History of Aizu Wakamatsu
A Fiere Battleground at the End of
Japan's Feudal Period.

The land of Aizu was ruled by a succession of historically famous warlords during the Sengoku (Warring States) period. Aizu was also where the last battles were fought between Tokugawa forces and the new Meiji Government forces in the Boshin War, which occurred at the end of the Edo period. The tragic story of the Byakkotai, a unit of Aizu samurai youths who committed ritual suicide when they saw their castle burning, is known by all Japanese.


Tsuruga-jo (also known as Aizu Wakamatsu-jo), a white castle that stands tall at the near center of Aizu Wakamatsu, serves as the city’s main tourist landmark. To the east and northeast of the castle are many sites of interest, including Iimoriyama, the Aizu Clan leaders’ gravesite, and Oyakuen. The city’s main commercial district lies to the northwest of the castle. There you can see traces of the city’s bygone eras when trade and commerce flourished. There are also various places to dine and shop for souvenirs.

  1. Oyakuen Garden

    The Oyakuen medicinal herb garden is centered around a pond and features trees and flowering plants that make for ever-changing scenery year-round. This tranquil garden has a long history as a retr.....read more

  2. The Aizu Bukeyashiki - Samurai Residence

    The residential complex of a top-ranking Aizu retainer, and other Important Cultural Assets of Fukushima..read more

  3. The Grave of the Matsudaira Family

    An extensive hillside historic site, where the lords of the Matsudaira family rest..read more

  4. Tsuruga-jo Castle

    National Historic Site Tsurugajo castle, the city's main tourist landmark, made its comeback with the newly red-tiled tower..read more

  5. Manabeko Aizu Wakamatsu Historical Record Center

    Opened on July 25, 2014..read more

  6. Aizu Machikata History Museum

    The hot-spot for information on Aizu..read more

  7. Shirokiya Shiryokan

    Founded in year 300. Aizu Coating Store. An Exhibition Hall is also available. You also make your name and family crest...read more

  8. Higashiyama Onsen waterfalls

    Higashiyama has four waterfalls formed from Yukawa, a tributary of the Agano River..read more

  9. Hagurosan Yugami Shrine

    Hagurosan Yugami Shrine that is holding a festival for the soul of Kuranasu, the main god of the festival..read more

  10. The Aizu Shinsengumi Memorial Hall

    A space where visitors can experience the atmosphere of long ago...read more

  11. Nanokamachi Street

    Taisho Roman Street..read more

  12. The Hideyo Noguchi Memorial Hall/ The Aizu Ichiban-kan Café

    The youth of the world famous medical scientist, Hideyo Noguchi..read more

  13. Nyorai-do Temple

    The site where the Shinsengumi troop lead by Hajime Saito fought bravely..read more

  14. Rinkaku - Japanese Tea House

    An honored tea house built for the son of the Japanese tea master, Sen no Rikyu..read more

  15. Mt. Iimoriyama

    Mt. Iimoriyama with a spot such as a 【The Gravesite of the 19 Members of the Byakkotai】【Byakkotai Memorial Hall】【Sazaedo】【Itsukushima Shrine】【Ugashindo】..read more

  16. Fukunishi Honten

    The Aizu family surrendered to imperial forces at the end of the Boshin War (1868–1869). A new government was established under Emperor Meiji (1852–1912) and launched numerous reforms, one of which.....read more

  17. Suehiro Sake Brewery

    The Aizu family surrendered to imperial forces at the end of the Boshin War (1868–1869). A new government was established under Emperor Meiji (1852–1912) and launched numerous reforms, one of which.....read more

  18. Sazaedo Temple

    This picturesque temple built of wood at the base of Mt. Iimori features an unusual design: a double-helix spiral structure, with no floors or stairs. Visitors follow a ramp-like walkway through th.....read more

  19. Fukushima Museum

    Fukushima Prefecture’s rich history is showcased in the beautifully curated exhibits at this museum, located a short walk from Tsuruga Castle. Visitors can learn about the Aizu region’s contributio.....read more

  20. “Aizu Free Wi-Fi” Available

    Free Wi-Fi is available for use at the following tourist facilities, information offices, etc. (The “Aizu Free Wi-Fi” Logo will be displayed.)..read more

  21. Japan2Go!

    A tourism app called "Japan2Go!" can display tourist maps in six languages. You can also search for genres that interest you, such as "events," "playing," and "eating." Please feel free to use i.....read more