A short trip in Oku-Aizu Kanayama-town

Kanayama Town, straight out of a fairy tale, is a magical place full of flowing waters, lush greenery, and delicious local food.
After an evening shower, mist often drifts through the town, creating a dreamy, foggy atmosphere.
Take a short detour through Kanayama Town as you drive to Oku-Aizu in late summer and experience its charm for yourself.

Take your mind off daily life in the art museum

The Yousei Museum, located by Lake Numasawa in Kanayama Town, is a rare fairy-themed museum in Japan. According to legend, “a giant snake that once lived in Lake Numasawa was punished long ago by the Aizu domain lord,” and this mythical creature is said to be connected to Japanese fairies.

Step into the European-style museum, nestled among forest flowers, and you’ll be greeted by valuable documents about fairies, as well as stunning illustrations and dolls collected by researcher Kimie Imura.

The museum becomes even more magical when soft afternoon sunlight streams through the stained glass. In addition to its permanent and special exhibitions, you can admire stained glass and bronze statues inspired by the original illustrations of Yoshitaka Amano. This museum is a dream destination for fantasy fans, but it’s also enjoyable for anyone, even if you’re new to the world of fantasy.

　Yousei Museum

Address: 2765 Oaza Ookuriyama Kitsuneana, Kanayama-cho, Onuma-gun
Tel: 0241-55-3180
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (until November 10)
Closed: Every Wednesday
Admission: 300 yen (Adults), 200 yen (Elementary & Junior High Students)

Please check the opening hours in advance, as they may change.

A short trip in Oku-Aizu Kanayama-town

Don’t miss TOFU in Kaneyama-town!

“Aoba to Mame” (Green Leaves and Beans) is a local dialect from the Tamanashi District, referring to edamame (green soybeans). Made from carefully selected beans and the century-old waters of Oku-Aizu, this tofu has a delicate greenish hue. It has been featured in the media several times, and some customers even travel all the way from the Tokyo metropolitan area to taste it.

Upper-left: Yosedofu (fresh tofu)
Upper Middle: Soy milk
Right: Namaage (thick fried tofu)
Middle: Okara (bean curds refuse) seasoned with beans
Lower-left: Aoba-dofu (soybean tofu)
Lower-middle: Bean ice cream
Lower-right: Okara doughnut

You can enjoy a variety of tofu dishes, including Namaage, Yosedofu, and Okara, in their signature course meal, “Tamanashi-gozen.” As you taste the warm yosedofu, the sweet aroma of soybeans fills the air, and the quality of the beans and Oku-Aizu’s pure water truly comes through.

The Okara doughnut is also a hit at their mobile vending service. Its fluffy texture and gentle sweetness make it hard to resist—though enjoying a fresh one in the shop is highly recommended!

　Tamanashi Tofu Chaya

Address: 363 Tamanashi, Kanayama Town, Onuma-gun
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Open: Every day of the year