Minami Aizu:Hidden tourist spot！Ranking of recommended spots for each season

Minami Aizu is a hidden area known by those in the know for its beautiful nature and history that changes with the seasons. In spring, the cherry blossoms and fresh greenery are a sight to behold, in summer there are cool valleys and activities, in fall the colorful autumn leaves, and in winter, the snowy landscape and hot springs are an attraction. This is the perfect place for those who want to spend a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. From romantic dates for couples to hands-on family fun, Minamiaizu offers a wide variety of things to do and see. In this issue, we will introduce recommended spots to visit in Minami Aizu, ranked by season!

Top 5 Hidden Gems for Spring

Spring in Minamiaizu is a beautiful season, with cherry blossoms in full bloom and fresh green buds sprouting. We will introduce some of the hidden gems you should visit during this time, ranked by season. Why not spend a heart-warming moment in a place where the beauty of nature and historical charm come together? Please visit to enjoy the spring of Minamiaizu to the fullest.

【5th place】 Local specialties at the roadside station “Shimogo“

<Source>Roadside Station Shimogo|Fukushima Travel

To feel the arrival of spring in Minamiaizu, we recommend visiting the roadside station ‘Shimogo’ first. This is a spot that is loved not only by tourists but also by local people, with a wide range of local specialties. In spring, in particular, you can enjoy the fresh vegetables and fruit on offer, which have been carefully grown by local farmers.

The roadside station also has a wide range of souvenirs made from local specialty products, as well as a variety of handmade processed goods. There is also a restaurant that serves dishes made from local produce, so you can enjoy the seasonal flavors of spring.

In addition, the area around the roadside station is surrounded by beautiful nature, and in spring the fresh green buds and the pleasant breeze are a joy to experience. This place, where you can enjoy a stroll and pick up local specialties, is a hidden gem where you can fully experience the charm of Minamiaizu. Please stop by and enjoy the arrival of spring.

【4th place】 The historical romance of the cherry blossoms at the ruins of Hisakawa Castle

<Source> Cherry Blossom Spots|Minamiaizu Town Tourism and Products Association

The ruins of Kugawa Castle are a must-see spot for spring in Minamiaizu. This is a historic place where the ruins of a former castle remain, and it is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. Every spring, many cherry trees bloom at once, attracting visitors. In particular, the cherry blossom-lined street seen from the castle ruins is like a painting.

Hisakawa Castle was built during the Warring States period, and you can enjoy a stroll while feeling its history. During the cherry blossom season, the area around the castle ruins is dyed pink, creating a fantastic scene where history and nature come together. Spending time leisurely under the cherry blossoms is sure to soothe your heart.

There are also shops in the area selling local specialities, so after enjoying the cherry blossoms you can also sample some delicious local food. It’s the perfect spot for enjoying the arrival of spring while feeling the romance of history. Be sure not to miss the cherry blossoms at the Hisakawa Castle Ruins when you visit Minamiaizu.

【3rd place】A space wrapped in silence / Ono Kannondo

<Source>Ono Kannondo|Fukushima Travel

One of the best-kept secrets in Minamiaizu in spring is Ono Kannondo. This beautiful temple, which sits quietly in the mountains, provides spiritual peace to visitors. In spring, the surrounding nature is enveloped in fresh green, and the temple is surrounded by a profusion of colorful flowers. When you visit, you will be enveloped in a silence that seems to have stopped time, and you can forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Ono Kannondo is an important historical site that has long been a favorite of the local people. Inside the grounds, there is a statue of Kannon, and visitors can pray for peace of mind by joining their hands in front of it. There is also a walking path around the Kannon-do, and it is recommended to take a leisurely stroll while feeling the arrival of spring.

This place is perfect for couples and families to spend a peaceful time together. Enjoy a moment of healing in the warm spring sunshine, feeling the beauty of nature and the depth of history. Ono Kannondo, where you can fully experience the charm of Minamiaizu, is the perfect spot to visit in spring.

【Minamiaizu, Fukushima】Ono Kannondo Ono Kannondo is a historic landmark in Fukushima Prefecture, known ...

