Aizu-Wakamatsu, a castle town steeped in history. Beyond visiting famous sights, the unique pleasure of this region lies in deeply savoring the town’s charm through interactions with locals and experiencing traditional culture. This article introduces a two-day, one-night sightseeing plan accessible by foot or public transportation. Day one lets you enjoy the history and retro streetscape of the castle town, while day two offers a relaxing journey connecting you with nature and craft culture.
- Day 1｜Retro Stroll Through Aizu’s History and Traditions
- 9:30｜Arrive at JR Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, pick up a map and discounted sightseeing bus pass at the tourist information center
- 10:00｜Tsurugajo (Wakamatsu Castle)
- 11:00｜Retro break at Aizu Ichibankan (former pharmacy)
- 12:00｜Lunch and stroll along Nanokamachi Street
- 2:30 PM｜Amida Temple (Gravesite of the Matsudaira Family, Lords of the Aizu Domain)
- 4:00 PM｜Take the Downtown Loop Bus to Higashiyama Onsen
- 4:30 PM｜Enjoy the townscape and foot baths of Higashiyama Onsen
- 2Day 2｜A Healing Journey: Connecting with Nature and Craftsmanship
- 9:00｜Akabeko Painting Experience (Inside Higashiyama Onsen or Downtown)
- 10:30｜Visit the Byakkotai historical site at Mt. Iimori
- 12:30｜Lunch near the station. Aizu specialty: “Sauce Katsu Don”
- 2:00 PM｜Tour & Shopping at Suzuzen – Aizunuri Denshokan
- 3:00 PM｜Souvenirs & Trip Reflection at Aizu-Wakamatsu Station
- Wrapping up your journey with warm encounters and a true sense of local life
Day 1｜Retro Stroll Through Aizu’s History and Traditions
Your journey through Aizu-Wakamatsu begins by strolling through streets where history and tradition come alive. First, arrive at JR Aizu-Wakamatsu Station and pick up a map and a discounted sightseeing bus pass at the tourist information center. Next, visit Tsurugajo Castle (Wakamatsu Castle) and stroll through its grounds, taking in its beautiful appearance and rich history. Then, relax at Aizu Ichibankan, enjoying its retro atmosphere and interacting with locals. For lunch, stroll along Nanokamachi Street, savoring local flavors while exploring the area. In the afternoon, visit Amida-ji Temple to see the graves of the Matsudaira family, lords of the Aizu domain, and experience a moment steeped in history. Finally, take the “Town Loop Bus” to Higashiyama Onsen to enjoy the charm of the hot spring town, rounding off a fulfilling day.
9:30｜Arrive at JR Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, pick up a map and discounted sightseeing bus pass at the tourist information center
Your journey in Aizu-Wakamatsu begins upon arrival at JR Aizu-Wakamatsu Station. Upon stepping off the train, the first thing you’ll notice is the station building, exuding a historic atmosphere. At the tourist information center, you can pick up a map packed with local sightseeing information. Also, purchasing the Aizu Bus “Downtown Loop Bus One-Day Free Pass” allows you to easily tour the sights for just 600 yen for adults and junior high students, and 300 yen for children. We highly recommend using it.
The sightseeing bus connects major attractions, helping you make the most of your time. It’s a good idea to check the bus schedule and route while listing the places you want to visit. The staff at the tourist information center are helpful and can tell you about local recommendations and hidden gems, so feel free to ask them questions.
Once you’re all set, it’s time to embark on your journey to experience the history and culture of Aizu-Wakamatsu. Before heading to your next destination, take a moment to soak in the atmosphere around the station. Shops selling local specialties and souvenirs are scattered about, so stroll around and feel your journey begin.
Get your hands on a great value sightseeing pass and start exploring the city efficiently!
