Out of the four, I enjoyed the last city the most. As an Ipohan, I prefer mountains to beaches or high-rise buildings any day. Furthermore, just like many parts of Japan, the city is well-equipped with reliable public transportation and modern facilities, making the sightseeing experience pleasant and hassle-free.
Since Aizu-Wakamatsu is deep in the mountains, we took a bus that went through multiple mountain tunnels in order to get there. Along the way, I was completely mesmerized by the long stretches of dark green mountains and seemingly endless light green fields.
Viewing the city from the highest floor of Tsuruga Castle was such a feast for the eyes. I felt so safe just looking at the scenery of buildings being enveloped by lush mountains on all sides. Dense clouds loomed over the peaks, further enforcing a sense of serenity and security.
Here's a picture I took from the viewing platform of the castle. Please note that none of the photos I took could do justice to the breathtaking landscape I enjoyed.
Mountains are extremely valuable for humans because they provide food, freshwater, wood, various minerals, and, last but not least, protection against enemies and disasters. Think of episodes 9 to 12 of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead! Although the plot takes place in Gunma, the concept applies in Fukushima, too. If there's a zombie apocalypse happening, villages in the valleys protected by mountain ranges are most likely the last chances for human survival.
For those interested in history, you can learn more about how feudal lords from different clans ruled over the city for generations from the Tsuruga Castle Museum. The exhibition in the museum is thoughtful, with lots of visual aids like photos and artifacts. Besides, you can ascend Limori Hill to study the history of Byakkotai (White Tiger Squad) in detail and visit the site where the boys committed seppuku. Since I'm neither a history enthusiast nor an expert, I won't dwell on it here.
Mountains are extremely valuable for humans because they provide food, freshwater, wood, various minerals, and, last but not least, protection against enemies and disasters. Think of episodes 9 to 12 of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead! Although the plot takes place in Gunma, the concept applies in Fukushima, too. If there's a zombie apocalypse happening, villages in the valleys protected by mountain ranges are most likely the last chances for human survival.
For those interested in history, you can learn more about how feudal lords from different clans ruled over the city for generations from the Tsuruga Castle Museum. The exhibition in the museum is thoughtful, with lots of visual aids like photos and artifacts. Besides, you can ascend Limori Hill to study the history of Byakkotai (White Tiger Squad) in detail and visit the site where the boys committed seppuku. Since I'm neither a history enthusiast nor an expert, I won't dwell on it here.
This is one of my favorite pictures from the trip. The management of Tsuruga Castle has thoughtfully set up wooden handphone stands at a few places around the compound, so noobs like us who are not good at photography could get the perfect tourist photo easily.
Noel and I went up Limori Hill for its other landmark: the Sazaedo Temple. Built in 1746, it's made entirely out of wood with a unique double-helix structure and a spiral staircase. It's impressive how the wooden structure holds up even after years of weathering and exploration by visitors.
Noel and I went up Limori Hill for its other landmark: the Sazaedo Temple. Built in 1746, it's made entirely out of wood with a unique double-helix structure and a spiral staircase. It's impressive how the wooden structure holds up even after years of weathering and exploration by visitors.
Those who have been following my IG Story would know that I went crazy over Akabeko, the good luck charm of Aizu-Wakamatsu. Akabeko, which literally translates to Red Cow, is believed to ward off illness and bring good fortune. It originates from legends about a red cow that helped build a temple and the subsequent sparing of children from smallpox who owned the toy. In fact, the black dots on Akabeko symbolize smallpox.
I'm a sucker for cute mascots. Last year, I regretted not getting more Shikamaru merchandises when we went to Nara. This year, I went all out and bought many Akabeko / Fukushima related merchandises. I sincerely think these character-designed / regional items make for wonderful souvenirs.
These are the things we got in Aizu-Wakamatsu, Urabandai, and Koriyama in Fukushima.
For your reference, our itinerary in Fukushima was partially planned by Google Gemini. Here's a screenshot of my instruction and a small part of Gemini's response.
However, it's worth noting that Gemini's recommendations should serve only as a reference and not a step-by-step guide. Anyone who is considering AI as a travel planning tool should cross-check information presented by AI with the latest information updated on official websites or Google Maps. Other than that, you should take into consideration your own travel style. AI will try to fit as many attractions as possible into the given timeframe, but the suggestions might not be the most time and cost-appropriate.
I have two more posts lined up about our adventure in Fukushima. So, please stay tuned.
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