Last Updated: Oct 5, 2023
From Nikko to Aizu
Uncovering a New Route in Northern Japan
Recently, I took part in what is locally referred to as a “monitor tour” to assess the viability of a new route that the government and railway companies are considering. The other participants and I started in Tokyo’s Taito Ward and then made our way up to the southern part of Fukushima’s Aizu region. Ultimately, the trip ended in the historic town of Nikko where the famed Toshogu Shrine resides. While there were certainly some sections of the itinerary that still need work, this monitor tour got me thinking that Aizu and Nikko really do make a wonderful pair of destinations.
Now, as long time readers already know, I’ve already covered the Nikko and Aizu regions of Japan in depth before. So, rather than dive deep into the metaphorical weeds, I want to instead focus on introducing this new route. Though Nikko and Aizu aren’t all too far away from each other as the crow flies, even seasoned domestic tourists are likely unaware of the fact that the two locations are conveniently interlinked via a number of railways. If you want to experience a rarely traveled itinerary, definitely consider my following suggestions for your next trip to Japan.
