Iizaka Onsen is located in Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, and is known for its long history as a healing hot spring resort. These days, it’s less crowded with tourists, making it a perfect place to enjoy some peace and quiet. In this article, we’ll introduce some of the local favorites, along with tips on how to get there. Why not take a trip where you can escape the crowds and truly relax your body and soul?
The history and charm of Iizaka Onsen
The Long History of Iizaka Onsen as a Healing Retreat
Iizaka Onsen is a hot spring town loved by many people for a long time. Its history goes back to the Heian period (around 794–1185), when people already knew the hot springs helped with health. In the Edo period, many writers and famous people visited, making Iizaka Onsen more popular. Even now, you can see old buildings and cultural sites that show its rich history.
The spring water of Iizaka Onsen is classified as a sodium-calcium chloride spring, known for its gentle effects on the skin and its benefits in relieving fatigue, rheumatism, and neuralgia. Because of these benefits, many people have come here to heal their bodies and minds. In the center of the town, you will find old-style inns and public baths where you can enjoy traditional hot spring culture.
Today, Iizaka Onsen is still a quiet and peaceful place surrounded by nature. It is a great spot to relax and refresh both your body and mind while enjoying its long history.
The Modern Charm of Iizaka Onsen
Iizaka Onsen is a hot spring town with a long history as a healing place. Today, it also has many modern attractions. In the town center, you can find cozy inns and hotels that welcome visitors warmly. Many places offer hot springs with fresh water flowing directly from the source, where you can relax your body and mind.
Around the town, there are shops selling local souvenirs and spas that use the healing power of the hot springs. There are also many restaurants serving food made with local ingredients. These places are loved by both tourists and local people. Walking around the town and enjoying local food is one of the best experiences in Iizaka Onsen.
Iizaka Onsen is surrounded by nature, offering beautiful views all year round. In spring, you can see cherry blossoms. Summer brings green mountains, autumn shows colorful leaves, and winter covers everything with snow. This mix of nature’s beauty and healing hot springs makes Iizaka Onsen a peaceful place to rest and refresh.
Local’s Guide to Hidden Attractions
Sabakoyu Hot Spring
Sabakoyu is a quiet hot spring facility known as one of the hidden gems of Iizaka Onsen. Loved by locals and visited by fewer tourists, it offers a peaceful environment where you can refresh both your body and mind. The spring water is a gentle alkaline simple hot spring, leaving your skin feeling smooth and soft after bathing.
Sabakoyu features both indoor baths and an open-air rotenburo (outdoor bath), where you can enjoy soaking while admiring the surrounding natural scenery. The changing seasons bring different views, making each visit a unique experience. The facility also includes a rest area where you can relax comfortably after your bath.
Conveniently located within walking distance from the center of Iizaka Onsen, Sabakoyu is easy to visit during your sightseeing. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy warm hospitality and mingle with locals, making it a must-visit when you come to Iizaka Onsen.
Hakoyu Hot Spring
Hakoyu is one of the most peaceful and lesser-known hot spring facilities in Iizaka Onsen. Surrounded by nature, it offers beautiful seasonal views throughout the year, making it the perfect place to relax and recharge both body and mind. One of Hakoyu’s best features is its natural, free-flowing hot spring water (gensen kakenagashi), which is gentle on the skin. The mineral-rich water is said to help relieve fatigue and improve skin health, making it popular with those seeking healing and beauty benefits.
The facility includes both indoor and open-air baths, each with a calm and relaxing atmosphere. From the outdoor bath, you can enjoy views of the surrounding nature while soaking in the warm water, giving you a true sense of openness and peace. Hakoyu also offers light meals and drinks made with local ingredients, so you can enjoy a refreshing break after your bath.
Located within walking distance from the center of Iizaka Onsen, Hakoyu is easy to visit even during a short sightseeing trip. It’s especially recommended for those who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a quiet, restorative experience. Be sure to stop by Hakoyu and discover one of Iizaka’s best-kept secrets.
