2025 Kitakata Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Yamatogawa Sake Brewery is a long-established sake brewery in Kitakata that was founded in 1790 (Kansei 2) in the mid-Edo period. Here at the Kitakata Fudokan Museum, the Edo, Taisho, and Showa era sake breweries are open to the public, and you can tour and taste the sake. It's interesting to see the tools used in sake brewing in the past on display, and the explanations of how it was made. In the Showa brewery, there are rows of sake bottles made here, making it look like a stylish museum. And finally, the long-awaited tasting time 🍶 You can sample more than 10 types of Yaemon sake and liqueurs for free. As expected, the Daiginjo is easy to drink and delicious ✨ The original yogurt liqueur Yogurt was sweet and delicious 😋 When you come to eat Kitakata ramen, be sure to enjoy a tour of the breweries and sake breweries as well! 📍 〒966-0861　4761 Teramachi, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture #sake #long-established #trip2022

I had some Kitakata ramen, which features a light soy sauce soup and char siu pork, in the original Kitakata. Kitakata, which flourished as a road town during the Edo period, is a historic place known as a town of storehouses, but what I'm really interested in is ramen! Lol. It seems that there are about 100 ramen shops in this town alone. This time, the famous Sakauchi Shokudo was closed, so I went to the neighboring Matsu Shokudo. The menu only has ramen and char siu ramen (large servings are also available). Since I was there, I had the char siu ramen 😋🍜 Nearby is a general store called Kitakata Ramen Shrine ⛩. In front of the store, there is a torii gate that resembles chopsticks for eating ramen, so I wonder if it's a shrine? However, it seems that the ramen soft serve with Naruto on it is famous. If you like interesting things, be sure to check it out! 📍2-chome, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture #LocalGourmet #Ramen #Trip2022

If you're a cat lover, you'll be in agony the moment you enter✨ The second floor of the "Kinomoto Lacquerware Shop & Paulownia Flour Doll Museum" in Kitakata is a "Cat Toy Academy" where paulownia wood dolls are exhibited as they go about their school life🐈 The cats are made by kneading pieces of Aizu paulownia wood into ramen flour (wheat flour) clay and twisting it carefully by hand. The ramen flour part is typical of Kitakata🍜 lol The school life in the early Showa period is depicted, and there are many heartwarming scenes that make you feel nostalgic! It's just so cute! It's so relaxing💕 *Photography is usually prohibited, but we have permission to take photos. 📍8859 Tenmanmae, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture 966-0852 #cat #trip2022

Former Kai Family Storehouse This building was built in the late Taisho period and is located at 4611 1-chome, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture. The zashiki storehouse, storehouse, and soy sauce storehouse are designated as nationally registered tangible cultural properties. You can visit the zashiki storehouse and garden for free. It's a 20-minute walk from JR Kitakata Station. #summertrip

Yoshinokawa Sake Brewery 4635 1-chome, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture 18 minutes walk from JR Kitakata Station. Kitakata has many sake breweries, and I found this one while I was traveling. It has been loved by locals for generations as a brewery that produces sake in small quantities, and it seems that 98% of the sales volume is sold locally in Kitakata. I wasn't able to go inside and take a tour, but it was good just to look at the building. #summertrip

JA Aizu Yotsuba Farmers Market Iide Shiki Station Front Store is a 90-year-old stone rice warehouse that has been renovated while retaining the atmosphere of the time, and sells fresh vegetables and souvenirs. 8243-2 Machidashita, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture 1 minute walk from JR Kitakata Station Opening hours are from 9:00 to 13:00, so go early or it will close. #SummerShortTrip

Oshimizu Inari Shrine At 7232-1 Oshimizu, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture, this Inari Shrine is marked by many bright red torii gates. There is a spring of Oshimizu, and Oshimizu Kannon is enshrined there. There is also a monument to Prince Shotoku. It is about a 14-minute walk from JR Kitakata Station, and can be reached on a flat road. #summertrip

When you think of Kitakata, you think of Kitakata ramen! Kitakata ramen is a local gourmet dish that originated in Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture. There was often a line during lunchtime, so I queued up to get in. It had a light taste and was easy to eat. Banuchi Shokudo Main Store 7230 Hosoda, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture #Fukushima #LocalGourmet #SummerShortTrip #GourmetTrip

Kitakata City Hall About a 15-minute walk from Kitakata Station. The new city hall won the runner-up prize in the 33rd Fukushima Prefecture Architecture and Culture Award. The surface of the wall panels and the opening edges are decorated with locally produced Mitsuya bricks. I went there on the weekend to get a manhole card, and the staff were very polite.

