Iizaka Onsen

What it is

• One of the three famous hot spring resorts in the Oshu region.
• A simple thermal spring resort located at the foot of the Kuriko Mountains.
• Legendary site discovered by Yamato Takeru and visited by poet Matsuo Basho.
• Historic destination that hosted Helen Keller on two separate occasions.

What to see

• Over 60 traditional ryokan inns standing along the Surikami River.
• Sabakoyu, which is the oldest communal bathhouse in the district.
• The Iizaka Hachiman Shrine where local festivals are held.

When to go

• The Iizaka Kenka Matsuri festival held at the local Hachiman Shrine.

Getting there

• Take the Iizaka Line directly from Fukushima Station to the hot spring town.
• Approximately 10 minutes by car from the Fukushima Iizaka Interchange.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.