A panoramic view of the arch bridge stretches over the Tadami River. On clear winter days, the bridge is reflected in the river, surrounded by deep, glistening snow. Spring's fresh leaves, summer's lush greenery, autumn's red leaves... the view changes each season.
Tsurugajo Castle is the crown jewel of the Aizu region, bringing visitors from all over the world to see its incredible scenery, which changes drastically every season.Despite several reconstructions to the main castle over the years, the surrounding park's stone walls remain in their original state. In 2010, for the first time since it was refurbished in 1965, the castle underwent a cosmetic restoration. Following completion in 2011, the same red-tile roofs seen by the Byakkotai (during the Boshin War and finals days of the Tokugawa shogunate) are now displayed for all to see.This castle is one of the final strongholds of samurai that remained loyal to the shogunate and today stands as a symbol of courage and faithfulness.Within the castle tower's museum, the swords and armor of the castle’s successive lords are on display. Visitors can watch a CG-enhanced theatrical video reflecting on the great history of Aizu.In addition to the historical atmosphere surrounding Tsurugajo, visitors can sense the changes that have occurred throughout history, thanks to the engaging and informative museum within the castle walls. It’s fun to gaze across Aizu from the fifth floor, like a feudal lord admiring his domain—the viewing platform up here provides panoramic views taking in Mt. Bandai and Mt. Iimoriyama.The castle is also a must-see in the springtime when approximately 1,000 cherry trees offer a magnificent display within the castle's grounds.When you’re in the mood for a rest, visit the Rinkaku Tea Rooms for some freshly-prepared matcha green tea. This tea house on the grounds of Tsurugajo was vital in the spread of this traditional art—and had it been destroyed during the Meiji Restoration, tea ceremony as it is known in Japan might have vanished.
The Goshiki-numa ponds of Urabandai are a cluster of five volcanic lakes at the foot of Mt. Bandai. When Mt. Bandai erupted in 1888, Goshiki-numa - which translates as "Five-Colored Ponds - were formed.In actuality dozens of lakes were created due to the 1888 eruption, but the Goshiki-numa Ponds are the most famous. It was thanks to the eruption that the lakes each took on rich color; the various minerals found in each lake give them a unique color and create a mystical aura.The colors of the Goshiki-numa Ponds also change throughout the year depending on weather and time of day, a truly mysterious phenomenon. The lakes have become a popular tourist destination. The five main lakes are Bishamon, Aka, Ao, Benten, and Midoro, and their colors range from a lime green to deep turquoise to a topaz blue. A scenic walking route guides visitors around the ponds. At 3.6 km in length, this walking route - which will take you past many of the ethereal colors - takes about 70 minutes to complete.If you’d like a view of all five lakes at once, why not take the 4 km walking trail from Bishamon-numa (largest of the five lakes) up to nearby Lake Hibara. Alternatively, if hiking is not on your itinerary, enjoy a simple rowboat out on Bishamon-numa. It’s especially lovely in autumn as the color of the autumn leaves reflects on the deep green surface of the lake. In winter, there are even snowshoe trekking tours offered. The color of the lakes looks particularly vivid in winter, seeing as the minerals in some of the lakes stop them from freezing over, meaning you can see their colors contrasted with the white of the snow.Be sure to stop by the Urabandai Visitor Center, which is a large and well-equipped facility. You can find great information here about tours as well as the various geography, wildlife, and even the history of the area. It’s a great chance to learn more about the ecosystem that makes up the Goshiki-numa Ponds.
Aquamarine Fukushima is an ‘environmental aquarium’ that exhibits aquatic creatures in environments which closely mimic their natural habitats.As well as being an aquarium, Aquamarine Fukushima is also home to a research center and offers educational information about sustainability and conservation.The main exhibits are two gigantic tanks that extend from the second to the fourth floor, reproducing Shiome no Umi, an area of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Fukushima Prefecture where the Kuroshio (Black Current) and the Oyashio (Kurile Current) meet.Visitors can enjoy walking through a transparent tunnel whilst being surrounded by the wealth of marine life found in Shiome no Umi, which includes vast schools of sardines and bonito. On the fourth floor, visitors can also visit a calming botanical garden which exhibits the various plant life of Fukushima Prefecture.In addition, guests can see over the top of the main tank, a great spot to appreciate the sheer scale of the water and the curious marine life below. There is also a touch tank where interested visitors can try touching starfish and other small sea critters.Since its establishment, Aquamarine Fukushima has conducted research into an ancient species of fish called coelacanths, and its findings are exhibited on the first floor in a corner entitled the World of Coelacanths. Here visitors can view an anatomical specimen of the rarely seen coelacanth and watch exclusive footage of living coelacanths.There are events throughout the year, with many activities for children and families to enjoy together including a fish maze, art festivals, and a fishing experience where you can catch real fish to be fried for lunch!If catching your own lunch doesn’t appeal to you, you are in luck as there is a seafood market selling fresh seafood just a 10-minute walk away!The seafood market is located within Iwaki Lalamew, a shopping center that also includes restaurants where you can dine on locally sourced, freshly caught fish.
