［Aizu Wakamatsu] Aizu Wakamatsu is the best place for sightseeing! Seasonal Ranking of Recommended Spots

Minami Aizu is a quiet and charming tourist destination with unspoiled nature and historical townscapes. The area is perfect for couples who want to spend a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and for families who want to play with their children in the midst of nature. You can enjoy not only the beautiful scenery of the four seasons, but also hot springs, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences in a wide variety of ways. In this issue, we introduce the best places to visit in Minami Aizu, ranked by season. If you want to avoid the crowds and create special memories, this is a must-see!

Top 5 Hole-in-the-wall Spots in Spring

With the arrival of spring, Aizu-Wakamatsu is enveloped in beautiful cherry blossoms and fresh greenery, making it the perfect season for sightseeing. Here are some of the best places to visit in spring in a ranking format. Please take a look at these places where you can enjoy nature and history while avoiding the crowds. Aizu Wakamatsu in spring is full of attractive spots that combine nature and history. We hope you will visit these hidden gems and create some special memories.

With the arrival of spring, Aizu Wakamatsu is enveloped in beautiful cherry blossoms and fresh greenery, making it the perfect season for sightseeing. Here are some of the best spots to visit in spring, ranked according to the best spots to visit in spring. Please take a look at these places where you can enjoy nature and history while avoiding the crowds. Aizu Wakamatsu in spring is full of attractive spots that combine nature and history. We hope you will visit these hole-in-the-wall spots and create some special memories.

[No.5] Sake brewery tour at a long-established brewery / Suehiro Sake Brewery

Suehiro Sake Brewery｜Aizu Wakamatsu Tourism Navi

One of the best places to experience the charms of Aizu Wakamatsu as spring arrives is the Suehiro Sake Brewery, a long-established sake brewery. With a history of more than 150 years since its establishment, this sake brewery uses local rice and clean water to make sake, which is why it is so appealing to visitors. A tour of the brewery not only allows visitors to observe the actual production process, but also to learn more about sake brewing.

During the tour, you will be surrounded by the aroma of sake wafting through the brewery, and you will witness the careful handiwork of the craftsmen, which will make you feel as if time has stood still. Visitors can also enjoy a sake tasting after the tour, where they can savor the exquisite sake along with dishes made with local specialties.

A visit to Suehiro Sake Brewery in the mild spring weather will provide a heartwarming experience while experiencing the traditional culture of Aizu. Why not visit to feel the spring in Aizu Wakamatsu?

[No.4] Experience the lifestyle of the samurai / Aizu Buke Yashiki

The Aizu Buke Yashiki is a must-see spot where visitors can feel the history of Aizu Wakamatsu. Here, visitors can experience the lifestyle and culture of the samurai of old, and feel close to the way of life of those days. The Buke Yashiki is a replica of the actual house where the warriors lived, with furnishings and daily utensils from that period on display inside.

Of particular note is the fact that visitors can learn how samurai families lived their daily lives. A variety of experiences are available, including the education that the children of the samurai learned and the events that strengthened family ties. The gardens are also beautifully landscaped, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery of the four seasons.

Furthermore, the archery experience at the samurai residence is popular and recommended for children, as they receive prizes when they hit the target. This is a great opportunity for children in particular to learn about history and create fun memories. Aizu Buke Yashiki is a perfect spot for those who want to spend a relaxing time with a sense of history.

[No.3] Spectacular spring scenery adorned by a single cherry tree / Ishibezakura

In spring, the Ishibe cherry tree in Aizu Wakamatsu attracts visitors with its beauty. This single cherry tree is approximately 650 years old and blooms spectacularly with the arrival of spring. Especially when the tree is in full bloom, it looks like a painting, and together with the surrounding scenery, it creates a spectacular sight.

Ishibezakura is a special place for local people and a popular spot visited by many tourists every year. It is also famous for being featured in the opening of the historical drama “Yae no Sakura,” and when the cherry blossoms bloom, the surrounding nature also changes color, allowing visitors to enjoy a walk in the peaceful spring air. In particular, the cherry blossoms against the blue sky make an excellent photo spot for photography enthusiasts.

