Exploring Fukushima Coastal Region Post-Disaster: Top Activities to Engage In, Marking a Decade
Discovering the Hamadori Coastal Area of Fukushima: Attractions and Revitalization
It's been almost a decade since the devastating earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear accidents hit Fukushima prefecture in 2011. While some areas are still off-limits due to high radiation levels, others are steadily moving forward with passionate efforts to revitalize their hometown. Here's a look at the Hamadori coastal area, its attractions, and the current state of its recovery.
Note: The places listed below are safe to visit in terms of radiation levels, approximately the same as Tokyo.
- 1. Hattachi Coast
- 2. TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center
- 3. Hamadori Ramen
- 4. FUTABA Art District
- 5. Shohatsu Shrine
- 6. Futaba Walking Tour
- 7. The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum
- 8. Michi no Eki Namie
- 9. Ukedo Elementary School
- 10. J-Village
- 11. Soma Ota Shrine
- 12. Samurai Armor Shop Abe
- 13. Traditional lunch box at Raffine
- 14. Kido Co-minka
- 15. Iwaki Takahashi
1. Hattachi Coast
This beautiful coast in Iwaki City is known for its vermilion bridge, the Benten Bridge, across the small island of Benten Island. A popular spot to witness the first sunrise of the year, Hatsuhinode, on New Year's Day, Hattachi Coast offers a picturesque landscape. Tragically, the bridge was destroyed by a typhoon in 2015 and was rebuilt the following year.
2. TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center
If you wish to understand the causes and ongoing decommissioning work of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident, visit this archive center to learn more. Guided tours will explain exhibits and answer any questions you might have about the disaster.
3. Hamadori Ramen
With its chicken and fish-based broth, Hamadori Ramen is a delicious new specialty in the area. Located right across from the TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center in Sakura Mall Tomioka, this shopping complex has been vital in supporting the local community during their recovery.
4. FUTABA Art District
Launched by OVER ALLs to revitalize Futaba Town, this art project aims to help restore the area while preserving its beloved local stories. As of December 2020, there are three arts near Futaba Station to enjoy.
5. Shohatsu Shrine
Rebuilt in 2019 with donations through crowdfunding, this 400-year-old shrine stands as an emotional support for locals and a symbol of their hope for the area's future revitalization.
6. Futaba Walking Tour
Led by a local guide, this walking tour offers an opportunity to understand the emotional journey the town's inhabitants experienced before, during, and after the disaster.
In Fukushima, the disaster's lasting impact is real, but the spirit and resilience of its people shine through the community's unwavering efforts to rebuild and showcase their beloved hometown.
- For travelers seeking cultural experiences, the Hamadori coastal area offers workshops on traditional Japanese crafts in the FUTABA Art District.
- Tourists looking for places to visit should not miss the opportunity to see the Hatchi Coast, known for its picturesque landscape and historic Benten Bridge.
- Shopping enthusiasts can find unique souvenirs and support local businesses at Michi no Eki Namie, a roadside station in the area.
- If you're interested in learning about the history of the region, the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum offers insightful information and exhibits.
- For food enthusiasts, experiencing Hamadori Ramen, a new and delicious specialty in the area, is a must.
- Festivals such as the Soma Nomaoi, an annual horseback-riding event, and the Soma Hanabata Matsuri, a lantern festival, provide a chance to immerse oneself in the local lifestyle and culture.
- To truly understand the area's revitalization efforts, joining a guided tour like the Futaba Walking Tour offers a personal and enlightening experience.