【2nd place】A museum where you can experience traditional culture / Aizu Tajima Gion Kaikan

<Source>Aizu Tajima Gion Kaikan|Come to Minamiaizu.

The Aizu Tajima Gion Kaikan is a valuable spot where you can learn about the traditional culture of Minamiaizu in depth. Here, there are exhibitions related to the annual Tajima Gion Festival, and the lives and culture of the local people are strongly reflected in them. In particular, the gorgeous floats and costumes used in the festival are sure to captivate visitors.

The museum is filled with hand-crafted goods made by local artisans and historical documents, giving visitors a sense of the depth of Minamiaizu culture. In addition, the regular workshops and events held here give visitors the chance to experience traditional crafts for themselves, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

With the arrival of spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in full glory around the Aizu Tajima Gion Kaikan, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery together with the exhibits inside the building. Why not come and fully experience the charm of Minami-Aizu in this place where history and nature come together?

【1st place】Healed by the clear stream and fresh green of the cherry blossoms /  Aizukogen INA Camping Village

<Source>Aizu Kogen INA Camping Village|Campism

If you want to enjoy nature in Minamiaizu in spring, we recommend  Aizukogen INA Camping Village. This campsite is surrounded by rich nature and has a quiet atmosphere, and in spring you can enjoy camping in the fresh air as the new green buds sprout.

The campsite has well-maintained tent sites and bungalows, so it can be used by a wide range of people, from beginners to experienced campers. In addition, you can enjoy fishing and playing in the clear stream that runs through the campsite, making it a great spot for families.

There are also many tourist attractions in the surrounding area. For example, Komado Marshland, which is surrounded by beech forests and has a large expanse of marshland, is perfect for a stroll, with skunk cabbage in full bloom in late April. You can also refresh yourself in the open-air baths along the mountain stream at the historic hot spring resort of Tokusa Onsen.

Why not spend some relaxing time in the nature of Minamiaizu as spring arrives?

Top 5 Hidden Spots for Summer

The summer in Minamiaizu is a charming season where the beauty of nature and activities come together. There are many spots where you can spend a pleasant time while feeling the cool breeze. Here, we will introduce the best hidden spots to visit in summer in a ranking format. These spots are hidden gems for enjoying the summer in Minamiaizu to the fullest. Refresh yourself in nature and make memories that will last a lifetime.

【5th place】A trip to experience tradition and history / Okuaizu Museum

<Source> Okuaizu Museum|Welcome to Minamiaizu.

Okuaizu Museum The Okuaizu Museum is a valuable place where you can learn about the history and culture of the local area in depth. In particular, there are many displays of traditional crafts and folk materials from Minamiaizu, which convey the appeal of the local area to visitors.

There are also displays of materials such as natural history in the museum, so you can learn all about Minamiaizu. In addition, the regular workshops and events held here allow you to learn traditional techniques while actually getting your hands dirty, so it is also recommended for families and couples.

In addition, the area around the museum is surrounded by beautiful nature, so you can enjoy a stroll. In spring, the fresh green buds sprout, in summer the cool breeze blows through, and in autumn the changing leaves create a colorful landscape. Why not spend a moment of spiritual enrichment in this place where history and nature are fused together? The Okuaizu Museum is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing time while feeling the history of Minamiaizu.

【4th place】Viewing the spectacular natural beauty of Byobu Rock

<Source>Byobuiwa|Minamiaizu Town Tourism Association

Byobu Rock is a must-see spot to visit in spring in Minamiaizu. As the name suggests, the distinctive feature of Byobuiwa is its rock wall that rises up like a folding screen, and it blends beautifully with the surrounding nature. In spring in particular, the contrast between the fresh green of the new leaves and the blue sky reflected on the rock face is beautiful, and it captivates visitors.

This place has well-maintained hiking and trekking courses, so it can be enjoyed by a wide range of people, from beginners to advanced hikers. In particular, the view from the Byobuiwa observation deck is spectacular, and you can see the scenery of the distant mountains and valleys in one sweep, so we recommend bringing your camera.

