Mt. Shinobu is the small green mountain immediately north of central Fukushima, close enough to feel like part of the city rather than a separate excursion. Paths climb to shrines and observation points, and in spring the slopes draw locals for cherry blossoms.
The strongest reason to come is Iwaya Kannon on the eastern side of the mountain. About sixty Buddhist figures are carved into the rock face, many weathered and softened by time, giving the site a rougher and more intimate feeling than a polished temple hall.