Winter in Aizu-Wakamatsu is a truly special season, where historic streets and enchanting snowy landscapes come together. From the snow-covered Tsuruga Castle to illuminated hot spring towns, the city offers charms that can only be experienced in winter.
In this article, we’ve selected 12 must-visit spots in Aizu-Wakamatsu that are unique to the season. Explore breathtaking winter scenery that will make you forget the cold, and discover cozy, heartwarming spots — perfect for creating unforgettable memories on your winter journey.
3 Winter Scenic Spots in Aizu
Winter in Aizu-Wakamatsu transforms the region into a snow-covered wonderland that captivates every visitor. First, the view from Iimoriyama offers a picture-perfect panorama of the castle town blanketed in snow, looking as if it were straight out of a painting. Next, the First Tadami Line Bridge presents breathtaking scenery: snow-covered mountains and flowing rivers framed by the crisp winter air create a truly memorable sight. Finally, Nanukamachi Street comes alive under winter illuminations, casting a magical glow over its retro buildings and charming streetscape. These spots showcase the unique beauty of Aizu in winter, offering experiences that can only be enjoyed during this season.
Iimoriyama — A Castle Town Rising from a Winter Wonderland
Iimoriyama is one of the most iconic scenic spots in Aizu-Wakamatsu during winter. Snow-covered mountains surround the town, and the castle town itself is blanketed in white, creating a scene reminiscent of a painting.
From the top of the mountain, you can enjoy panoramic views of Tsuruga Castle and the surrounding city. On clear winter days, the scenery is even more striking. Standing amidst the snow, Tsuruga Castle exudes a majestic presence, as if the samurai of long ago are silently watching over the town.
Access to Iimoriyama is convenient, and visitors can easily reach the summit via hiking trails or the ropeway, making it simple to enjoy the breathtaking views. At the top, many tourists take photos with the snow-covered landscape as a backdrop, creating memorable winter experiences. The surrounding area is also home to several historical sites, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
This winter, take the opportunity to soak in the stunning snowy scenery of Iimoriyama and enjoy a truly unforgettable moment. As a destination that fully captures the charm of Aizu-Wakamatsu in winter, it’s a spot well worth visiting.
From the ‘Site of the Ritual Suicide,’ you can even see Tsuruga Castle in the distance!
Tadami Line — Breathtaking Views from the First Bridge
When visiting Aizu-Wakamatsu in winter, the view from the First Bridge on the Tadami Line is not to be missed. Snow-covered mountains and the serene flow of the river create a stunning, almost painterly landscape. During the snowy season, the surrounding world is blanketed in silver, captivating every visitor.
The First Bridge is one of the most popular spots along the Tadami Line, attracting not only railway enthusiasts but also nature lovers. As the train crosses the bridge, the combination of majestic scenery and the motion of the train creates a truly memorable experience. Snow-dusted mountains contrast beautifully with the blue winter sky, offering countless moments perfect for photography.
Beyond its scenic beauty, the Tadami Line is also a cultural and historical journey, allowing travelers to sense the local heritage. Enjoying the view with a warm drink in hand, while feeling the crisp winter air, makes the experience even more special. The First Bridge on the Tadami Line is a must-visit spot for fully appreciating the winter charm of Aizu-Wakamatsu.
It’s a scenery you should see once in your life!
Nanukamachi Street — Retro Streets Illuminated by Winter Lights
One of the must-visit spots in Aizu-Wakamatsu during winter is Nanukamachi Street. Lined with historic buildings, the street exudes a charming, retro atmosphere, and in winter, it becomes enveloped in magical illuminations. As snow gently covers the ground, the warm glow of the lights creates the feeling of stepping back in time.
Nanukamachi Street is home to local shops and cafes, where visitors can enjoy special winter menus and handcrafted goods. At night, the illuminations warmly welcome guests, making a stroll along the street a truly cozy experience — especially with a warm drink in hand.
The street also offers a sense of Aizu-Wakamatsu’s history. Walking through the old townscape, visitors can imagine how people once lived, adding an enriching cultural layer to the winter visit.
