Aizuwakamatsu, a city rich in history and tradition, is an ideal destination for sightseeing using public transportation. From Aizuwakamatsu Station, many attractions are within walking distance or easily accessible via the city loop bus “Akabee,” making it possible to explore efficiently without a car. In this article, we introduce easy-to-reach sightseeing spots by category—from classic landmarks such as Tsuruga Castle and Nanokamachi Street to Oyakuen Garden and Higashiyama Onsen, all accessible by train or bus.
Classic Aizuwakamatsu Sights Where You Can Feel the History of the Castle Town—No Car Needed
Aizuwakamatsu is well known as a historic castle town. By using public transportation, visitors can easily experience its charm. One of the first places to visit is Tsuruga Castle. Taking the city loop bus “Akabee” from Aizuwakamatsu Station, you can reach the castle in about 15 minutes. Its beautiful castle keep and expansive park make it an ideal spot to immerse yourself in history.
Within Tsuruga Castle Park, Rinkaku Teahouse offers a peaceful place to relax while enjoying the atmosphere of the castle grounds. In addition, the Fukushima Prefectural Museum, located about a 10-minute walk from the “Tsurugajo-iriguchi” bus stop, provides valuable insight into the region’s history and culture. By visiting these spots, you can fully experience the historical depth and heritage of Aizuwakamatsu.
Tsuruga Castle｜About 15 minutes from Aizuwakamatsu Station by the city loop bus “Akabee”
Tsuruga Castle, often regarded as the symbol of Aizuwakamatsu, is a landmark that combines rich historical significance with beautiful scenery. From Aizuwakamatsu Station, it is easily accessible in about 15 minutes by taking the convenient city loop bus “Akabee.” Once you get off the bus, you will find yourself in Tsuruga Castle Park, where seasonal landscapes unfold before your eyes. In spring, the park is especially lively as cherry blossoms come into full bloom, attracting many visitors.
Tsuruga Castle is an important site that tells the story of the Aizu Domain’s history, and the interior houses a museum with informative exhibits. As you explore the castle, you can learn about the lives of samurai and the battles that shaped the region. The view from the castle keep is particularly impressive, offering panoramic vistas of Aizuwakamatsu city and the surrounding mountains.
When visiting, be sure to stroll through the surrounding park and take in the atmosphere of history that lingers in the air. Tsuruga Castle is also an ideal starting point for sightseeing in Aizuwakamatsu. By using public transportation, you can enjoy a relaxed journey while immersing yourself in the city’s rich past.
Rinkaku Teahouse｜Located inside Tsuruga Castle Park, within walking distance from the castle
Rinkaku Teahouse is a beautifully preserved teahouse located within Tsuruga Castle Park, where visitors can enjoy a quiet and peaceful moment surrounded by history. It is one of the spots you should not miss when visiting Tsuruga Castle. After touring the castle, stopping by Rinkaku is a wonderful way to slow down and relax.
Rinkaku was originally built during the Edo period and showcases the refined beauty of traditional Japanese architecture. The teahouse blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings, allowing visitors to enjoy seasonal scenery throughout the year. In particular, the cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant autumn leaves create a captivating atmosphere. Inside the teahouse, guests can enjoy matcha green tea, offering a meaningful opportunity to experience Japanese tea culture.
Rinkaku is easily accessible on foot from Tsuruga Castle, and the walk itself enhances the sightseeing experience. As you stroll through the park, you can admire the carefully maintained gardens and ponds while enjoying a calm and unhurried pace. It is an ideal place to pause and enjoy a serene moment during your visit.
Fukushima Prefectural Museum｜About a 10-minute walk from “Tsurugajo-iriguchi”
The Fukushima Prefectural Museum is an essential spot for gaining a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Aizuwakamatsu. One of its major attractions is its convenient location—only about a 10-minute walk from the “Tsurugajo-iriguchi” bus stop—making it easy to visit between sightseeing stops. Inside the museum, you will find a wide range of exhibits covering the nature and history of the Aizu region, with particular highlights including materials related to the Aizu Domain and displays that introduce the daily lives of samurai.
