Ouchi-juku, an inn town with thatched roofs, still retains the atmosphere of the Edo period.
This article introduces the charms of Ouchi-juku in a nutshell! From the Snow Festival in winter and the Togyo Festival in summer, to nearby sightseeing spots, gourmet experiences, hot springs, and cultural facilities, we will explain the 10 spots that can be enjoyed throughout the four seasons by category. This is a complete guide recommended for both first-time visitors and repeaters.
- Historic and Cultural Sites
- Enjoy unique food and experiences that only Ōuchi-juku can offer
- Seasonal Events to Experience in Ouchi-juku
- Tourist Spots to Visit Around Ouchi-juku
- To no Hetsuri | A Gorge of Unique Rock Formations Sculpted by a Million Years of Nature
- Yunokami Onsen Station | A Thatched-Roof Station Building Worth Seeing
- Kannonuma Forest Park | A Stunning Retreat Where Autumn Leaves and Reflections Create a Breathtaking View
- Higurashi Waterfall | Enjoy the Hidden Waterfall Surrounded by Fresh Greenery and Vibrant Autumn Foliage
- Things to Do in Ouchi-juku
Historic and Cultural Sites
Ouchi-juku is a place that retains a strong history as an inn town of the Edo period. The streets lined with thatched-roof houses give visitors the feeling of stepping back in time. Sightseeing spots here are dotted with places where visitors can experience history and culture. Why not spend a memorable time in Ouchi-juku, where history and nature merge?
Ouchi-juku Machinami Exhibition Hall ｜ Experience Edo-Period Life at This History Museum
＜Source ：Shimogō Town Tourism Association＞
The Ouchi-juku Machinami Exhibition Hall is a valuable historical museum that preserves the atmosphere of an Edo Period inn town. Here, visitors can experience the lifestyle and culture of the people of the time through a variety of exhibits. Inside the museum, tools and costumes from the Edo period, as well as panels that introduce the history of the inn town, invite visitors to enter the world of that time.
Of particular note are the dioramas that reproduce the tools of daily life actually used and the lifestyles of people in the inn towns. Through these, visitors can imagine exactly how people lived in those days. Another attraction of the museum is that visitors can learn more about the history of the area through explanations by the museum staff.
When you visit Ouchi-juku, please stop by this exhibition hall and experience life in the Edo period. The charm of the inn town will be deepened as you experience its history.
Admission is also affordable: 250 yen for adults and 150 yen for children!
Takakura Shrine | A Tranquil Power Spot Housing the Guardian Deity of Ouchi-juku
Located a short distance from the center of Ouchi-juku, Takakura Shrine is a well-known guardian deity of the community. The shrine, which has been in existence since the Edo period (1603-1867), is surrounded by a quiet forest, providing visitors with a serene atmosphere and a sense of peace. The shrine grounds are lined with large trees several hundred years old, offering visitors a chance to calm their minds in the midst of nature.
At Takakura Shrine, local people can be seen offering daily thanksgiving and praying for good health. The shrine is especially crowded with visitors during Hatsumode (New Year’s visit to the shrine) and festivals. The shrine is surrounded by beautiful nature, and visitors can enjoy the scenery of each of the four seasons. Cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall welcome visitors, offering something new to discover each time they visit.
When you visit Ouchi-juku, be sure to visit Takakura Shrine. This quiet power spot will refresh your mind and give you a taste of the history of the Edo period.
The path from the torii gate to the shrine is surrounded by rice fields, and the winter scenery is absolutely beautiful!
Toaka’s Yamazakura Cherry Blossom | A Single Cherry Tree that Proudly Blooms in Spring, Representing the Region
＜Source： Official Website of Aizu Shimogō Town＞
The Toaka’s Yamazakura Cherry Blossom, which add color to spring in Ouchi-juku, attract many tourists as the region’s representative single cherry tree. The cherry blossoms are at their best from late April to early May each year, and the sight of their pale pink petals against the blue sky is truly spectacular. The cherry blossoms stand quietly in harmony with the surrounding nature, providing a soothing sight to visitors.
The mountain cherry blossoms in Toaka have a special place in the hearts of the locals, and are a symbolic reminder of the coming of spring. During the cherry blossom season, people gather around the area to enjoy viewing the blossoms, creating a lively atmosphere. Picnicking under the cherry blossoms and taking pictures are also recommended. Especially at dusk, the cherry blossoms create a fantastic scene as they are illuminated by the setting sun.
This single cherry blossom is not only a sightseeing spot, but also a place where one can experience the local culture and history. When you visit Ouchi-juku, be sure to stop by to see the mountain cherry blossoms in Toka and enjoy their beauty. You will have a heartwarming moment as you feel the arrival of spring.
In spring, around 100 oyamazakura cherry trees bloom!
