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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Koriyama sharing quite a few of those!
Koriyama is a vibrant city that sings with the melody of traditional Japanese culture and modern-day adventurism.
From the breathtaking landscapes, serene temples, to the remarkable dining options, Koriyama offers an authentic experience that is bound to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
Get ready to embark on a journey of wonder and explore the hidden gems that Koriyama has to offer.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Koriyama:
1. Koriyama City Museum of Art
A modern art museum located in Koriyama City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of modern art displays, including contemporary Japanese and international exhibits. The museum also offers workshops and educational programs for all ages.
Don’t miss: The museum’s permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Takashi Murakami, and Yoshitomo Nara. Visitors should also check out the outdoor sculpture garden, which features several interesting works.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located near Koriyama Station and is easily accessible by train. Admission is free for children under 18 and the museum is closed on Mondays.
Be sure to check the museum’s website for information on current exhibits and special events.
2. Nihonmatsu Castle
Nihonmatsu Castle, also known as Kasumiga Castle, is a historic castle located in Nihonmatsu, Fukushima, Japan. It is designated as a National Historic Site and is one of the twelve original castles in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle grounds and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area.
The castle tower has been reconstructed and now serves as a museum displaying the history of the castle and the area.
There are also exhibits related to the samurai culture, armor, weapons, and local pottery.
Don’t miss: The Yamizumi Shrine is located on the castle grounds and is dedicated to the castle’s legendary founder, Kato Kiyomasa. The shrine is a designated Important Cultural Property and features a beautiful wooden gate and unique architecture.
Insider travel tips: – Check the calendar for special events or festivals held at the castle throughout the year.
3. Hanamiyama Park
A picturesque mountain park in Koriyama, Japan known for its beautiful cherry blossoms.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the park’s nature trails and enjoy the stunning views of the colorful cherry blossoms in the spring.
Besides cherry blossoms, the park is also home to a variety of other colorful flowers like camellias, azaleas, and rhododendrons, creating a vibrant display of colors.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a cable car to the top of the mountain for more stunning views of the surroundings and to get a glimpse of the nearby Mt.
Bandai.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Hanamiyama Park is in late April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
4. Mount Adatara
A 1,700-meter high mountain located in Koriyama, Fukushima prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Mount Adatara offers amazing panoramic views of the surrounding Japanese countryside, including views of the Azuma mountain range. Hiking is a popular activity on the mountain, with trails ranging from beginner to advanced.
There are also several hot springs in the area to relax in after a day of hiking.
Don’t miss: The Adatara Kogen Ski Resort, located near the top of the mountain, offers skiing and snowboarding during the winter season. In addition, the Adatara Castle ruins, located near the base of the mountain, are an interesting historical attraction to visit.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Mount Adatara is in the fall, when the leaves change color and the air is crisp and clear.
The hiking trails can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so try to visit on a weekday if possible. Also, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, as it can get quite chilly at the summit.
5. Lacquerware Museum
The Lacquerware Museum is a museum dedicated to showcasing the beauty and history of traditional Japanese lacquerware.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the many exhibits on display, which include an impressive collection of ancient and contemporary lacquerware items such as furniture, tea ceremony utensils, and writing materials.
There are also interactive displays showcasing the intricate and lengthy lacquerware-making process.
Don’t miss: Be sure not to miss the beautiful masterpieces of lacquerware from the Edo period displayed in the central hall. These stunning pieces were the prized possessions of Japan’s nobility and depict scenes of nature, history, and mythology.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to wear socks or be prepared to take off your shoes before entering the museum.
6. Takayashiki Inari Shrine
Takayashiki Inari Shrine is a small and lovely Shinto shrine located in Koriyama, a city in Fukushima Prefecture.
What to see or do: The shrine has a picturesque setting with a beautiful torii gate, several small buildings, and a peaceful and calming atmosphere.
You can take a leisurely stroll along the scenic path leading to the shrine, admire the unique wooden plaques or Ema, tied with colorful ribbons, and offer your prayers.
Don’t miss: The shrine is particularly enchanting during the autumn season when the leaves turn into brilliant shades of red and orange, creating a mesmerizing backdrop.
Insider travel tips: The shrine is easily accessible from Koriyama Station.
You can take a bus or a taxi to reach there, or it’s a 10-minute walk from the closest railway station, Takayashiki Station.
7. Kaiseizan Park
A picturesque park located in Koriyama City, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a relaxing stroll through the serene grounds while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding areas. Admire the stunning views of Azuma mountains which can be seen from the park.
There is also a small Japanese garden and a pond which provides a peaceful setting to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Don’t miss: The famous cherry blossoms which bloom in spring, creating a stunning sea of pink.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Don’t forget to bring some snacks and drinks to enjoy a picnic alongside the pond.
Additionally, the park is within walking distance of Koriyama Station, making it easily accessible for travelers.