A scenic path along the Surikami River
One of the best things about visiting Iizaka Onsen is its beautiful walking paths surrounded by nature. In particular, the riverside trail along the Surikami River is a hidden gem loved by locals. It’s a peaceful place where you can enjoy the sound of the flowing river and take a relaxing stroll to refresh both body and mind.
The path is well-maintained and easy to walk. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the trail. In summer, the lush green trees provide cool shade. Autumn brings vibrant red and orange leaves, while winter offers a quiet, snow-covered landscape. Each season shows a different side of the area’s natural beauty. During the fall foliage season, it can get a bit crowded, so visiting early in the morning or on a weekday is recommended for a quieter walk.
You’ll also find benches and rest areas along the way, perfect for taking a break and enjoying the view. As you walk, you can also feel the calm atmosphere of the hot spring town nearby, making it a great way to experience the full charm of Iizaka Onsen.
If you’re visiting Iizaka, don’t miss this riverside trail. It’s the perfect spot to unwind in nature and enjoy the afterglow of a relaxing hot spring bath.
Best Local Dishes and Dining Spots
Gyoza Terui
When visiting Iizaka Onsen, one place you shouldn’t miss is Gyoza Terui Iizaka Main Branch, a beloved dumpling shop that has been a local favorite for years. Known for its flavorful gyoza, Terui has stayed true to its original recipe since it first opened. Each dumpling is pan-fried to crispy perfection on the outside, while remaining juicy on the inside. Paired with their signature homemade dipping sauce, the flavor becomes even more satisfying.
The restaurant has a warm, welcoming atmosphere with both counter and table seating, making it easy to visit with family or friends. In addition to gyoza, there’s a great selection of side dishes that go perfectly with beer or sake. Many of the items on the menu feature local ingredients, allowing you to enjoy the taste of Fukushima along with your meal.
Gyoza Terui is open from lunchtime through dinner, so it’s easy to fit into your sightseeing schedule. After soaking in the relaxing hot springs of Iizaka, a visit to Terui is the perfect way to complete your day. Great food, cozy atmosphere, and a taste of the local culture—Gyoza Terui offers a dining experience that will make your trip even more memorable.
Ogata | Ramen&Gyoza
When visiting Iizaka Onsen, be sure to stop by Ogata Ramen & Gyoza, a hidden gem loved by locals for its exceptional ramen and gyoza. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere and warm hospitality make it a perfect spot to relax and recharge during your sightseeing.
Ogata offers a variety of ramen, from light and clear Chinese-style broth to rich and flavorful tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen. Their dishes stand out for using fresh local ingredients, delivering a rich umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the noodles.The handmade gyoza are a highlight, featuring crispy skins and juicy fillings, creating a delicious balance that goes wonderfully with a cold beer.
During lunchtime, you can also enjoy a meal set that is perfect for a satisfying meal on a budget. Whether you’re taking a break from sightseeing or looking for authentic local flavors, Ogata Ramen & Gyoza is a must-visit spot in Iizaka Onsen. Experience flavorful meals that will make your stay truly special.
Menhan Shuka Banrai | Ramen&Gyoza
When visiting Iizaka Onsen, be sure to stop by Menhan Shuka Banrai, a warm and welcoming restaurant loved by locals. Conveniently located near the center of the hot spring town, Banrai offers a wide menu focusing on ramen and gyoza, all made with fresh, handmade ingredients.
Their signature ramen features a special broth that’s light yet rich in flavor, perfect for gently soothing your tired body after a relaxing soak in the hot springs. The gyoza are another highlight—crispy on the outside and juicy inside, guaranteed to become an addictive treat. The restaurant also offers a selection of local beers and sake, making it a great place to enjoy authentic flavors with your meal.
The restaurant offers a cozy setting with both counter seats and tables, perfect for families and friends to relax together. After enjoying the soothing hot springs, treat yourself to some tasty local dishes. Menhan Shuka Banrai is a warm and inviting place that truly enhances your experience in Iizaka Onsen.