There are also restaurants scattered around Ishibe Cherry Blossoms where visitors can enjoy the taste of spring. After enjoying the cherry blossoms, be sure to sample some of the delicious local cuisine. You are sure to have a heartwarming moment while feeling the arrival of spring.

As you can see, Ishibezakura is worth a visit as one of the most spectacular spots in Aizu Wakamatsu in spring. Why not go out and create special memories while experiencing the beauty of nature and history?

[No.2] Feel the history of learning / Nisshinkan, Aizu Clan School

Aizu Han School Nisshinkan is a valuable place to learn about the history of Aizu Wakamatsu in depth. Established in the Edo period (1603-1868), this han school was known as an educational institution for children of samurai warriors. Today, the school has exhibits that allow visitors to experience the educational policies and learning styles of the time, giving them a sense of the weight of history. Also located on the grounds is the Suinen Suima Pond, which is said to be the oldest swimming pool in Japan.

Inside the school, there are exhibits showing how studies were conducted in those days, making it a fun place for children to learn. There is also a spacious garden where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the four seasons. Especially in spring, cherry blossoms are in full bloom, attracting visitors.

The Nisshin Kan also regularly holds lectures and events on history, serving as a place for locals and visitors to learn together. It is a fun spot for those interested in history, as well as families and couples. Visitors will be able to spend a relaxing time while experiencing the history of Aizu Wakamatsu.

[No.1] Tsurugajo Castle, a famous castle where the cherry blossoms are beautiful.

With the arrival of spring, Tsurugajo Castle, the symbol of Aizu Wakamatsu, is decorated with magnificent cherry blossoms. This castle is not only a historical backdrop, but also a hidden spot where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery, especially in the spring. Approximately 1,000 cherry trees are planted around the castle, and when they are in full bloom, the pink blossoms combine with the castle’s white walls to create a picturesque scene.

Tsurugajo is a historically famous castle that was the scene of the Aizu War, and is also known as the “Unbreakable Castle” due to its solid structure. Inside the castle, visitors are drawn to the abundance of historical exhibits and materials to learn about the castle’s history. In addition, the view from the castle tower is spectacular, providing an excellent spot from which to view the surrounding mountains and rows of cherry blossom trees.

When visiting Tsurugajo in spring, be sure to bring a packed lunch and enjoy a picnic around the castle. Spending time relaxing under the cherry blossoms will be a special memory. Furthermore, at night, the contrast between the illuminated cherry blossoms and the castle creates a fantastic atmosphere, offering a different beauty from that of the daytime. Tsurugajo is the perfect spot to feel the arrival of spring.

Top 5 summer spots

Aizu Wakamatsu in summer is a charming tourist destination that combines rich nature and history. There are many spots where you can feel coolness even under the hot sun. Here are some of the best spots to visit in summer, ranked in order of importance. Please refer to them to create special memories with your family and friends. Visit these spots and enjoy summer in Aizu Wakamatsu to the fullest.

[No.5] Cool and educational historical exploration / Fukushima Prefectural Museum

Fukushima Prefectural Museum is a hole-in-the-wall spot where visitors can learn about the history and culture of Fukushima Prefecture in depth. Especially on hot summer days, it is a great place to spend time in the cool museum. The museum is first-rate in terms of both scale and content nationwide, and has something for everyone from children to adults.

Of particular note are the exhibits on local traditions and folk customs. By learning about the history of Aizu, visitors can deepen their understanding of the local culture and climate. The regular special exhibitions and workshops are also fascinating, offering something new to discover each time you visit.

In addition, the beautiful natural surroundings of the museum make it an enjoyable place to take a walk. After learning at the museum, visitors will be able to relax and enjoy the surrounding scenery. Combining coolness and learning, the Fukushima Prefectural Museum is a perfect spot for summer sightseeing.

