This video takes viewers on a summer journey through Oku-Aizu (奥会津), a picturesque region in western Fukushima Prefecture renowned for its lush natural beauty and tranquil, rural Japanese landscapes. The trip highlights several scenic spots and local experiences, making for an inspiring guide for anyone planning to explore this less-traveled gem of Japan.

The adventure begins at Kaneyama Fureai Plaza (かねやまふれあい広場), a local community space ideal for a scenic break. Next, viewers are introduced to the mystical Mugenkyō no Watashi (霧幻峡の渡し)—a ferry crossing on the fog-laden Tadami River. The ethereal view of the river shrouded in mist is a striking example of Oku-Aizu’s allure, and riding the ferry offers a rare, immersive way to take in these stunning landscapes.

The video continues westward along the Tadami Line, stopping at the Daiichi Tadami River Bridge Viewpoint (第一只見川橋梁ビューポイント). This location is famed for providing the classic photo opportunity of trains passing gracefully over the bridge with lush mountains and river below—a scene loved by photographers worldwide. Culinary and cultural highlights include local dining at Bebē Shokudō (べーべ食堂) and the bakery Pan Kobo Akabeko (ぱん工房あかべこ), along with traditional sweets from Koike Kashiho (小池菓子舗).

Places of interest also include the tranquil accommodation at Soryū no Yado Kawachi (瀞流の宿かわち), Lucky Park in Yanaizu (ラッキー公園 in やないづまち) for outdoor recreation, and important cultural stops such as the Fukumitsu Kokūzō Bosatsu Reiganzen Enzō-ji Temple (福満虚空蔵菩薩 霊厳山圓藏寺) and the Saitō Kiyoshi Art Museum (斎藤清美術館). Each destination offers a deeper appreciation of the area’s natural and cultural richness. Oku-Aizu and the Tadami Line region provide one of Japan’s best combinations of dramatic scenery, rural tranquility, and authentic local hospitality.

Getting to Oku-Aizu is easiest via train—particularly the Tadami Line, which is itself a highlight of any trip. The route passes through mountainous terrain and along rivers, allowing passengers to take in unspoiled forested vistas and rural villages. For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path Japanese summer route surrounded by pristine nature and friendly locals, this video gives practical inspiration and concrete itinerary ideas.