Discover a different side of Aizu-Wakamatsu at night.
From illuminated historical landmarks and serene natural beauty to night tours, unique activities, and local gourmet delights — here are the best spots to fully experience the city’s enchanting nightlife.
Historical sites to visit at night
At night, Aizu-Wakamatsu reveals a completely different charm as its historical landmarks are beautifully illuminated. From Mt. Iimori, a site linked to the Byakkotai, visitors can experience a serene and mystical atmosphere under the night sky. At Tsuruga Castle, the stunning light-up showcases its majestic presence, evoking the spirit of history. From Mt. Seaburi, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Aizu Basin, where the city lights blend harmoniously with the stars above. Meanwhile, evening visits to Isasumi Shrine offer a sacred and tranquil experience, allowing you to feel the spiritual depth of Aizu at night.
Mt. Seburi｜A Night View Spot Overlooking the Aizu Basin
Mt. Seburi is an easily accessible destination in Aizu-Wakamatsu, offering one of the city’s best night views. Its high elevation allows visitors to take in the entire Aizu Basin, and on clear nights, you can also enjoy distant mountains and a starry sky—a perfect contrast of nature and city lights.
A hiking course to the summit is well maintained, and starting your climb before sunset is recommended. By the time you reach the top, the sky is often painted with vibrant colors, creating a magical atmosphere. Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll while taking in the breathtaking nightscape of Aizu.
Also great for a nighttime walk!
Mt. Iimori｜A Byakkotai Site Wrapped in Nighttime Tranquility
Mt. Iimori is a place where the history of Aizu-Wakamatsu comes alive. At night, the mountain is enveloped in serene quiet, evoking the tragic story of the Byakkotai. The site features the graves of the 19 Byakkotai members and the Sazae-do Hall, preserving the memory of their bravery and sacrifice.
From the summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Aizu Basin at night, where city lights blend beautifully with the starry sky, creating a magical, contemplative atmosphere. Evening visits offer a particularly mystical experience, making it feel as if time itself has slowed down.
Mt. Iimori is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, making it easy to visit. Take the opportunity to soak in the quiet night while reflecting on the courage and sorrow of the Byakkotai.
Also a perfect spot for a scenic night drive!
Tsuruga Castle｜A Castle Beautifully Illuminated at Night
Tsuruga Castle, the iconic symbol of Aizu-Wakamatsu, truly shines at night. The entire castle is illuminated, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. During cherry blossom season in spring or the autumn foliage, the surrounding nature enhances the scenery, offering a breathtaking view.
Strolling around the castle at night allows visitors to feel the weight of history in a serene setting. Night tours of Tsuruga Castle are also available, providing a unique perspective compared to the daytime bustle. Visiting at night lets you enjoy both history and beauty, creating a luxurious and memorable experience.
Night tours of Tsuruga Castle are also held!
Isasumi Shrine｜Experience a Mystical Atmosphere at Night
One of the must-visit spots in Aizu-Wakamatsu at night is Isasumi Shrine. Visiting after dark offers a serene and mystical experience, quite different from daytime. As you step into the shrine grounds, moonlit trees and the gentle sound of flowing water create a calming and peaceful ambiance.
The shrine also hosts seasonal illuminations, such as the Seven-Color Light-Up and cherry blossom illuminations. In addition, live performances, including jazz, are sometimes held, making it an ideal spot for an evening stroll. Be sure to stop by when enjoying the enchanting nights of Aizu.
The sound of wind chimes adds a refreshing touch to the atmosphere.
Nighttime Nature and Experiential Activities
Nights in Aizu-Wakamatsu offer a special blend of natural beauty and unique experiences. One highlight is the Ouchi-juku Night Tour, where the thatched-roof post town is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for a peaceful evening stroll while feeling the weight of history.
In early summer, the Firefly Viewing Tour provides another enchanting experience, as the soft glow of fireflies lights up the night in a natural setting. These activities make Aizu’s nights truly memorable, offering visitors a magical way to connect with both history and nature.