[No. 4] Enjoy walking along retro streets / Nanokaicho Street

Nanokaicho Street is a charming spot where visitors can feel the history of Aizu Wakamatsu. The street has been around since the Edo period and is lined with old warehouses and traditional buildings, giving visitors the feeling of stepping back in time. Especially in spring, the cherry blossoms along the street are in full bloom, gracefully welcoming visitors as they stroll along.

The street is dotted with stores selling local specialties and handmade crafts, loved not only by tourists but also by locals. In particular, Aizu’s traditional crafts, such as lacquerware and Japanese sundries, are popular as mementos. There are also many cafes and eateries where visitors can enjoy local delicacies.

Walking along Nanoka-machi Dori, visitors can enjoy learning about the lifestyle and culture of the time in some of the historic buildings, where exhibitions are held to introduce the lifestyle and culture of the time. In particular, stores that have been renovated from old warehouses offer visitors the opportunity to sample and try local sake and sweets, allowing them to enjoy a little luxury in between sightseeing tours.

Take a stroll along Nanoka-machi Street in the mild spring sunlight and enjoy a moment of history and culture. The scenery woven by the retro streets will surely provide visitors with special memories.

[No. 3] Summer Memories through Handmade Ceramics / KAMAMOTO Ryumon-yaki

Kamamoto Ryumon Pottery｜Aizu Wakamatsu Tourism Navi

One of the most recommended special summer experiences in Aizuwakamatsu is handmade pottery at Kiln Ryumon-yaki. Here, you can create your own original work of art while receiving direct instruction from a local potter. Pottery is a wonderful experience that nurtures creativity, especially for children, because of the feel of kneading clay and the fun of creating shapes.

Nagaremon-yaki is characterized by its unique patterns and colors. The time spent in the garden of the kiln, bathed in the summer sun and surrounded by nature, while putting your heart and soul into creating a piece of pottery is truly a luxurious time. It takes several days for the finished pieces to be fired, but the pleasure of receiving them at a later date is also exceptional.

This is the perfect spot to forget the summer heat and spend a heartwarming moment. Visit with family and friends for a memorable summer experience.

[2nd place]Summer camping by the lake / Inawashiro Lake Mobilage

Inawashiro Lake Mobilage official website

Inawashiro Lake Mobilage is the perfect spot for enjoying camping in nature, and it will make you forget about the summer heat. The campsite, which spreads out along the lakeside, is surrounded by a lush green environment, and the pleasant breeze that blows through it will help you to relax. It is especially perfect for families and groups of friends looking for an outdoor experience.

Lake Inawashiro is famous for its clear water and beautiful scenery, and in between camping activities you can also enjoy playing in the water or boating on the lake. Another unique feature of this place is that you can spend a relaxing time around a bonfire while looking at the stars at night.

In addition, at Inawashiroko Mobilage, there are not only tent sites, but also cottages and bungalows, so even beginners can enjoy camping with peace of mind. The facilities are also well-equipped, and the showers and toilets are kept clean, so you can be sure of a comfortable stay. Why not visit Inawashiroko Mobilage to make some summer memories?

[1st place] The green plateau that goes on forever / Oze

Oze is known as a spectacular spot to visit from spring to summer. The scenery created by the vast wetlands and beautiful alpine plants is like a painting. In particular, the green carpet that covers the wetlands in Oze Plain is a sight that captivates visitors. In spring, the new green buds sprout, and in summer, the colorful flowers bloom in full glory, allowing you to enjoy the changing nature of each season.

The appeal of Oze is not limited to its beautiful scenery. The rich natural environment is also a treasure trove of wildlife, and if you are lucky you may even be able to see some rare animals. Oze is also a great place for hiking and trekking, and there are well-maintained courses for everyone from beginners to advanced trekkers. In particular, the trekking to Oze-numa is loved by many climbers for the spectacular view of the mountains reflected on the surface of the lake.

Furthermore, because environmental protection is being promoted in Oze, you can enjoy the area while taking care to respect nature. When visiting, it is important to observe good manners and respect the natural environment. The green highlands of Oze, where you can leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and refresh your body and mind, are the perfect place to create special memories. Why not spend some time there, enjoying the beauty of nature?

