Urabandai (Kitashiobara Village, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Urabandai is an area of plateaus and lakes north of Mount Bandai in Fukushima Prefecture, and is part of Bandai-Asahi National Park. The current landscape dates back to the 1888 (Meiji 21) eruption of Mount Bandai, which caused part of the mountain to collapse, creating numerous lakes, marshes, and wetlands in the dammed valleys. The area is particularly famous for its ponds and marshes, such as Lake Goshikinuma and Lake Hibarako, which change color depending on the transparency and composition of the water, and is attractive for its natural beauty that changes with the seasons.

Highlights

• Goshikinuma (including Bishamonuma): A walking trail dotted with large and small ponds. Depending on the light and water quality, the pond shows various hues such as blue, green, and emerald. Bishamon Lake is a representative spot with an observation spot and a boat dock (open seasonally).
• Lake Hibara: The largest lake in Urabandai. You can enjoy canoeing, boating, fishing, cycling, and more. The surrounding area is a relaxing highland landscape.
• Mt. Bandai (climbing)There are several hiking trails from the base of the mountain, and a 360-degree panoramic view from the summit. There are various routes, from hiking to full-scale mountain climbing.
• Urabandai Visitor Center: A base for learning about the area's nature, topography, and attractions. You can also get information on walking routes and event information.
• Observation roads (Bandai-Azuma Skyline and surrounding tourist roads): You can enjoy the view of the plateau and the Azuma mountain range on a drive. It is especially beautiful during the autumn foliage season.
• Winter snow scenery and playing in the snow: During the snowy season, you can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and the unique scenery of the frozen lake (access restrictions apply depending on the location and time of year).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + Bus (main route)From Tokyo, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Koriyama (Koriyama Station) or Fukushima. From Koriyama (Koriyama Station), take a local bus or sightseeing bus to Urabandai (approximately 60-90 minutes, service times vary depending on the season). You can also access the area from Aizuwakamatsu (Aizuwakamatsu Station) by local bus (approximately 40-60 minutes).
• carFrom the Tokyo metropolitan area, take the Tohoku Expressway → Ban'etsu Expressway, etc., and it will take approximately 3 to 4 hours to get to the site (this may vary depending on the departure point and road conditions). There are parking lots scattered throughout the Urabandai area, but they may fill up during the tourist season.
• Local transportation: Local buses and circular tourist buses operate between major tourist spots, but the number of services is limited and they are often seasonal, so it is best to check the schedule in advance. Renting a car is convenient.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Stroll around Goshikinuma: 1-2 hours (around 2 hours if you want to take your time taking photos)
• Boating and cycling on Lake Hibara: 1 to 3 hours
• Climbing Mount Bandai: Half a day to a full day depending on the course (shorter courses for beginners are also available)
• Comprehensive sightseeing stay: It is possible to visit the main spots in a day trip, but if you want to enjoy nature at your own pace, we recommend staying one to two nights (as the scenery changes with the light in the morning and evening).

Nearby spots

• Lake Inawashiro: One of the largest lakes in Japan. Famous for the view of Mount Bandai seen across the lake.
• Aizuwakamatsu (Tsuruga Castle): A historic castle town where you can enjoy sightseeing and food culture.
• Ouchijuku: A tourist spot that retains the atmosphere of a post town from the Edo period (about an hour by car)
• Bandai Plateau (surrounding highland resorts): There are hot springs and resort facilities scattered around, and plenty of seasonal activities.

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

• Seasonal precautions: The area is extremely crowded during the autumn foliage season (usually mid- to late October). In winter, snow accumulation and frozen roads can occur, and tourist facilities and roads may be closed, so please check in advance. In early spring, hiking trails and walking paths may become muddy due to snowmelt.
• Transportation and public transport: Bus services are infrequent and some routes are seasonal, so please check the timetable in advance or consider renting a car.
• Nature Conservation and MannersPlease be sure to take your trash with you when you leave the park, and please note that collecting plants and feeding animals are prohibited. Please also follow the rules, such as staying on the trails and not entering restricted areas.
• Safety measures: The weather can change suddenly in the mountains and plateaus. If you are going hiking or on a long walk, be sure to prepare appropriate clothing (warm clothing and rain gear) and equipment (map, mobile phone charger, drinking water), and choose a route that suits your experience. Be careful of wild animals such as bears (there have been reports of sightings in mountainous areas from summer to autumn).
• Facility operations and facilitiesTourist facilities, restaurants, boat rentals, etc. often only operate seasonally. Some stores only accept cash, so it's a good idea to bring some cash with you.
• Drone and photography rules: There may be restrictions on drone flying and commercial photography in national park areas. Please check in advance and apply for permission if necessary.

Urabandai is a place where nature changes dramatically, and there are many ways to enjoy it, including photography, hiking, and boating. Please check the season and weather, and be mindful of safety and environmental conservation when visiting.