Spa Resort Hawaiians (Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Spa Resort Hawaiians is a large, comprehensive resort facility in Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, featuring hot springs, swimming pools, and shows. It opened in 1966 as "Joban Hawaiian Center" with the aim of revitalizing the area, which had lost jobs due to the decline of the coal industry. After several renovations in the 2000s, it became known as "Spa Resort Hawaiians" and now attracts tourists from both Japan and abroad. It is famous for performances by a hula dance team that served as the model for the movie "Hula Girls" (2006), and boasts a group of indoor pools where you can enjoy a tropical atmosphere all year round, as well as slides, a wave pool, and hot springs (open-air and large public baths).

Highlights

• Hula girl showA full-fledged Polynesian show is held in several sessions. The costumes and performances are the highlights, making it a popular main event for tourists.
• Indoor water parkWith its year-round tropical temperatures, this resort offers a wave pool, lazy river, children's pool, and various water slides, making it enjoyable regardless of the weather.
• Hot springs and spasAfter playing in the pool, you can relax in the large public bath or open-air bath, and unwind in the hot springs (there may be an additional charge for using the hot springs).
• Shopping & DiningThe facility includes a souvenir shop, a Hawaiian-themed restaurant, and a cafe where you can enjoy local food-style dishes and cuisine made with local ingredients.
• Seasonal EventsSummer festivals, illuminations, special performances, and other seasonal events are frequently held, so you can enjoy it no matter how many times you visit.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + Shuttle/TaxiThe nearest station is Yumoto Station (Iwaki City) on the JR Joban Line. From Yumoto Station, it takes about 10-15 minutes by taxi, or you can travel by bus or shuttle (this may vary depending on the operating status and season). From Iwaki Station, it takes about 20-30 minutes by local bus or direct shuttle.
• Express busDirect express buses sometimes operate from the Tokyo area (Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, etc.). The journey time varies depending on traffic congestion, but is approximately 2.5 to 4 hours.
• carApproximately 10-15 minutes by car from the Iwaki-Yumoto Interchange on the Joban Expressway (may vary depending on traffic conditions). There is parking available on the premises (space limits and fees vary by facility, so advance confirmation is recommended).
• remarksPlease note that shuttle bus and parking information, as well as direct bus schedules, may vary depending on the season and day of the week. Please check the official website or facility for the latest information before your visit.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Main ways to enjoy a day trip: Combine the hula show and pool use for about 4-6 hours. Timing your visit to coincide with the show times will allow you to see everything efficiently.
• Relaxing Plan: A one-night stay is recommended if you want to enjoy the pool, hot springs, meals, and shows all at once. You can fully enjoy the resort atmosphere with the evening shows and hotel stay.
• For families: If you're traveling with young children, it's best to allow 6-8 hours to allow for breaks and changing clothes.

Nearby spots

• Aquamarine Fukushima (a large aquarium in Iwaki City) — Approximately 20-30 minutes by car. A popular tourist destination for families.
• Iwaki La La Mew (Fish Market) — A seafood market in the Onahama area. Approximately 30 minutes by car.
• Iwaki City Coal and Fossil Museum Horuru — Exhibits on the history of the coal industry and fossils. It has strong ties to the history of the spa resort, and visiting both together will deepen your understanding.
• Nakoso Barrier — A place where you can enjoy historical sites and nature parks. Approximately 30-40 minutes by car.
• Shioyazaki Lighthouse — A scenic spot overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Ideal for a scenic drive.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestionWeekends, public holidays, summer vacation, Golden Week, and the New Year period are extremely crowded. Show viewing seats and popular attractions fill up quickly, so we recommend arriving early or purchasing tickets in advance.
• Tickets and reservationsShow seating, pool admission tickets, and accommodations may sell out during peak season. Please check and make reservations in advance via the official website or by phone.
• Items to bring / RentalsSwimsuits and towels are available for rent, but the number is limited, so it's best to bring your own. Please check in advance about children's flotation devices and other equipment.
• Handling of tattoosMany facilities in Japan have restrictions on tattoos, and there may be limitations on using spas and baths. If you have tattoos, please check with the facility in advance (cover-up stickers may be available).
• Filming at the showThere may be rules regarding photography during shows. Photography of the hula dancers and the performance may be restricted during hula shows, so please follow the instructions of the staff.
• Safety/HealthPlease pay attention to your physical condition when using the hot springs or sauna. Please follow safety measures in the pool (keep an eye on children, do not enter the water after drinking alcohol, etc.).
• Weather and SeasonAs the facilities are primarily indoors, they are less affected by weather conditions. However, transportation to and from the venue may be disrupted by heavy snow or typhoons. Please check traffic information, especially during winter and typhoon season.

Before your visit, we recommend checking the latest opening hours, prices, show schedules, and transportation options on the official website or by phone. Enjoy both a resort atmosphere and local history and culture at Spa Resort Hawaiians.