Aizuwakamatsu Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Aizuwakamatsu with this comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Aizuwakamatsu

Aizuwakamatsu is a city located in the Fukushima Prefecture of Japan’s Tohoku region. Situated around 200 kilometers north of Tokyo, Aizuwakamatsu is a charming city known for its rich culture, stunning scenery, and historic significance.

One of the biggest attractions of Aizuwakamatsu is its samurai history. With a history dating back to the feudal era and the famous Aizu samurai clan, the city is home to many high-profile historical sites and museums that showcase the region’s past.

In addition to rich history, Aizuwakamatsu boasts breathtaking natural beauty, including idyllic mountains, lakes, rivers, and hot springs that offer visitors a perfect retreat to relax and rejuvenate.

Here is a comprehensive guide to help you get the most out of your trip to Aizuwakamatsu:

List of Places to Visit in Aizuwakamatsu

Aizuwakamatsu has an abundance of attractions, ranging from culturally significant sites to natural wonders:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tsuruga Castle: One of the most famous landmarks of Aizuwakamatsu, Tsuruga Castle is a must-see attraction for tourists. The castle is a beautifully preserved example of Japanese feudal architecture dating back to the Edo era.

  • Aizu Bukeyashiki: A high-ranking samurai residence turned museum, Aizu Bukeyashiki showcases the history, culture, and lifestyle of the Aizu samurai clan. Visitors can explore the halls and chambers of the mansion, viewing artefacts from the Edo period.

  • Sazae-do: This unique temple is known for its unique double-helix staircase, which allows visitors to climb to the top without crossing paths with other visitors. The temple is also home to a collection of Buddhist relics and art.

  • Aizu Matsudaira’s Royal Garden: The stunning garden located near Oyakuen’s medicinal herb garden houses several hundred iris species during May and June, and visitors can also enjoy its vibrant foliage in the autumn months.

Natural Attractions of Aizuwakamatsu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Oguni-numa Pond: Surrounded by a stunning natural landscape, Oguni-numa Pond is one of the most scenic places in Aizuwakamatsu. It’s a popular hiking and trekking destination, with excellent bird watching opportunities.

  • Mount Bandai: This active volcano is the biggest attraction for adventure-seekers in Aizuwakamatsu. Visitors can hike to the top and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

  • Higashiyama Onsen: The region is abundant in hot springs and Higashiyama hot spring is the most famous of all, offering travelers with an opportunity to soothe their sore muscles while enjoying a view of the mountain range.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aizuwakamatsu

Aizuwakamatsu is an outdoor lover’s dream. With a variety of scenic trails and routes, it’s an excellent destination for both hikers and bikers:

  • Ouchi-juku: This old post town is located on the old route that connected Nikko to Aizu Wakamatsu through the region. Visitors can hike through the historic town’s streets and marvel at the traditional thatched-roof houses that line the narrow lanes.

  • Iimoriyama: This hill was the site of the Byakkotai incident, where teenage members of the Aizu samurai clan committed suicide during the Boshin War. Visitors can climb to the top of the hill and pay their respects at the monument commemorating the young lives lost.

  • Higashiyama Walking Course: The trail is a circular route passing through gardens, shrines and temples, and a few museums, located around Higashiyama hot spring.

Best Things to Do in Aizuwakamatsu: Activities and Tours

Aizuwakamatsu is packed with fun and exciting things to do for all age groups. Some of the top things to do in and around the city are:

  • Sake Tasting: Aizuwakamatsu is known for producing high-quality sake made from locally sourced rice. Several breweries offer tastings to tourists, allowing them to sample a range of sake varieties.

  • Aizu Samurai Experience: Visitors, especially kids, can experience what it was like to be an Aizu samurai through several workshops, including a sword training class and dying a samurai headband with traditional methods.

  • Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art: The museum is located inside Iimoriyama park and it features several galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional art pieces from the Fukushima region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aizuwakamatsu

To help visitors get the best experience of Aizuwakamatsu, here is an itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day 1

  • Take a morning train to Aizuwakamatsu, stop at Tsurugajo Castle and explore its history.
  • Walk to Higashiyama hot spring for a relaxing soak before dinner.

Day 2

  • Hike Kamikochi Trail in Oku-Aizu.
  • Oinuma Lake, a beautiful crater lake outside the city.
  • Head back to Aizu to have dinner in Kitakata, famous for their ramen.

Day 3

  • Visit Aizu Bukeyashiki to understand the lifestyle and culture of Aizu’s favorite samurai clan.
  • Follow the Higashiyama Walking course and take in the surrounding serene beauty.
  • Head to Urusayame street, which is lined with craft shops featuring local Aizu artisans.

Days 4 and 5

  • Hike or bike around Ouchi-juku and enjoy the beautiful streets lined with traditional thatched-roof houses.
  • Marvel at the autumn foliage at Oyakuen.

