Ouchi-juku, a post town with thatched roofs from the Edo period, is located in Shimogo Town, Minamiaizu District, Fukushima Prefecture. It is one of the highlights of Aizu sightseeing and has been designated as an Important Traditional Building Preservation District.
However, many people stumble upon the "access" when they actually try to go. It is a bit of a distance from the nearest station, and public transportation requires some creativity. In this article, a local guide will provide information on how to get there by train + taxi, car, and bus, as well as ways to leisurely explore without driving, based on actual conditions.
Where is Ouchi-juku?
Ouchi-juku is located about 40 to 50 minutes by car south of Aizuwakamatsu City, in the mountainous Shimogo Town. The nearest station is Yunokami Onsen Station on the Aizu Railway Aizu Line, famous for its thatched-roof station building, and it is approximately 5 to 6 km from the station to Ouchi-juku. Since the distance is tough to walk, it is common to use a taxi or bus from the station.
How to get there ①: Train + Taxi
From the metropolitan area: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Koriyama Station → transfer to the Ban'etsu West Line to Aizuwakamatsu Station → transfer to the Aizu Railway to Yunokami Onsen Station (about 40 minutes from Aizuwakamatsu). Alternatively, there is a route from Asakusa via Tobu Railway and Yagan Railway to Aizu Tajima.
From Yunokami Onsen Station, it takes about 10 minutes by taxi, with an estimated fare of ¥3,000 to ¥4,000 one way.
Note: There are times when taxis are not stationed at Yunokami Onsen Station. It is essential to make a phone reservation in advance for the return trip as well, but there are limited numbers, so it is not guaranteed. During the tourist season, you may have to wait for a taxi.
How to get there ②: Sightseeing Bus "Saru-yu-go"
During the tourist season, a sightseeing bus called "Saru-yu-go" connects Yunokami Onsen Station and Ouchi-juku. It is cheaper than a taxi, but the operating days, times, and fares vary by season, so be sure to check the latest information from the Shimogo Town Tourism Association before your visit. Since the number of buses is limited, it is a good idea to calculate your stay time based on the return schedule.
How to get there ③: Car (Rental Car or Personal Car)
From Aizuwakamatsu City, it takes about 40 to 50 minutes via National Routes 118 and 121. From Urabandai or Inawashiro, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. There is a paid parking lot (around ¥500 for regular cars) at the entrance of Ouchi-juku.
Note:
- During the autumn foliage season and holidays, there can be traffic jams waiting for parking. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning.
- In winter (December to March), there may be snow and ice on the mountain roads. We do not recommend driving for those who are not accustomed to snowy roads.
Summary of access method comparisons
| Method | Travel time (from Aizuwakamatsu) | Cost estimate | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train + Taxi | About 60 to 70 minutes | Train fare + Taxi ¥3,000 to ¥4,000 (one way) | Those who do not drive or want to enjoy train travel |
| Combination of sightseeing bus | About 60 to 90 minutes | Cheaper than taxi (check operation days) | Those who want to save costs or have time to spare |
| Car | About 40 to 50 minutes | Highway fees + fuel costs + parking approximately ¥500 | For those who are used to driving and want to explore the surrounding area |
| Chartered tour | Door to door | ¥45,000 per person (8 hours, 2 or more people) | For those who want to explore the area without driving, including elderly individuals |
For those who think, 'I don't want to drive, but it's a waste to just go back after visiting Ouchi-juku'
Around Ouchi-juku, there are various spots you might want to visit, such as the scenic spot Tō no Hetsuri (about 15 minutes by car) and Yunokami Onsen with its thatched-roof station (day-use bathing available). However, connecting these places by public transport in one day is not practical due to the limited number of transfers.
We, Tabinoito, provide fully chartered private tours using a dedicated Alphard as a registered travel agent in Fukushima Prefecture (License No. 27).
- Pick-up from your accommodation or Aizuwakamatsu Station, no worries about transportation with door-to-door service
- Custom made-to-order itinerary tailored to your preferences, including Ouchi-juku, Tō no Hetsuri, and Yunokami Onsen
- A guide with 50 years of local experience will provide insights into the history of the highway and the background of 'Takaoto soba eaten with green onions'.
- The fee is Standard Plan ¥45,000 per person (8 hours, tax included, highway and fuel costs included). There are no additional charges.
By arranging a sightseeing taxi for hourly rental and considering the hassle of creating your own itinerary, this plan allows you to 'leave the research time to us.'
▶ See availability on the booking form
FAQ
Q. How much time is needed for sightseeing in Ouchi-juku?
A. If you walk slowly and have a meal, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Even including the stairs to the observation deck where you can see the entire view, 2 hours is enough to enjoy it.
Q. Can I go in winter?
A. Yes, you can. In February, a snow festival is held, and the thatched roofs covered in snow are exceptional. However, due to the risks of driving on snowy roads, we recommend using public transportation or a chartered tour in winter.
Q. Is it okay if I have difficulty walking?
A. The main street is almost flat. The stairs to the observation deck are steep, so it's important not to overdo it, but if you use a chartered tour, we can guide you at your own pace.
Tabinoito offers private tours limited to one group per day based in Urabandai, Fukushima.See the list of courses here, feel free to consult us viaofficial LINE.