Top 5 Hidden Spots Recommended for Autumn

Autumn in Aizu Wakamatsu is a season when the changing leaves are beautiful and you can enjoy activities in nature. Here, we will introduce the top 5 hidden spots to visit in autumn in Aizu Wakamatsu. These are all places where you can fully enjoy the charms of autumn while avoiding the crowds. Why not visit these spots and enjoy the charms of autumn in Aizu Wakamatsu to the full?

[5th place] Fantastic gorge cruise / Kirugen-kyo

Kirigenkyo is a hidden gem where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Aizu Wakamatsu to the full. Especially from spring to autumn, the spectacular scenery created by the lush green mountains and clear streams is sure to captivate visitors. The water of the river that flows through the gorge is crystal clear, and the way it reflects the scenery around it is like a painting.

The main attraction of this place is that you can take a boat ride through the gorge. From the boat, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery from an angle that you can’t normally see, and the contrast of the colors is especially striking during the seasons of fresh green and autumn leaves. On the boat, a guide will explain the history and nature of the gorge, so you can enjoy learning at the same time.

In autumn, the gorge is colored by the changing leaves, creating a magical atmosphere. It is the perfect spot for those who want to spend a quiet time or feel the beauty of nature. The ferry ride at Kigenkyo will be a wonderful experience that will create special memories.

[4th place]Enjoying the autumn flavors / Fruit Land Kita-Aizu

With the arrival of autumn, Fruit Land Kita-Aizu becomes an attractive spot with a wide variety of seasonal fruit. Here you can taste fresh fruit grown locally, and apples, grapes and pears are particularly popular. It is a great place to visit with family or friends, as you can enjoy fruit picking.

Fruit Land also has a wide selection of sweets and juices made with fruit, so be sure to try them when you visit. There is also a shop selling processed foods made from local produce, so you won’t have any trouble choosing a souvenir.

What’s more, Fruit Land Kita-Aizu is surrounded by nature, so you can spend a relaxing time enjoying the autumn leaves. We recommend taking a walk and enjoying the beautiful scenery around you in between picking fruit. Fruit Land Kita-Aizu is a hidden gem of a tourist spot where you can enjoy the autumn flavors to your heart’s content and have a heart-warming time.

[3th place] Autumn Foliage Trekking / Azuma-kofuji

With the arrival of autumn, Azuma-kofuji attracts visitors with its beautiful autumn foliage. This mountain, which is over 1,700 meters high, is a popular trekking spot where you can enjoy the scenery of each season, but the autumn foliage season is particularly special. The whole mountain is dyed red and yellow, and it is as beautiful as a painting.

There are various trekking routes for beginners and advanced trekkers alike, and the Azuma-kofuji Course in particular is relatively flat and easy to walk, so it is also recommended for families. There is also an observation deck along the way, and the view from there is breathtaking. You can see the mountains floating in the autumn leaves and the Aizu landscape stretching out in the distance.

After trekking, you can also go to a nearby hot spring to soothe your tired muscles. In particular, the hot spring at the foot of Azuma-kofuji is worth a visit because you can enjoy bathing while looking at the autumn leaves. This spot, where you can refresh your body and mind in nature, is a place you should definitely stop by when visiting Aizu Wakamatsu in autumn.

[2th place] Autumn leaves train to enjoy from the train window / Ozatoro observation train

If you’re visiting Aizu Wakamatsu in autumn, you should definitely experience the “Oza Toro Observation Train”. This special train runs on Saturdays and Sundays from April to November, and you can enjoy the spectacular views from the train windows. In particular, the way the mountains of Aizu change color is a sight to behold, and the scenery is like a painting.

Unlike a normal train, the Oza Toro Observation Train is a combination of a Japanese-style tatami room and a trolley, and its feature is that you can enjoy the autumn scenery of Aizu Wakamatsu while relaxing in comfort. In particular, during the autumn foliage season, the trees that have turned red and yellow decorate the train windows, and there are many moments when you can’t help but want to take a photo. On the train, you can also enjoy light meals and drinks made from local specialties, so even the time you spend traveling will be fulfilling.

