Located in western Fukushima Prefecture, Aizu-Wakamatsu is a former castle town where history and tradition remain vividly alive. The legacy of samurai pride and a culture that placed great value on discipline and education can still be felt in the city’s architecture and the spirit of its people. Among its most powerful symbols are Tsuruga Castle and the story of the Byakkotai—young warriors whose loyalty and tragedy embody the soul and aesthetic of the region.
From Tokyo, the journey to Aizu-Wakamatsu takes about 1.5 hours by shinkansen to Koriyama Station, followed by a one-hour ride on a local train. The distance is ideal—far enough to feel like a true journey, yet close enough for a comfortable escape. Within the city, most historical and cultural sites are concentrated, making it easy to explore on foot or by sightseeing bus.
The perfect starting point is Tsuruga Castle, the city’s iconic landmark. Its striking white walls and red-tiled roof contrast beautifully against the sky. Once a stronghold during the Boshin War, the current reconstruction faithfully replicates the castle’s original form. Inside, exhibits offer a deep look into the governance of the Aizu clan, daily life in the domain, and the unwavering spirit of the samurai. From the top floor of the keep, the view of Aizu’s townscape invites visitors to imagine the very same sight once gazed upon by warriors of old.
A short journey from the castle brings you to Iimoriyama, the hillside where the young members of the Byakkotai—aged just 16 to 17—spent their final moments. Trained in rigorous military discipline and bound by loyalty, these boys fought to defend their homeland. Believing Tsuruga Castle had fallen, they took their own lives in grief and honor. Their story, filled with youthful courage and tragic misjudgment, continues to move all who visit. Today, their graves and a museum stand atop the hill, where their spirits are quietly remembered.
As you walk through Aizu-Wakamatsu, you’ll encounter the region’s traditional crafts, such as Aizu lacquerware and Aizu cotton. These industries, once supported as side trades by samurai, continue to be preserved with great care by local artisans. In shops with attached workshops and hands-on experiences, you may discover a handcrafted piece that carries the warmth of human touch—a perfect memento of your journey.
For lunch, regional dishes made with local ingredients are highly recommended. Aizu’s miso, free-range chicken, and buckwheat soba may appear simple, yet they are deeply nourishing in both taste and spirit. Dining at a rustic restaurant housed in a traditional-style home adds another layer of atmosphere, where food and place blend into a quiet moment etched with memory.
History is not merely a record of the past. By walking through Aizu-Wakamatsu, you can feel how the people here have lived with purpose and carried their legacy forward through generations. With the proud spirit of a samurai town and the beauty of Japan’s seasonal landscapes in harmony, Aizu is more than just a sightseeing destination—it is a “town of memory,” where living stories dwell in every corner.