Aizu-Wakamatsu, also known as Samurai City, is one of the best places in Japan to experience samurai history firsthand. It’s home to Tsuruga Castle, the last stronghold of the Aizu samurai during the Boshin War, and offers plenty of ways to dive into samurai culture.

Tsuruga Castle

Tsuruga Castle is a key site in Aizu’s history, especially during the late 1800s when samurai fought to defend it. The original castle was destroyed, but the reconstructed version gives a great look into Aizu’s past.

• Castle Museum – Learn about the history of the castle and its role in Japan’s civil war.

• Samurai Armor & Sword Experience – Rent replica armor and a katana for photos.

• Tea at Rinkaku Tea House – A traditional tea house built by a famous tea master during the samurai era.

• Sakura Season (Spring Only) – The castle grounds are one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in April.

• Night Illumination (Seasonal) – The castle is lit up at night during special events.

Samurai Experiences in Aizu-Wakamatsu

1. Samurai Sword Fighting Lesson

• Where: Tsuruga Castle Grounds or Aizu Samurai School

• Cost: 3,500–6,000 yen

• Time: 30–60 minutes

A hands-on lesson in samurai sword techniques, taught by experts. Great for anyone who wants to try real katana moves.

2. Samurai Armor & Photo Experience

• Where: Tsuruga Castle or Aizu Bukeyashiki

• Cost: 2,000–5,000 yen

• Time: 20–40 minutes

Dress up in full samurai armor, complete with a helmet and sword, and take photos at the castle or a traditional samurai house.

3. Byakkotai Graves & Iimoriyama

• Where: Iimoriyama Hill

• Cost: Free (some small shrine fees)

• Time: ~1 hour

This is the site where the Byakkotai (White Tiger Corps), a group of young samurai, took their own lives after believing their castle had fallen. Their story is one of the most well-known in samurai history, and their graves are a moving place to visit.

4. Aizu Bukeyashiki (Samurai Mansion)

• Where: 10 minutes from Tsuruga Castle

• Cost: ~850 yen

• Time: ~1 hour

This was the home of a high-ranking Aizu samurai and gives a detailed look into samurai life, including tatami rooms, weapon displays, and even an old execution ground.

Aizu’s Samurai-Style Sake

Aizu is known for its sake brewing traditions, which date back to the time when samurai ruled the area. Two great places to try local sake are:

• Suehiro Sake Brewery – Free tours and tastings

• Tsurunoe Sake Brewery – The oldest sake brewery in Aizu

Both places offer tastings and a chance to learn how sake was made in the samurai era.