Fukushima is one of Japan’s samurai heartlands, and the “bushido” spirit still lingers in the souls of locals even today. There are dozens of landmarks illustrating this history, including Ouchi-juku, a post-town that accommodated the daimyo of the Aizu Domain during the Edo period; Tsurugajo Castle, one of the final battlefields in the Boshin War between the New Meiji Government and Former Shogunate Army; and Aizu Hanko Nisshinkan, where young warriors would learn the way of the samurai, including the legendary Byakkotai teenage samurai unit.

Also worth considering is the “Diamond Route,” a wide-area tour from Tokyo to Fukushima, Ibaraki, and Tochigi, focusing on spots deeply rooted in samurai culture.

Suggested Itineraries on the Diamond Route

Trail the Path of Japan’s Legendary Samurai:
https://diamondroutejapan.com/thingstodo/samurai-spirit/

Delve Into a Lesser-Known Side of Japanese Samurai Culture:
https://www.jtbusa.com/le/Itin/DMRFukushimaNikkoIbaraki.aspx

Suggested Itineraries for Samurai Experiences

Learn the Way of the Samurai in Aizu-Wakamatsu:
Samurai Education Experience

Australia’s Official Fukushima Prefecture Representatives
For any enquiries regarding Fukushima tourism, please feel free to reach out to
sales_fukushima@nta.com.au or call
Simon Williamson (Australian Attractions): 0438 744 633
Nippon Travel Agency Australia Sydney Office: (02) 9275-9661

Fukushima’s Website for Travel Professionals