In addition, the area around Byobuiwa is a quiet environment where you can enjoy nature while calming your mind, so it is also a great spot for couples and families.

If you visit Minamiaizu this summer, be sure to experience the overwhelming natural beauty of Byobu Rock. You’re sure to make some wonderful memories that will stay with you

【3rd place】 Feel the cool at the spectacular dam / Okawa Dam

<Source>Okawa Dam|Fukushima Prefecture Official HP

The Okawa Dam is attractive for its beautiful scenery that blends in with the surrounding nature, and it is the perfect place for people seeking coolness, especially during the hot summer months. There is a walking trail around the dam, so you can refresh yourself in the great outdoors while taking a stroll.

The most striking feature of the Okawa Dam is its magnificent scenery. The contrast between the blue surface of the dammed lake and the lush green mountains around it is sure to captivate visitors. On sunny days in particular, the colors of the sky reflected on the surface of the lake are beautiful, and you can’t help but want to take a photo. The dam’s observation deck also offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and lake, and is known as a great viewing point.

Furthermore, spending time in nature will make you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Okawa Dam, where you can spend a pleasant moment while feeling the cool breeze, is a great spot to visit in Minamiaizu in the summer.

【2nd place】Enjoy the summer with river activities! / Ina  River

<Source>Ina  River|ANA

One of the things you can enjoy in Minamiaizu in summer is river activities on the Ina River. This river, which flows with clear water, has a high level of transparency and is attractive for its beautiful scenery in harmony with the surrounding nature. It is a particularly good spot for families and groups of friends to visit, where you can enjoy river activities and barbecues.

At the Ina River, playing in the shallows and floating down the river are popular activities. Children diving into the water and playing by throwing stones are a quintessential summer scene. In addition, the lush greenery that grows along both banks of the river allows you to refresh yourself in nature.

In addition, there are also a number of campgrounds dotted around the Ina  River area, making it the perfect environment for those who love the great outdoors. At night, you can spend a relaxing time looking up at the starry sky and sitting around a campfire, and it will make you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

In this way, the Ina River is a hidden gem that represents Minamiaizu in summer, and it is loved by many people. Why not refresh your body and mind in nature and spend a memorable summer?

【1st place】 Be healed by the refreshing greenery / Okawa-Hatori Prefectural Natural Park

Okawa-Hatori Prefectural Natural Park is a spot where you can fully enjoy the natural beauty of Minamiaizu. In summer, the lush green forest is enveloped in fresh greenery, welcoming visitors. There are many different plants living in the park, and you can enjoy the scenery of each season while taking a walk. In spring in particular, you can see the buds on the trees and the flowers blooming, and your heart will be filled with a sense of healing.

In addition, the park has well-maintained walking paths, so it is a great place for families and couples to go for a stroll. While you spend some relaxing time there, you can listen to the sounds of nature and enjoy the songs of wild birds. Furthermore, the park is also equipped with a picnic area, so we recommend that you spread out your packed lunch and enjoy a meal in the great outdoors.

Okawa Hatori Prefectural Natural Park is a place where you can forget the hustle and bustle of the city and be sure to refresh your body and mind. Please visit this beautiful park while feeling the arrival of spring. The time you spend in nature will bring deep healing to your heart.

Top 5 Hidden Gems for Autumn

The autumn in Minamiaizu is a time when the mountains are colored with a riot of autumnal tints, and visitors are captivated by the scenery. Here, we introduce the top 5 hidden gems for autumn in Minamiaizu, in the form of a ranking. The autumn in Minamiaizu is a charming place where the beauty of nature and history are fused together. We hope you will visit these spots and enjoy the atmosphere of autumn.

【5th place】Hike through the golden marshland / Komado Marsh

A representative spot of the autumn in Minamiaizu, Komado Marsh is a place of spectacular scenery with its golden-colored grasslands and beautiful marshland. Especially from mid- to late-October, the surrounding trees change color and the entire marshland is transformed into a landscape that looks like a painting. Here, you can observe seasonal plants and wildlife while taking a leisurely stroll through nature.

