Local Guide
Let's know the temperature and clothes of Aizu area (Aizu Wakamatsu, Bandai, Inawashiro Lake).

Fukushima Prefecture is the third largest prefecture in Japan in terms of vast area. It is divided into three regions with different climates: Hamadori on the Pacific coast, Nakadori inland on the Pacific coast, and Aizu inland on the Sea of Japan coast. The Aizu region has a climate on the Sea of Japan side and is one of the heaviest snowfall areas in Japan. In particular, the area around Mt. Bandai (1,819 m above sea level) and Lake Inawashiro, the fourth largest lake in Japan, is known as a major resort area where visitors can enjoy winter sports and other activities in nature.
The average annual temperature is 11.9℃. This is 4.5°C lower than Tokyo's average temperature of 16.4°C. Lake Inawashiro and Bandai spread out adjacent to Aizu Wakamatsu City, which has a basin climate and rises in elevation to Bandai Mountain. Bandai and the Urabandai area, where hot springs and ski resorts are located, the elevation rises to about 800 meters. The difference in elevation is significant, and the preparation of clothing in each area changes with the seasons, from the unique heat in the basin areas to the harsh cold in the higher elevation areas.

Climate and Clothing in the Aizu Region (Aizu Wakamatsu, Bandai, Lake Inawashiro)

Tsurugajo Castle in spring
Tsurugajo Castle in spring

The Aizu region has the slowest spring in the three regions of Fukushima Prefecture, with an average temperature of 3.1°C in March, and a cold winter still lingers.
The Tsurugajo Castle in Aizuwakamatsu City will be covered with 1,000 cherry trees in mid-April. The average temperature rises to 9.4°C, and it gradually starts to feel warmer. However, around this time, low and high pressure alternates, and the weather tends to be erratic, so you will need to carry rain gear. Also, at night, the temperature can drop below zero due to radiative cooling, so be sure to pack a heavy coat and scarf.
In May, the weather is sunny and the average temperature is 16.2℃. The days are often sunny, making it a great day for an outing.

Shida beach in Lake Inawashiro
Shida beach in Lake Inawashiro

The average temperature in June in the Aizu region is 21.1℃. This is about 1.5°C lower than the average temperature in Tokyo. The rainy season begins in mid-June, and precipitation tends to increase in July when the rainy season front tends to stagnate. At the higher elevations of Bandai and Inawashiro Lake, the average temperature is about 5°C lower than in Aizu Wakamatsu City, and when it rains further, the temperature drops dramatically. When going out, be sure to pack a windbreaker or other waterproof and windproof clothing.
When the rainy season ends, the temperature rises. T-shirts and sleeveless clothing are comfortable, especially in the Basin. The average temperature in Lake Inawashiro and Bandai, where you can enjoy the great outdoors with lake activities and hiking, is around 23℃. However, temperatures can drop to the teens at night, so you will need a parka or something to keep you warm.

Autumn leaves in Bandai Plateau and Urabandai area
Autumn leaves in Bandai Plateau and Urabandai area

Compared to Tokyo's average September temperature of 24.6°C, the average temperature in the Aizu region is about 3.5°C lower. Autumn also arrives a little earlier in the Aizu region, and in the Bandai and Inawashiro lakes, the autumn leaves begin to change color in mid-September. Around this time, the autumn rain front and typhoons bring more rainy days, so it is convenient to carry a stole or other small item for protection against the cold, along with rain gear.
In late October, when Mt. Aizu-Komagatake, Mt. Iide and Mt. Bandai are covered with snow for the first time, the average minimum temperature in the center of Aizu Wakamatsu City is below 10℃. During this time of year, the Aizu Basin becomes so cold in the morning and evening that morning fog forms, and scarves and heavy jackets are a must.
When the first snowfall is observed in the city in late November, dress warmly. When going out by car, prepare chains or studless tires.

Alts Bandai Snow Park & Resort, one of the largest ski resorts in Tohoku
Alts Bandai Snow Park & Resort, one of the largest ski resorts in Tohoku

In December, when the Siberian High prevails and the monsoon blows, the Aizu region is transformed into a silver world. The region is known for its heavy snowfall, with about half of the annual rainfall being snow, especially in Okuaizu, where more than 1 m of snow can accumulate in a single night. Average temperatures in December, January, and February are 1.9°C, -1.2°C, and -0.8°C, respectively.
When going out around Bandai and Inawashiro Lake, which are popular for snow activities, wear a thick inner layer, a sweater, a down coat, and snow boots on your feet. In addition, take winter protection measures from your feet to your head, such as gloves, knit caps, and body warmers.
The Aizu region, where winters are long and snowy, has many hot springs, ski resorts, wakasagi (smelt) fishing, and other winter activities. Enjoy playing in the snow by preparing yourself for the cold.

After enjoying sightseeing, how about relaxing at a resort hotel located at the foot of Mt. You can feel the history and culture of Aizu during your stay at the hotel.

An inn where you can fully enjoy Aizu culture and stay active all year round

Guest rooms based on the concept of
Guest rooms based on the concept of "Aizu Modern

Bandaisan Onsen Hotel by Hoshino Resorts is located in a place where Bandaisan, one of the 100 most famous mountains in Japan, towers in front of you and Lake Inawashiro shines like a mirror below. With a heated swimming pool, spa, and hot springs, guests can enjoy a stay that brings them into contact with the unknown culture of Aizu. You can stay active from the season of fresh green to the season of blazing autumn leaves and deep snow. Please enjoy a highland resort stay amidst magnificent nature and the changing seasons.

▼ Declaration of the highest level of Corona measures
Hoshino Resorts has set forth the two axes of "hygiene management" and "3-clandestine avoidance" to provide a safer stay for our guests, and all of our Properties have evolved our conventional services to the highest level. Corona Countermeasures We are implementing the "Corona Countermeasures" at all of our facilities, which are an evolution of our existing services.

Bandaisan Onsen Hotel by Hoshino Resorts
The information in this article is current as of the date of the update. Please check before visiting as they are subject to change.