Aizubange(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Aizusawa Town, the Aizu Soubou Ryokan is a top choice for authentic Japanese hospitality. Nestled near the historic Aizuwakamatsu Castle, this ryokan blends traditional architecture with modern comfort, offering tatami-mat rooms and serene garden views. Guests can enjoy local Aizu kaiseki cuisine and participate in hands-on lacquerware workshops, preserving the town’s intangible cultural heritage. Its proximity to the Aizu Railway Line makes exploring nearby villages and scenic trails easy. The ryokan also hosts seasonal festivals celebrating the region’s rich samurai legacy.

The best area for accommodation in Aizusawa Town is the nearby Aizuwakamatsu Castle district, where you’ll find easy access to major historical sites like the Aizuwakamatsu Castle and Aizu Bushi Yashiki. This zone features well-preserved Edo-period buildings, walking-friendly routes, and numerous guesthouses offering free shuttle services to train stations and tourist buses. Enjoy morning strolls along the castle moats and evening tea sessions by the Aizu River. Local restaurants serve authentic dishes such as Aizu beef and Aizu tofu, making it a cultural and culinary hub for visitors.

In Aizusawa Town, visitors can engage in unique cultural experiences such as lacquerware workshops led by master artisans specializing in traditional Aizu Urushi techniques. Explore the Aizu Bushi Yashiki to learn about Edo-period samurai life. Don’t miss the annual Aizu Festival in spring, featuring traditional dances and taiko drumming. Rent a bicycle and ride along the Aizu River Trail, passing historic bridges, rice fields, and forested hillsides. At night, visit a local sake brewery to taste handcrafted sake, immersing yourself in the town’s deep-rooted heritage.

Most hotels and guesthouses in Aizusawa Town primarily operate in Japanese, but select premium accommodations like Aizu Soubou Ryokan provide basic Chinese language support, including Chinese-language travel guides, signage, and simple greetings. It’s recommended to request Chinese assistance when HopeGoo via platforms like HopeGoo or directly through the official website. Many tourist attractions feature Chinese translations on signage, and local information centers offer limited Chinese communication, ensuring smooth travel for international guests.

Transportation in Aizusawa Town is well-connected via the Aizu Railway Line, with a 45-minute train ride from Fukushima City to Aizuwakamatsu Station. From there, tourists can transfer to local buses or taxis to reach key attractions. The town operates a sightseeing bus route linking major sites like Aizuwakamatsu Castle, Aizu Bushi Yashiki, and the Lacquerware Museum. Free parking is available at several locations, ideal for self-drive travelers. Despite its small size, its central location within Fukushima Prefecture ensures easy access to Tokyo and Sendai. Consider purchasing the Aizu Railway Pass to save on travel costs.

Must-try foods in Aizusawa Town include Aizu beef—premium Wagyu raised on high-quality feed, best enjoyed as Aizu beef sushi or grilled steak; Aizu tofu, made with pure mountain spring water, served cold with soy sauce or in hot pot; and locally brewed sake from Aizu Brewery, known for its clean, delicate flavor. Don’t miss Man'nen-dō, a historic shop offering handmade Aizu manju—soft buns with sweet fillings—perfect as a souvenir. These regional specialties reflect the town’s rich culinary tradition and natural resources.