10:00｜Tsurugajo (Wakamatsu Castle)
Tsuruga Castle, the proud symbol of Aizu-Wakamatsu, is a historic landmark that combines cultural value with breathtaking scenery. Its striking white walls and red-tiled roof make it especially captivating in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Inside the castle, exhibitions introduce the history and culture of the Aizu domain, offering insights into daily life and warfare in past centuries. One of the most moving displays tells the story of the Byakkotai, a group of young samurai who fought during the Boshin War in the 19th century and tragically took their own lives—an episode that continues to touch the hearts of visitors from around the world.
From the castle tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Aizu-Wakamatsu City, taking in the changing scenery throughout the seasons. The autumn foliage and winter snow landscapes are especially worth seeing. When visiting Tsurugajo Castle, be sure to explore the surrounding gardens and stone walls as well.
This renowned castle preserves the history from the Warring States period to the end of the Edo period!
11:00｜Retro break at Aizu Ichibankan (former pharmacy)
As you continue your stroll through the historic streets of Aizu-Wakamatsu, your next stop is Aizu Ichiban-kan. This retro-style café was once a hospital where Dr. Hideyo Noguchi—a world-renowned bacteriologist—lived and worked as a student assistant after receiving surgery here in the Meiji era. Stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by wooden shelves and old medical instruments that still remain, creating an atmosphere that feels like a step back in time.
Here, you can enjoy sweets and drinks made with local ingredients. We recommend the cake set featuring homemade cake, matcha ice cream, and a beverage—a luxurious treat for under ¥1,000. The subtly sweet flavors offer a comforting, heartwarming taste. The shop also displays tourist information, making it the perfect spot to plan your next destination.
(Note: Dr. Hideyo Noguchi, born in Aizu, became famous worldwide for his research on yellow fever and other infectious diseases.)
Relax and unwind during your sightseeing break in our shop, which retains the charm of a traditional pharmacy, while enjoying local sweets and drinks!
12:00｜Lunch and stroll along Nanokamachi Street
Nanokamachi Street, located in the heart of Aizu-Wakamatsu, is a charming spot with a retro atmosphere and historic charm. Here, restaurants serving delicious dishes made with local ingredients line the street. Particularly recommended are Aizu specialties like “sauce katsu don” and “grilled Aizu local chicken skewers.” After filling your stomach, stroll along the street and visit old merchant houses and shops selling traditional crafts.
Nanokamachi Street preserves many charming storehouses, offering numerous photogenic spots. Enjoying interactions with locals while searching for handmade crafts and souvenirs will create lasting memories. Cafes and sweets shops along the way also provide perfect spots to rest and savor local confections.
This area is beloved not only by tourists but also by locals, radiating a lively atmosphere.
This area boasts many traditional craft shops and souvenir stores!
2:30 PM｜Amida Temple (Gravesite of the Matsudaira Family, Lords of the Aizu Domain)
One of the best places to experience the deep history of Aizu-Wakamatsu is Amidaji Temple. This tranquil temple is known as the burial site of the Matsudaira family, the feudal lords who once governed the Aizu domain during the Edo period (17th–19th centuries). The grounds are filled with a serene atmosphere, with historic stone monuments and elegant wooden architecture that speak to centuries past. The main hall, in particular, captivates visitors with its graceful design.
As you stroll through the temple grounds, you can learn about the Matsudaira lords and their legacy through informative signs placed near the graves. Generations of Aizu leaders are laid to rest here, making it an especially meaningful stop for those interested in Japan’s samurai heritage and regional history.
Enjoy strolling and visiting the shrine in a solemn atmosphere!
4:00 PM｜Take the Downtown Loop Bus to Higashiyama Onsen
After enjoying the historic streets of Aizu-Wakamatsu, we finally head toward Higashiyama Onsen. Boarding the “Town Loop Bus” around 4 PM, the pleasant breeze during the ride is one of the joys of travel. This bus efficiently tours sightseeing spots, making it extremely convenient for tourists. From the bus windows, you can admire Aizu’s beautiful nature and traditional buildings.