Komado Marsh has well-maintained hiking trails that even beginners can enjoy, and it is also recommended for families and couples. As you walk through the marsh, you will hear the pleasant chirping of various wild birds, accompanied by a pleasant breeze. There is also an observation deck in the center of the marsh, and the view from there is particularly wonderful, allowing you to enjoy the contrast between the surrounding mountains and the marsh.

Furthermore, Komado Marsh is an important place from the perspective of protecting the natural environment, and visitors are asked to observe the etiquette for protecting its beauty. Komadome Marsh is a hidden tourist spot in Minamiaizu that you should definitely visit if you want to spend some time in harmony with nature while feeling the arrival of autumn.

【4th place】The spectacular beauty of the rocks and the autumn leaves / To-no-Hetsuri

To-no-Hetsuri, a spot that represents the autumn of Minamiaizu, is a place where you can enjoy the spectacular scenery created by nature. In particular, during the autumn foliage season, the surrounding mountains are dyed in a variety of colors, and this attracts visitors. To-no-Hetsuri is located in a beautiful valley lined with strange-looking rocks, and as the name suggests, the rocks that tower up like towers are a distinctive feature.

The contrast between the autumn leaves and the rocks creates a scene that is almost like a painting. In particular, the autumn leaves reflected on the surface of the valley water are a sight that moves visitors, and it is also a great spot for photographers. There are also well-maintained walking paths, so you can enjoy the nature at your leisure.

There are also shops and rest areas selling local specialties around To-no-Hetsuri, so you can enjoy the local flavors after enjoying the autumn leaves. We hope you will visit this spot to fully experience the beauty of nature and the charm of Minamiaizu in the clear autumn air.

【3rd place】The beauty of the gorge dyed in autumn colors / Yukiwari Gorge

<Source>Yukiwari Gorge|PIXSPOT

If you want to enjoy the charms of autumn in Minamiaizu to the full, you can’t miss Yukiwari Gorge. This is a spot where you can enjoy beautiful scenery in each of the four seasons, but the beauty of the area is particularly striking in autumn. The mountains surrounding the gorge are dyed red by the autumn leaves, and the scenery created by the interplay of red and yellow colors is like a painting.

Yukiwari Gorge has well-maintained hiking trails, so you can enjoy the beauty of the area as you walk through nature. In particular, the walking trail along the gorge is like walking through a tunnel of autumn leaves, and it is sure to soothe your heart. Many visitors can be seen taking photos of the autumn scenery with their cameras.

There are also small waterfalls and clear streams dotted around the valley, and the sound of the flowing water provides a pleasant background music. It is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet moment in nature. You can spend a relaxing time while feeling the arrival of autumn at Yukiwari Gorge. By all means, please experience the seasonal sights of autumn in Minamiaizu.

【2nd place】Quiet forest where the autumn leaves are reflected in the water / Kannonnuma Forest Park

Kannonuma Forest Park is a spot where you can enjoy the charms of autumn in Minamiaizu to the full. In particular, during the season of autumn leaves, the trees around the park turn bright red and yellow, creating a beautiful landscape that looks like a painting. There are well-maintained walking paths in the park, so you can enjoy the beauty of nature while taking a stroll.

In addition, the autumn leaves reflected on the surface of Kannonuma Lake never fail to captivate visitors. The colorful leaves reflected on the calm lake surface are like works of art created by nature. Many people visit with their cameras, so it is a great place for taking photos.

In addition, Kannonomori Park is also a great place for nature observation and bird watching. As autumn arrives, many wild birds make an appearance, so nature lovers will never run out of things to enjoy. Spending time in the quiet forest, calming your mind, will make you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

In this way, Kannondenuma Forest Park is a hidden gem where you can not only enjoy the changing leaves, but also refresh your body and mind through contact with nature. If you are visiting Minamiaizu in autumn, be sure to drop by.

【Minamiaizu, Fukushima】Kannonuma Forest Park Kannonuma Forest Park is a beautiful spot where you can fully enjoy...

