Taira

Taira is an administrative district in southeastern Fukushima Prefecture that spans the Abukuma Plateau. The center holds Iwaki City Hall, multiple government offices, and Taira Station as the main administrative hub.

During the Edo period from 1603 to 1867, Taira served as a castle town and established its position as a regional administrative center. These origins shaped its structure as an administrative hub for the region.

The annual Taira Tanabata Festival displays traditional paper ornaments hanging from bamboo branches during summer days. This decoration fills the district and creates a festive feeling for residents and visitors.

The district is best reached by public transportation, with Taira Station as the main entry point for visitors. The best time to explore is during warmer months, when infrastructure is fully accessible and pedestrian areas are well maintained.

The district underwent a remarkable shift from a coal mining center in the 1950s to a modern industrial area focused on machinery and chemical production. This transformation shows the region's ability to adapt economically to changing conditions.