In addition, there are also spots along the train route where you can experience the history and culture of Aizu. You can get off the train and visit local tourist attractions, so you can enjoy sightseeing and the autumn leaves at the same time. In particular, seeing the autumn leaves in the clear autumn air will be a wonderful experience that will stay with you.

Why not plan a trip on the Oza Toro Observation Train this autumn to enjoy the beautiful nature of Aizu Wakamatsu? You can be sure that you will be able to make special memories while enjoying the spectacular autumn leaves.

[No.1] The spectacular view of the autumn leaves reflected on the water’s surface / Goshikinuma Nature Trail

The Goshikinuma Nature Trail is a beautiful spot that could be called a seasonal feature of Aizu Wakamatsu in autumn. In particular, in autumn, the trees around the area turn red and yellow, and the way their colors are reflected on the water’s surface is truly a spectacular sight. Visitors will be captivated by the beauty of nature.

The sightseeing trail has a well-maintained walking path, and the hiking course is attractive for both beginners and advanced hikers. There are also observation spots along the way where you can enjoy the characteristic colors of Goshikinuma, so we recommend bringing your camera. In particular, on sunny mornings the surface of the water is clear like a mirror, and you can enjoy a fantastic landscape.

As the name suggests, the colors of the ponds change with the seasons and the weather, so each visit reveals a different face. During the autumn foliage season, the surrounding mountains and the ponds come alive with a riot of color, creating a scene of almost painterly beauty.

This is the perfect place for those who want to refresh themselves in nature or spend some quiet time. Why not make some lasting autumn memories on the Goshikinuma Nature Trail?

Top 5 Hidden Spots for Winter

Aizuwakamatsu in winter is full of hidden spots where you can experience heart-warming moments, as well as beautiful scenery wrapped in snow. Because it is a season of intense cold, we will introduce places where you can spend quiet time and make special memories in a ranking format. Aizuwakamatsu in winter is full of quiet and beautiful spots. Please visit these hidden spots and make heart-warming winter memories.

[5th place] Relax your mind in a bath / Aizu Higashiyama Onsen

If you’re looking for a hidden tourist spot in Aizu Wakamatsu in winter, Aizu Higashiyama Onsen is the place to go. This hot spring resort, which boasts a history of over 1300 years, is famous for its superb hot spring water that can be enjoyed together with the snowy scenery. It was also used as a hot spring spa by the Aizu clan, and it is said that the lord of the Matsudaira family and Toshizo Hijikata of the Shinsengumi once visited.

The hot spring resort is dotted with atmospheric old-established ryokan (Japanese-style inns) and open-air baths along mountain streams, and you can enjoy snow-viewing baths that are unique to winter. In particular, the sight of a gorge covered in snow while you soak in the hot spring is a luxury that you can’t experience in the city.

It is also a hidden spot where you can relax and avoid the crowds. Why not spend a luxurious moment in a hot spring resort wrapped in the silence of winter, where you can heal your body and soul?

【4th place】Enjoy the silence of a winter-withered garden / Goyakuen

One of the best-kept secrets in Aizu Wakamatsu in winter is Goyakuen. This garden was a place where medicinal herbs were cultivated for the Aizu clan in the Edo period, and is now known as a spot where you can calm your mind in the quiet of nature. With the arrival of winter, the garden is enveloped in silence, and the scene of withered trees and snow-covered scenery creates a fantastic atmosphere.

At Goyakuen, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery even in the cold of winter. In particular, the scenery of the garden covered in snow is like a painting. Visitors can spend a quiet time and refresh their minds in nature. In addition, there are also historical buildings scattered throughout the garden, so you can also experience the history of Aizu while walking around.

In winter, there are fewer tourists at the Oyakuen Garden, so it’s the perfect spot for those who want to make special memories while enjoying a relaxing time. Please experience the tranquility and beauty that can only be experienced in the cold season.