8. Tenkyokaku
A stunning Japanese-style villa turned museum in Koriyama, Fukushima Prefecture.
What to see or do: Admire the architecture and Japanese garden, browse the museum’s collection of artifacts and artwork, attend cultural events and workshops.
Don’t miss: The tea ceremony room and the seasonal changing leaves of the surrounding garden.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for event schedules and exhibition information, bring socks to wear inside the villa, and try the green tea ice cream sold at the gift shop.
9. Saiseikai Koriyama Hospital
Saiseikai Koriyama Hospital is a major healthcare facility located in Koriyama, Fukushima, Japan.
What to see or do: As a hospital, the main focus is on healthcare services for patients and their families. However, the hospital has various departments for medical treatment, including general medicine, surgery, pediatrics, rehabilitation, and more.
Visitors can observe the top-notch medical treatment facilities and services offered by the hospital.
Don’t miss: Patients and their families can take advantage of the various amenities provided by the hospital, including the cafeteria, pharmacy, and gift shop.
The hospital also has an outdoor garden area for some fresh air and relaxation.
Insider travel tips: If you’re seeking medical treatment, it’s recommended to make an appointment ahead of time. English-speaking staff are available, but it’s a good idea to have a translator on hand for any language barriers.
10. Koriyama Central Park
A large urban park in Koriyama city, Fukushima prefecture, Japan that covers about 73 hectares of land.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as jogging, cycling, and walking. There are also playgrounds, a botanical garden, and a roller skating rink.
The park is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season in spring and fall foliage season in autumn.
Don’t miss: The park’s central fountain, which is lit up at night, and the observation deck on top of the park’s tower. Both offer stunning views of the park and surrounding city.
Insider travel tips: – The park is located a 10-minute walk from Koriyama Station.
11. Big Dainichi Buddha Statue
The Big Dainichi Buddha Statue in Koriyama is a magnificent bronze statue depicting the Cosmic Buddha Dainichi that stands at over 72 feet high.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the statue from the base of the hill, or climb up to the observation deck for an up-close and personal view.
Don’t miss: Make sure to look out for the small stone statues scattered around the base of the statue. These are known as Jizo and are believed to protect children and travelers.
Insider travel tips: – It’s best to visit early in the morning when there are fewer tourists around.
12. Koriyama Aquamarine Park
Koriyama Aquamarine Park is an award-winning aquarium located in Koriyama City, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: At the Koriyama Aquamarine Park, visitors can see a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, sea turtles, jellyfish, and many other colorful fish species.
The aquarium also features interactive exhibits where visitors can touch and learn about marine creatures. Visitors can also enjoy a dolphin and sea lion show, as well as attend feeding sessions.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive indoor tank that houses the aquarium’s largest sharks, including the fearsome tiger shark and the massive whale shark.
The park’s jellyfish exhibit is also stunning, with tanks of beautifully illuminated jellyfish in various colors and species.
Insider travel tips: The Koriyama Aquamarine Park can be easily reached by taking the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Koriyama Station and then taking a local bus or taxi to the park.
To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit the aquarium on weekdays.
Visitors can save money by purchasing a combined ticket that includes admission to both the aquarium and the nearby Koriyama City Museum of Art.
13. Kaiseizan Sogakudo Concert Hall
Kaiseizan Sogakudo Concert Hall is a renowned music venue located in Koriyama, Japan.
What to see or do: The main attraction of the hall is its exceptional acoustics, which offer a top-notch sound experience for any music lover. The venue hosts various music events, including classical, jazz, and traditional Japanese music concerts.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the mesmerizing design of the exterior and interior of the Concert Hall. The hall’s unique wooden architecture and layout create an intimate atmosphere and enhance the musical experience further.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance, especially for popular concerts, as the Hall has limited seating capacity.
14. Tsunami Ruins
A collection of ruins caused by the devastating tsunami that hit Koriyama in 2011.
What to see or do: Explore the eerily beautiful landscape of destroyed buildings and debris, and pay your respects at the memorial sites.
Don’t miss: The Koriyama City Museum of Art, which showcases art made from materials recovered from the disaster.
Insider travel tips: Wear sturdy footwear and be respectful when visiting the ruins. The area is still recovering, so be mindful of the ongoing reconstruction efforts.
Take a moment to learn about the disaster and its impact on the community before your visit.
15. Kaiseiyama Park Observation Tower
Kaiseiyama Park Observation Tower is a tall tower located in Kaiseiyama Park, Koriyama, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb up the tower to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and mountains. The tower is surrounded by a beautiful park, perfect for picnics and relaxing.
Don’t miss: Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of Koriyama city and the surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the tower during the daytime for clear views. The park also hosts several events throughout the year, so check the schedule before visiting.
We recommend bringing a light jacket, as it can be windy at the top.