In February 2026, as snow dances and spring sunlight occasionally shines through, we report on the "once-in-a-lifetime memories" woven by three families in the spacious interior of the luxury Alphard on the Aizu route.
1. A Valentine's gift, the "Two's Story" in snowy Aizu
A couple visiting from Sendai had just held their wedding in Hawaii last year. In the crisp winter air of Aizu, it became a special day to deepen their love.
Experience the warmth of home at "Suzunoi Sake Brewery"
At the small local sake brewery "Suzunoi Sake Brewery", we enjoyed tasting while savoring the president's handmade "takuan". The "homemade hospitality" with the locals is the true essence of our journey that cannot be experienced in large tourist attractions.
Surprises at the abandoned school café and the snowy Ouchi-juku
The "Aizu Jiigozaka Gakusha" in Shimogo Town is a nostalgic space utilizing an abandoned school. While enjoying a limited Valentine's menu here, we were pleasantly surprised by a commemorative photo taken by a photographer who happened to be there.
In the afternoon of the "Ouchi-juku Snow Festival", we intentionally got out of the car and took a stroll.
[Customer Feedback]
"It was actually more enjoyable to walk leisurely together."
Their relaxed sensibility transformed the journey into something richer.
2. Aizu Retro Chic - A high-quality adult trip where tradition and modernity intersect
Parents and their daughter visiting from Yamagata Prefecture. It became a journey that satisfied their intellectual curiosity by touching on the "stories" deep within the region.
VIP experience at Homare Sake Brewery and the true face of Ouchi-juku
At "Homare Sake Brewery" in Kitakata City, we toured with VIP treatment while overlooking a beautiful Japanese garden. In Ouchi-juku, which retains the remnants of the Edo period, we enjoyed the famous "Negi Soba". At the house where we had our meal, we were specially shown the attic, and the warm interaction with the locals brought a smile to her face like that of a young girl.
Travel time touching the depths of history
🚗 The guide tells the hidden history of Aizu
- Women of the Aizu Buddhist Capital: Their role as a place for interaction among the brides of the village.
- The faith of the hidden Christians: Prayers to the statue of Mary entrusted to Koyasu Kannon.
I was deeply moved by the weight of history, thinking, 'I had no idea such a background existed for a hall that looks like something out of a fairy tale.'
3. A step forward into the future. Celebrating 'Departure Day' in Kitakata
A family visiting from Yokohama is celebrating their second son's high school graduation and university entrance. It's a journey to experience 'genuine culture' fitting for such an important milestone.
Kitakata's signature 'Sakanai Shokudo' and the aesthetics of warehouses
The main goal is the famous ramen shop 'Sakanai Shokudo' in Kitakata. Even the 90-minute wait was enjoyed as 'a prologue to a special bowl,' showcasing the family's bond. After the meal, we strolled through the warehouse town, learning about the differences in plaster and brick construction, which reflected the status of merchants at the time, making it a moment to touch the depth of culture.
Tips for walking in a snowy country! To the mystical Goshikinuma
The conclusion of the journey is to the mysterious 'Goshikinuma.'
⛄ Professional perspective: Tips for walking in a snowy country
While being mindful of feet that are not in snowshoes, I shared tips for walking in a snowy country, such as 'putting strength into your heels,' allowing everyone to safely enjoy the fantastic views of Yanagiuma and Aonuma.
At the end of the journey: A single 'thread' weaving memories of life
Without overloading the schedule, cherish the conversations and interests that arise on the spot. The shopkeeper's smile and the sky we looked up at with a chance encounter become a single thread woven into the customer's life. 'Tabinoito' will continue to deliver such experiences.
[Inquiry about completely private tours]
Would you like to create your own story of Aizu together with Alphard?
