About Futaba
Where History and Resilience Converge
Introduction
Tucked away in the heart of Fukushima, Futaba Town stands as a symbol of unwavering resilience amidst adversity. Though scarred by the challenges of the pa st, this town embodies the indomitable spirit of its people, with nature’s healing touch adding to its allure.
Brief History
Once renowned for its vibrant culture and scenic landscapes, Futaba Town faced unprecedented trials following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and subsequent nuclear disaster. Despite these challenges, the town has embarked on a remarkable journey of rejuvenation, blending its rich history with a vision for a sustainable and vibrant future.
Things to do
Discover the poignant Fukushima Disaster Memorial, immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Soma Shohatsu Shrine, or explore the murals that have become synonymous with the town.
Model Course
First Time at Futaba!
This model course gives you the time required, a basic itinerary, a quick outline of the places you’ll visit and finally lists specific details regarding each place on the itinerary.
Itinerary at a Glance
Time Required : Approximately 3 hours
2 minutes
by foot
3 minutes
by foot
7 minutes
by foot
10 minutes
by bus
2 minutes
by foot
Outline
After arriving at Futaba Station, we recommend that you visit Soma Shohatsu Shrine, which is about five minutes by foot.
As you walk to the shrine, you will have the chance to see several murals that, grouped together, are called “Futaba Art District” and are creations of the art group ‘Overalls’. Make sure to scan the QR codes on these murals to get a deeper insight into their concepts.
Walk back to the station and take the bus to F-BICC. If you have some time to spend at the station before you board the bus, you can visit the Information Centre located in the station building (they have free beverages too!) and chat with the staff about Futaba.
Once you arrive at F-BICC, enjoy the traditional Namie Yakisoba or food from Penguin, one of Futaba’s oldest stores. You can also buy souvenirs here.
Finally, head to The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum. It displays the challenges during evacuation, reconstruction efforts over the years, the impact of rumors and the road to the future – a road that you’re already part of by visiting Futaba!
Let’s get to know the places on the route better!
- Place
- The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum
- Time/Reservation
- Open everyday except Tuesday from 9 AM-5 PM.
- Remarks
- Opened in 2020, this museum records the events of the fateful day in March 2011 as experienced by both Futaba and Fukushima. It displays the challenges during evacuation, reconstruction efforts over the years, the impact of rumors and the road to the future. Do not miss the ramp display showcasing a brief history of the region post-World War II and the rooftop view of the Pacific Ocean and the rest of the town.
- Place
- Futaba Business Incubation Community Center
- Time/Reservation
- Open everyday from 9 AM-6 PM
- Remarks
- Located right next to The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum, F-BICC is one of the first facilities built in post-2011 Futaba. It has office space, co-working space and a souvenir shop selling delicacies and select products from the region. This facility also hosts 4 restaurants and a convenience store which will help you rest after your museum visit. We recommend visiting Penguin, a beloved restaurant of importance for the people of Futaba.
- Place
- Soma Shohatsu Shrine
- Remarks
- Built in late-18th century, this shrine became the nucleus of reconstruction after the disaster. Rebuilt using crowdfunding efforts, it enshrines the first God that appears in the 8th-century book recording Japanese beliefs called ‘Kojiki’. Look out for the intricate woodwork on the shrine roof and the rather uncommon motifs of horses and a winged-dragon. Every new year, people gather at this shrine to replace the sacred rope (Shimenawa) and pass on traditions to the younger members of the community.
- Place
- Futaba Art District
- Remarks
- Symbolic of modern Futaba, these murals on abandoned walls were painted by the group ‘Overalls’ who were introduced to the town by a local bar owner after he moved his operations to Tokyo following the disaster. Each of these works convey a story that weave in culture, memory and hope.
- Place
- Futaba Station
- Time/Reservation
- Information centre open everyday from 9AM-5 PM.
- Remarks
- Reopened in 2020, it connects Futaba to Tokyo and Sendai through the JR Joban Line. The new building stands right next to the old station building which is currently used as a community centre. You can wait there for your train, have a cup of coffee or even take a rental bicycle to go around the town. The community bus operates right next to it which will take you to The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum.
- Place
- Futaba Super Zero Mill
- Time/Reservation
- Open Tuesday-Sunday 10AM to 6 PM.
- Remarks
- One of the first companies to set up operations in Futaba, the Super Zero Mill is run by Asano Nenshi – a towel maufacturer from Gifu Prefecture in Central Japan. The premium quality towels make for an excellent souvenir! The facility also shows the company’s story and its philosophy. There is a cafe on the first floor where you can relax.