By maxinpower on Skatehive
Whether viewed up close or from a distance—depending on your perspective, the same place can suddenly look completely different. And this is also true for cities, which can sometimes be much more charming and interesting when viewed from afar. This may apply to Aizuwakamatsu as well, a town that forms the center of the Aizu region in western Fukushima Prefecture. Aizuwakamatsu is steeped in tradition, still regarded today as a center of samurai culture and particularly known for Tsuruga-jo Castle and its significant role in the Boshin War. Today, the city combines its eventful history with cultural attractions such as historic samurai residences, sake breweries, and nearby Mount Bandai, making it a popular destination both historically and for its scenery. But when you’re actually walking around the city itself, you realize that its best days may already be behind it. Much of it seems old and a bit empty, although there are also signs that something new is happening here and there. But