Aizu and Nakanosawa: Fukushima’s Best Kept Secrets
As the world opens up, Japan is sure to be at the top of the bucket list for many Australians.
And it’s no surprise why! A safe holiday destination, and one that’s easy to get around, Japan’s rich culture, history and scenic beauty means there’s truly something for everyone.
One of the best areas to experience Japan is the Fukushima Prefecture, and one hidden regional gem stands out as the ideal, year-round destination for people of all ages: Aizu.
Despite some lingering misconceptions, Fukushima is perfectly safe for tourists. The Aizu region itself escaped heavy contamination from the nuclear accident in 2011, and radiation levels in Aizu are now pre-accident levels.
From skiing, bike riding and canoeing for adventure-seekers to cherry blossom viewing and traditional samurai experiences for cultural enthusiasts, agents are spoiled for choice when it comes to building a truly unforgettable holiday package.
About Aizu
Aizu-Wakamatsu (Aizu) is a castle town in the interior of Fukushima Prefecture, renowned for its award-winning sake and its samurai tradition.
For history buffs, it was the scene of the Boshin War in 1868, and the historical setting for the “Last Samurai” war and final battles, making it home to many fascinating sites of the Samurai era.
Surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, Aizu’s celebrated scenic beauty can be enjoyed by the many hiking and skiing opportunities on offer.
Visitors can marvel at modern reconstructions of the historic Tsuruga Castle and samurai mansions, enjoy the traditional Japanese landscapes of Oyakuen Garden, and tour Aizu’s famous Suehiro Sake Brewery.
From tea ceremonies to local cooking classes, Akabeko painting, smelt fishing, and samurai schools, there is no shortage of attractions for tourists to immerse themselves in the treasure trove that is Aizu.
And when it’s time to put those feet up (which is anytime, as far we’re concerned!), Aizu is home to Japan’s most prized onsens. So for some seriously exceptional and downright spectacular relaxation, guests can check into the numerous luxury hot spring resorts, like Ookawaso – less than an hour from the Aizu-Wakamatsu Station.
Nakanosawa: The Oasis of Aizu
In the heartland of Aizu, surrounded by lakes and historic sites, is the peaceful little town of Nakanosawa Onsen.
Set between Mount Adatara and the regional landmark Mount Bandai, Nakanosawa’s onsen are seen as the best in Japan for water quality and purity, due to its incredible volume of hot spring water.
There are many hotels to choose from in the area to suit all preferences, from budget-friendly to deluxe resorts, all offering traditional hospitality and local cuisine based on fresh, seasonal ingredients, all for excellent value.
Onjuku Manyotei is among the best when it comes to traditional, Japanese style-service and outstanding dining.
From Nakanosawa, it’s just a short drive to numerous ski areas, with many offering ski and hotel packages.
Just two kilometres from Nakanosawa Onsen, the Numajiri ski area is believed to be Japan’s oldest, first opening in 1915. In 1927, Numajiri was home to the first mechanised ski lift in the country.
Agents will find an abundance of accommodation nearby for tourists to decompress after enjoying some of the best skiing Japan has to offer, such as Numajiri Kogen Lodge, which was founded by Junko Tabei, the first woman to climb Mount Everest!
Truly a mountaineers’ retreat, Sir Edmund Percival Hillary, one of the first people to have reached the summit of the Mount. Everest, visited and stayed at Numajiri Kogen.
So get packing!
The spectacle of regional Japan makes for a holiday like no other. Easily accessible from Tokyo by train, car and recently direct flight by helicopter, the Aizu region is an absolute must for agents serious about offering unforgettable experiences of Japan.
So be the ones in the know, and start putting your Aizu package (like the examples below) together today!
Latest News
Qantas scam warning: ACCC alert over false claims to help get payments back
The ACCC says scammers are calling people, falsely claiming they will help them get payments back following publicity about a Federal Court ruling that ordered the carrier pay $100m in penalties and refund customers for misleading consumers. On 5 May 2024 Qantas gave an undertaking to the ACCC that it would pay about $20 million […]
WTTC Global Leaders’ Dialogue yields strategic insights for future of travel & tourism
Government officials and industry leaders discussed pivotal strategies to foster long-term sustainable growth in the global travel and tourism sector at the annual Global Leaders’ Dialogue on the first day of the World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia today. Throughout the Global Leaders’ Dialogue (GLD), participants focused on enhancing resilience […]
Massive growth overcomes global tourism challenges: World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit
The World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit has been launched in Perth, Western Australia with economic growth, aviation opportunities, tourism investment, cultural events, environmental impacts, greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable fuels, tax revenues, renewable energy, global connectivity set to be discussed. Add to that Western Australia tourism, direct Perth flights and Aboriginal tourism and it […]
Qantas 787 Dreamliners land in Sydney bringing Aussies home from Middle East
We wish the flight crew and passengers a safe journey on remaining flights.
Deadline extended! Entries to the 2024 Women In Travel Awards close 14 October
We know things have been busy lately, so if you missed the cut off date, you're in luck... Enter now!
GX Summit wraps in India, all eyes on Jordan for 2025 edition
TW's resident foodie (AKA. the editor) returned with glowing reviews of both the event and also the local cuisine!