Day 6

  • Visit Sazae-do, and see the unique architecture of the temple.
  • Take a tour of Aizu Matsudaira’s Royal Garden and view the beautiful irises.

Day 7

  • Take a day trip to Fukushima Prefectural Museum of Art to experience contemporary art from the region.
  • Try your hand at crafting-in Kumamotozome.

Food and Drink Scene of Aizuwakamatsu

Aizuwakamatsu is known for its rich flavors, thanks to its high-quality local ingredients and traditional recipes. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nanbu-senbei: Thin, crispy rice crackers that come in many varieties – plain, soy sauce, sesame, and more.
  • Sauce Katsu-Don: Pork cutlets with egg and onions, served over rice.
  • Kitakata style Ramen: A famous hot noodle dish topped with pork and different kinds of seafood.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Aizuwakamatsu sake is well-known in all of Japan and the breweries here take great pride in their craft, with several offering tastings and tours.
  • Aizuwakamatsu craft beer: Brewed with clear groundwater from Mount Bandai, this beer is a popular drink among the locals and visitors alike.

Where to Stay in Aizuwakamatsu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Aizuwakamatsu is home to several guesthouses, hotels and hostels. The options cater to all budgets and preferences, here are some popular choices:

  • Washington Hotel Aizuwakamatsu: Located in the heart of downtown, the hotel offers guest rooms with gorgeous city views, free wi-fi, and an on-site restaurant.

  • Tsurugajo Castle Nakamura-Tei: A hotel inside the Tsurugajo Castle, with authentic Japanese-style rooms, a hot spring bath, and a restaurant serving local delicacies.

  • Aizukogen Daigaku Kaikan: A Japanese-style ryokan on Mount Bandai, with hot spring baths, scenic views, and traditional multi-courses meals.

What to Buy in Aizuwakamatsu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Aizu has an abundance of rich resources and crafts, making it a great place to grab souvenirs:

  • Kogin-Embroidery: A weaving craft that has been around since the Edo period. Visitors can try making their unique designs with expert teachers.

  • Karakuri(dolls): These traditional Japanese mechanical dolls were first made in Aizu as toys for children, but their popularity increased all through Japan. Visitors can purchase a range of miniature figures and enjoy the creativity involved.

  • Local Sake: Aizu’s Shinsyu-masu (comapnay) produces some of Japan’s best sake varieties. Tourist locations provide the chance to try and purchase some of these locally-made sakes.

Local Culture and Customs of Aizuwakamatsu

Aizuwakamatsu has a rich, distinctive culture, including local dialects and festivals. The Aizu dialect is a unique areal speech in the Japanese language, and several cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the year

Best Time to Visit Aizuwakamatsu

The best time to visit Aizuwakamatsu is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild, and nature is at flourish. The autumn season sees the beautiful change of colors offering excellent viewing opportunities, while winter offers winter sports lovers with plenty of skiing events, festivals, and hiking opportunities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aizuwakamatsu

To make your trip to Aizuwakamatsu more comfortable, here are some things to do and avoid:

Do:

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking or trekking.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in the Japanese lanauge.

Don’t:

  • Take photos in sacred areas without permission.
  • Littering or leaving trash behind is discouraged.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aizuwakamatsu

Aizuwakamatsu is a safe city, but travelers are advised to remain vigilant and take precautions against theft or pickpocketing in busy tourist areas.

Health in Aizuwakamatsu

Traveler’s diarrhea is a potential risk for those traveling to Aizuwakamatsu. Visitors should wash their hands frequently, stay hydrated, and avoid consuming street food.

Getting to Aizuwakamatsu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aizuwakamatsu

The nearest airport to Aizuwakamatsu is Fukushima Airport, which is about an hour by bus or train. The Narita and Haneda airports in Tokyo are also well-connected to Aizuwakamatsu, with frequent rail and bus services.

Bus Stations Near Aizuwakamatsu

Aizuwakamatsu Bus Station is located at the train station and provides frequent services to various destinations, including local and intercity routes.

Other Options

Train services operated by East Japan Railways connect Aizuwakamatsu to Tokyo and other major cities in the region.

How to Get Around in Aizuwakamatsu

Travelers can use the local bus services to get around the city or hire a car for those who want more flexibility. Biking and hiking are also popular options.

Where to Go Next from Aizuwakamatsu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations to visit after exploring Aizuwakamatsu:

  • Yonezawa: Famous for delicious kobe beef.
  • Nikko: A historic town with beautiful architecture and lush gardens.

Conclusion

Aizuwakamatsu is a charming and unique city sure to offer a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Historical landmarks, beautiful gardens, and outdoor activities are just some of the highlights of this destination. So, pack your bags and start planning your adventures in Aizuwakamatsu.

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