It’s a heart warming spot where you could forget the cold!
Escape the Cold! 3 Winter Retreats to Warm Your Heart
We’ve selected three winter retreats in Aizu-Wakamatsu where you can enjoy a heartwarming escape from the cold. First, Ashinomaki Onsen, a historic hot spring town. Here, you can soak in traditional baths while admiring the snow-covered scenery — a truly luxurious experience. Next, Aizu Higashiyama Onsen, surrounded by nature, offers a peaceful environment perfect for refreshing both body and mind. Finally, Aizu Bukeyashiki (Samurai Residence) allows you to step back in time and experience the lifestyle of samurai, enjoying a cozy winter moment filled with historical charm. These spots are perfect for forgetting the chill and embracing a warm, comforting winter experience in Aizu-Wakamatsu.
Ashinomaki Onsen — Unwind in a Retro Hot Spring Retreat This Winter
For a heartwarming winter escape in Aizu-Wakamatsu, Ashinomaki Onsen is the perfect choice. This historic hot spring town is dotted with retro ryokan, evoking a nostalgic atmosphere as if you’ve stepped back in time. Soaking in a natural hot spring while gazing at snow-covered mountains is a luxurious experience that makes you forget the cold.
The highlight is the snowy view from your room or bath. The silver-white landscape of the surrounding nature is incredibly soothing, helping to wash away the stress of daily life. Many ryokan maintain their traditional charm, with warm wooden interiors and thoughtful hospitality that make your stay even more special.
Ashinomaki Onsen is also a place to enjoy delicious local cuisine, prepared with seasonal ingredients. Relish the flavors of winter while relaxing in a warm bath, rejuvenating both body and mind. When visiting Aizu-Wakamatsu in winter, don’t miss the chance to experience this cozy, retro hot spring retreat.
A Must-Visit Hot Spring Destination in Aizu-Wakamatsu!
Aizu Higashiyama Onsen — Historic Hot Springs Surrounded by Nature
To fully enjoy winter in Aizu-Wakamatsu, Aizu Higashiyama Onsen is a must-visit. This historic hot spring town has been cherished since the Edo period, offering a unique blend of traditional streetscape and natural beauty. Set against snow-covered mountains, soaking in the hot springs provides a luxurious moment to refresh both body and mind.
The town is dotted with charming ryokan, each with its own character. Particularly, retro-style inns let you experience the warmth of traditional Japanese hospitality, along with delicious local cuisine that will make you forget the winter chill.
Surrounded by nature, Higashiyama Onsen offers beautiful scenery throughout the year, but the winter snow-covered landscapes are especially magical. Imagine relaxing in a steaming bath while gazing at a white-silver world outside your window — a truly winter-only experience. Here, history and nature come together to create a serene escape for both body and soul.
Enjoy a “Yukimi Bath” — Soak While Watching the Snow!
Aizu Samurai Residences — A Cozy Winter in Samurai Style
If you want to enjoy a heartwarming winter experience while feeling the history of Aizu-Wakamatsu, the Aizu Samurai Residences are highly recommended. This unique spot lets you step into the lives of Edo-period samurai, offering warmth that makes you forget the winter chill.
Inside the residences, you can learn about traditional samurai lifestyles and culture, and during winter, enjoy hot tea around a traditional irori (hearth) — a comforting experience after coming in from the cold. The gardens are blanketed in snow, creating a serene and picturesque winter landscape.
In addition, the samurai residences offer special winter activities, such as dressing in samurai costumes for commemorative photos or participating in traditional martial arts workshops. It’s a perfect opportunity to make memorable experiences with family and friends while immersing yourself in history. When visiting Aizu-Wakamatsu in winter, don’t miss this spot — it promises a truly heartwarming time.
You’ll be amazed by the traditional buildings and trees standing out against the white winter landscape.
Winter Must-Try Delicacies: 3 Dishes You Can’t Miss!
