Hot in Yanaizu

Hot in Yanaizu

Yanaizu Town is best known as the birthplace of the legend of the lucky red cow Akabeko, but it is also known for its famous manju (sweet steamed buns). Hot in Yanaizu is a center with a bit of everything; it sells local products, has sightseeing information, rest areas, and an eatery. They even have an "experience area".

It goes without saying that, at Hot in Yanaizu, you can paint your own Akabeko, but you can also make manju with the help of the facilities' kind staff (Read more here). Hot in Yanaizu have staff that can speak English, but please make sure to contact them in advance, as you might not be able to do the experience without placing a booking.

Please take your time & enjoy the slow pace of Japanese countryside life in Yanaizu Town.

Venue Details

Venue Details
Websitehttp://www.okuaizu.net/spot/985/(Japanese)
Best SeasonAll Year
Related info<b><u>Opening Hours</b></u>

Shops: Apr. to Nov.: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM / Dec. to Mar.: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Restaurant: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Foot Bath: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM


Closed on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month.
Access Details
Access151-1 Yanaizu Shimodaira, Yanaizu Town, Konuma-gun, Fukushima Pref. 969-7201
View directions
Getting there

By Train: 20 min walk from JR Aizu-Yanaizu Station.

By Car: 30 min drive from central Aizu-Wakamatsu City via the Aizu-Bange I.C. exit off the Ban-etsu Expressway.

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Tsurugajo Castle

Tsurugajo Castle allows visitors the opportunity to experience history, nature, and tradition with all five senses.Despite being mostly reconstructed, 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.Tsurugajo Castle is truly a place where the modern visitor can slip into the past and become immersed in history. 

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