Ouchi-juku Night Tour｜Magical Night Views of the Thatched-Roof Post Town
Ouchi-juku preserves the charm of an Edo-period post town, and its allure becomes even more striking at night. During the Ouchi-juku Night Tour, the traditional thatched-roof houses are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. Walking through the quiet streets offers a rare opportunity to feel the town’s history firsthand.
Local guides on the tour share stories about the town’s history and culture, providing a deeper understanding of Ouchi-juku. Combined with the starry night sky above, the experience becomes an unforgettable memory. The nighttime scenery of Ouchi-juku offers a peaceful and beautiful contrast to its daytime appearance.
The Ouchi-juku Night Tour is offered at “Magokoro-no-Yado Hoshinoi”
Firefly Viewing Tour｜A Special Nighttime Nature Experience
The Firefly Viewing Tour in early summer offers a magical opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Aizu-Wakamatsu and witness the mysterious glow of fireflies. Along Aizu’s clear streams, visitors can observe these enchanting insects up close. Local guides lead the tour to locations such as Hotaru-no-Sato in Minamiaizu Tateiwa, explaining the fireflies’ habitats and life cycles, making it both an educational and immersive experience.
As you listen to the gentle flow of rivers under the starry night sky, the surrounding nature creates a serene and unforgettable atmosphere. Watching fireflies dance in the night enhances the charm of Aizu after dark, offering a truly special and rare experience.
This is a rare experience that can hardly be found elsewhere in Japan!
Nighttime Gourmet and Café Hopping
Evenings in Aizu-Wakamatsu offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy delicious local cuisine and charming cafés. Experience the “Ultimate Bar Hopping”, savoring local sake crafted by regional breweries while sampling traditional dishes—a luxurious way to stroll through the city at night.
For dessert lovers, Kontsh serves popular night parfaits, ideal for ending a meal on a sweet note. Meanwhile, cafe858 provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying a sophisticated nighttime café experience. Explore Aizu’s gourmet and café scene to make your nights in the city truly memorable.
“Ultimate Bar Hopping”｜Enjoy Local Sake and Regional Cuisine on a Nighttime Stroll
To fully experience Aizu-Wakamatsu at night, bar hopping while savoring local sake and regional dishes is a must. Visitors can taste sake from local breweries while enjoying the unique cuisine of each izakaya. The lively streets of Nanukamachi and Sakaemachi, surrounded by historic landmarks, are particularly recommended for this experience. Aizu-Wakamatsu also offers organized “Ultimate Bar Hopping Tours”, making it easy to enjoy local drinks and dishes at reasonable prices.
Walking through the streets and visiting local izakayas provides a chance to connect with the city’s culture and people. The nighttime atmosphere differs from the daytime, offering new discoveries through friendly conversations with locals. Enjoy Aizu’s streets and experience the city’s ultimate bar hopping adventure.
Sipping sake while strolling through Aizu’s charming streets is an unforgettable experience!
Kontsh Dining｜Night Parfaits Perfect for a Sweet Ending
A perfect way to end your night in Aizu-Wakamatsu is at Kontsh Dining, famous for its visually stunning night parfaits. Made with fresh fruits from Fukushima Prefecture, homemade ice cream, and generous cream, these parfaits are both delicious and Instagram-worthy. Enjoying a sweet treat in the quiet of the evening offers a uniquely special experience.
Kontsh also offers a variety of light meals and drinks using local ingredients, making it a great spot to relax with friends or family while enjoying dessert. As a must-visit nighttime sweets destination, Kontsh adds a delightful finishing touch to your evening in Aizu.
Cooking classes are also held here!
Beer Café Third Place｜Relaxing Adult Time at a Night Café
To enjoy the nights of Aizu-Wakamatsu, a calm café experience is a must. Beer Café Third Place offers the perfect setting to unwind in the evening. With chic, cozy interiors and soothing background music, visitors can relax and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
The café serves a wide selection of drinks and snacks made with local ingredients, including special nighttime-only menu items. Whether chatting with friends or enjoying a quiet solo moment, guests can savor the evening while taking in the ambiance of Aizu at night. Beer Café Third Place is a highly recommended spot for a memorable nighttime experience.
