Aizuwakamatsu Castle Ruins

Aizuwakamatsu Castle (Tsuruga-jo) is counted among Japan’s Top 100 Castles and is affectionately called Tsuruga-jo by locals. Because there are other castles with the same name, it is widely known nationwide as Aizuwakamatsu Castle. This site was also a major battlefield during the Boshin War. Today the castle ruins are designated a National Historic Site, and the surrounding area is called Tsuruga-jo Park. The reconstructed keep houses the Wakamatsu Castle Keep Local History Museum. Outside the designated historic area, the former Sannomaru grounds include an athletics stadium, a municipal pool, and the Fukushima Prefectural Museum. Access: JR Aizuwakamatsu Station is some distance away, so it’s convenient to take a local bus and get off at "Tsuruga-jo Nishiguchi," or use the city loop bus and get off at "Tsuruga-jo Iriguchi" or "Tsuruga-jo Sannomaru-guchi." In season, the park is beautiful with cherry blossoms, and in autumn it offers lovely foliage. The tea house "Rinkaku" in the park is also a must-see; visitors can enjoy tea there, and tea gatherings are held regularly (note: events may be suspended depending on circumstances).