Fukushima Prefecture, set in Japan's Tohoku region, is a destination of striking contrasts — from the samurai castle towns of Aizu in the west to rugged volcanic highlands around Mt. Bandai and the Pacific coastline of Hamadori in the east. Centuries of feudal history live on in Tsuruga Castle, the thatched-roof post town of Ouchi-juku, and the stirring legacy of the Byakkotai teen warriors. Nature lovers find five-colored volcanic ponds, pristine highland lakes, and world-class sakura viewing at Miharu Takizakura. Fukushima's culinary identity is rich with Kitakata ramen, Aizu kozuyu soup, sake brewed from volcanic-spring water, and some of Japan's finest peaches.