Aizu-Wakamatsu
About This Destination
Samurai spirit endures in this historic castle town where the tragic teenage Byakkotai warriors made their last stand during the Boshin War, their graves still receiving incense and prayers today. The striking red-tiled Tsuruga Castle, rebuilt in 2011 with historically accurate tile color, dominates the skyline surrounded by cherry trees and traditional gardens. Visitors can explore restored samurai residences, learn Aizu lacquerware crafts, and savor local sake from breweries that have operated since the Edo period.
Location
Prefecture: Fukushima
Address: Aizu-Wakamatsu, Fukushima, Japan
Nearest Station: Aizu-Wakamatsu Station
Best time to visit: Spring for cherry blossoms at Tsuruga Castle; the samurai city is rich in Boshin War history year-round
Visitor Information
Credit Cards: Unknown
Access
Fukushima, Japan
Get DirectionsFrequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Aizu-Wakamatsu from Tokyo?
Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Koriyama (about 80 minutes), then transfer to the JR Ban-etsu West Line, which reaches Aizu-Wakamatsu in roughly 1 hour 5 minutes for about 1,170 yen. Once there, the Haikara-san loop bus links the main sights; a one-day pass costs 600 yen.
What is Aizu-Wakamatsu known for?
It is a samurai castle town centered on Tsuruga Castle, whose keep has distinctive red roof tiles. It is also tied to the teenage Byakkotai (White Tiger) corps who died on Iimoriyama hill in 1868, and it has the Sazaedo, a double-helix wooden pagoda from 1796. Local food includes sauce katsudon.
How much does Tsuruga Castle cost and what else is worth visiting?
Entry to Tsuruga Castle is 410 yen and includes the museum inside the keep. The Sazaedo pagoda on Iimoriyama costs 400 yen, and the Ouchi-juku post town a short trip away is worth pairing with a castle visit. Spring cherry blossoms and autumn colors are the busiest times.
Nearby Destinations
⭐ Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to review!
Sign In to Review