Aizu is located in a large basin and is surrounded by many mountains of the low mountain range category. It is famous for the castle Tsuruga-jo there and was one of the last bases of the Tokugawa shogunate during the Boshin wars at the end of the Edo period. After the emperor's troops and their supporters gained power again, the troops of the already abdicated shogun retreated to Aizu, as they could traditionally expect great support in this area. Eventually however, they were defeated after some hard battles and large parts of the city were razed to the ground.

Aizu has retained a bit of a samurai atmosphere even until today, which is due to the rebuilt and recently renovated castle, but also to the various former samurai residences, some of which can be visited. Sure the city tries to uphold the samurai heritage and yes, also to exploit this atmosphere a little bit. Well, people have to live on something. And since it seems to be appreciated, I would say: Why not!

I have been in Aizu several times, and I was able to discover some new places at every visit. There some interesting Sake brewerie to see and even the wider area around Aizu has quite some attractions. So far I was here in spring and late summer, but I think Aizu is worth a visit at any time of the year.