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Aizu Ashinomaki Hot Spring Resort Hotel Ookawaso

Ashinomaki hot spring is located along the Okawa River valley, where the rapidstream had created strange rocks and cliffs, and is said to have been opened about 1,200 years ago. Facing the Agawa River, "Ookawaso" is a hot spring ryokan where guests can enjoy the beauty of the valley from their guest rooms and outdoor hot spring baths.

• Fukushima
• Inns

I stayed here in January 2023.
The moment I stepped inside, it felt like entering another world.
The atmosphere was amazing, especially being welcomed by the sound of the shamisen. I was genuinely moved!

*The live performance is only from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. When there’s no performance, you can take photos on the floating stage.

The newly renovated, modern-style room was stylish and relaxing, with great attention to the furniture and interior design.
The hot spring water quality was excellent, and the views were fantastic. There’s also a low-temperature sauna, so I went to the baths several times during my stay.
Just a heads-up: the open-air bath in the separate building is a bit far and takes some time to get to (lots of stairs).

It’s also only about a 30-minute drive to major Aizu attractions like Tsuruga Castle and Ouchi-juku, so I highly recommend this place!

Lake District of Goshikinuma

An explosion of steam gave birth to hundreds of lakes and ponds in 1888. About 30 of large and small lakes such as Bishamon, Aka, Midoro, Tatsu, and Benten are called Goshikinuma Ponds, which won 1-star in the Michelin Green Guide in 2016.

• Fukushima
• Nature Spots

I joined a snowshoe tour to Goshikinuma in winter, organized by Urabandai Lake Resort. You can rent all the gear, so you don't need to bring anything. The guide explained how to use the snowshoes in detail.

As you walk through the snowy path, you’ll come across the beautiful Goshikinuma. Along the way, I spotted animal tracks and even saw some lively squirrels!

Enjoying maple syrup dropped onto the snow and a warm cup of tea while taking in the scenery was just perfect.

The round trip is about 2.5 km and takes around two hours at a relaxed pace, so it's safe and even people who don't usually exercise can enjoy it.

I loved seeing the beautiful colors of Goshikinuma, which change depending on the weather, sunlight, and angle that day!

Ouchi-juku

More than 30 thatched-roof homes stand in Ouchi-juku, where the townscape still reflects the Edo-Period. It used to prosper as a post station along the former Aizu West Highway 400 years ago.

• Fukushima
• Famous Places

This is a post town that still retains the atmosphere of the Edo period.
I visited in January when it was covered in snow, and it was so magical and beautiful. Around 9 a.m. on a weekday, it was quiet and almost empty, which made for a peaceful experience.

If you follow the road, you'll find some stairs leading up to an observation deck where you can get a great photo of the whole Ouchi-juku area. Be careful in winter, though—the stairs can be covered in snow and sometimes you can't climb them.

The souvenir shops were really kind, offering hot tea and being very welcoming. I didn't have time to stop this time, but I remember the 'negi soba' I had on a previous visit was absolutely delicious!