Fukushima (prefecture)

An 80 million-year-old, 3,000-meter-long limestone cave discovered in 1969. Traversing the 600 meters open to the public will take about an hour. This is a developed cave for tourism, so there are footpaths, lighting, handrails, and information signs. At the same time, the mix of small passages to huge grand hall cavern, and large variety of rock formations not found elsewhere in Japan, will satisfy all but the most picky cave enthusiasts. If you are looking for more adventure, for a small fee you can try the exploration course. Expect to squeeze through a few tight areas, but it is certainly a lot of fun!

Another cave, 6 km away from Abukumado Cave. This undeveloped cave is for the hard-core adventurer. Its 3 interconnected courses follow a 10 °C stream as its snakes its way through darkness. The water height is rarely higher than your ankles and not swift. Water drips from the ceiling so light raincoats or even wetsuits may be a good idea. A hard hat with light is highly recommended.

Built in 1384, this was the site of one of the last battles of the Boshin War between samurai fighting for the shogunate and new government forces formed during the Meiji Restoration of 1868. While the castle is a concrete reconstruction (there are very few original castles left in Japan), it remains an impressive attraction thanks to its large scale, unique red roof, and natural and historical surroundings. It is considered one of the best places to learn about samurai history and culture in Japan.

The Tadami Line is a scenic railway in western Fukushima and neighbouring Niigata Prefecture, winding through remote mountain valleys, forests and riverside villages. Its bridges over the Tadami River are particularly famous for their spectacular views, especially during autumn foliage and winter snow.

The organization offers tours specially designed so that the visitors can get first-hand impressions from areas affected by the great Tohoku earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear accident. The participants can experience, how local people and businesses are coping with the recovery from the disasters. The tours start and end in Tokyo and include accommodation in Iizaka hot spring near Fukushima.