If you’ve already visited Tokyo or Kyoto and are looking for something “more authentically Japanese,” then Ouchi-juku in Minamiaizu, Fukushima, is the perfect place.
Dating back to the Edo period (early 17th to mid-19th century), Ouchi-juku prospered as a key post town on the route connecting Aizu-Wakamatsu and Nikko Imaichi. Today, the thatched-roof houses still line the old highway, making it a living village where history and daily life continue side by side.
- Strolling Through Ouchi-juku｜Where Edo History Lives On
- Ouchi-juku Food Experience｜Handmade Soba, Negi Soba & Walnut Soba
- Cafés and Souvenir Shops｜Sweets, Crafts & Hands-on Fun
- Ouchi-juku from Above｜A Must-See Viewpoint & Photo Spot
- Recommended Spots Near Ouchi-juku
- Attractions of Ouchi-juku｜A Trip to Edo, Soba, and a Spectacular View all in One!
- Basic Information
Strolling Through Ouchi-juku｜Where Edo History Lives On
About an hour’s drive from Aizu-Wakamatsu, you’ll find a street lined with traditional thatched-roof houses. Unlike open-air museums, Ouchi-juku is still home to local residents who run shops and restaurants in the same historic buildings.
In 1981, the village was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. Locals continue to follow the motto “Do not sell, do not rent, do not destroy,” ensuring the historic landscape and thatching skills are passed on to future generations.
Ouchi-juku Food Experience｜Handmade Soba, Negi Soba & Walnut Soba
One of the highlights of Ouchi-juku is its handmade soba noodles. The most famous is Negi Soba, where a whole green onion is used as both chopsticks and garnish. It’s usually served cold with toppings like grated daikon, bonito flakes, and seaweed, though some shops also offer a warm version. At first it feels tricky, but the sharp bite of the onion enhances the flavor of the soba, turning the meal into both a taste and a memory.
Another specialty is Walnut Soba, served with a rich, nutty walnut dipping sauce. Creamy yet savory, it offers a completely different flavor from Negi Soba, letting you experience the diversity of soba culture in Ouchi-juku.
Cafés and Souvenir Shops｜Sweets, Crafts & Hands-on Fun
Take a break at a café for freshly brewed coffee, unique fried manju (sweet buns), or cakes made with local ingredients. Relaxing with a sweet treat in a traditional setting is part of the experience.
Souvenir shops sell a wide range of Aizu crafts, folk art, and handmade accessories. Some also offer painting workshops for Akabeko or Okiagari Koboshi dolls, a fun activity for both kids and adults. You’ll also find shops selling local sake, perfect as a gift or to enjoy at home.
Ouchi-juku from Above｜A Must-See Viewpoint & Photo Spot
At the far end of the village, a short climb up the hillside leads to a viewpoint overlooking the entire Ouchi-juku. From here, the row of thatched-roof houses framed by mountains looks like a scene from a historical painting.
The view changes dramatically with the seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and snow-covered rooftops in winter. It’s also the best place for photography, giving you the iconic panoramic shot of Ouchi-juku. This viewpoint is a must-see for every visitor.
Recommended Spots Near Ouchi-juku
Make your trip even better by exploring nearby attractions:
- Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle (Tsuruga Castle): A white castle rich with samurai history.
- To-no-Hetsuri: Dramatic rock formations along a river with a suspension bridge.
- Yunokami Onsen: A hot spring area with a rare thatched-roof train station.
Click here for recommended spots in Aizuwakamatsu!
Attractions of Ouchi-juku｜A Trip to Edo, Soba, and a Spectacular View all in One!
Ouchi-juku is more than just a preserved town—it’s a living piece of history. Stroll its Edo-period streets, enjoy handmade soba and local sweets, shop for crafts, and capture breathtaking views.
For repeat visitors who want to go beyond Japan’s usual highlights, Ouchi-juku is a must-see destination that delivers authentic cultural experiences.
Basic Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Ouchi-juku |
| Location | Ouchi, Shimogo Town, Minamiaizu, Fukushima Prefecture |
| Access | 1 hr by car from Aizu-Wakamatsu From Yunokami Onsen Station (Aizu Railway), 20-min bus ride |
| Hours | Open all day (shops generally 9:00–17:00) |
| Closed | Varies by shop |
| Admission | Free |
| Recommended Time | 1–2 hours (half a day if including meals and experiences) |
| Official Website | https://ouchi-juku.com/ |
| Notes | Designated as an Important Preservation District in 1981 / Parking available / Ouchi-juku Snow Festival in February |
