Recommended course

This route takes you to historic buildings and some of the best autumn viewpoints in southern Tohoku.

You can drive through colorful fall foliage in Fukushima and visit notable historic structures such as Tsuruga-jo Castle and Ouchijuku.

Recommended course

Day 1
Sendai Airport


約2H


Bandai Azuma Lake Line


約1H


Nakatsugawa Gorge


約2H30min


Goshiki-numa Ponds


約2H30min


Tsuruga Castle


約1H30min


Aizu Higashiyama Onsen
Day 2
Sazaedo


約1H45min


Ouchi-Juku


約1H45min


To-no-Hetsuri


約1H45min


Yukiwari Bridge


約1H45min


Lake Hatori
Day 3
Nanko Park


約1H30min


Tanagura Castle Ruins


約1H30min


Yamamoto Fudoson


約4H


Sendai Airport

Recommendation tourist attraction

Day 1

This sightseeing toll road links Bandai Kogen and Bandai-Azuma Skyline. The scenic point, Sanko Paradise is popular for the view it affords of the three Urabandai lakes: Lake Hibara, Lake Akimoto, and Lake Onogawa. At Nakatsugawa Gorge encountered along the way, you can delight in the amazing beauty of the gorge during seasons showcasing spring greenery and fall leaves.


The beautiful gorge full of natural beauty runs from Mt. Azuma to Lake Akimoto. Known as a scenic spot for viewing autumn colors, it is cool and comfortable even in summer. The gorge is just 15 min. from the Resthouse, and a trekking course follows along the gorge from the banks of Lake Akimoto.


Located on the northern side of Mt. Bandai, Fukushima’s symbol, the cluster of lakes and ponds is a picturesque spot where each pond has a different color, such as azure, blue, or green.


Said to have been discovered by Buddhist priest Gyoki about 1,300 years ago, the historic hot spring resort was loved by many literally figures, poets, and artists such as Akiko Yosano. Japanese inns line both sides of the river that flows through the village, creating a special resort atmosphere.


Day 2

The unique double helix slope is an exceptional feature of this hexagonal, 3-storey pagoda. The construction of separate one-way ascending/descending passages is a globally rare architectural style. In the past, it is said there were 33 Kanon images along the slope.


This old post town was established around 1640. The street is lined with traditional thatched-roof houses, preserving the original village scenery.


The gorge was created through repeated erosion and weathering over the course of a million years. The tower-shaped cliffs make a picturesque sight.


This red, arch-shaped iron bridge stretches over the gorge near the headwaters of Abukuma River. In winter, when you look out from the bridge, it appears as if a blanket of snow has divided the river flow of the gorge, giving rise to the name, "Yukiwari." The landscape is picture perfect when new leaves sprout in spring and when the entire area turns fiery red in fall.


A manmade lake created by damming up Tsurunuma River, Lake Hatori boasts the largest reservoir area and capacity in Japan. "Hatori" is the name of a former community that lies at the bottom of the lake. There are camping sites and cycling courses in the vicinity, which has been developed as a resort area.


Day 3

The contrast between greenery and the lake is beautiful in this park, which was created by the wise and celebrated leader, Sadanobu Matsudaira. It is said to be the oldest park in Japan. "Kyorakutei" is a teahouse built by Sadanobu so that he could enjoy tea with residents. It still stands preserved in an area of the park.


Nagashige Niwa, lord of the Tanagura Domain, built a castle in 1624. Until it fell in war, it was home to 8 families and 16 generations (a span of 244 years) that governed this land. Its spring water moat was a rarity in Japan. In fall, the autumn leaves are reflected in the moat, making a beautiful scene.


Pass through an avenue of cedar trees more than 100 years old and Yamamoto Fudoson appears. Its origin story began when Kobo Daishi built a fire altar and prayed for the exorcism of the evil spirits dwelling on Mt. Yamizo during his pilgrimage in Tohoku. Next door is Yamamoto Park where you can fully enjoy nature throughout the year. (There is also a walkway that follows along the gorge.)