They also offer drinks unique to Aizu!
Nighttime Relaxation with Hot Springs and Accommodation
To fully enjoy Aizu-Wakamatsu at night, choosing the right hot springs and accommodations is essential. Onyado Tōhō at Aizu Higashiyama Onsen is perched on a hill, offering a luxurious experience where guests can soak in the hot spring while admiring the night view and starry sky—a perfect way to refresh both body and mind.
Mukaitaki, another historic inn at Aizu Higashiyama Onsen, charms visitors with traditional architecture and provides a serene environment for a quiet night. For a unique nighttime experience, Bandai-san Onsen Hotel Akabeko offers a night pool with a magical atmosphere, making your evening truly special. These accommodations allow visitors to enjoy Aizu’s nights to the fullest, combining relaxation, scenery, and memorable experiences.
Aizu Higashiyama Onsen “Onyado Toho”｜A Hillside Inn with Night Views and Relaxing Hot Springs
To make your night in Aizu-Wakamatsu truly special, Onyado Tōhō at Aizu Higashiyama Onsen is a must-visit. Perched on a hill, the inn offers panoramic night views and a magical scenery under the starry sky. Soaking in the hot spring while gazing at the illuminated city below provides a luxurious experience that refreshes both body and mind.
The inn also features a restaurant serving dishes made with local ingredients, enhancing your evening with delicious cuisine. Combining hot springs, gourmet food, and breathtaking night views, Onyado Tōhō offers a perfect setting for an unforgettable night.
Breakfast and dinner are served buffet-style!
Mukaitaki｜Historic Ryokan with Traditional Architecture
Located in Higashiyama Onsen, Aizu-Wakamatsu, Mukaitaki is a long-established inn renowned for its beautiful traditional wooden architecture. Its timeless exterior creates a nostalgic atmosphere, welcoming guests into a warm and serene setting. At night, the surroundings are quiet, and the starry sky enhances the peaceful experience.
The inn features luxurious onsen baths with flowing natural hot spring water, offering a relaxing retreat for body and mind. The outdoor baths at night allow guests to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty while soaking in the warm water, creating a truly special experience. Guests can also savor delicious dinners prepared with local ingredients, experiencing the authentic flavors of Aizu.
Located just near Aizu Bukeyashiki!
Bandaisan Onsen Hotel Akabeko Night Pool｜A Magical Resort Experience
At Bandaisan Onsen Hotel Akabeko, the night pool offers a truly special experience. Bathed in enchanting lights, the poolside creates a dreamlike atmosphere. Guests can relax in the warm waters while gazing at the starry night sky, enjoying a luxurious escape from the everyday hustle.
The night pool also hosts special events and activities, allowing friends and families to share memorable moments together. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Bandai’s forests, visitors can fully immerse themselves in a relaxing and magical night. This unique combination of hot springs, illuminated scenery, and engaging activities makes it a standout spot for enjoying Aizu-Wakamatsu after dark.
Events such as the “Night Cart Tour” through the Bandai forests are also available!
Nighttime Attractions in Aizu-Wakamatsu
Aizu-Wakamatsu at night offers a charm distinct from its daytime appeal. Historic landmarks and natural beauty take on a new allure under the calm of night. Here is a summary of must-visit spots to fully enjoy the city after dark.
Mt. Seburi offers panoramic views of the Aizu Basin, where city lights sparkle beneath a starry sky—a breathtaking experience for any visitor. Mt. Iimori, associated with the Byakkotai, provides a serene nighttime atmosphere, allowing visitors to reflect on history in peaceful surroundings. The illuminated Tsuruga Castle presents a magical sight, its grandeur enhanced by night lighting and the surrounding natural scenery.
Additionally, Isasumi Shrine offers a mystical experience through evening visits, with quiet paths and subtle lighting creating a unique spiritual ambiance. These nighttime attractions allow visitors to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Aizu-Wakamatsu, making for memorable and enriching experiences.
Visiting these spots after dark provides a perspective on Aizu-Wakamatsu that cannot be experienced during the day.
