Aizu, Historical region in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan.
Aizu is a historical region in the western part of Fukushima Prefecture, extending across mountainous terrain near the Tadami River. The area connects several valleys and towns with forested slopes and rice fields spreading between the mountains.
The area once belonged to Mutsu Province and became the Aizu Domain during the Edo period, with a castle in Aizuwakamatsu serving as the center of power. The domain played an important role later during the political upheavals of the 19th century.
The red papier-mâché cows called Akabeko are local charms found in many shops and workshops across the area. Visitors often watch traditional craftspeople making and painting these figures using old techniques.
The Tadami train runs through the area and stops at several stations from which you can reach sites and hiking trails. In winter the area is often deeply covered in snow, so bring warm clothing and proper footwear.
The amount of snow during winter can become very high here and sometimes cover entire buildings. Some villages use traditional wooden structures to protect rooftops from the weight of the snow load.
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