After about a 30-minute ride, you’ll arrive at Higashiyama Onsen. The hot spring town features historic inns and charming shops lining the streets, creating an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. Before soaking in the hot springs, take a stroll through the town first. Footbaths and souvenir shops are scattered about, offering a chance to enjoy a quick break during your sightseeing.
This travel time offers a precious opportunity to experience the nature and culture of Aizu. Look forward to relaxing at your next destination, Higashiyama Onsen, while savoring the lingering charm of your journey.
You can also fully view the cityscape of Aizu-Wakamatsu while traveling!
4:30 PM｜Enjoy the townscape and foot baths of Higashiyama Onsen
At 4:30 PM, the downtown sightseeing bus took us to the historic Higashiyama Onsen. Known as a hot spring resort in Aizu-Wakamatsu, it features charming streetscapes. Strolling through the hot spring town and visiting old inns and souvenir shops is one of the pleasures here.
One must-visit spot during your stroll is the foot bath. Located in the heart of the hot spring town, this foot bath is a beloved spot not only for tourists but also for locals. Soaking your feet here allows you to soothe the fatigue of travel while enjoying the surrounding scenery. The moment spent feeling the pleasant breeze while immersed in the warm water is truly blissful.
Near the foot baths, you’ll also find shops selling local specialties and cafes dotted around, where you can enjoy light meals or souvenirs after your hot spring soak.
Relax in warm baths between sightseeing!
2Day 2｜A Healing Journey: Connecting with Nature and Craftsmanship
On the second day, enjoy a journey to soothe your soul through experiences connecting with Aizu-Wakamatsu’s nature and traditional crafts. Begin by immersing yourself in local culture with an akabeko – a red wooden cow – painting workshop either at Higashiyama Onsen or in the town center. Next, head to Mt. Iimori to visit the historical site of the Byakkotai and spend a moment feeling the weight of history. For lunch, savor Aizu’s famous sauce katsu don, enjoying the local flavor. In the afternoon, enjoy sightseeing and shopping at the Aizu Lacquerware Traditional Crafts Museum. Finally, reflect on your journey while selecting souvenirs at Aizu-Wakamatsu Station.
9:00｜Akabeko Painting Experience (Inside Higashiyama Onsen or Downtown)
The second day of our trip to Aizu-Wakamatsu begins with a red cow painting experience. Akabeko is the red cow which is a traditional folk craft of the Aizu region, a charming ornament shaped like a red cow. Believed to bring blessings for good health and fertility, it is cherished by many people.
The experience takes place at a workshop in the heart of Higashiyama Onsen, appealing to beginners with its easy accessibility. Participants freely paint their favorite colors and patterns onto a provided white red cow figurine. Local artisans offer direct guidance during the painting process, allowing you to enjoy the activity while learning techniques.
The completed Akabeko not only makes a wonderful souvenir to take home as a memento of your trip, but also serves as the perfect gift for family and friends. Creating your very own original Akabeko allows you to experience Aizu’s culture while enjoying a heartwarming activity
This popular activity lets you create your very own original red cow while experiencing the history and culture of Aizu!
10:30｜Visit the Byakkotai historical site at Mt. Iimori
No story of Aizu-Wakamatsu’s history is complete without the Byakkotai, or “White Tiger Corps.” At 10:30, head to Mt.Iimori, a hillside forever linked with their tragic tale during the Boshin War of 1868.
The Byakkotai were a unit of teenage samurai, many just 16 or 17 years old, who fought bravely to defend Aizu. During the war, a group retreated to Mt.Iimori, where they mistakenly believed their castle had fallen. Faced with what they thought was certain defeat, they chose to take their own lives—a heartbreaking act that has become a lasting symbol of loyalty and sacrifice.
At the summit, the graves of the Byakkotai invite visitors to honor their courage. From here, sweeping views of Aizu-Wakamatsu and the surrounding landscape open before you. Nearby museums and monuments also provide deeper insight into their story, making this visit far more than just sightseeing—it is a moving encounter with Japan’s samurai past.
