Exploring Aizuwakamatsu & Surrounds.
#Aizu-Wakamatsu.
FoF
Aizuwakamatsu not only has much to see and do but is also an excellent base point for exploring several other areas, making it an ideal place to settle for a few days. Be sure to pick up a souvenir of the legendary Akabeko Cow before leaving, or better still paint your own at the Akabeko Crafter Bansho.
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Highlights: Kogaikuni Shrine, Sazae Temple (pictured), Nanokamachi Dori, Akabeko Crafter Bansho, Oyakuen (garden and tearoom), and Aizuwakamatsu/Tsuruga Castle Ruins.
#Day trips from Aizu-Wakamatsu.
Those looking to explore further afield may like to consider the following day trip options:
1. Koriyama & Ononiimachi.
Within easy reach of Aizu-Wakamatsu, Koriyama - with its sprawling parks and noteworthy temples - is an ideal place to spend the day. For those wanting to unleash their inner child, a side trip to Ononiimachi is also recommended.
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Journey Duration: Around 1 hour and 20 minutes by train from Aizu-Wakamatsu to Koriyama then just over 20 minutes by train from Koriyama to Ononiimachi.
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Highlights - Koriyama: Green Door, Koriyama Fureai Science Museum, Asakakunitsuko Shrine, Nyohoji Temple, Hayama Park, Kaiseizan Park, Kaiseizan Daijingu Shrine.
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Highlights - Ononiimachi: The fairytale-like Licca Castle (pictured) is the town's major drawcard. Visitors may also like the Ono Town Hometown Culture Hall, which features a small history museum.
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Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass is valid for travel between Aizu-Wakamatsu, Koriyama, and Ononiimachi.
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Bonus Tip: Train services from Koriyama to Ononiimachi can be somewhat far apart. Be sure to check ahead for departure times to avoid a lengthy wait at the station.
2. Nihonmatsu.
With an impressive hilltop castle, historic temples and shrines, and sweeping countryside views to be enjoyed, the city of Nihonmatsu is sure to delight anyone who visits.
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Journey Duration: The journey from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station to Nihonmatsu Station will take around 2 hours and 20 minutes and involves a change at Koriyama.
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Highlights: Nihonmatsu Shrine (pictured), Kasumigajo Castle Park, Nihonmatsu Castle, Ryusenji,
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Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass is valid for travel.
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Bonus Tip: Consider a side trip to Adachigahara Hometown Village, a 40-minute walk from Nihonmatsu Station. Alternatively, take the Harimichi via Towashogakko Bus from Nihonmatsu and get off soon after the bus crosses the river - outside the 7-Eleven.
3. Aizu-Yanaizu & Aizu-Kawaguchi.
From Aizuwakamatsu, consider taking a scenic train ride along the Tadami Rail Line to Aizu-Yanaizu and Aizu-Kawaguchi. Badly damaged by the 2011 earthquake, the Tadami Line came back into operation in late 2022 and has once again been rewarding passengers with impressive scenery along the way.
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Journey Duration: From Aizu-Wakamatsu to Aizu-Yanaizu the journey is around 1 hour. From Aizu-Yanaizu it then takes about another hour to Aizu-Kawaguchi.
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Highlights - Aizu-Yanaizu: Alight at Aizu-Yanaizu Station for Enzoji Temple, Yanaizu Onsen, Zuikoji Bridge and Park, Kiyohome Park, and Koike Confectionary Shop.
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Highlights - Aizu-Kawaguchi: Kaneyama Fureai Hiroba (scenic lookout - pictured), Kamiigusa Bridge, and Kanke Bakery.
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Rail Pass: A JR Rail Pass is valid for the whole journey.
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Bonus Tip: Families with young children may like to check out Rakki Kouen, a park consisting of Pokemon-themed play equipment. It is also worth noting that services along the Tadami Line run quite infrequently, so consider taking note of train times.