Mt. Bandai and the Bandai Kogen Plateau
The symbol of Fukushima, Mt. Bandai, consists of the main peak Obandai (1819m.), Kushigamine and Akahaniyama (1430m.). A major volcanic eruption occurred here on July 15, 1888. As a result, the rivers in the area were dammed up, forming innumerable marshes and lakes, as well as the Bandai Plateau (1,000m.). More than a hundred years later, this plateau is a place of great natural beauty. The virgin forest of beeches is a paradise for wild birds and animals. The best time to visit is in May and June, when the leaves on the trees are new.

Goshiki-numa Swamps
The name Goshiki-numa refers to more than ten swamps which mysteriously change color. The lakes lie along a 3.7-kilometer nature walk linking the Goshiki-numa Iriguchi bus stop at the start of the lakes with Bandai Kogen Station.

Lake Hibara
The largest lake on the plateau (40km. of shoreline), Lake Hibara was formed when the Hibara River was dammed up. The lake has many inlets and islands, and visitors can enjoy boating in the summer. In winter, ice fishing can be enjoyed here.

Lake Onogawa
A medium sized lake, Onogawa (10km. Of shoreline) was formed when the streams flowing down the Azuma Mountains were dammed up. This lake is surrounded by deep forest. Ice fishing can be enjoyed here during winter. Fudo Falls is one of the original waterfalls of the lake and has a height of 20 meters.

Lake Akimoto
Second to Lake Hibara, Lake Akimoto is the largest lake on the plateau, and with a depth of 33 meters, it is the deepest. The splendid views of the early morning sunlight make this the prime position for photographers.

Nakatsugawa Gorge
It is located from the end of the Lake Akimoto cycling road to the place just under the bridge of Lake Line Road along Nakatsugawa River. The road is easy to walk and you can enjoy the beautiful view of the gorge. In autumn, the scenery of the brilliant colored leaves reflecting off the clear stream is well worth the visit.