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 trying to visit. It is a bit far from the nearest station, and using public transportation requires some creativity. In this article, a local guide will provide information on how to get there using train + taxi, car, or bus, as well as ways to explore without driving, based on the actual situation.
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 about 5 to 6 km from the station to Ouchi-juku. Since the distance is difficult 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, and the fare is approximately ¥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 reservation by phone in advance, including for the return trip, but there are limited numbers of taxis, 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 change with the seasons, 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's 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 the Urabandai and Inawashiro areas, it takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes. There is a paid parking lot (approximately ¥500 for regular cars) at the entrance of Ouchi-juku.
Note:
- During the autumn foliage season and holidays, there may 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 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) | Estimated cost | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train + Taxi | Approximately 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 | Approximately 60 to 90 minutes | More economical than a taxi (check operation days) | Those who want to keep costs down 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, for 2 or more) | For those who want to explore the area without driving, including seniors |
For those who think, 'I don't want to drive, but it's a waste to just return from Ouchi-juku.'
Around Ouchi-juku, there are several spots you might want to visit, such as the scenic cliff area Tō no Hetsuri (about 15 minutes by car) and the thatched-roof station Yunokami Onsen (day-use bathing available). However, connecting these by public transport in one day is not realistic due to the limited number of transfers.
We, Tabinoito, provide fully chartered private tours with a dedicated Alphard as a registered travel agency 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 itinerary based on your preferences, including Ouchi-juku + Tō no Hetsuri + Yunokami Onsen, etc.
- A guide with 50 years of local residency will guide you through the history of the highway and the background of 'Takato soba eaten with green onions.'
- The fee is Standard Plan ¥45,000 per person (8 hours, tax included, highway and fuel costs included). No additional fees.
This plan allows you to arrange a sightseeing taxi for hourly rental, considering the hassle of creating your own itinerary, so you can 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, about 1.5 to 2 hours is a good estimate. Even including the stairs to the observation deck where you can see the whole 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 best 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, and feel free to consult us viaofficial LINE.