Enjoy unique food and experiences that only Ōuchi-juku can offer
More than just a tourist attraction, Ouchi-juku offers visitors unique culinary and cultural experiences. First of all, one cannot miss enjoying the famous “Negi Soba” (soba with green leek). At Misawaya, the style of eating is characterized by using long green leek as chopsticks, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the Edo period while savoring the flavorful soba. At Minatogawaya, you can also try your hand at painting and create your own original vessels. It is a wonderful experience to take home a handmade piece as a memento of your trip. Why not spend a memorable time through food and experiences unique to Ouchi-juku?
Experience Negi Soba at Misawaya | A Local Specialty Soba Served with a Whole Leek
If you visit Ouchi-juku, you should definitely stop by Misawaya. Here, you can experience the famous “Negi Soba” (soba with green leek). Negi soba is unique in appearance, characterized by the style of eating it using a single long green leek as a chopstick. The flavor of the soba and the aroma of the green onion intertwine perfectly, providing a simple yet profound taste experience.
Misawaya’s soba is made from local buckwheat flour, and its handmade technique shines through. Upon ordering, soba is first served in a large bowl, accompanied by green onions. The soba is scooped up with the green onions, dipped into the sauce, and sipped. The flavor that spreads in your mouth is truly an experience unique to Ouchi-juku.
In addition to enjoying soba, another attraction of Misawaya is the atmosphere inside the restaurant. The thatched-roof building, which still retains the atmosphere of the Edo period, allows visitors to enjoy their meal while feeling a sense of history. Please stop by during your sightseeing tour. You will be able to enjoy their famous Negi Soba while feeling the atmosphere of Ouchi-juku.
Experience Pottery Painting at Minatogawaya | Create a One-of-a-Kind Dish as a Souvenir of Your Trip
＜Source ：Official Website of Ōuchi-juku＞
When you visit Ouchi-juku, please enjoy the painting experience at “Minatogawaya”. Here, you can enjoy the experience of painting “Akabeko” and “Okiagari Koboshi” and create your own original, precious experience awaits you. By painting freely, you can give shape to the memories of your trip.
The painting experience is available for beginners as well, with staff providing careful guidance. The process of freely painting on the prepared pottery using your favorite designs and colors will make you feel as if you are an artist. Finished pieces are fired and sent home at a later date, so you can enjoy the memories of your trip for a long time.
Minatogawaya is also a restaurant where you can enjoy delicious food made with local ingredients. It is a good idea to enjoy local delicacies before or after your painting experience. Why not spend a wonderful and memorable time while experiencing the atmosphere of Ouchi-juku?
It’s the perfect souvenir that you can only find here!
Seasonal Events to Experience in Ouchi-juku
Ouchi-juku offers a special experience for visitors with events held in each of the four seasons. In winter, the town holds the “Snow Festival,” where fantastic snow lights envelop the town and enchant visitors. The scenery of thatched roofs covered with snow is as beautiful as a painting. In summer, the “Togyo Festival ” is held, and the town is decorated with portable shrines and traditional dances. This festival, enjoyed together with the local people, is a rare opportunity to experience the culture of Ouchi-juku. Both events are sure to create heartwarming memories as you experience the history and culture of the area.
Join the Snow Festival | A Winter Tradition Surrounded by Enchanting Snow Lights
＜Source：Official Website of Aizu Shimogō Town＞
One of the most popular winter events in Ouchi-juku is the annual “Snow Festival. This event is a special opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the inn town covered in snow. The entire town is wrapped in fantastic snow lights, enchanting visitors. In particular, the sight of thatch-roofed houses covered with snow gives visitors the feeling of stepping back in time to the Edo period.
During the Snow Festival, visitors can enjoy local specialties and hot beverages at the food stalls, which provide a heartwarming respite from the cold. Many visitors also bring their cameras, as the festival is lit up at night, allowing visitors to enjoy a fantastic stroll in the snow. In addition, traditional dances and performances by local people provide a rare opportunity to experience local culture.
This snow festival is an event that should not be missed when visiting Ouchi-juku in winter. Make memorable memories while enjoying the beautiful snowy scenery and warm hospitality.
The lighting of the snow lanterns after dark is absolutely beautiful!
Enjoy the Summer Festival (Togyo Festival) | Experience the Traditional Culture of Ouchi-juku in Summer
＜Source：Official Website of Aizu Shimogō Town＞
The summer festivals of Ouchi-juku, especially the Togyo Festival, are valuable events that allow visitors to experience the traditional culture of the region. Held annually in July, the festival features a parade of Sarutahiko and men dressed in white through the town, bringing locals and tourists together in a lively celebration.
During the festival, the entire town comes alive with energy, and visitors can enjoy local specialties and delicious food. In particular, dishes made with local ingredients and cold beverages are sure to relieve the summer heat. Also, the sight of Sarutahiko and men dressed in white parading through the village is not to be missed.
This festival is not just a sightseeing event, but a valuable experience that allows visitors to experience the bonds and culture of the local people. When you visit Ouchi-juku, be sure to participate in this summer festival and feel the breath of traditional culture.
Check the dates with the Shimogō Town Tourism Association and plan your visit!
