Aizuwakamatsu Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Aizuwakamatsu, located in the Fukushima region of Japan, is a city that offers a perfect blend of historical charm and natural beauty. Steeped in rich history, this city is a treasure trove of cultural landmarks and picturesque landscapes.

One of the highlights of Aizuwakamatsu is its impressive castle, Tsuruga Castle. This historic fortress stands proudly amidst a lush green park, providing visitors with a glimpse into the city's feudal past. Take a leisurely stroll through the castle grounds and admire the intricate architecture while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Aizu Bukeyashiki is a must. This open-air museum showcases traditional samurai residences, giving visitors an insight into the lifestyle of the samurai warriors who once lived here. Wander through the meticulously preserved houses and immerse yourself in the ambiance of ancient Japan.

Nature lovers will find solace in Aizuwakamatsu's stunning landscapes. Ouchi-juku, a post town from the Edo period, is a charming village nestled amidst snow-covered mountains. Take a step back in time as you walk along its cobbled streets lined with thatched-roof houses and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding countryside.

Aizuwakamatsu also offers a unique culinary experience. Indulge in local delicacies such as Aizu beef, a premium wagyu beef known for its exquisite flavor and tenderness. Pair it with locally brewed sake for a truly authentic dining experience.

To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, a visit to the Aizuwakamatsu Festival is highly recommended. Held annually in September, this vibrant festival showcases traditional music, dance, and parades featuring elaborately decorated floats. Join in the festivities and witness the city come alive with color and energy.

Local name: 会津若松市 Population: 119.8 thous. (2019)Area: 147.89 mi²Elevation: 738 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 37°29'25"N, 139°55'52"E

Location

FukushimaJapan

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Aizuwakamatsu Top Attractions

Aizuwakamatsu Attractions - What to See and Explore

Aizuwakamatsu offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Aizuwakamatsu Castle, Oyaku-en, Takizawa Honjin, Ōtsukayama Kofun. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Recreated 14th-century castle and museum
Aizuwakamatsu Castle
Aizuwakamatsu Castle, known locally as Tsuruga Castle, stands as a proud testament to Japan's feudal past in the city of Aizuwakamatsu. This historical fortress, encircled by deep moats and towering stone walls, was constructed in the late 14th century and has since...
Park • Buddhist architecture
Oyaku-en
Oyaku-en is a medicinal herb garden in the city of Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. The garden was designated a Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government in 1932. It is also known as the Aizu Matsudaira-clan Garden.
Museum
Takizawa Honjin
The Takizawa Honjin is a building in the city of Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima, Japan which was used as a honjin by the daimyō of Aizu Domain during the Edo period. The building was designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1971 and a National Historic Site of Japan in 1970.

Archaeological site
Ōtsukayama Kofun
The Ōtsukayama Kofun is an early Kofun period zenpō-kōen-fun key-hole shaped tumulus located in what is now part of the city of Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima in the southern Tōhoku region of Japan. The site was designated a National Historic Site of Japan in 1972.
Museum • Specialty museum • History museum
Fukushima Museum
Fukushima Museum is a prefectural museum in Aizuwakamatsu, Japan, dedicated to the natural history, history, and culture of Fukushima Prefecture. The museum opened in Tsuruga Castle Park in 1986.
Mausoleum
Aizu Matsudaira clan cemetery
The Aizu Domain Matsudaira clan cemetery is located in two locations. One is in the city of Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima, and the second is in the town of Inawashiro, Fukushima Japan. The cemetery contains the graves of the successive daimyō of Aizu Domain. The cemeteries were collectively designated a National Historic Site in 1987.
Universities and schools
University of Aizu
The University of Aizu in Aizuwakamatsu, Japan, is the first university dedicated to computer science engineering in Japan. It has about 1,100 students enrolled in its undergraduate and graduate programs.
Historical place
Mt. Iimoriyama
Iimori Mountain is a mountain near the city of Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. It is notable as the site where members of the Byakkotai committed ritual suicide in 1868, during the Boshin War. It is located about 1.5 kilometers northeast of Tsuruga Castle.
37°29'8"N • 139°57'14"E
Hui jin wu jia wu fu
Museum

Day trips

Aizuwakamatsu – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Aizuwakamatsu, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Fukushima Race Course (Fukushima), Abukuma-do, Goshiki-numa (Bandai-Asahi National Park).

36 milesNE
Horse track, Gambling, Sport venue
Fukushima Race Course, Fukushima
Fukushima Race Course is a notable destination for horse racing enthusiasts in the city of Fukushima, Japan. This racecourse offers a blend of excitement and tradition, providing a unique experience for visitors interested in the sport of kings.
42 milesE
Nature, Natural attraction, Cave
Abukuma-do
Nestled in the verdant hills of Fukushima Prefecture, Abukuma-do is a spectacular subterranean wonder that has captivated the imaginations of visitors to Japan. This expansive limestone cave, formed over 80 million years, presents a magical realm beneath the earth...
14 milesNE
Nature, Natural attraction, Lake
Goshiki-numa, Bandai-Asahi National Park
Goshiki-numa, a hidden gem nestled within the lush landscapes of the Bandai-Asahi National Park in Japan, is a series of five volcanic lakes known for their stunning and diverse colors. Literally translating to "Five Colored Ponds," these lakes captivate visitors with...
31 milesSE
Park
Nanko Park, Shirakawa
Nanko Park is considered to be the oldest public park in Japan, having been founded in 1801 by Matsudaira Sadanobu, the 12th daimyō of Shirakawa Domain.
26 milesNE
Theme park, Amusement park, Sport venue
Ebisu Circuit, Nihonmatsu
Ebisu Circuit is a motorsport racing complex located in Nihonmatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan.

Show all

Best Time To Visit Aizuwakamatsu

Learn when is the best time to travel to Aizuwakamatsu weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

April, May, August, September and October are the busiest months in this location.

Average temperatures in °F

JFMAMJJASOND

The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

JFMAMJJASOND

The lowest rainfall is recorded in February, March, April, May and November. Most of it rains in July and September.

Length of day in hours

JFMAMJJASOND

We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Aizuwakamatsu?

The top attractions to visit in Aizuwakamatsu are:

What is the best time to visit Aizuwakamatsu?

April, May, August, September and October are the busiest months in this location. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.