Fukushima is the name of a prefecture in Japan and of its capital city, and travellers use the word for both. This guide deals with the city, Fukushima, Fukushima, the prefectural capital, which sits on the rail line and is served by Fukushima Station.
For a visitor, the practical question is where to base yourself, and the city's accommodation is concentrated around its main railway station. This guide covers the areas worth considering, what each suits, and how the choice changes depending on your budget.
Best areas to stay in Fukushima
1. Around Fukushima Station
The station is the anchor of the city and the point at which the rail line meets the rest of Fukushima. Basing yourself here puts you within walking distance of the transport you will use for everything else, whether you are arriving, leaving or making day trips out into the prefecture.
This suits first-time visitors and anyone travelling by train, and it is where you will find the widest spread of places to stay, from budget through to mid-range. The trade-off is that a station district is a functional one rather than a scenic one.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: simple, functional rooms in the station district, chosen for price and convenience rather than space or views.
- Mid-range: comfortable business-style accommodation close to the station, the most common choice for visitors who want easy rail access.
- Splurge: the higher end of the city's accommodation, still centred on the station area, with more room and more service.
Best area for a first visit
Stay around Fukushima Station. It is the city's transport hub, so it keeps arrivals, departures and day trips simple, and it is where the range of accommodation is greatest. For a first visit, convenience of movement matters more than the character of the immediate streets.
Frequently asked questions
Which Fukushima does this guide cover?
The city of Fukushima in Fukushima Prefecture, the prefectural capital, rather than the prefecture as a whole or the other places that share the name.
Where do most visitors stay in the city?
Around Fukushima Station, which is both the main rail access point and the focus of the city's accommodation.
Do I need a car if I stay near the station?
No. The station is the point from which the rail network serving the city and the wider prefecture is reached.
Compare live prices for the area you have chosen using the booking tools on this page.