Webjet and Tourism Tropical North Queensland offers discounts on flights to Cairns
We're getting closer and closer to summer, but that doesn't mean you can't jet off to Cairns for a weekend in the sun!
Royal Caribbean celebrates first floating of next mega cruiser: Star Of The Seas
Royal Caribbean's next super cruiser is nearly here, when will you be jumping on board?
A Culinary Journey Through Southwest France
Let's face it - if you're going to France, you just have to enjoy all of the food and drink on offer.
ATIA unveils finalists for the 2024 National Travel Industry Awards People’s Choice Award
We don't like picking favourites, so we are glad that someone else has this difficult job.
William Inglis Hotel MGallery hosts star-studded ‘Pink October’ event for McGrath Foundation
It's a cause so close to many of our hearts... Amazing work from the team at William Inglis Hotel.
RACV & Neighbourhood Watch Victoria’s safety tips as Caravan theft hits 10 year high
And it's not like you can hide a caravan under a hoodie and disappear into the crowd.
TADA launches in Melbourne to celebrate travel agents’ vital role
We're wondering if they got all the experts in the room first then open the door, and unveil the gathering with 'Ta-da'.
Holland America Line celebrates the holiday season with festive food and beverage menus
Please ensure you don't get your spiked and non-alc eggnogs mixed up. It could get ugly.
Perth welcomes tourism experts to the opening of The World Travel & Tourism Council summit
Perth gets big brownie points for scoring this summit, and the city is shining at its very best at the moment.
Runaway Bay Motor Inn on the Gold Coast for sale after three decades of ownership
If you've been thinking about a change of career, perhaps owning a 40-room motel on the Gold Coast could be for you.
Italian National Tourist Board promotes ‘Roots Tourism’ in Melbourne
Is there anywhere better to announce a brand new tourism campaign... Other than Sydney, of course.
Safari Guru offers peace of mind when going on African Adventures
The Top Five around our office: office dogs Luna, Chompy, Mei mei, & Poppy, an Indian minor and a daddy long legs.
Seafood Excellence winners launch new sea-to-plate menu onboard Luxe Island Seafood Cruise
A day at sea with the best seafood WA has to offer, from the sea to your plate. What are you waiting for!
Qantas offers flights from Cyprus to help get Australians home from Lebanon
Free flights on Qantas Boeing 787 out of Cyprus will bring home up to 440 Australians.
35 per cent base salary increase part of Virgin Australia pilots new enterprise agreement
Virgin Australia pilots have overwhelmingly voted in favour of a new enterprise agreement that delivers substantial improvements to their pay and working conditions, following 15 months of negotiations. The new agreement guarantees a 35 per cent base salary increase in the first year, followed by 3 per cent annual increases and includes industry-leading lifestyle and […]
Brisbane makes top 10 list of trending global destinations for 2025
Given this 'demand' is driven by Millennial and Gen Z travellers, this may change tomorrow - or today.
Emirates announces partnership with Etihad Clean Energy Development
Emirates is going solar... Even its planes can’t say no to a bit of fun in the sun!
Australia’s best & worst international airline food rankings: Who’s on top?
Now matter how often you fly, the foil wrapper is always lifted with anticipation, sometimes followed by indigestion.
Insure&Go warns Aussies of costly travel insurance mistakes as international travel surges
We wonder what other countries need to be warned about alcohol overconsumption clauses... The Irish may get a start!
Shipshape start to the South Australian 2024-25 cruise season
The food of Kangaroo Island, the wine of Clare Valley and wrapping their lips around pronouncing Fleurieu Peninsula.
PROFILE: Tony Wheeler, Lonely Planet founder and constant traveller
No doubt he's covered a few miles and has a few million frequent flyer points. Passports? He's probably had a few too.
Hotel, flight bookings spike as fans head to grand finals, aka Katy Perry and Kid Laroi concerts
Three-peat was pushing it, and four-peat would be just ridiculous. We are talking of the made-up word, not the stat.
Explora Journeys unveils marine photography exhibition by Prince Hussain Aga Khan aboard EXPLORA II
We'd be setting up a 'cameras for sale' stand outside the gallery because we're certain guests are going to be inspired!
Wendy Wu Tours unveils new Namibia Adventure tour
Wendy Wu is spreading her wings to the wilds of Africa, so our animal instincts predict amazing itins.
Air Vanuatu set to fly again after court decides to allow restructure
The news gives us hope that perhaps one of our recently defunct carriers may get a second life, albeit unlikely.
Riviera Travel River Cruises launches early bird sale for 2026
We hope there is a not a set of scales on these cruises, or a weight limit on the ships for that matter.
Qatar Airways expands to Canada with launch of Toronto flights
Qatar's going from strength to strength at the moment. The same can't be said for our progress in the gym...
ATIA wins big with federal inquiry into tourism and international education
We're generally used to hearing about the negatives coming out of a Federal inquiry, so this is a nice change of tune.
Silversea announces development of the southernmost hotel on earth
Staying at this hotel is going to be absolutely terrifying if you are a flat earther!
Auckland and Rotorua launch ‘2 Easy’ campaign to attract Aussies
As an Aussie, we do feel very seen by this campaign. Thank you New Zealand.