When visiting Aizu-Wakamatsu in winter, there are some must-try local delicacies that you shouldn’t miss. First is “Kozuyu”, a traditional Aizu soup packed with a variety of ingredients. It’s especially enjoyed during festive winter occasions and offers a warm, comforting taste of the region. Next is “Shirakawa Ramen”, perfect for the cold season. Its rich, flavorful broth warms both your body and your heart. Finally, don’t miss “Kōten”, a sweet treat inspired by traditional preserved foods. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, it’s a delightful winter dessert. Sampling these winter specialties is a delicious way to experience the charm of Aizu!
Kozuyu | Aizu’s Festive Winter Soup
When visiting Aizu-Wakamatsu in winter, one dish you must try is Kozuyu. This traditional local soup is often served on special occasions or celebratory meals. Made with chicken, seasonal vegetables, and a flavorful broth, it offers a warm and comforting taste that delights both body and soul.
What makes Kozuyu truly special is its appearance and flavor. Colorful ingredients are beautifully arranged, bringing vibrancy to the dining table. During the cold winter months, a hot bowl of Kozuyu warms you from the inside out, creating a cozy and heartwarming experience.
Another charm of this dish is that recipes vary from household to household, allowing visitors to enjoy unique local flavors. By tasting Kozuyu made with fresh regional ingredients, you can feel the culture and history of Aizu. A visit to Aizu-Wakamatsu isn’t complete without savoring this traditional winter dish and enjoying a moment of comfort and warmth.
A warming dish perfect for cold winter days.
Shirakawa Ramen | Rich, Flavorful Broth That Warms You in Winter
When visiting Aizu-Wakamatsu in winter, you must try Shirakawa Ramen. Its clear yet flavorful broth is both light and rich, making it especially comforting during the cold season. The soup is made from a blend of chicken bones and pork, creating a depth of flavor that warms you from the inside out. The medium-thin straight noodles perfectly absorb the broth, making every bite a delight.
Shirakawa Ramen is loved by locals and popular with tourists alike. On chilly winter days, sipping a hot bowl while looking out at the snow-covered streets is a truly special experience.
Local ramen shops offer various toppings such as chashu (braised pork), menma (bamboo shoots), and green onions, allowing you to customize your bowl to your liking. When visiting Aizu-Wakamatsu in winter, don’t miss the chance to taste this hearty ramen and experience its warmth and richness firsthand.
This is a hearty winter delicacy that warms both your body and heart!
Kōten | Traditional Preserved Food Turned Sweet Treat
A must-try in Aizuwakamatsu during winter is Kōten. This is a traditional preserved food that has been passed down in the Aizu region for generations, made mainly from root vegetables such as daikon radish and carrots. It originated from the clever practice of freezing vegetables to store them during the harsh winter, and today it has also become popular as a creative sweet treat.
Kōten features a unique texture and flavor, with the frozen vegetables sweetly seasoned. The balance of sweetness and saltiness is exquisite, and each bite releases a gentle, lingering sweetness. Recently, Kōten has been transformed into desserts and sweets, often presented in visually appealing ways.
It can be enjoyed on its own or used as an accent in other dishes. Adding it to salads or stews enhances both color and flavor, making it easy to enjoy at home as well. When visiting Aizuwakamatsu in winter, be sure to taste this traditional preserved food in its sweetened form for a heartwarming experience.
Be sure to try parfaits and cakes made with Kōten—they’re a delicious way to enjoy this traditional winter treat!
Perfect for a Winter Trip to Aizu! 3 Must-Try Activities
In Aizu during winter, you can enjoy more than just sightseeing—you can fully experience the season’s unique charms through hands-on activities. First, there’s the Kigenkyo River Crossing. Boarding a boat and gliding across the quiet river surrounded by snow-covered scenery feels like stepping into a painting, offering an unforgettable experience.
Next is the Soba-Making Experience, where you can use fresh buckwheat flour to make your own soba noodles and savor the flavors of winter. Finally, the Senbei-Grilling Experience lets you enjoy the fun of making your own rice crackers, grilled to perfection over charcoal. These activities provide a wonderful way to connect more deeply with winter in Aizu.
