On the Road
Hamadori Hope Tour: Tradition and Innovation 3 Days/2 Nights
Tour participants will experience the traditional local culture, from Samurai warriors to sake brewing and pottery making, and the innovative methods local residents are devising to rebuild the Hamadori area after the disasters of 2011.
DAY1
Transfer to Iwaki Nanahama Kaido Cycling Road
from Yotsukura Station by car (5 min.)
Iwaki Nanahama Kaido Cycling Road
Enjoy cycling along this 53km-long cycling road that follows the Pacific Ocean coastline, constructed on sea walls to provide views of the sea while protecting the shore from tsunami. The length of the ride can be adjusted to the riders’ skills.
Transfer to Tokichiro Kiln by car (5 min.)
Tokichiro Kiln and Obori Soma Pottery Ware
Visit the pottery studio of a family who were forced to relocate from the Futaba area, where they had been based for over 260 years, after the disaster. The family specializes in Obori Soma ware, known for its unique design and double-layered firing.
Transfer to Iwaki Yumoto Onsen by car (approx.. 30 min.)
Sightseeing in Iwaki Yumoto Onsen
Stroll around the town of Iwaki Yumoto, the largest hot spring resort along the Hamadori coast of Fukushima. Sample the local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, and visit the rare hot-spring shrine.
DAY 1 accommodations
DAY2
Transfer to The Great East Japan Earthquake and
Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum by shuttle bus
from JR Futaba Station (5 min.) or bicycle from Futaba Station
The Great East Japan Earthquake and
Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum
Learn about the tragic earthquake and tsunami disaster of March, 2011 and the subsequent nuclear power plant accident. This museum features audio-visual and other hands-on exhibits as well as the personal stories of residents who experienced the event.
Transfer to Ukedo elementary school by car (approx. 5 min.)
Remains of the earthquake—
Namie town Ukedo elementary school
Visit a school building that was largely destroyed by the tsunami of March 11, 2011. The students and staff survived, and the ruins have been left to symbolize the destructive power of nature and man’s ability to survive.
Transfer to Michi-no-eki Namie by car (approx. 10 min.)
Suzuki Sake Brewery
(Michi-no-eki Namie Road Stop)
Stop at the Michi-no-eki Namie Road Stop for a visit to the Suzuki Sake Brewery, recently located here after having to abandon the previous brewery premises. A variety of sake products is for sale, along with a tasting menu. Sake brewing tours are sometimes available.
Transfer by car to the Karasuzaki Coast (approx. 20 min.)
Horseback riding on Karasuzaki beach
Visitors—from beginners to experienced riders—can enjoy horseback riding on a beautiful beach along the Pacific Coast.
DAY 2 accommodations
DAY3
Transfer to Minamisoma City Museum
from Haranomachi Station by car (approx. 10 min.)
Minamisoma City Museum
Through numerous displays, including a life-size diorama, learn about the history of this area, including the thrilling Soma Nomaoi, a three-day festival featuring men dressed as samurai warriors taking part in “battle” reenactments on horseback.
Transfer to Meijokan by car (approx. 10 min.)
Samurai Cosplay at the Meijokan
in Minamisoma
Dress in full Samurai armor, like the local men who participate in the famous Soma Nomaoi festival on horseback. Visits can choose to put on the 15-kg warrior war as a commander or as a member of the infantry.
Transfer to Hama-no-eki Matsukawa-ura Road Stop
by car (approx. 30 min.)
Hama-no-eki Matsukawa-ura Road Stop
Shop or browse for local marine and agricultural products—ideal as souvenirs. Dine on seafood delicacies at the attached restaurant.
