Iizaka Onsen Station

Iizaka Onsen Station serves as the gateway to one of Japan's most historic hot spring towns, with over 1,000 years of bathing heritage. The station opened on March 23, 1927 and underwent a major renovation in 2010, with the new design unveiled on December 20, 2010. Located 9.2 km from Fukushima Station, it marks the terminus of the Fukushima Kōtsū Iizaka Line and provides direct access to Iizaka Onsen, an ancient spa resort that has welcomed notable visitors throughout history including famous Edo period poet Matsuo Bashō in 1689.

The hot spring area itself holds legendary significance. According to legend, Yamato Takeru, prince of the imperial house and son of the 12th Emperor Keikō, visited the area in the 2nd century and was cured of his sickness after bathing in the hot springs. The resort earned recognition through the traditional Japanese saying "Beppu in the West; Iizaka in the East", which references the country's finest onsen destinations. The town features over 40 traditional ryokan and 9 public baths, including Sabakoyu, one of Japan's oldest wooden public bathhouses.

Visitors can explore the atmospheric streets lined with 9 high-rise ryokan along the Surikami River, soak in communal baths and public foot baths scattered throughout town, and experience the mildly alkaline spring waters that reach temperatures around 42°C. The historic Former Horikiri Residence offers glimpses into Edo period architecture, while the 52-meter Totsuna Bridge serves as a landmark structure. Local specialties include Enban Gyoza and soft-boiled Onsen Tamago eggs. The area also hosts the Iizaka Fighting Festival each October.

The station building contains practical amenities on its ground floor, including a FamilyMart convenience store, a vegetable shop, and an ATM, while the basement level houses the ticket gates, platforms, waiting room, and toilets. Bicycle rentals are available from Iizaka Onsen Station to facilitate exploration of the surrounding area.

Transportation to Iizaka Onsen Station requires taking the private Fukushima Kōtsū Iizaka Line from JR Fukushima Station. The journey takes approximately 23 minutes with trains running roughly every 15-30 minutes depending on the time of day. The one-way adult fare is 370 yen and children's fare is 190 yen. Note that JR Rail Passes cannot be used on this private line. Day passes and discount coupons are available at the Fukushima Kōtsū ticket office. From Tokyo, travelers can reach Fukushima Station via the Tohoku Shinkansen in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making Iizaka Onsen easily accessible for a day trip or longer stay.