Aizu-Wakamatsu City in Fukushima Prefecture is known around the world as Japan's samurai city. The area preserves many traces of the Boshin War, a fierce civil conflict of the 19th century in which the Aizu Domain fought to the end against the emerging Meiji government. It is a highly recommended destination for visitors interested in Japanese culture and history, and the gateway to the area is JR Aizu-Wakamatsu Station.

Tourist information center and convenient luggage delivery service
The tourist information center located inside Aizu-Wakamatsu Station provides sightseeing brochures and detailed information on tourism in the city, English support, and bicycle rentals to help you plan your trip immediately upon arrival.
The hands-free travel service is particularly convenient for those staying at Higashiyama Onsen or Ashinomaki Onsen in Aizu-Wakamatsu. Guests can request same-day luggage delivery to their accommodation for 400 yen per piece. This service allows them to start sightseeing around Aizu-Wakamatsu without any luggage immediately after arriving in the city. Luggage is accepted from 10 AM to 2 PM. After storing their luggage, visitors can get around the city using rental bicycles or sightseeing buses.

Sightseeing buses are an extremely convenient option to visit major tourist attractions in Aizu-Wakamatsu.

City sightseeing buses Haikara-san and Akabe
The sightseeing buses Haikara-san and Akabe departing from and arriving in front of Aizu-Wakamatsu Station circulate around major tourist attractions, such as Tsuruga Castle and Mt. Iimorin, approximately every 30 minutes and are widely used by tourists. Both buses are operated by Aizu Bus but have different designs. Haikara-san travels clockwise around the city, while Akabe travels counterclockwise. The one-day free pass is a cost-effective way to travel throughout the city for a day.

The Aizu region is renowned for offering historical festivals and events celebrating the beauty of the four seasons.

1. Peak season in autumn: Aizu Festival, the largest historical event (Late September)
Autumn is the busiest season in the Aizu region, especially during the Aizu Festival in late September, the largest event in the area. The highlight is the Aizu Domain Lords’ Procession, where more than 500 participants dressed as samurai from the Boshin War parade through the castle town in an impressive display. Because many visitors gather during this period, it can be difficult to secure accommodations, so early planning is essential.
October and November also mark the peak season as autumn foliage begins, and visits to Higashiyama Onsen and Ashinomaki Onsen increase. In November, Aizu SAMURAI WEEK takes place around Tsuruga Castle, culminating in the Tsuruga Castle Samurai Festival, which adds even more excitement to the autumn atmosphere.

2. Winter scenic events and off-season (January–March)
The snow-covered Aizu region in winter offers romantic sights. The Aizu Painted Candle Festival: Yukihotaru – Snow Fireflies, which is held in early February, illuminates various spots in the city, such as Tsuruga Castle and Oyakuen Garden, with over 10,000 traditional Aizu painted candles, making the snowy landscape glow in magical hues.
Outside of event days, however, January to March is considered the off-season, even in the onsen areas. This is an ideal time for visitors who prefer a quiet stay and want to enjoy the historic streets and snow-covered views at a relaxed pace.

3. Spring crowds
The highlight of spring in Aizu is the Tsuruga Castle Sakura Festival, held from early April to early May to coincide with cherry blossom season. Around 1,000 cherry trees bloom throughout Tsuruga Castle Park, drawing many visitors who come to enjoy the views.

Aizu-Wakamatsu is a castle town that preserves the legacy of the Boshin War and offers a blend of seasonal events and beautiful natural scenery. Make good use of convenient and cost-effective transportation tickets to fully experience the deep appeal of this samurai city.