The museum building itself is also visually impressive, designed to harmonize with the surrounding natural environment. The exhibition spaces are spacious and well laid out, allowing visitors to take their time and view the displays at a relaxed pace. Exhibits featuring works by local artists and displays of traditional regional crafts are especially engaging, often offering visitors new and unexpected discoveries.
In addition, there are cafés and rest areas located near the museum, making it a convenient place to take a break and recharge during your travels. The Fukushima Prefectural Museum is a spot well worth adding to your sightseeing route, as it allows you to learn about Aizuwakamatsu’s history while enjoying a calm and comfortable visit.
Exploring Aizu Culture and the Spirit of the Samurai—All Without a Car
Aizuwakamatsu is a city where samurai culture continues to live on, deeply rooted in history such as the story of the Byakkotai. Sites like Iimoriyama and the Aizu Samurai Residence are scattered throughout the area, offering visitors a chance to experience the lifestyle and values of the samurai firsthand. Simply visiting these places allows you to connect with Aizu’s unique historical background and warrior spirit.
These locations are also easily accessible without a car, making them ideal for travelers relying on public transportation. For those interested in history and cultural exploration, Aizuwakamatsu offers a rewarding journey where the legacy of the samurai can still be felt today.
Byakkotai Memorial Museum｜About 20 minutes by “Akabee” bus from Aizuwakamatsu Station
The Byakkotai Memorial Museum is a valuable site where visitors can gain a deep understanding of Aizuwakamatsu’s history. Located about 20 minutes from Aizuwakamatsu Station by the city loop bus “Akabee,” the museum is very easy to access. Inside, exhibits focus on the history of the Byakkotai and the tragic fate they faced, leaving a powerful and emotional impression on those who visit.
The museum houses a rich collection of materials and video displays related to the Byakkotai. Particularly striking are paintings depicting the young lives of the soldiers, as well as the weapons and equipment they once used, all of which offer a compelling glimpse into their story. Special exhibitions designed to convey the spirit and values of the Byakkotai are also held regularly, ensuring that each visit brings new insights and discoveries.
The surrounding natural environment is equally beautiful, with a quiet garden spreading out around the museum grounds. A walk here provides a peaceful moment to reflect while immersing yourself in history. The Byakkotai Memorial Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to learn about Aizuwakamatsu’s past and experience its emotional depth.
Mt. Iimori｜About a 5-minute walk from “Iimoriyama-shita” bus stop
Iimoriyama is an important historical site where visitors can strongly feel the history of Aizuwakamatsu. From Aizuwakamatsu Station, take the “Akabee” bus and get off at “Iimoriyama-shita”; the entrance to the mountain is about a 5-minute walk away. This area is deeply connected to the tragic story of the Byakkotai and offers a deeply moving experience for visitors.
At the summit lies the graves of the Byakkotai, where you can pay tribute to their courage and loyalty. The surrounding natural scenery is also beautiful, making it an ideal place for a leisurely walk while enjoying views that change with the seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom across the area, drawing many visitors from near and far.
The walking paths up Iimoriyama are well maintained, allowing even beginners to climb with confidence. Along the way, you will find several notable attractions, including the Byakkotai Memorial Museum and the unique Sazaedo Hall, making it possible to enjoy a historical hike while learning along the route. To truly experience the history of Aizuwakamatsu, this is a place well worth visiting.
Sazaedo Hall｜Located within the Iimoriyama area, ideal to visit together with the Byakkotai Memorial Museum
Sazaedo Hall is a unique architectural structure located in the Iimoriyama area of Aizuwakamatsu. As its name suggests, the building is shaped like a spiral shell, resembling a turban shell (sazae). It was constructed to honor and commemorate the young samurai of the Byakkotai and is an important cultural property with deep historical significance. Inside the hall, relics and historical materials related to the Byakkotai are displayed, conveying the spirit and values of the samurai to visitors.