【1st place】Autumn walk with thatched-roof houses / Ouchi-juku

Ouchi-juku is known as a particularly atmospheric village in Minamiaizu. The sight of the thatched-roof houses, which retain the appearance of an Edo-era post town, gives you the feeling that you have slipped back in time. In autumn, in particular, the surrounding mountains turn red and yellow, and the beautiful autumn leaves combine with the thatched roofs to create a picturesque landscape.

One of the pleasures of walking along the paths is visiting the shops selling local specialties and handmade crafts. In particular, the specialty “negi soba” (noodles with leeks) is a real treat that you can only enjoy here. The style of eating it using long, thin leeks as chopsticks is also very popular with tourists.

Ouchi-juku is not just a tourist spot, but a place where history and culture come to life. You can spend a relaxing time in the clear autumn air, and feel the beauty of nature and the warmth of the people. When you visit Minamiaizu, be sure to experience a special moment in Ouchi-juku in autumn.

【Minamiaizu, Fukushima】Ouchi-juku Ouchi-juku is a charming historic village in Fukushima Prefecture, ...

Top 5 Hidden Spots Recommended for Winter

The winter in Minamiaizu is a time of beautiful snow-covered scenery and hot springs. There are special experiences to be enjoyed in this cold season. Here, we will introduce some of the best spots to visit in winter, in the form of a ranking. Please be sure to visit these spots, which represent Minamiaizu in winter.

【5th place】Enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath while looking out at the snow / Yunokami Onsen

If you want to enjoy the charms of Minamiaizu in winter to the full, you can’t miss Yunokami Onsen. The luxury of soaking in a hot spring while gazing at the quiet mountains covered in snow will refresh your body and soul. Yunokami Onsen is famous for its hot spring water that flows directly from the source, and the water is gentle on the skin. In particular, snow-viewing baths are a pleasure that can only be enjoyed at this time of year, and bathing while gazing at the world of silver and white is a moment of pure bliss.

In addition, there are many inns in the Yunokami Onsen area that serve dishes made with local ingredients, so you can enjoy a delicious meal after your hot spring bath. In particular, the dishes made with fresh local vegetables and fish have a warmth that makes you forget the cold of winter. Furthermore, we also recommend enjoying the quaint buildings and atmospheric scenery while strolling through the hot spring resort town.

Yunokami Onsen is a hidden gem where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and heal your heart in nature. If you visit Minamiaizu in winter, be sure to stop by. The collaboration of the snowy landscape and hot spring will make your trip something special.

【4th place】Healing hot spring surrounded by forest / Aruza Oze no Sato

<Source>Alza Oze no Sato|Oze Hinoemata Onsen Tourist Association

Aruza Oze no Sato is a hidden gem that you should visit in the winter in Minamiaizu. This hot spring facility surrounded by rich nature is a place where you can refresh both your body and mind. In particular, in the winter season, the surrounding snowy landscape becomes even more beautiful, and a landscape like a painting spreads out.

The main attraction of the Aruza Oze no Sato is its hot spring. The hot spring water, which is directly piped from the source, is gentle on the skin and soothes the body after a long day. From the open-air bath, you can enjoy the luxury of soaking in the comfortable hot water while watching the snow dance in the clear winter air. There is also a relaxation space inside the building, so you can spend a relaxing time after your hot spring bath.

In addition, at Aruza Oze no Sato, you can also enjoy dishes made with local ingredients. In particular, the dishes made with wild vegetables and mushrooms, which are a winter delicacy, are very popular with visitors. After warming up in the hot spring, you can fully enjoy the winter of Minamiaizu by tasting a heart-warming meal.

In this way, the Aruza Oze no Sato is a recommended spot in Minamiaizu in winter where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and the healing power of hot springs at the same time. If you want to refresh your body and mind by getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is a place you should definitely visit.