#aprilblooms A Perfect Day in Kitakata with Bannai Shokudo" 🍜🌸🚶♀️ Spring in Kitakata is something truly special—where the scent of cherry blossoms mingles with the savory aroma of rich soy-based ramen. 🌸 As you take a peaceful walk through this charming town in Fukushima Prefecture, the streets come alive with rows of blooming sakura trees, creating a dreamy pink canopy above you. Petals dance in the breeze, and every turn reveals a quiet scene of nature’s poetry. 🌬️🌸 But no visit to Kitakata is complete without a stop at the legendary Bannai Shokudo—a ramen lover’s paradise. 🍜 Known for its thick, curly noodles and flavorful shoyu broth, Bannai serves up bowls that warm both the body and soul. The tender slices of chashu pork practically melt in your mouth, making it the ultimate reward after a sakura-filled stroll. 🐖❤️ There’s something unforgettable about enjoying a hearty bowl of Kitakata ramen after walking beneath the cherry blossoms. It’s a harmony of tradition, taste, and seasonal beauty that captures the essence of Japan’s spring. 🏯🌸🍴 Whether you're here for the iconic food, the quiet charm of the town, or the breathtaking cherry blossoms lining the streets, Kitakata in sakura season offers a perfect blend of flavor and nature. Don’t forget your camera—and your appetite! 📷✨#postandearn

#aprilblooms In the heart of spring, Nicchusen transforms into a breathtaking wonderland with its rows of weeping cherry trees (shidarezakura) standing in full bloom. 🌸 These graceful trees, draped in delicate pink blossoms, create an enchanting tunnel that feels like stepping into a fairytale. As the branches gently sway in the breeze, the sight of the cascading petals falling like soft rain is pure magic. 🌧️ The weeping cherry trees, with their unique drooping form, offer a contrast to the traditional sakura trees, making Nicchusen’s landscape truly one-of-a-kind. The vivid pink blossoms against the vibrant green backdrop create a picture-perfect setting that invites visitors to pause and take in the moment. 📸🌿 Walking along the rows of these majestic trees is an experience like no other—each step beneath the flowers seems to transport you further into a serene, peaceful world where time slows down. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of sakura, and the ground below is gently carpeted with fallen petals, adding to the beauty of this fleeting season. 🌸💨 Nicchusen’s weeping cherry trees and the surrounding sakura bloom offer an unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature and experience the timeless beauty of Japan’s cherry blossom season. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, a perfect photo spot, or simply a peaceful escape, Nicchusen’s sakura wonderland is a must-visit. 🌳💖 #postandearn

#cherryblossom25 Tucked away in Fukushima's scenic Aizu region, Kitakata City offers some of Tohoku's most charming yet underrated cherry blossom spots—where historic warehouses and weeping willows frame delicate pink blooms. 🏯 Top Viewing Locations 1. Yamakawa River Embankment - 2km tunnel of blossoms along the historic sake-brewing district 2. Kurashiki Park - Weeping cherries surrounding Edo-period kura warehouses 3. Kitakata Station Approach - Rows of cherry trees leading to the retro-style station

#cherryblossom25 🌸 Thought the cherry blossom season was ending? Not here! The weeping cherry blossoms are just now in full bloom! It’s such a wonderful surprise to still find a sea of blossoms at the tail end of the season — truly magical! ✨ 🗾 Location Overview: The "Nitchū Line Memorial Cycling and Walking Path" is located in Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture. It's a 3-kilometer-long path converted from an abandoned railway, and it's lined with stunning weeping cherry trees. Right now, they are at their peak, and walking through this tunnel of flowers feels just like stepping into a dream! 🌸🌸🌸 🚶♀️ How to Get There: From JR Kitakata Station, turn left after exiting and follow the signs. It's only about a 5-minute walk to the entrance — super convenient! 🎯 Highlight Spots to Check Out: Massive Weeping Cherry Blossom Area: Right near the entrance (close to JR Station), a breathtaking sight! (Reference photo 6) Cherry Blossoms + Snowy Mountains: Delicate pink blossoms with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains — absolutely surreal! (Reference photo 2) 🏔️🌸 Cherry Blossoms + Steam Locomotive: Find a charming vintage steam engine — great for photography! 🚂 Cherry Blossoms + Vending Machines & Station Signs: Quirky and nostalgic photo ops everywhere! (Photos 3 & 5) ⏰ TIPS & Advice: The full path is about 3km, and walking it while taking photos will take around 2 hours. Comfortable shoes are a must! Feeling tired? You can walk up to the steam locomotive spot and then head back toward the city center for some famous Kitakata ramen. 🍜 Want fewer crowds? The further you go toward the end of the path, the fewer people there are — perfect for peaceful flower viewing. Food Tip: Kitakata ramen is one of Japan’s top three ramen styles. Be prepared to wait 1–2 hours if you’re aiming for a popular shop! 🌸 Final Thoughts: If you want to capture spring’s beauty once more before the season ends, this place is absolutely worth visiting. The soft weeping blossoms, majestic snowy mountains, and nostalgic railway scenery come together in a breathtaking, serene way. 🌸🚂🏔️ #travel

