What is the Aizu Painted Candle Festival
The Aizu Painted Candle Festival is a traditional winter event in Japan. Held in the city of Aizuwakamatsu, the festival celebrates the exquisite artistry of hand-painted candles, a craft that has been around for over 500 years.
The candles featured in the event aren’t your everyday candles—they’re carefully decorated with bright, blooming floral patterns. Many years ago, these candles were treasured gifts for the shogunate. Today, they carry a deeper meaning, bringing a sense of warmth to the winter season in the region.
During the festival, thousands of these candles are placed across historic spots, their flickering light dancing against the snow.
Here are some of the highlights of the Aizu Painted Candle Festival:
- Tsuruga Castle Illumination – The castle grounds are the main attraction, with candle displays that make the old stone walls pop against the snow.
- Oyakuen Garden Display – In this traditional garden, the colorful candles sit near the pond to create beautiful reflections on the water.
- Panoramic Views – You can head to the top of the castle to look down at the huge glowing patterns made by thousands of lights.
- City-Wide Participation – Smaller displays of the painted candles are set all over town, including at the local train station and nearby hot spring areas.
When is the Aizu Painted Candle Festival
This annual winter tradition is held every February, typically on the second Friday and Saturday of the month.
This timing perfectly coincides with the time when Aizuwakamatsu is covered in deep, pristine snow, which serves as the perfect backdrop for the glowing candles.
If you want to experience this unique tradition in Japan, then watch out for the dates of the festival’s future edition.
Where It’s Located and How to Get There
The Aizu Painted Candle Festival takes place in the charming city of Aizuwakamatsu in Fukushima Prefecture. You’ll find the main candle displays at Tsuruga Castle (1-1 Otemachi) and the nearby Oyaku-en Garden (8-1 Hanaharumachi). Both locations are easy to reach and serve as the heart of the festival experience.
If you’re flying in for the event, the closest airport is Fukushima Airport, which is about an hour and twenty minutes away by bus and train. That said, many travelers find it more convenient to fly into Sendai or Tokyo, since these cities offer a wider range of international flights
Getting to the Festival Site from within Japan:
- Shinkansen from Tokyo – Start your journey at Tokyo Station and take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Koriyama. From there, transfer to the JR Ban-etsu West Line for a scenic ride into Aizuwakamatsu.
- Direct Highway Bus – You can also hop on a direct bus from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal. The trip takes around four hours and brings you straight into the city, making it a simple, no-transfer option.
- Local Loop Bus – Once you arrive at Aizuwakamatsu Station, getting around is easy. The “Haikara-san” and “Akabe” loop buses stop at major attractions, including the castle and garden.
Traveling from outside Japan:
- International Flight to Tokyo – Most visitors fly into Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport, then continue north by train or a domestic flight toward Fukushima.
- Sendai Airport Route – Flying into Sendai Airport is another convenient option. From there, a direct highway bus can take you to Aizuwakamatsu in about two and a half hours.
- JR Rail Pass – If you’re visiting from abroad, the Japan Rail Pass is a practical choice. It covers most of the trains you’ll need, including the Shinkansen and local JR lines, making your trip smoother and more flexible.
If you liked this festival, you can also check out these other winter lighting events in Japan:
Festival Hours
The festival officially begins with an opening ceremony at 5:00 PM—but the real magic unfolds shortly after that. The lighting of the candles runs from 5:30 PM until 8:30 PM. This three-hour window is the best time to see the snowy grounds glowing at their brightest.
Since the event is fairly short each night, it’s a good idea to arrive a little early. This gives you plenty of time to explore the different displays before the lights go out for the evening.
How Much Does It Cost to See the Aizu Painted Candle Festival
The best thing about the festival is that you can enjoy most of the glowing candle displays around the castle and garden grounds for free. It’s a great way to experience this unique tradition and the city’s winter charm no matter what your budget is.
That said, a few extras come with a small fee. If you’re thinking of climbing the castle tower for that sweeping nighttime view, or sitting in on a traditional tea ceremony at Oyaku-en, expect to pay a modest entrance fee. Totally optional—but definitely worth it if you want to upgrade the experience.
Festival Weather and What to Wear
February in Aizuwakamatsu is the peak of winter, with daytime highs around 4°C and nighttime lows dropping to a chilly -4°C.
During the festival, you can expect plenty of deep snow, which makes the glowing candles even more stunning but keeps the air very cold.
To stay warm and comfortable as you explore the various venues of the festival, here are some recommendations:
- Thermal Base Layers — These are great for trapping body heat while you walk through the snowy grounds.
- Heavy Winter Coat — A thick, windproof jacket will protect you from the freezing evening air and any light snow.
- Insulated Gloves — Keeping your hands warm is a must since you’ll likely be outside for a few hours.
- Warm Beanie and Scarf — These help cover your ears and neck to block out the biting winter wind.
- Snow Boots — The paths can get slippery, so shoes with good grip and waterproof material are a lifesaver.
- Heat packs — You can grab these at any local shop to keep in your pockets for extra warmth.
Where to Stay – Hotels Nearby
For a smooth and cozy stay during your visit to the Aizu Painted Candle Festival, here are some nearby hotels for you to choose from:
- Toyoko Inn Aizuwakamatsu Ekimae – This simple 3-star hotel is just a short five-minute walk from Aizuwakamatsu Station, which makes getting around incredibly easy. It’s about 3 km from the castle and museum, so you’re never too far from the action. Mornings are taken care of with a free breakfast, and you’ll have complimentary Wi-Fi to keep everything running smoothly during your stay.
- Aizuwakamatsu Washington Hotel – A dependable choice with a bit more going on inside. There’s a restaurant, a bar, and even a hair salon—handy if you want a quick refresh before heading out. You’ll also get free Wi-Fi and parking, which makes it especially convenient if you’re traveling by car.
- Hotel Route Inn Aizuwakamatsu – If you like having everything within reach, this 3-star hotel is surrounded by local shops and casual dining spots. It’s about 3 km from Tsuruga Castle and comes with its own spa—perfect for unwinding after a chilly evening outdoors. There’s also a restaurant, free parking, and a complimentary breakfast to get you ready for another night of candlelit exploring.
Where to Eat – Dining Spots Nearby
If you need to warm up with a delicious meal, here are some local restaurants to try out:
- Takino – This charming local restaurant is all about comforting, regional flavors. Their specialty rice dishes come served in traditional wooden steamers, which adds a nice, homey touch. The space itself feels warm and inviting, with lattice panels and tatami mats setting the mood. You can also try their soba noodles and other local favorites if you’re in the mood to explore a bit more.
- Mitsutaya – A true local classic. This long-running spot is best known for its skewers—think tofu, meat, and rice balls brushed with a rich miso glaze and grilled over hot charcoal. It’s simple, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition. Perfect if you want a taste of something authentic while soaking in an old-school atmosphere.
- Murai – Craving something hearty? This tonkatsu specialist has you covered. Their katsudon, topped with a signature sauce, is a go-to comfort meal, especially on a cold evening. They also serve tender pork steaks if you’re looking for something extra filling to end your day.
More Places to Discover in the Area
Aside from the Aizu Painted Candle Festival, the city of Aizuwakamatsu is rich in attractions and hidden gems that you can explore:
- Tsuruga Castle – This iconic landmark is the heart of the festival and a must-visit any time of year. It’s a great place to get a feel for the area’s samurai history while wandering the spacious grounds. If you’re up for it, climb the tower—you’ll be rewarded with a wide view of the city that’s especially striking in winter.
- Sakkahama Beach – If you’re in the mood for something quieter, this scenic spot offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s perfect for a slow walk by the water, and if you’re feeling a little adventurous, even a winter picnic isn’t out of the question. Dogs are welcome too, so you’ll often see locals out enjoying the fresh air with their pets.
- Oyakuen Garden – Stepping into this garden feels like entering another era. Once used by the Aizu Matsudaira clan, it’s now recognized as a Place of Scenic Beauty. Take your time here—walk along the paths, admire the carefully kept landscape, and enjoy the calm, unhurried atmosphere all around you.
A Luminous Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Aizu Painted Candle Festival
The Aizu Painted Candle Festival is more than just a beautiful event—it’s a chance to really connect with the local culture and craftsmanship in the most captivating way possible. The festival is a testament to how a simple tradition can turn a freezing winter night into something truly special and magical.
Beyond the candlelit paths, you’ll realize there’s even more waiting to be discovered. The surrounding area is full of quiet corners, small surprises, and little pockets of beauty that don’t always make it onto the main itinerary. If you’ve got extra time, it’s well worth slowing down and exploring these gems.
All in all, the Aizu Painted Candle Festival is one of those experiences that stays with you. Simple, peaceful, and unforgettable—definitely something for you to see in person.
FAQ
- Is there parking at the festival?
- You can find paid parking at Tsuruga Castle and some additional free spots in the surrounding area.
- Are there smoking areas available?
- Smoking is mostly banned on the castle and garden grounds to keep the historical sites safe.
- Can I bring my pet?
- Pets are usually allowed in the outdoor park areas as long as they stay on a leash.
- Is the festival wheelchair accessible?
- The main paths are accessible, but deep snow or old stone steps can make some spots tricky to navigate.
- Is this event family-friendly?
- This is a great event for families, as kids usually love seeing the glowing patterns in the snow.
- Are food and drinks sold at the event?
- You can grab local snacks at the castle food stalls or enjoy hot tea at the garden’s teahouse.
- Where can I find a restroom?
- Public restrooms are conveniently located at both Tsuruga Castle and the Oyaku-en Garden.
- Am I allowed to take photos?
- Photography is definitely encouraged, especially when capturing the bird’s-eye view from the castle tower.
Sources: https://fukushima.travel/destination/aizu-painted-candle-festival/63
