Our headquarters are located in the Aizu area of Fukushima Prefecture, a mountainous region near Niigata Prefecture. The climate is similar to that of Niigata, and in the winter the area is known for its heavy snowfall.
The area is the home to rich history and culture, and boundless natural beauty, and it was the stage for a great many famous historical figures.
Some examples of things to see in Fukushima include the incredible year-round view from the top of Mount Bandai, which looks over the Aizu area; Oze National Park, known as one of Japan’s 100 most beautiful landscapes; and Lake Inawashiro, Japan’s fourth-biggest lake.
Visitors can also enjoy the traditional buildings that line Nanokamachi Street and the streets of Ouchi-juku, or watch the traditional Hinoemata Kabuki (which has been performed here since the Edo period.) After a long day, weary travelers can rest their tired muscles in one of the many onsens.
Aizu was the birthplace of yellow fever researcher Hideyo Noguchi, and visitors will also find Iimori Hill, where the teenaged Byakkotai warriors took their own lives during the Boshin civil war. It was the hometown of Niijima Yae (birth name: Yamamoto), known in Japan as the Edo Period Jeanne d’Arc, and Tsuruga Castle can be found here – that symbol of Aizu past and present. There is no end to the sights.
The food is another reason to visit Aizu.
The area is home to two rice varieties – Aizu-Koshihikari and Aizu-Hitomebore – both of which are recognized as extremely high-quality rice (ranked “Special A”) by the Japan Grain Inspection Association.
But that’s not all – this inland area is home to local cuisines that truly reflect the area and the produce grown here. Examples of Aizu’s rich culinary culture include kozuyu, a traditional samurai dish eaten at special events and made from dried scallop soup stock; herring sanshozuke, which pairs well with Aizu’s delicious sakes; Aizu soba and manju tempura; red meat basashi served with spicy miso; and Aizu’s famous sauce katsudon and Kitakata ramen. And if you need a break from your trip, why not stop by a chic, retro-style café?
Aizu is a place where all are welcome. Whether you are visiting from elsewhere in Japan or coming from overseas, whether you are a history lover or a food connoisseur, Aizu has something for you.
Please contact us for information on food products you are interested in.