[3rd place]It’s like being in an anime world⁉︎ / Okawa-so

Okawa-so official website

In winter, the Okawa-so inn in Aizu Wakamatsu offers an experience that feels like you’ve wandered into an anime world. This hot spring inn is famous for its distinctive design, with a corridor of tatami mats that seems to float in the atrium-style space, and its unique design is reminiscent of the Mugen Castle that appears in the anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba”.

Furthermore, the “open-air bath in the sky”, which was built to resemble the stage at Kiyomizu-dera, juts out over the valley, and in winter you can enjoy bathing while looking out over the snowy landscape. This open-air bath, which makes use of the abundant hot spring water of Ashinomaki Onsen, where the temperature of the hot spring water reaches 60℃, soothes the body and mind with its woody scent.

At the Ukibutai stage in the building, shamisen live performances are sometimes held, and the sound of the shamisen blends with the babbling of the Okawa River to create an extraordinary space. Why not spend a special time at Okawaso in winter, surrounded by a fantastic snowy landscape, as if you had entered an animated world?

[2th place] Enjoy a relaxing soak in a famous hot spring with a traditional atmosphere / Ashinomaki Onsen

Ashinomaki Onsen is a quiet hot spring resort located in the southern part of Aizu Wakamatsu City, and its beautiful natural surroundings are its main attraction. Here, you can enjoy the scenery of each season and spend some time refreshing your body and mind. In particular, during the winter, bathing in the hot spring while looking out at the snow-covered mountains is a truly blissful experience.

One of the features of this hot spring resort is that you can enjoy bathing in hot spring water that is directly piped from the source. Many of the accommodation facilities have open-air baths and baths that can be reserved for private use, so you can spend a relaxing time in a private space. In addition, there are many traditional Japanese inns and restaurants dotted around the hot spring resort, so you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients.

Ashinomaki Onsen also has good access to tourist attractions. There are also many historical spots and beautiful natural scenery in the area, so we recommend taking a stroll after enjoying the hot spring. In particular, there are hiking courses where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Aizu if you walk a little further from the hot spring resort.

Ashinomaki Onsen is the perfect spot for those who want to forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend some relaxing time while soaking in the pleasant hot spring. Please enjoy a moment of healing for both body and soul in this atmospheric hot spring.

【1th place】The mysterious architecture of the snow-covered Aizu Sazaedo

The Aizu Sazaedo, which could be called a winter tradition of Aizu Wakamatsu, captivates visitors with its beautiful appearance covered in snow. This building has a unique spiral structure and its exterior resembles a seashell. In the silence of winter, the Sazaedo, wrapped in white snow, radiates a beauty like a painting, and gives visitors a special impression.

The Sazaedo was built in the Edo period and was used as a facility for enshrining 33 statues of Kannon. The interior has a unique structure that allows visitors to go up and down without using stairs, and people who visit are amazed by its mysterious construction. In winter, the snow that accumulates on the building creates a more fantastic atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for taking photos.

There are also hot spring resorts dotted around the area, so you can warm up in a hot spring in between sightseeing. After visiting the snow-covered Sazaedo, we recommend you refresh your body and soul in the hot spring. When you visit Aizu Wakamatsu in winter, please don’t miss this mysterious architecture. You will be able to make special memories.

Ranking of Aizu Wakamatsu’s best-kept tourist spots by season

There are many tourist spots in Minamiaizu where you can enjoy the charms of each season. In spring, the Tsurugajo Castle, with its beautiful cherry blossoms, and the Aizu Clan School, with its historical atmosphere, are particularly recommended. In summer, camping by the cool waters of Lake Inawashiro and hand-made pottery making are popular with families. In autumn, the beautiful autumn leaves of Goshikinuma and the spectacular trekking routes attract visitors. And in winter, the Aizu Sazaedo, with its snow-covered exterior, and hot spring spas where you can spend a relaxing time are all popular.

These hidden gems are a world apart from the main tourist attractions, which are always bustling with visitors, and offer a special experience in a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. You can forget the hustle and bustle of the city and make heart-warming memories while experiencing nature and history. Please visit to enjoy the charms of each season to the fullest. We hope that the hidden gems of Aizu Wakamatsu will be your next travel destination.