Arrived at Aizu-Tajima Station at 10:42 on the AIZU Mount Express! The Aizu-Tajima Station Plaza building is attached, and it is a directly managed station. In 2002, this station was recognized as one of the 100 best in the Tohoku region for its comprehensive functionality and abundant information about the Minamiaizu region.

First, we went to Kokken Sake Brewery, a sake brewery in Minamiaizu. The impressive gate stands out. The shop owner, with his lovely smile, recommended some sake that’s mild and easy to drink, so I bought some as a souvenir. I'm looking forward to drinking it!

For lunch, we went to Cafe JI-MAMA, located across from the Kokken Sake Brewery. The stylish interior is picturesque no matter where you look! They recommended the waterless chicken curry and scones. The curry was excellent with tender meat. The scones are made using cream from the local Kaneko Farm. I’d love to go back.

There’s a pleasant aroma in the air when you enter the store. Essential oils made in Minamiaizu are available to purchase here. You can even create your own original blend! They also have cute goods and healthy herbal teas to soothe your soul!

Take the 12:56 train from Aizu-Tajima Station to To-no-hetsuri, a national natural monument. This scenic spot features a series of strangely shaped rocks that have existed for a million years. It's very impressive. You can also cross the bridge in the middle to get to the other side. I definitely want to come here during the autumn leaves season!

Next, we headed to our accommodation for the night, Yunokami Onsen. The thatched roof gives the building a nostalgic atmosphere. There is a hearth in the waiting room where you can relax. From here we depart for our lodging for the night!

Today we went to Nishikiya in the Yunokami Onsen area, an inn with an impressive Japanese garden. The stylish retro interior reflects the owner's attention to detail. The small plates used for our food also seemed carefully selected. The first day ends with a delicious meal and a soak in the hot springs.

The second day of the trip begins with a foot bath at Yunokami Onsen Station. Waiting for the train isn’t boring here! From here, we took the Retro Bus Saruyu-go to Ouchijuku!

Ouchijuku has been designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings by the national government. It's like going back in time! Enjoy the atmosphere of the post-station town while touring the shops.

Enjoy some desserts at the traditional Japanese cafe "Bunke Tamaya." This roll cake made with rice flour is lightly sweet and chewy. The interior of the store is spacious and relaxing. You'll want to try all kinds of different desserts!

Now that we've had your fill, it's time to go for a walk! Just looking at the scenery of the flowing stream and traditional craft sales is exciting.

Ouchijuku is famous for "Negi Soba," a dish that is eaten with a single green onion used as chopsticks. Eating Takato soba while munching on green onion chopsticks is an experience you can only find in Ouchijuku!

Once you've had your fill, head to the observation point! You can enjoy a panoramic view of Ouchijuku! We took the 3:12 pm Saruyu-go Bus to Yunokami Onsen Station.