Continuing to Aizu-Wakamatsu with the Cat Train

From Nikko, the journey goes through the mountains on a special train. The Aizu Line takes you all the way to Aizuwakamatsu. It travels through very mountainous and densely wooded terrain, passing various attractions. The train itself is also an attraction.

I got off at To no Hetsuri to see the famous rock formations. They are very tall and unusual.
From there, I continued on towards Yunokami Onsen. In this region, there are many signs warning of bears, as they are still quite common in Japan's mountains. I might have even heard one, but didn't see anything.
Along the way, I also passed by a nice shrine and an interesting mushroom. Additionally, there is a great view of the river from the bridge.

Upon arriving in Yunokami Onsen, there is a foot onsen where you can refresh your feet in hot water, especially in this dreary weather. This was definitely needed after I walked uphill to Ouchi-juku.

Ouchi-juku is an old and small village in the mountains that serves more or less as a tourist attraction. There are many souvenir shops, but they also offer a special meal. I tried this. The Negi Soba is eaten with a leek (Negi) instead of chopsticks. This way, you can enjoy the fresh leek along with your meal. Furthermore, some cultural history is displayed in an old house, including the various types and levels of roofing craftsmanship.

In Aizuwakamatsu itself, I was only there briefly and visited the beautiful castle. In Japan, there are often regional manhole covers, as can be seen here in Aizuwakamatsu.