Exciting beauty in the samurai hometown

As Japan’s third largest prefecture in area, Fukushima possesses a variety of magnificent natural landscapes, natural hot springs and excellent cuisine. The beauty of Fukushima changes with the seasons, giving visitors a lasting impression.

In Fukushima, there is the Miharu Taki-zakura cherry blossom tree over 1,000 years old, belonging to the Edohigan genus – one of the three main varieties of cherry blossoms in Japan. Cherry blossoms fall to the ground like a waterfall, hence the name “Takizakura” (meaning ‘waterfall cherry blossom’) and is considered a rare flower variety of Japan. With a campus of nearly 1,000 cherry blossom trees, every spring to Tsuruga White Crane City is like sinking in the middle of a sea of ​​flowers. The citadel appears splendidly with white walls, characteristic red tile roof in harmony with bright pink cherry blossoms. It is considered one of the most beautiful cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan Nicchu Railway was restored to a walking and cycling route about 3km long. Along this road there are thousands of Shidare cherry blossom trees. In April, the cherry blossoms in full bloom here are very beautiful, attracting many visitors to visit. Senbonzakura, located on the banks of the Natsui River, is a popular attraction where visitors can walk and watch the cherry blossoms along the riverside road. At night, when the cherry trees are lit up, the scene is also very attractive. The Nunobiki Plateau Farm is a great destination in summer. Below the foot of 30 wind power pillars that slowly spin is a strip of beautiful sunflower fields. This is where visitors can see Inawashiro Lake and Mount Bandai. The ancient village of Ouchijuku used to flourish during the Edo period. Today, more than 30 old houses are preserved and create a nostalgic scene of the old days of Japan. The specialty here is Negi-soba noodles, eaten by fresh onions, not with chopsticks. Hinoemata Village is a beautiful place for those who love trekking to explore nature. Under the swamp, cauliflower and mountain lilies bloom brightly and create a breathtaking sight. The road passes through the Azuma Mountains with breathtaking majestic landscapes in autumn foliage. Drive slowly through this road, visitors will have a panoramic view. This place was selected as one of the 100 most beautiful streets in Japan. This route stops working in winter. Shingu Kumano Shrine is considered as an important cultural property of Japan. Built in the Heian period, the temple’s architecture changes over time. Today, visitors can visit the cultural heritage of Fukushima and Japan preserved here. In addition, in the temple precinct there is an 800-year-old ginkgo tree, each autumn comes, the leaves change color and dye the surrounding space. Lake Goshikinuma, also known as Lake of Five Colors, is one of the most majestic landscapes in Fukushima. Each lake has its own color, from dark brown to cobalt green. Each season, the scenery of the lake has its own unique features, inspiring many photographers in Japan and around the world. Although it is the main venue for sports activities in Fukushima Prefecture, Azuma Sports Park has a very poetic natural landscape. In autumn, the ginkgo trees in the park change clothes with brilliant yellow colors, creating a very romantic street and attracts visitors. Ouchijuku ancient village is also a beautiful place every autumn and winter. Ouchijuku Snow Festival is a popular event, held in mid-February, with lots of exciting events such as parades, snow lanterns and fireworks. In winter, Tsuruga Castle is covered with a beautiful white snow carpet. In mid-February, the Aizu Erosoku Candle Festival is held, to showcase candles made by the skillful hands of local artisans. The image of the castle illuminated by thousands of candles is extremely magnificent, making visitors especially impressed. Mount Bandai and Lake Inawashiro: Mount Aizu Bandai is selected as one of the 100 most beautiful mountains in Japan. This is also an ideal place for visitors to enjoy hiking and mountain climbing. Inawashiro Lake is one of the 10 largest lakes in Japan, making it an ideal spot where swans can be seen in winter. Skiing is also a “specialty” in Fukushima. There is the Ski Park and Resort Alts – one of the largest ski resorts in the Tohoku region, with 29 ski courses divided according to different slope and challenge levels. There are many hot springs in Fukushima that have a long history of operation; such as Lizaka hot spring with 1,000 years old, Higashiyama hot spring with 1,300 years old. Soaking in hot mineral water is very beneficial for health, so this is an experience visitors should not miss when coming to Fukushima. Fukushima is a place where visitors can experience the training and life of a true samurai. This land is the home of the Bushido martial spirit, loyalty to the lord, ignoring death and defying defeat. For this reason, the culture and spirit of the samurai in the region are still deeply imprinted today. The Aizu Buke Yashiki Samurai residence is a museum vividly depicting the Samurai. The living rooms display models and artifacts that recreate scenes of ancient life. Through artifacts such as weapons, costumes and other objects used by the samurai, visitors will gain a clearer picture of their life./.