Explore the Byakkotai sites and discover Aizu’s moving history!
12:30｜Lunch near the station. Aizu specialty: “Sauce Katsu Don”
After enjoying sightseeing in Aizu-Wakamatsu, it’s the perfect chance to savor the local specialty cuisine. At 12:30 PM, indulge in Aizu’s famous “Sauce Katsudon” at a restaurant near the station. This dish features tender pork cutlet generously covered in a special sauce, served atop rice. The crispy coating and juicy meat’s savory flavor blend exquisitely, making it incredibly appetizing.
The station area is dotted with long-established eateries beloved by locals and casual restaurants catering to tourists. Each establishment has its own unique approach, and they are particularly proud of their sauce katsu don. Browse the atmosphere and menus to choose a place that catches your interest.
When enjoying lunch, engaging in conversation with locals is also recommended. The people of Aizu are warm and kind to visitors.
Sauce Katsudon is the perfect energy boost between sightseeing stops!
2:00 PM｜Tour & Shopping at Suzuzen – Aizunuri Denshokan
For an afternoon in Aizu-Wakamatsu, we recommend visiting Suzuzen – Aizunuri Denshokan: the Aizu Lacquerware Heritage Museum and browsing for souvenirs. Here, you can experience up close the beauty of Aizu lacquerware, preserved through its long history and advanced techniques. Explore themed storehouses—such as the Heritage Storehouse, Lacquerware Storehouse, and Experience Storehouse—to learn about the history of Aizu lacquerware and the artisans’ techniques. Each piece, from vessels to small accessories, features lustrous black and vermilion lacquer, delicate maki-e designs, and carved patterns, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of the artisans.
For souvenirs, practical items like chopsticks, small plates, and confectionery boxes—perfect for everyday use—are popular. Lightweight yet durable lacquerware is easy to incorporate into daily life and makes an ideal gift. Additionally, a wide selection of accessories and stationery blending modern design with traditional lacquer techniques is available, appealing to younger generations.
After your meal has satisfied your appetite, why not take your time browsing the beautiful crafts to find a treat for yourself or a gift for someone special?
It’s also a popular spot for souvenirs!
3:00 PM｜Souvenirs & Trip Reflection at Aizu-Wakamatsu Station
It ia about time finally drawing to a close Aizu-Wakamatsu is. The last stop is around Aizu-Wakamatsu Station. Here, you can purchase local specialties and souvenirs. Perfect items to take home as mementos of your journey include Aizu’s famous “Aizu lacquerware,” ‘Akabeko’ cows, and even retort pouches of “sauce katsu don.”
While selecting souvenirs, it’s also important to take time to reflect on your travel memories. You must have had many moments that linger in your heart— the beautiful scenery of Tsurugajo Castle, the quiet moments at Amida-ji Temple, and the foot bath experience at Higashiyama Onsen.
Near the station, there is also a tourist information center where you can gather information for your next visit.
This spot is perfect for recalling about your trip while shopping for lacquerware, Kitakata ramen, traditional sweets from Aizu, and more!
Wrapping up your journey with warm encounters and a true sense of local life
Your 2-day journey in Aizu-Wakamatsu is coming to a close. Through its history, natural beauty, and encounters with local people, you’ve surely gained heartwarming experiences. For the final stop, immerse yourself in local life and culture—reminders that the true charm of Aizu lies not only in its landmarks but also in the warmth and traditions of its people.
Before heading home, we recommend browsing for souvenirs around the station. Picking up local specialties or traditional crafts is a wonderful way to keep your memories alive and reflect on the moments of your trip.
An Aizu-Wakamatsu journey is more than sightseeing—it’s a chance to connect with the spirit of the region and its people. As you carry your memories home, look forward to the new discoveries that await on your next visit.