Because Sazaedo Hall is located close to the Byakkotai Memorial Museum, it is highly recommended to visit both sites together. At the memorial museum, you can learn about the dramatic stories and lives of the Byakkotai soldiers, while Sazaedo allows you to further reflect on their thoughts and legacy. Surrounded by the quiet natural setting of Iimoriyama, this area offers a meaningful opportunity to contemplate history in a peaceful environment.
Access is also convenient, as Sazaedo is within easy walking distance from the nearest bus stop in the Iimoriyama area. Blending history and nature, this site is one you should not miss when visiting Aizuwakamatsu.
Aizu Samurai Residence｜Cherry Blossoms in Harmony with Nature
The Aizu Samurai Residence is a valuable site where visitors can experience the history of Aizuwakamatsu. Here, you can not only learn about the daily lives of samurai during the Edo period, but also enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the seasons. In spring, the cherry blossoms blooming across the grounds captivate visitors, creating a particularly memorable sight. Rows of cherry trees surround the residence, making it an excellent spot for enjoying hanami (cherry blossom viewing).
Inside the samurai residence, visitors can learn about historical lifestyles and cultural practices, gaining insight into samurai values and traditions. The weapons, tools, and everyday items on display are precious materials that bring history closer to the present. The gardens are also carefully maintained, offering scenic views that harmonize beautifully with the surrounding nature. Take your time to stroll through the grounds and experience the atmosphere of history alongside the cherry blossoms.
The Aizu Samurai Residence is easily accessible from Aizuwakamatsu Station and can be reached on foot, making it a convenient stop during sightseeing. This site, where history and nature come together, is an ideal place to spend a fulfilling and enriching moment during your visit to Aizuwakamatsu.
Garden and Townscape Areas to Enjoy Without a Car
One of the great attractions of sightseeing in Aizuwakamatsu is the ability to explore gardens, temples, shrines, and historic townscapes on foot. Areas such as Oyakuen Garden and Nanokamachi Street allow visitors to experience the history and culture that have continued since the Edo period, while also enjoying cafés and souvenir shops along the way. This is an area where you can take your time and fully enjoy the atmosphere of Aizu in a calm and relaxed setting.
Oyakuen Garden (Aizu Matsudaira Clan Garden)｜About 15 minutes by “Akabee” bus from Aizuwakamatsu Station
Oyakuen Garden, officially known as the Aizu Matsudaira Clan Garden, is a beautiful garden where visitors can strongly feel the history of Aizuwakamatsu. From Aizuwakamatsu Station, it is easily accessible by the city loop bus “Akabee” in about 15 minutes, making it especially convenient for travelers using public transportation. The garden was once used as a villa by the Matsudaira family and features seasonal flowers and lush greenery throughout the year.
What makes Oyakuen unique is that it is more than just a traditional garden—it is also known for its many medicinal plants. The garden includes displays that introduce herbal medicine studies from the Edo period, offering visitors an educational and fascinating experience. Ponds and walking paths are carefully arranged throughout the grounds, allowing guests to enjoy a peaceful stroll while appreciating the beauty of nature.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom throughout the garden, captivating all who visit. Loved by many travelers as a quiet place to relax while reflecting on history, Oyakuen Garden is a spot where you can unwind in a serene atmosphere. When you visit, take your time to enjoy the scenery and let your thoughts wander through the rich history of Aizu.
Nanokamachi Street｜Just a short walk from JR Nanokamachi Station
Nanokamachi Street, located in the heart of Aizuwakamatsu, is a charming area filled with a rich historical atmosphere. With its excellent accessibility—just a short walk from JR Nanokamachi Station—it is an especially convenient spot for travelers. The street is lined with traditional townhouses and merchant buildings, and is home to many shops selling local specialties and handcrafted goods.
In particular, there are numerous restaurants and eateries where you can enjoy Aizu’s well-known local cuisine, such as Aizu lacquerware and Aizu soba, making this area ideal for experiencing the region’s food culture. On both sides of the street, you will also find atmospheric cafés and small galleries, perfect for slowing down and enjoying a relaxed stroll. Seasonal events and festivals are held throughout the year, adding to the charm and offering something new to discover with each visit.
