A fairytale town hidden in the mountainside: Japan’s must-visit “Fukushima version of Shirakawa-go” — Ouchi-juku

▲ Placing boxes of drinks in the stream to cool them down is a special summer scene in Ouchi-juku.

Set aside at least half a day to leisurely stroll through Ouchi-juku — it’s the most recommended way to enjoy this place. As the seasons change, the colors of the four seasons spread from the mountains into the village, offering a different face no matter when you visit. Walking along the streets, some of the thatched-roof houses are restaurants serving the famous leek soba noodles, while others set aside a corner at their entrance to display various locally made handicrafts. Because the water here is clear and cool, many shops in summer will submerge boxes of drinks in the stream flowing past their storefronts to chill them, selling them right there — a unique summer scene in the village.

▲ From the observation deck, you can get a full view of Ouchi-juku.

If you want to take in the full view of Ouchi-juku, walk straight to the end of the main street, climb up a flight of stone steps into the shaded area, and you’ll find an observation deck from which you can admire the scenery of Ouchi-juku from a high vantage point — it’s the most popular photo spot.

Ouchi-juku
Address: Yamamoto, Ouchi, Shimogo Town, Minamiaizu District, Fukushima Prefecture
Access: Get off at Yumoto Onsen Station on the Aizu Railway Aizu Line, then transfer to a shuttle bus (approx. 20 minutes)
Business Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM