Aizu-Wakamatsu City Excursion

This excursion visits the historical sites of Aizu-Wakamatsu City.

Participants will explore the region centered around Tsuruga Castle, one of the most famous castles in Japan, and experience the history of the samurai culture and the late Edo period.

The tour also includes a visit to Mount Iimori, which is known as the historical site connected to the Byakkotai (White Tiger Corps).

Through this excursion, participants will learn about:

the history of Aizu
the Boshin War (1868)
the samurai spirit (Bushido)

Tsuruga Castle

Tsuruga Castle is the symbol of Aizu-Wakamatsu.

Its official name is Wakamatsu Castle, but today it is widely known as Tsuruga Castle.

Highlights

The beautiful castle tower with distinctive red roof tiles
The historical site of the Boshin War
A panoramic view of the Aizu Basin from the top of the castle
Historical exhibitions about the Aizu domain

During the Boshin War in 1868, the Aizu domain defended the castle for about one month against the forces of the new Meiji government.

Aizu Samurai Residence

The Aizu Samurai Residence is a historical complex that recreates the residence of a senior samurai family from the Aizu domain during the Edo period.

Visitors can experience the architecture and lifestyle of samurai families.

Highlights

Traditional samurai residential architecture
A reconstruction of the residence of Saigo Tanomo, a chief retainer of the Aizu domain
Exhibitions showing the daily life of Aizu samurai
A museum of samurai culture

Visitors can learn about the lifestyle and culture of samurai during the Edo period.

Mount Iimori

Mount Iimori is known as the place connected to the tragic story of the Byakkotai (White Tiger Corps) during the Boshin War.

In 1868, the Byakkotai — a unit of young samurai from the Aizu domain — mistakenly believed that Tsuruga Castle had fallen in battle.

Believing their lord had been defeated, they chose to take their own lives on this mountain.

Today, Mount Iimori is an important historical site that symbolizes the history and spirit of Aizu.

Sazaedo Temple

Sazaedo is a very unique wooden temple located on Mount Iimori.

Characteristics

A double-helix structure, which is extremely rare in the world
The upward and downward paths never cross each other
Built in 1796

Because of its unusual design, the building is also considered very interesting from an architectural perspective.

Important Notes for Participants

This excursion will be conducted as a group tour (about 30 participants). Please be punctual.
There are stairs and slopes at some sites.
Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
The schedule may change depending on weather or traffic conditions