PREMIUM FUKUSHIMA TOUR with PANCAKE

09:00 Aizu Bukeyashiki: Exploring Aizu’s History at an Outdoor Museum

Day two started with a trip to Aizu Bukeyashiki, where the history of Aizu comes to life. Exploring the expansive recreation of a samurai residence is an opportunity to experience the history and culture of the Aizu clan. In particular, the traditional tools and architectural details offered endless surprises.

Pancake was impressed by the experience, “I’d never seen a samurai residence with such heritage before. I could truly feel the stories and sense of history.” The other participants were equally enthusiastic, with one stating, “It’s great to have somewhere where you can experience this type of history.” Another remarked, “You get a real insight into how samurai lived and their value system.”Reflecting on the rich history of this place, for a moment, everyone was transported back to the Aizu of hundreds of years ago.

10:30 Akabeko Painting Workshop: Making Traditional Local Toys in Aizu

Aizu Bukeyashiki hosts workshops for visitors to paint their own Akabeko, regional red bull toys believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune, and cherished by Fukushima locals. Participants can give their Akabeko their own truly unique design.

Pancake soon lost herself in her creative brushstrokes, “I like flowers, so I’m adding some to my design. This is an activity that anyone can enjoy, no matter their age.” Holding their completed Akabeko, one participant proclaimed, “It’s one-of-a-kind. I made a memento that means a lot to me!” Another effused, “It’s great to experience traditional culture from Fukushima while also letting my own creativity shine!”In this serene setting, each person crafted their own unique Akabeko unlike any other in the world.

14:00 Tsurugajo Castle: A Walk Around One of Aizu’s Symbolic Sights

In the afternoon, the group headed to Tsurugajo Castle. Known as “the Impregnable Fortress,” it made for a breathtaking sight. In the snow-covered scene, the red roof tiles made to withstand the harsh cold created a beautiful contrast against the white walls. It is easy to see why this is one of Aizu’s most symbolic places.

“This is my first time seeing Tsurugajo Castle, and the falling snow made it all the more beautiful,” said Pancake. According to one participant, “As someone traveling here from overseas, it’s a very unique historic building. No matter what angle you take a picture from, it looks like a work of art.”

16:30 Hotel: Relaxing at Mercure Urabandai Resort & Spa

Day two concluded with the group’s arrival at Mercure Urabandai Resort & Spa, nestled amidst the abundant nature of Urabandai. This resort hotel surrounded by expanses of nature was the ideal setting for everyone to enjoy some relaxation.

The evening buffet included a wondrous array of Aizu soul food, including sauce katsudon and the area’s famous soup, kozuyu. “The buffet had such a wide variety, we were able to enjoy local flavors to our hearts’ content,” explains one smiling participant. “In particular, I had never had kozuyu before. It had a delicate, comforting taste.” Pancake was also embracing the delicious food, relaxing room and soothing hot springs, “The hot springs felt great, it just washed all my tiredness away. I was able to truly relax.”

08:30 Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain: Fun in the Snow - No Gear? No Problem!

The morning of day three began on the slopes of Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain. Spanning the north and south sides of Mt. Nekomadake, it is one of Japan’s largest ski slopes. Items such as skis and ski wear are available for rental, so enjoying the slopes is a breeze, even without packing any gear in advance. The adults and children in the group enjoyed some sledding together.

Given Thailand’s warm climate, some members of the group were seeing a ski slope for the first time. Many seemed to be enjoying the snow as if they were children again. “It’s so exciting to be on a snowy mountain for the first time,” proclaimed one visitor. Another added, “Skiing looks tricky, but sledding was fun right away. It’s the best! I went down again and again!” Pancake gave the resort her seal of approval, “This is a paradise for anyone looking for activities in the snow! It’s an ideal ski resort because you can really enjoy it your way.”

13:00 Michi-no-Eki-Mae Inawashiro Strawberry Farm: All the Sumptuous, Sweet Strawberries You Can Eat

After lunch, the next stop was Michi-no-Eki-Mae Inawashiro Strawberry Farm, where strawberry picking is available all year round. The advanced air conditioning system enables visitors to enjoy strawberry picking in comfort whenever they visit. The real thrill, however, is being able to pick multiple types of strawberries and trying them there and then.

Pancake was eagerly digging in, “These strawberries are sweet and refreshing, I could go on eating them forever!” Some children were even picking until their trays were overflowing, then refilling them over and over again. “Picking big, bright red strawberries to eat yourself is the kind of lavish experience you only find in Japan,” said one particularly impressed participant. The deliciously ripe bright red strawberries certainly seemed to put smiles on the faces of the group.

17:30 Hotel: A Taste of Kaiseki Cuisine at Ujo no Yado Shintsuta

That evening, the group arrived at Ujo no Yado Shintsuta, a hotel with a connection with Ujo Noguchi, a Japanese poet renowned for writing numerous children’s songs. After everyone had changed into their yukata, they got a taste of traditional kaiseki cuisine made with an abundance of local ingredients as they reminisced about the last three days of the tour.

The Japanese hospitality left a profound impression on Pancake, “I was impressed by the Japanese-style meals for both dinner and breakfast. At this hotel, you can really take in the ambiance of Japan.” One participant familiar with Japan also remarked, “I love the scenery, people and hot springs in Japan.” Everyone left thoroughly impressed by the hospitality they had received.

09:30 Aquamarine Fukushima: One of Tohoku’s Biggest Immersive Aquariums

The final day kicked off at the environmental aquarium Aquamarine Fukushima. Based around the theme of Fukushima’s distinctive “Shiome no Umi” (Sea of Converging Currents), the aquarium is home to about 800 species, making it one of Tohoku’s biggest aquariums. On this day, it was bustling with both local people and tourists.

Pancake loves aquariums, “When I go to other countries, I enjoy seeing sea life that I can’t find in Thailand.” She was not alone, as the aquarium also drew looks of wonder from the other visitors.

11:40 Iwaki Lalamew: Enjoying a Fresh Seafood Lunch

The last stop on the tour was Iwaki Lalamew, Iwaki City’s tourism and product center right next to Aquamarine Fukushima. Packed with restaurants serving fresh seafood and souvenir stores stocked with various goods, including marine products, this facility is a must visit for anyone coming to Iwaki City.

As Pancake perused the bustling facility’s stores and indulged in some tasty delights, she remarked, “This place is full of all things Iwaki, and you can enjoy some great seafood too.” Another equally satisfied participant shared, “We had a seafood rice bowl for lunch. The sashimi was fresh and piled high! It was so good!” In the free time after lunch, everyone made the most of the opportunity to pick up some local specialties as souvenirs.

After visiting Iwaki Lalamew, the group were to take a chartered coach ride to Haneda Airport. As the tour came to an end, the guide expressed their gratitude to the participants, “This trip has once again opened my eyes to Fukushima’s many charms. I’ll always treasure the memories we’ve made together, and I hope to meet you again someday.” Moved by these heartfelt words, the group erupted into cheers.

To address any concerns about radiation levels in Fukushima Prefecture following the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011, the guide reassured participants by discussing the region’s reconstruction efforts and explained that ambient radiation levels across Fukushima are nearly on par with those of major cities across the globe.

Pancake was both surprised and impressed to learn that Aquamarine Fukushima, which had been devastated by the massive 2011 tsunami, reopened just four months after the disaster—a testament to the region’s resilience.

Reflecting on her experience, she summed up her thoughts, “Fukushima’s charm lies in its rich nature and history. I was also amazed by just how kind the local people were. Having enjoyed Fukushima’s snowy landscapes, I can’t wait to come back and see it in the other seasons.”