Experience the beauty and history of Aizu this winter with a special one-day sightseeing bus tour. The Aizu region, known for its stunning seasonal landscapes and rich history, offers a unique opportunity to explore its top landmarks in comfort. The Aizu Winter Sightseeing Bus takes you to two of the region's most iconic spots: Tsurugajo Castle, the historic fortress that was once the pride of the Aizu samurai clan, and Ouchi-juku, a traditional village that once played host to samurai travelling between the castle and the southern capital. Along the way, enjoy a traditional lunch of negi-soba (green onion soba) in Ouchi-juku, and benefit from a knowledgeable Japanese-speaking guide. Bookings are made via the Fukushima Travel website. Tour Details: Dates: 14 January 2026 – 22 March 2026 Price: ¥7,230 for adults (¥6,500 + ¥730 processing fee), ¥5,450 for children (¥4,900 + ¥550 processing fee) Includes: Bus ticket, Tsurugajo Castle entrance fee, lunch (negi-soba) at Ouchi-juku, Japanese-speaking guide Departure/Arrival: Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (guests at Ashinomaki Onsen can disembark there) The tour may be canceled in case of bad weather. The winter bus departs from Bay 2 of the bus plaza at Aizu-Wakamatsu Station.
Looking to visit the best of Fukushima Prefecture in only a short time? This itinerary aims to cover some of the prefecture's most popular spots in the space of a two day, one night stay, including lunch options and potential activities. The transport hub of Koriyama, served by both shinkansen (bullet train) services from Tokyo and local trains, is an excellent place to start your trip. The journey from Tokyo Station to Koriyama Station takes as little as 1 hour and 15 minutes on the shinkansen. On this trip, you'll visit, among others: The ethereal thatched-roof village of Ouchi-juku Tsurugajo Castle, samurai fortress of the Aizu clan The double-helix architecture at Sazaedo Temple Goshikinuma Ponds, one of northern Japan's most beautiful natural areas The astonishing colours along the Bandai-Azuma Skyline sightseeing road The Fukushima 'Fruit Line' with dozens of orchards This itinerary can also be combined with a beautiful cherry blossom spot like Hanamiyama or the thousand-year-old cherry tree Miharu Takizakura, if your trip falls in mid-April. These spots are most easily traversed by car, so this article recommends renting a car at Koriyama Station. There are four rent-a-car spots near the station with English support and online bookings available: Toyota Times Car Rental ORIX JR Rent-A-Car However, much of the course can be accessed by public transport. The sights towards the mountainous Inawashiro region (Goshikinuma Ponds, Bandai-Azuma Skyline etc.) can be more difficult without a car.
This tour itinerary, combining bus and train travel on one ticket, allows visitors to explore the best spots along the famous Tadami Line, showcasing breathtaking winter views and rich local heritage. On this tour, you’ll visit the historic Enzoji Temple, home to the famous ‘akabeko’ legend, and visit a museum showcasing local folk art. You’ll also capture stunning photos from the viewpoint above the Tadami River Bridge and learn about the fascinating history of the river area, before taking a ride on the iconic Tadami Line train itself. A traditional meal made from local ingredients is included in the price. Tickets can be purchased on the Fukushima Travel website. Tour Details: Dates: Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays between January 24, 2026 - March 22, 2026 Price: ¥7,230 for adults (¥6,500 + processing fee), ¥6,120 for children (¥5,500 + processing fee) Includes: Bus ticket, Tadami Line train ticket from Aizu-Kawaguchi to Aizu-Yanaizu, lunch fee, Japanese guide Departure/Arrival: Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (guests at Higashiyama Onsen can disembark there)
Discover the spirit of the Japanese samurai on this one-day tour of warrior history in the beautiful Aizu region of Fukushima. Feel the past come to life all around you as you experience the places where samurai once walked. This tour can be enjoyed any time of the year. Leave from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station and journey to Tsurugajo Castle, the only castle in Japan with its signature red roof tiles. Stroll through the outer grounds before heading inside the keep, complete with a picture from the observation platform at the top. After you’ve finished at the castle, make your way to Aizu Hanko Nisshinkan, once a high-grade academy for young samurai. This is where the fledgling warriors received training and education, not only in combat but in philosophical and artistic pursuits. Afterwards, move on to Aizu Bukeyashiki, the 28-room sprawling estate that once belonged to a samurai family of the region. The well-preserved estate showcases everyday samurai life as well as some stunning artifacts and gardens. As you walk the halls of the old quarters, you'll be able to imagine what life was like for a powerful and influential samurai of the period. Still looking for samurai experiences? Try a samurai class at the dojo of Ookawaso ryokan.