Nanokamachi Street is a special place where you can feel the history of Aizuwakamatsu while interacting with local culture and people. Be sure to stop by during your sightseeing and enjoy a warm, memorable moment as you explore this historic area.
Amidaji Temple｜Within walking distance from Nanokamachi Street
Amidaji Temple is a beautiful Buddhist temple quietly nestled within the historic streetscape of Aizuwakamatsu. Located within walking distance of Nanokamachi Street, it is easy to visit during a sightseeing walk. The temple was established during the Edo period and is particularly admired for its elegant garden and peaceful atmosphere, which captivate visitors.
Within the temple grounds, you will find the main hall designated as an Important Cultural Property, as well as Buddhist statues adorned with exquisite carvings, highlighting the site’s historical significance. The garden, where seasonal flowers bloom throughout the year, is an ideal place for a leisurely stroll. In spring, cherry blossoms fill the grounds, drawing many visitors to admire their beauty.
Because Amidaji Temple is set slightly away from the bustling tourist areas, it offers a rare opportunity to quietly reflect and experience history at your own pace. After exploring Nanokamachi Street, consider stopping by this serene location to enjoy a moment where history and nature come together, and to deepen your appreciation of Aizu’s cultural heritage.
Relaxing Hot Spring Destinations Accessible Without a Car
One essential part of sightseeing in Aizuwakamatsu is visiting its hot spring areas. Among them, Higashiyama Onsenstands out for its long-established ryokan and charming, traditional townscape, making it the perfect place to soothe your body after a day of sightseeing. Surrounded by nature, it offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can fully relax, allowing you to enjoy a fulfilling trip that combines sightseeing and hot spring experiences.
Higashiyama Onsen｜About 20 minutes by bus from Aizuwakamatsu Station
Higashiyama Onsen is an ideal spot to conclude your sightseeing journey in Aizuwakamatsu. From Aizuwakamatsu Station, it is easily accessible in about 20 minutes by taking the convenient city loop bus “Akabeko.” The onsen town is set in a quiet, nature-rich environment, making it a perfect place to refresh both body and mind.
Higashiyama Onsen is known as a historic hot spring area that has been loved by visitors since the Edo period. The town is dotted with atmospheric ryokan as well as facilities offering day-use bathing, making it easy to stop by between sightseeing activities. In particular, the free-flowing natural hot springs are gentle on the skin and are said to be highly effective in relieving travel fatigue.
The surrounding area is blessed with beautiful natural scenery that changes with the seasons. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, while vibrant autumn foliage colors the landscape in fall, making a simple walk through the area a calming and enjoyable experience. One of the great attractions of Higashiyama Onsen is the ability to soak in the hot springs while spending unhurried, relaxing time in a tranquil setting.
To conclude your journey, why not spend a soothing moment at Higashiyama Onsen and wrap up your trip while reflecting on the history and culture of Aizuwakamatsu?
Aizuwakamatsu: A City You Can Enjoy Comfortably Without a Car
Aizuwakamatsu is a destination where you can enjoy sightseeing with peace of mind even without a car, thanks to its well-developed public transportation system. The city offers convenient bus routes, allowing smooth access to major sightseeing spots. In particular, the city loop bus “Akabeko,” which departs from Aizuwakamatsu Station, is extremely convenient for visitors, as it efficiently connects many of the city’s main attractions.
In addition, numerous historical landmarks are located within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the city on foot while enjoying its unique atmosphere. When visiting places such as Tsuruga Castle or Nanokamachi Street, strolling through the town and taking in the local scenery becomes part of the travel experience. Another advantage is the abundance of restaurants and souvenir shops near tourist areas, making it easy to stop by and take a break along the way.
As you can see, Aizuwakamatsu is a destination that can be thoroughly enjoyed even without a car, offering a relaxed travel experience rich in history and culture. When you visit, be sure to make use of public transportation and take your time discovering all that Aizuwakamatsu has to offer.
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