Fukushima: Samurai Ethics and Daily Life in Aizu

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2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Discover the historical significance of Tsuruga Castle, the heart of the Aizu domain, on this in-depth guided tour. Delve into the disciplined society of the Aizu samurai, where loyalty and conduct shaped daily life amidst the backdrop of Japan’s Boshin War. As you ascend the castle, explore its architecture that reveals the complexities of power and governance, culminating in scenic views of the land they defended. The journey concludes at Rinkaku, a historic tea house, where you’ll engage in a traditional tea ceremony that embodies the values of calm and control cherished by the samurai.

- Guided exploration of Tsuruga Castle, focusing on Aizu's samurai culture
- Insight into the Boshin War and its impact on Aizu's history
- Participate in a traditional tea ceremony at the historic Rinkaku tea house
- Flexible participation options from Tsuruga Castle or Aizu-Wakamatsu Station

What's Included

Visit to Rinkaku tea house
Guided tour of Tsuruga Castle
Tea & Sweats
Meals
Personal expenses

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point

The tour ends within the Tsuruga Castle grounds, with convenient access to local buses and other transportation.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Tsuruga Castle is the historic center of Aizu and a powerful symbol of samurai rule in northern Japan. Reconstructed on its original site, the castle stands out for its distinctive red roof tiles and strong defensive design. It played a key role during the Boshin War, Japan’s civil conflict at the end of the samurai era, when Aizu forces resisted the new imperial government. Today, the castle offers insight into how a feudal domain was governed, defended, and ultimately transformed at the moment Japan entered the modern age.

    1 hour 10 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 2

    Rinkaku is a historic tea house located within the grounds of Tsuruga Castle and closely associated with the lords of Aizu. Built in the early Edo period, it reflects the deep connection between samurai culture and the practice of tea. For the samurai, tea was not merely a social custom but a disciplined art that emphasized calmness, respect, and self-control. Rinkaku provides a quiet contrast to the castle’s military setting, highlighting the cultural and spiritual values that shaped samurai life.

    40 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by DeepExperience

Tags

Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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