Kigenkyo River Crossing | A Boat Ride Surrounded by Snowy Scenery
For a truly special experience in Aizu during winter, the Kigenkyo River Crossing is a must. Gliding through a snow-covered gorge by boat, you can enjoy some of the most breathtaking winter scenery. Surrounded by the serene whiteness, the boat’s smooth passage feels like stepping into a painting—a truly enchanting moment.
As you drift along, take in the snow-dusted mountains and the frozen river flowing beneath. The crisp winter air enhances the gorge’s beauty, leaving visitors with a profound sense of awe. Snowflakes gently falling and the quiet sounds of nature create a peaceful atmosphere that helps you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This boat ride is perfect for families, friends, or even a romantic outing with a loved one. When visiting Aizu in winter, don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories on the Kigenkyo River Crossing.
If you visit when the mist rolls in, the scenery becomes even more magical—it’s highly recommended!
Soba Making Experience | Craft Your Own Winter Delicacy!
In winter, Aizu-Wakamatsu offers plenty of hands-on experiences using local specialties, and one of the most recommended is a soba-making experience. The Aizu region is famous for its high-quality buckwheat, and here you can make soba noodles by hand using fresh local buckwheat flour.
The experience begins by mixing the buckwheat flour with water. As you knead the dough, you can enjoy the tactile sensation and watch the mixture gradually come together—almost like creating a culinary work of art. Once the dough is ready, you roll it out with a rolling pin and cut it into noodles with a knife. This entire process is a rare opportunity that you wouldn’t usually experience in daily life.
Freshly made soba has a rich, aromatic flavor that is truly delightful. On a cold winter day, the warmth and satisfaction of eating noodles you made yourself will fill both your heart and body with comfort. It’s an activity perfect for families or friends, creating memorable moments together. Experience the flavors of Aizu’s winter by trying your hand at soba-making!
Soba noodles you make yourself taste even better!
Senbei Grilling Experience | Hand-Baked Over Charcoal
A must-try winter experience in Aizu-Wakamatsu is the senbei (rice cracker) grilling workshop. These traditional rice crackers are known for their nutty aroma and crisp texture. Grilling them slowly over a charcoal fire creates the perfect balance—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
The experience is offered at local workshops and tourist facilities, making it accessible even for beginners. First, you shape the senbei dough by hand into your preferred form. Then, you grill it over the charcoal, carefully turning it at just the right moment—a fun and satisfying part of the process.
This activity is ideal for families and friends, providing a memorable way to enjoy winter in Aizu. Tasting your own freshly grilled senbei is a delightful way to savor local traditions while immersing yourself in the season’s charm.
Freshly grilled senbei are warm, aromatic, and absolutely delicious!
Fully Enjoy Winter in Aizu-Wakamatsu! Recommended Spots Roundup
Winter in Aizu-Wakamatsu is a special time when snow-covered landscapes blend beautifully with the city’s rich history. By exploring its attractions, you can encounter heartwarming experiences and breathtaking scenery. Here’s a roundup of must-visit spots to fully enjoy winter in Aizu-Wakamatsu.
First, no winter visit is complete without seeing Mount Iimori. The snow-draped mountains and the castle town below create a scene straight out of a painting. At sunset, the orange sky contrasts magnificently with the silver-white landscape, making it truly unforgettable.
Next, the view from Tadami Line’s First Bridge is also not to be missed. Amid the crisp winter air, the snow-covered mountains and flowing river form a spectacular panorama. Taking a train across the bridge allows you to enjoy the scenery while creating lasting memories.
Additionally, Nanokamachi Street offers a charming retro atmosphere, illuminated by warm winter lights. Strolling along the street, wrapped in soft glowing light, feels like stepping back in time. It’s the perfect way to experience the unique winter charm of Aizu-Wakamatsu.
Visiting these spots allows you to fully appreciate the magic of winter in Aizu-Wakamatsu. Up next, we’ll introduce cozy retreats that let you forget the cold and relax in warmth—stay tuned!