【3rd place】Enjoy the powder snow! / Takatsue Ski Resort

If you want to enjoy the charms of winter in Minamiaizu to the full, you can’t miss Takatsue Ski Resort. This ski resort boasts abundant snowfall and high-quality powder snow, and has a variety of courses that can be enjoyed by everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. In particular, the fluffy snow quality provides a truly dream-like experience for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

The ski resort also offers a wide range of snow activities for families and friends to enjoy together, such as snowshoeing and sledging, so you can make the most of playing in the snow. After enjoying your skiing, you can also warm up your body and soul by enjoying the local flavors on offer at the restaurants serving hot meals.

In addition, Takatsue Ski Resort is blessed with a beautiful natural environment, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the surrounding mountains and trees while skiing. On a clear day in particular, you can see the distant mountains in full view, and you will feel as if your heart is being washed clean.

When you visit Minamiaizu in winter, be sure to enjoy the powder snow at Takatsue Ski Resort and make memories that will last a lifetime.

【2nd place】Enjoy the specialty negi soba noodles/Misawaya

If you want to fully experience the charm of Minamiaizu in winter, you should definitely visit Misawaya. This is a restaurant where you can enjoy their specialty negi soba, which uses a whole leek. On a cold winter’s day, you can spend a moment warming your body and soul while slurping up a bowl of hot soba.

Misawaya’s soba noodles are made in-house using carefully selected buckwheat flour and a lot of time and effort. The negi soba in particular is topped with bonito flakes that are packed with flavor, and the dish is characterized by its savory aroma. The soup is made with a simple broth that goes perfectly with the soba.

Another of Misawaya’s charms is its location. It is located near Ouchi-juku, so you can enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful snowy scenery around you. After your meal, we recommend taking a stroll around the nearby tourist spots. Why not spend a heart-warming moment while experiencing the nature and culture of Minamiaizu?

【Minamiaizu, Fukushima】Misawaya This popular eatery is famous for serving takato soba, a specialty ...

【1st place】A hot spring inn with a beautiful valley and famous hot spring / Ashinomaki Onsen

Surrounded by a beautiful valley, this hot spring resort is a place where you can refresh your body and mind while feeling the blessings of nature. In particular, in the winter season, you can enjoy the beautiful contrast between the snow-covered mountains and the valley, and the scenery is like a painting.

The charm of Ashinomaki Onsen is, above all, the quality of its hot spring. The hot spring water, which is directly piped from the source, is gentle on the skin and soothes the body. The view from the open-air bath is particularly special, and bathing while looking out over the snowy landscape is a truly blissful experience. There is also a good range of accommodation, and you can spend your time relaxing in rooms with a Japanese feel.

In addition, there are many inns in the area around Ashinomaki Onsen that serve delicious food made with local ingredients, so you can enjoy specialties such as negi soba (green onion soba noodles) and fresh mountain produce. The warm hospitality and comfortable hot spring baths will surely refresh your body and soul, making you forget about the cold of winter. To fully enjoy the winter in Minamiaizu, be sure to visit Ashinomaki Onsen.

Ranking of the best tourist spots in Minamiaizu by season

Minamiaizu is a tourist destination that is loved by many people for its seasonal charm. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, and there are many spots where the fresh green of the new leaves delights the eye. In summer, there are plenty of places where you can enjoy the coolness of the valleys and rivers. In autumn, the mountains are colored by the changing leaves, and in winter, the snowscapes and hot springs soothe visitors.

The recommended spots for each of the seasons we have introduced so far are all packed with the unique charm of Minamiaizu. The cherry blossoms and fresh greenery of spring, the coolness of summer, the colorful autumn leaves, and the hot springs and snowy landscapes of winter. You can enjoy each season in a different way, so there are always new discoveries to be made no matter how many times you visit.

In particular, for families and couples, activities in nature and tours of historical sites will be wonderful experiences that you will remember. The hidden gems of Minamiaizu are perfect for those looking to refresh themselves, as there are few tourists and you can spend your time in a relaxed way.

Why not choose Minamiaizu as your next travel destination? Please spend a heart-warming time in this place where you can enjoy the charms of each season to the fullest.

If you want to know about hidden gems not only in Minamiaizu but also in other areas of Fukushima Prefecture, please also see this article.