Jikkou Shokudo: A Beloved Local Eatery in Iizaka Onsen
When you visit Iizaka Onsen, make sure to drop by Jikkou Shokudo, a well-established local restaurant cherished by residents. The place has a cozy and inviting vibe. Though the décor is simple, the atmosphere is very relaxing, drawing in both tourists and longtime local patrons alike.
One of the highlights at Jikkou Shokudo is its extensive menu, but their homemade rice bowls are especially good.
You can try dishes like katsudon (pork cutlet on rice), oyakodon (chicken and egg on rice), and tamagodon (egg on rice). The portions are big, and the taste is gentle and homemade.
Watanabe Bakery
When enjoying a walk around Iizaka Onsen, be sure to visit Watanabe Bakery. This long-established bakery is loved by locals and offers a wide variety of handmade breads.Their fluffy white bread and savory breads filled with plenty of ingredients are especially popular. Each has a simple, warm flavor that feels like home.
The smell of freshly baked bread fills the shop, making it hard to resist stopping by. Since they open early in the morning, it’s a perfect place for breakfast or a light snack while sightseeing. They also offer seasonal breads made with local ingredients, so you can find something new each time you visit.
Watanabe Bakery is easy to reach from the center of the hot spring town, making it a great spot to drop by during your walk. After relaxing in the hot springs, why not treat yourself to some delicious fresh bread? Enjoy a cozy moment at this beloved local bakery.
Access Information
Access from Fukushima Station( Fukushima Kou-tsu Iizaka Line)
The Fukushima Kōtsū Iizaka Line is a convenient local train line that runs from Fukushima Station to Iizaka Onsen. The journey takes about 30 minutes, offering a pleasant ride through the city and beautiful surrounding scenery. In spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms along the way, while autumn brings stunning fall foliage, making the trip enjoyable in every season.
From the east exit of Fukushima Station, head to the Fukushima Kou-tsu train platform, where trains bound for Iizaka Onsen depart regularly. Trains run several times an hour, so it’s a good idea to check the timetable in advance. The train cars are relatively small but clean and comfortable.
Once you arrive at Iizaka Onsen Station, the hot spring town is within walking distance. Stepping out of the station, you can immediately feel the charming atmosphere of the area, with various sightseeing spots and restaurants nearby.
Using public transportation lets you avoid the stress of driving and allows you to relax and enjoy your trip. The easy access from Fukushima Station is one of the great advantages when visiting Iizaka Onsen.
Access by Car and Parking Information for Iizaka Onsen
Access to Iizaka Onsen by car is very convenient. If you use the Tohoku Expressway, take the Fukushima Nishi Interchange and drive about 20 minutes to reach the hot spring area. It is also close to Fukushima city center, making it an ideal location for sightseeing or day trips to the onsen. Many major tourist spots are scattered around Iizaka Onsen, so having a car allows you to explore the area efficiently at your own pace.
Regarding parking, there are several public parking lots in the Iizaka Onsen area. The Iizaka Onsen Tourist Parking Lot, located near the town center, offers easy access on foot to the hot springs and sightseeing spots. This parking lot is free of charge, so you can park your car without worry. Many accommodations also have their own parking spaces, so if you plan to stay overnight, it’s a good idea to check parking availability in advance.
During busy times like weekends and holidays, parking lots can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Using a car to visit Iizaka Onsen allows you to fully enjoy the beautiful nature and historic streets at a relaxed pace.
Summary of Iizaka Onsen Guide
Iizaka Onsen is home to many hidden gems that are not well known to most tourists. These spots offer a peaceful environment where you can relax while experiencing the local culture and nature. First is Sabakoyu, a historic hot spring loved by locals. It’s a calm and cozy place where you can enjoy good quality hot water and relax.
Next is Hakoyu, another quiet hot spring. The view at sunset here is especially beautiful. You can soak in the hot spring and enjoy the nature around you, which helps refresh your body and mind.
There is also a nice walking path along the Surikami River. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery in every season while taking a gentle walk.
Visiting these hidden spots lets you see a different side of Iizaka Onsen. It’s a great way to avoid crowds and have a peaceful, enjoyable trip.