Tourist Spots to Visit Around Ouchi-juku
When you visit Ouchi-juku, be sure to check out the surrounding tourist attractions. First, there is “To no Hesuri. Here, you can enjoy the beauty of the canyon with its oddly shaped rocks created by nature over a million years. Next is “Yunokami Onsen Station. The thatched-roof station building makes you feel as if you have stepped back in time. Also, at “Kannonuma Forest Park,” you can refresh yourself while enjoying the spectacular view of the autumn leaves and the surface of the water. And “Higurashi Waterfall” is a secluded waterfall that looks beautiful in the fresh green and autumn leaves, and is a spot where visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature. These tourist attractions will surely add to the charm of Ouchi-juku.
To no Hetsuri | A Gorge of Unique Rock Formations Sculpted by a Million Years of Nature
Located about 30 minutes by car from Ouchi Inn, “To no Hetsuri” is a beautiful valley created by nature over a long period of time. Here, visitors can enjoy the spectacular scenery of oddly shaped rocks and cliffs that have been formed over a million years. In particular, the clear streams flowing between the rocks, combined with the seasonal scenery, fascinate visitors.
In spring, fresh greenery sprouts, in summer, lush foliage grows, and in autumn, the leaves turn beautiful colors. In winter, the snowy landscape creates a fantastic atmosphere. Especially during the fall foliage season, the area attracts many tourists and is known as a great photo spot.
Hiking trails are also available at To no hetsuri, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of scenery as they walk through nature. Through walking, you will be able to experience the beauty of nature and refresh your body and soul. This is one of the spots you should definitely stop by when visiting Ouchi-juku.
The suspension bridge has a limit on the number of people allowed, so be sure to check before crossing!
Yunokami Onsen Station | A Thatched-Roof Station Building Worth Seeing
A must stop when visiting Ouchi-juku is Yunokami Onsen Station. This station features a beautiful thatched-roof station building, creating an atmosphere as if you have stepped back in time to the Edo period. The station building blends harmoniously with the surrounding nature and warmly welcomes visitors.
Yunokami Onsen Station is not just a transportation hub, but also a popular tourist spot. The area around the station offers beautiful scenery in each of the four seasons, especially cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall. There is also a tourist information center inside the station building, where visitors can obtain information about Ouchi-juku and the surrounding tourist attractions.
Furthermore, hot springs are scattered near the station, allowing visitors to relax between sightseeing excursions. Enjoy your time at Yunokami Onsen Station while experiencing the history and culture of Ouchi-juku. It is a fascinating spot where you will discover something new every time you visit.
The station has a footbath where you can relax between sightseeing!
Kannonuma Forest Park | A Stunning Retreat Where Autumn Leaves and Reflections Create a Breathtaking View
Kannonuma Forest Park is a nature-rich spot easily accessible from Ouchi-juku, where visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery from season to season. Especially in the fall, the surrounding mountains are tinged with colorful autumn leaves, and their beauty attracts visitors. The park’s tranquil lake surface and the reflections of the autumn leaves on the water are truly spectacular. For photography enthusiasts, this is the perfect spot to take pictures.
Kannonuma Forest Park also has a hiking course that allows visitors to refresh themselves while walking in the midst of nature. Visitors can enjoy forest bathing, a pleasant breeze, and a moment to forget the hustle and bustle of daily life. Moreover, the course changes with the seasons, with fresh greenery in spring and lush foliage in summer, so there is always something new to discover no matter how many times you visit.
An ideal place for picnics with family or friends, Kannonuma Forest Park is a must-visit spot when sightseeing in Ouchi-juku, where you can spend a relaxing time in nature.
Higurashi Waterfall | Enjoy the Hidden Waterfall Surrounded by Fresh Greenery and Vibrant Autumn Foliage
＜Source：Official Website of the Fukushima Green Reconstruction Initiative＞
A short distance from the Ouchi Inn is the beautiful Higurashi Waterfall, which is a hidden gem. This waterfall is a favorite spot for many tourists to enjoy the beauty of nature in each of the four seasons.
In the fall, Higurashi Waterfall is also known for its autumn foliage. The surrounding mountains turn red and yellow, creating a fantastic view along with the cascading waterfall. During this season, many visitors with cameras can be seen trying to capture the beauty of the falls.
Higurashi Waterfall is also easily accessible and can be visited while enjoying nature through hiking trails. A stroll through the area while listening to the sound of the waterfalls will be a soothing experience. When you visit Ouchi-juku, be sure to visit this unexplored waterfall and enjoy the beauty of nature.
It’s a hidden gem for autumn foliage near Kannon-numa Forest Park!
Things to Do in Ouchi-juku
Ouchi-juku is an inn town that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period and offers visitors a wide variety of experiences. The famous “Negi Soba” (soba with green leek) and painting experience will make your trip a memorable one. In addition, visitors can enjoy seasonal events at Ouchi-juku.
In this way, visitors to Ouchi-juku can spend a fulfilling time experiencing history and culture through food, experiences, and events. When you visit, be sure to include these activities in your plans and enjoy a memorable trip.
