What to know
Iwaki (いわき) is a city in southeastern Fukushima Prefecture along the Pacific coast, about 50 kilometers south of the damaged nuclear plant. The city suffered from both the earthquake and tsunami, but most tourist spots reopened within a year.
Coal mining was Iwaki's main industry from the 1870s to the 1960s, as commemorated by the Iwaki Coal and Fossil Museum. When oil became Japan's primary energy source, coal mines closed, and the city turned to tourism. In 1966, a Hawaiian-themed water park resort was built in the hot spring area of Yumoto Onsen. Now known as the Spa Resort Hawaiians, it remains Iwaki's most famous attraction.
Activities and attractions
Aquamarine FukushimaOutstanding aquarium with local and exotic fish
Spa Resort HawaiiansLarge water park resort with Hula Girl dancers
Abukumado CaveImpressive limestone cave open to the public
Iwaki Coal and Fossil MuseumCommemorating Iwaki’s coal mining history
Shiramizu AmidadoBeautiful temple hall standing in the remains of a paradise garden
Rokkakudo HallHexagonal hall standing right at the coast of the Pacific Ocean
Shioyasaki LighthousePretty lighthouse on top of a steep hill overlooking the ocean