new type of lodging experience while respecting the local hot spring culture.
The hostel features a natural hot spring bath fed directly from the source, available to guests 24 hours. In addition, a kitchen and lounge are provided in the common space, where guests can enjoy socializing with other guests. Rooms range from dormitory type to private rooms to meet a variety of needs.
Popular among both domestic and international travelers, YUMORI ONSEN HOSTEL is known for its affordable rates and community-oriented atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to experience a modern take on the Tsuchiyu Onsen tradition.
Summary | Secret Spots to Explore in Tsuchiyu Onsen
Tsuchiyu Onsen has many hidden gems that are not often visited by tourists. Here are some of the hidden spots worth visiting.
First, there is “Anna Garden. This is a beautiful garden where you can enjoy seasonal flowers and appreciate the beauty of nature as you stroll around. Especially in spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, enchanting visitors.
Next is Yume Butai, a place where visitors can experience local culture and art. Regular events and workshops allow visitors to meet local artists and gain a deeper understanding of Tsuchiyu Onsen’s culture.
Orara no Komise is a shop selling local specialties and handmade crafts. Here, you can find unique souvenirs that truly represent the spirit of Tsuchiyu Onsen, perfect for taking home as a memento of your trip.
Another great activity is touring the various footbaths scattered throughout the hot spring town. These spots provide an easy way to enjoy the healing effects of the hot springs while relaxing and soaking in the surrounding natural beauty.
At Michi-no-Eki Tsuchiyu Tsuchiyu Road Park, you can purchase fresh local vegetables and specialty products, and there is also a rest area. It is an ideal spot to stop by during a road trip.
In addition, at Fukushima City Minka-en (private house garden), visitors can experience the lifestyle of the past while touring historical buildings. It is a good opportunity to learn about the local culture.
At Shiki no Sato, you can enjoy nature and seasonal events and activities. The autumn foliage season here is especially breathtaking.
The Ebisu Circuit and Tohoku Safari Park are also great spots for active people. These parks offer a variety of attractions for families and friends to enjoy together.
By visiting these hidden gems, you will discover new charms of Tsuchiyu Onsen and create deeper memories of your trip.
