Tour Overview
Aizu, steeped in history, is a city steeped in history. This tour will take you to Aizuwakamatsu Castle, Mount Iimori, and Ouchi-juku, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Japanese history. Beyond the historical traces, you'll also experience the unique character of modern Aizu. Locally grown rice, combined with natural springs, creates a uniquely rich sake. Along the way, you'll enjoy sightseeing and shopping, creating many wonderful memories.
- Attraction Introduction | Aizu Scenic Spots Day Tour-
▲Aizuwakamatsu Castle
Aizuwakamatsu Castle is also known as "Tsuruga Castle" (鹤ヶ城). Historical documents also refer to it as "Kurokawa Castle" and "Aizu Castle." In Japan, it's commonly referred to as "Aizuwakamatsu Castle," while the nationally designated historic site is "Wakamatsu Castle."
Tsuruga Castle is a symbol of Aizu. Renowned as an "impregnable castle," it held out for a month against a fierce enemy attack during the civil war at the end of the Edo period (1868-1869). Following the end of the samurai era, the castle was demolished in 1874, leaving only its stone walls. Rebuilt in 1965 at the request of the citizens, it was rebuilt. During a major renovation in 2011, Tsuruga Castle was renovated with red tiles, restoring its pre-demolished appearance. Today, with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in autumn, it is a popular destination for leisure and has become a major tourist destination in Aizu.
▲ Iimoriyama
After the fall of the shogunate in 1867, those still loyal to the shogunate were forced to concentrate in the northern part of the Tohoku region. They attempted to resist the new government, but suffered a decisive defeat at Tsuruga Castle in 1868. Upon witnessing their castle burning on Iimoriyama, a group of young soldiers (the White Tigers) committed seppuku.
The 20 boys of the White Tigers, aged 14 to 16, made a grave mistake. Tsuruga Castle was never captured; the flames they witnessed were outside the castle walls. However, their loyalty and devotion are well-known and have been adapted into numerous films and manga.
Iimoriyama has become a popular tourist attraction, boasting souvenir shops, monuments, and museums. The White Tigers Memorial Museum is located along the approach to the mountain. The smaller White Tigers Folk History Museum is located some distance from the main trail.
▲Ouchijuku
Located on the Aizu Nishikaido Road connecting Aizuwakamatsu and Nikko Imaiichi, this former post town was established around 1640. It flourished as a key transportation hub for the lord of Tsuruga Castle on his way to Edo (Tokyo). The thatched-roof houses, which still retain their Edo-era style, have been designated as an Important Preservation Area for Traditional Buildings. Enjoy local specialties like scallion soba and rockfish sandwiches.
Travel Notes
- The cherry blossom viewing period may be slightly delayed due to weather conditions.
- The views from Tsuruga Castle and Mt. Iimori may not be available due to weather conditions.
- The itinerary may be adjusted based on road conditions.
- This tour is for Japanese guests.
- The company is not responsible for delays, itinerary changes, or cancellations due to force majeure factors such as traffic and weather. You are responsible for any additional accommodation, food, and transportation expenses incurred. Thank you for your understanding.
- In the event of adverse weather conditions such as typhoons or snowstorms, cancellation of the tour will be decided by 3:00 PM Japan time the day before departure. This will be notified by email at any time.
- The meeting and disbanding locations may vary. Please confirm with the tour leader on the day of departure.
- If the minimum number of participants (30) is not reached, the tour will be cancelled. A cancellation notice will be provided 14 days prior to departure (4 days prior for day tours).
- Language Services Provided:
Guide: Japanese
Foreign-Speaking Tour Attendant: Chinese/English*
Guide: Japanese
Audio Guide: None
Attraction Information: None
*The foreign-speaking tour attendant (Chinese/English) is provided solely for communication purposes (e.g., meeting time and location) based on your selected language (Chinese/English). Translation of attraction information is not included.
Tour Pricing
The cost includes:
Aizu Scenic Spots Day Tour | Tickets
Aizu Scenic Spots Day Tour | Bus Transfer
Aizu Scenic Spots Day Tour | Lunch
Aizu Scenic Spots Day Tour | One Manju (Steamed Bun) Snack
Aizu Scenic Spots Day Tour | Consumption Tax
Children aged 3-5 years old include:
Aizu Scenic Spots Day Tour | Bus Transfer
Aizu Scenic Spots Day Tour | Consumption Tax
The cost does not include:
Aizu Scenic Spots Day Tour | Personal Travel Insurance
Aizu Scenic Spots Day Tour | Any expenses not specified in this itinerary, any optional expenses, or any expenses incurred during the itinerary
Cancellation Clauses
Cancellation Policy for Local Day Tours in Japan
Cancellations made 12 days or more before the selected itinerary date will receive a full refund.
Cancellations made between 8 and 11 days before the selected itinerary date will incur a 20% handling fee.
Cancellations made between 3 and 7 days before the selected itinerary date will incur a 30% handling fee.
Cancellations made between 1 and 2 days before the selected itinerary date will incur a 50% handling fee.
Cancellations made between 0 and 10 days before the start of the itinerary will not receive a refund.
If the event is affected by force majeure (e.g., typhoon warnings, heavy rain alerts, etc.), the organizer will determine whether to cancel the event. A refund will be issued to the original payment method after deducting necessary expenses.
Requests for rescheduling due to personal reasons will be deemed cancellations and will be handled in accordance with the cancellation policy outlined above.
If participation is terminated during the event due to reasons not attributable to the organizer, no refund will be given.
