Basic Information on Aizu-Wakamatsu Family Travel
Aizuwakamatsu City is a castle town rich in history and culture located in the western part of Fukushima Prefecture. It is also known as the stage for the "Aizu War" during the late Edo period, with many historical spots including Tsurugajo Castle. It is the perfect travel destination for children to feel closer to Japanese history.
- Access: About 2 hours and 30 minutes by Shinkansen (transfer at Koriyama) + Ban'etsu West Line from Tokyo
- Best Season: April to November (especially beautiful during spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage)
- Sightseeing Area: Around Tsurugajo Castle, Nanokamachi Street, Higashiyama Onsen
2-Day Model Course
[Day 1] Exploring the history and culture of Aizuwakamatsu
Morning: Tsurugajo Castle (Aizuwakamatsu Castle)
First, we head to the symbol of Aizuwakamatsu, "Tsurugajo Castle." The white main keep is impressive, and the children will be thrilled. The exhibits inside the main keep provide an easy-to-understand learning experience about the Boshin War and the history of the Aizu Domain.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
- Admission Fee: Adults 560 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students 210 yen
- Time Required: About 1 to 1.5 hours
The view from the main keep is spectacular. You can see Mount Bandai and the Aizu Basin at a glance. In spring, the castle is beautifully complemented by cherry blossoms, and in autumn, it is adorned with colorful foliage.
Lunch: Lunch at Nanokamachi Street
Nanokamachi Street, about a 10-minute drive from Tsurugajo Castle, is a retro shopping street lined with buildings from the Taisho and early Showa periods. There are many shops where you can taste Aizu specialties like "wappa-meshi" and "kozuyū (Aizu's local cuisine)," making it enjoyable for food walking.
Afternoon: Sazaedo (Former Shōsōji Temple, Entsu Sansōdō)
The unique building "Sazaedo" in Aizu. It is a rare structure in the world with a double spiral ramp where the paths for going up and down do not intersect. Children will surely be curious and ask, "How does it work?" Families can enjoy the wonders of architecture together.
- Opening hours: 8:15 AM to sunset (varies by season)
- Admission fee: Adults 400 yen, Elementary and junior high school students 200 yen
- Time required: Approximately 30 minutes
Evening: Stay at Higashiyama Onsen
Higashiyama Onsen, located about 10 minutes by car from Aizuwakamatsu City, is a hot spring area with a history of over 1,300 years. Many inns are family-friendly, and you can enjoy Aizu's local cuisine for dinner. Relax and unwind in the hot springs.
[Day 2] Enjoying the nature of Urabandai
Morning: Goshikinuma Nature Trail
Head to Urabandai, about 40 minutes by car from Higashiyama Onsen. Stroll along the Goshikinuma trail, where each lake has a different color, such as emerald green and blue. The 3.6 km long promenade is a gentle course that even children can walk. You can also enjoy the stunning view of Mount Bandai reflected on the water surface along the way.
Lunch: Gourmet at the Urabandai Road Station
At the road station, you can enjoy dishes made with locally sourced char and local vegetables. You can also pick up souvenirs to remember your trip.
Afternoon: Canoeing experience at Lake Hibara (summer only)
In summer, canoeing and boating experiences at Lake Hibara are recommended. The whole family can enjoy the nature of Urabandai from the lake. There are many guided experiences for beginners, so children can enjoy it safely.
Three points to enhance your family trip
① History is conveyed through "stories"
The history of Aizu is complex, but when conveyed as stories like "the boys of the Byakkotai tried to protect the castle" and "the samurai continued to uphold their pride even in defeat," it becomes easier for elementary school students to take an interest. With a private guide, explanations tailored to children's perspectives can be provided.
② Move with plenty of time
The sightseeing spots in Aizuwakamatsu City are relatively close, but there are also narrow roads. Especially on weekends, parking can get crowded. It is recommended to visit the main spots early in the morning.
③ Experience a "deep experience" with a private guide
With a private guide, you can receive deep insights that are not visible in general sightseeing, such as "Why is the stone wall of this castle shaped like this?" and "What kind of shops used to be in this alley?" They can answer children's questions of "Why?" and "How?" in real-time, making it a learning journey.
Create family memories of Aizu's history with Tabinoito's private guide
At Tabinoito, private guides specializing in the Aizuwakamatsu and Urabandai areas will support your family. We propose original tours that allow you to "experience" the region's culture, history, and nature, rather than just superficial explanations of tourist spots.
- Custom courses tailored to your child's age and interests
- Storytelling explanations that convey history in an easy-to-understand and interesting way
- We will guide you to the best photo spots
- Total support for travel arrangements and accommodation consultations
Please feel free to consult us via LINE first. Tabinoito will help you create unforgettable family trips in Aizuwakamatsu and Urabandai.