A famous restaurant representing Kitakata ramen 🍜 "Sakauchi Shokudo" in Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture Morning ramen is famous in this area ☀️ This line at around 10:00 in the morning! The Kitakata ramen that everyone is looking forward to has a perfect combination of golden, light soup and hand-kneaded flat noodles ✨ The "Niku Soba" with plenty of thick and soft char siu is especially recommended 👀 Enjoy the warm taste that continues to be loved by locals 🤝🏻 In winter, you can enjoy warm ramen in the snowy scenery ⛄️ 📍Sakauchi Shokudo 📮7230 Hosoda, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture 🚃About 15 minutes walk from JR Kitakata Station #Sakauchi Shokudo #Kitakata Ramen #Fukushima Gourmet #Ramen #Fukushima Tourism #0 Yen Travel January 2025

The Nicchu Line weeping cherry blossoms in Kitakata, Fukushima Prefecture, are a pink dream world that only appears in spring✨ The 1.3km long weeping cherry blossom line blooming along the former Nicchu Line tracks makes you feel like you're walking through a tunnel of cherry blossoms🌸 The petals swaying in the wind and the carpet of flowers spreading at your feet are photogenic no matter where you look! The cherry blossoms seen in the soft light of early morning and evening are especially special✨ A leisurely stroll along the tracks where trains once ran will soothe your soul Be sure to visit for a special spring memory📸 #Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Blossoms #Cherry Blossom Tunnel #Spring Scenery #Kitakata #Domestic Travel Trip

Kitakata City in Fukushima Prefecture has so many sake breweries that a sake brewery map has been made! This time we went to Yamatogawa Sake Brewery. We learned about the history and how sake is made in a sophisticated atmosphere. At the end of the tour, there is a sales corner where you can sample a variety of sake! The Kitakata ramen is delicious as you get a little tipsy. If you are in Kitakata, please be sure to stop by! #Kitakata #alcohol #FuriTabiWinter

📍Aizu Kitakata Ramenkan Main Building You can buy souvenirs related to Kitakata ramen😊 The ramen samples were so good that I bought some ramen as souvenirs! I'm glad I could try them! I recommend this place to buy souvenirs! 【INFORMATION】 Aizu Kitakata Ramenkan Main Building 📮1 Umetake, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture 966-0821 🕑10:00-17:00 #0 Yen Trip November

#Travelwithme #Fukushima #KitakataRamen #Kiichi #MorningRamen "Kitakata Ramen" is famous in Kitakata, Fukushima Prefecture🍜 Kitakata opens early in the morning, so I went to "Kiichi" to have "morning ramen"! The shop has large windows and is sunny, and the interior is based on white, making you think it's a ramen shop! The salt ramen was very delicious✨ I now understand why people want to line up in the morning to eat it🤭 "Kitakata Ramen Kiichi" 📍635-7 Kamitaka Sakaida, Sekishiba-cho, Kitakata-shi, Fukushima Opening hours 9:00 ~ 14:00 Closed on Saturdays and Sundays

#Sakura2024 I've never seen weeping cherry blossoms spread over such a long distance. So beautiful. And it's such a pink world that you can't tell if it's real or fantasy♡ I'm really glad I went. And everyone in Fukushima who came to see them was so kind. This is a weeping cherry blossom spot that you should definitely visit at least once in your life. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~🌸~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Trees 📍Oshikiri Higashi 2-chome, Kitakata City 🚃About a 5-minute walk from Kitakata Station on the JR Ban'etsu West Line ⏰There is also a lighting period ☑︎About 1,000 weeping cherry trees over a distance of about 3 km ☑︎During the day, the lighting is crowded with people ☑︎Early morning weekdays are recommended ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~🌸~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ※This information is current, so please check it out before you go! Photo date: 2024/4 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~🫧🫧🫧~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Right now! This moment! Enjoying the Maya trip to the fullest ✔︎A place I'm glad I went and experienced ✔︎I hope this will be helpful for your outings♫ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~🌸~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ #sakura #spring #spring photos #cherry blossom season #Fukushima trip #Kitakata #Nicchu Line weeping cherry blossom

#cherryblossom2024 Address: 22 Oshikirihigashi, Kitakata, Fukushima 966-0095, Japan. Highlights: I finally had the chance to visit Nitchu Line walkway during the full bloom of cherry blossoms this year, and it was a dream come true. The sight of the cherry blossoms in full bloom was absolutely breathtaking. Despite the crowd, the presence of food stalls added to the enjoyment of the visit. One thing that made the visit convenient was the availability of a large parking lot at the high school site. It made parking hassle-free, allowing me to start my walk right away. However, I would recommend avoiding weekends or arriving early to beat the crowds. After a pleasant 3 km walk, I made sure to try the famous Kitakata ramen at one of the nearby restaurants to complete my experience. #Japan #awesomepic #Nature

#GourmetFirstTripToKitakata. Speaking of Kitakata, it's ramen! So I woke up at 7am to have ramen in the morning!! It seems that most ramen shops in Kitakata are open from morning until late afternoon. The shop I chose for my morning ramen this time was "Umehachi". I visited it on the recommendation of a friend who lives in Kitakata!! I arrived around 8am, and since it was a weekday, there was no line and I was able to enter smoothly! I ordered salt and green onion ramen for 800 yen, half a bowl of rice for 100 yen, and ginger for 100 yen. I was surprised when the ramen arrived! The soup was the clearest of any salt ramen I've ever ordered!!! It was the perfect soup for morning ramen! It was a refreshing, light soup that made me think, "I see, it makes sense!" I added ginger to change the flavor halfway through. It goes really well together!!! Ginger is a must! !!!!!!! Even though I was eating ramen, I somehow felt healthy lol My friend told me that the "Appetizer Char Siu" menu item written on the table poster was delicious, so of course I ordered it, and the char siu was so tender that it went really well with the rice!!! The ramen was light, but the char siu and rice were a good source of calories, so it was a very satisfying breakfast!!

Fukushima Prefecture has one of the three most famous cherry blossoms in Japan, and there are several cherry blossom spots worth seeing, but this time I would like to introduce the "Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Trees" in Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture. [About the Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Trees] This spot is a promenade created on part of the abandoned tracks of the former Japan National Railways Nicchu Line, and is one of the largest weeping cherry tree spots in Japan, with 1,000 weeping cherry trees planted along the 3-kilometer promenade🌸 It is so popular that it competes for first and second place as a "cherry blossom spot you want to visit" all over the country✨ You can walk along the promenade while being showered with weeping cherry blossoms, making you feel like you've entered a fantastical world😍 There is also a steam locomotive along the promenade, which you can see and take photos of with the weeping cherry blossoms🚂 During the cherry blossom festival, it is lit up, so you can see the fantastic sight at night! ・Cherry Blossom Festival Period: April 5th - 24th, 2024 ・Illumination Period: April 12th - 21st, 2024 ・Illumination Time: 18:30 - 20:00 [Tips for Photography] You can't take a photo like the cherry blossom tunnel in the top image by taking a normal photo. 🙅 This is because the cherry blossoms don't reach the center of the promenade. 🧐 The way to take a photo is to zoom in closer to the edge, as the cherry blossoms hang low on the sides of the promenade! By doing this, you can take a photo that looks like the whole thing is covered in cherry blossoms, so give it a try! [Recommended Gourmet] -------- When you think of Kitakata, you think of "Kitakata Ramen" 🍜 You can't help but come to the original place and try it 🙅 When it comes to Kitakata Ramen, a recommended ramen shop within walking distance of the cherry blossom trees is "Matsu Shokudo" The difference between this ramen shop and other ramen shops is the char siu 🍖 If you like char siu, this is the place for you! The most popular is "Sakauchi Shokudo", but I don't recommend it because there is a crazy line 😅 Opening hours: 10:00-16:00 *Ends when soup runs out Reference menu: Char siu noodles 1,000 yen -------- That's it! What do you think? This is definitely worth going to! 〜〜〜〜〜Information〜〜〜〜〜 📍Nicchu Line Weeping Cherry Trees ・Address: 8455-2 Senkari Nakamichikami, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture ・Access: 6 minutes walk from Kitakata Station on the Ban'etsu West Line ・Opening hours: 24 hours ・Admission fee: Free 〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜 #Sakura2024 #Japan's Greatest Views #Fukushima Tourism #Weeping Cherry Blossoms

Kitakata Station A station on the JR East Ban'etsu West Line located in Machidashita, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture. The AC electrified section from Koriyama runs up to Kitakata Station, and the section towards Niitsu is non-electrified. The Nicchu Line once connected here, but the entire line was discontinued in April 1984. Kitakata City is famous for its breweries and ramen, so there are stacks of sake barrels next to the ticket gates.