Local Guide
Find out about the temperature and clothing in the Aizu region (Aizuwakamatsu, Bandai, Lake Inawashiro)

Fukushima Prefecture is the third largest prefecture in Japan in terms of area. It is divided into three regions: Hamadori along the Pacific coast, Nakadori inland on the Pacific coast, and Aizu on the Sea of Japan side, and each has a different climate. The Aizu region has a climate on the Sea of Japan side and is one of the snowiest areas in the country. In particular, the area around Mt. Bandai (1,819m above sea level) and Lake Inawashiro, the fourth largest lake in Japan, is known as a major resort area where you can enjoy winter sports and the great outdoors.
The average annual temperature is 11.9°C, 4.5°C lower than Tokyo's average temperature of 16.4°C. Lake Inawashiro and Bandai are adjacent to Aizuwakamatsu City, which has a basin climate, and the altitude rises to Mt. Bandai. The mid-mountain and Urabandai areas of Mt. Bandai, where hot spring springs and ski resorts are located, are about 800m above sea level. The difference in altitude is large, and the clothing you need to prepare varies depending on the season, from the basin to the severe cold in higher altitude areas.

Climate and clothing in the Aizu region (Aizuwakamatsu, Bandai, Lake Inawashiro)

Tsuruga Castle in Spring
Tsuruga Castle in Spring

Spring is the latest in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. The average temperature in March is 3.1°C, and the cold winter is still continuing. If you plan to go to Lake Inawashiro and Bandai, where winter sports are popular until Golden Week, you will need a down coat and snow boots.
In mid-April, Tsuruga Castle in Aizuwakamatsu City is dyed in color by 1,000 cherry blossoms. The average temperature rises to 9.4°C, and it gradually starts to feel warmer, but around this time low and high pressure systems alternate, making the weather unstable, so you'll need to bring rain gear. Also, at night, temperatures can drop below zero due to radiation cooling, so be sure to bring a thick coat and scarf.
In May, the weather becomes pleasant, with the average temperature reaching 16.2°C. There are many sunny days, making it ideal for going out.

Shidahama Beach on Lake Inawashiro
Shidahama Beach on Lake Inawashiro

The average temperature in the Aizu region in June is 21.1°C, 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. In Bandai and Lake Inawashiro, which are at high altitudes, the average temperature is about 5°C lower than in Aizuwakamatsu city, and if it rains, the temperature will drop sharply. When going out, be sure to bring a windbreaker or other windproof and waterproof gear.
Once the rainy season is over, the temperature will rise. Especially in the basin, the days will be humid and hot, so T-shirts and sleeveless tops will be the most comfortable clothes. The average temperature at Lake Inawashiro and Bandai, where you can enjoy the great outdoors through lake Activity and hiking, is around 23°C. However, at night the temperature can drop to the teens, so you will need something to put on, such as a hoodie.

Autumn foliage in the Bandai Plateau and Urabandai area
Autumn foliage in the Bandai Plateau and Urabandai area

The average temperature in Aizu in September is about 3.5°C lower than the average temperature of Tokyo, which is 24.6°C. Autumn arrives early, with the leaves starting to change color in mid-September in Bandai and Lake Inawashiro. Around this time, there are more rainy days due to the autumn rain front and typhoons, so it is convenient to carry rain gear and small items to keep warm, such as a scarf.
In late October, when Mount Aizu-Komagatake, Mount Iide, and Mount Bandai see their first snowfall, the average minimum temperature in central Aizu-Wakamatsu drops below 10°C. During this time in the Aizu Basin, the mornings and evenings get so cold that morning fog forms, making scarves and thick jackets a must.
In late November, when the first snowfall is observed in the city, it is important to dress warmly and protect yourself from the cold. If you are going out by car, be sure to bring 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 pressure system prevails and seasonal winds blow, the Aizu region is transformed into a snowy world. It is known as a heavy snow area, with snow making up about half of the annual rainfall, and in Oku-Aizu in particular, snow can pile up to more than 1 meter overnight. The average temperature is also bitterly cold, with 1.9°C in December, -1.2°C in January, and -0.8°C in February.
When heading out to the Bandai and Lake Inawashiro areas, which are bustling with snow Activity, wear a thick undershirt, a sweater, a down coat, and snow boots. In addition, be sure to take measures to protect yourself from the cold, from your feet to your head, such as gloves, a knit hat, and hand warmers.
The Aizu region has long winters and deep snow, and there are many hot spring, as well as plenty of winter activities such as ski resorts and smelt fishing. Be sure to dress warmly and enjoy playing in the snow.

After enjoying sightseeing, why not relax at a resort hotel located at the foot of Mount Bandai? You can experience the history and culture of Aizu during your stay at the hotel.

A lodging where you can fully enjoy Aizu culture and stay active all year round

A guest room based on the concept of "Aizu Modern"
A guest room based on the concept of "Aizu Modern"

Hoshino Resorts Bandaisan Onsen Hotel by Hoshino Resorts is located in a place where Mount Bandai, one of Japan's 100 famous mountains, towers before your eyes and overlooks the mirror-like sparkling Lake Inawashiro. The hotel offers a heated pool, spa, and hot spring, and you can enjoy a stay that will allow you to experience the unknown Aizu culture. You can stay active from the season of fresh greenery to the burning autumn leaves and deep snow. Enjoy a stay at a highland resort surrounded by magnificent nature and the changing seasons.

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At Hoshino Resorts, we have evolved our existing services at all Property to ensure that everyone can enjoy their stay with peace of mind by focusing on two key measures: hygiene management and avoiding the 3 Cs.COVID-19 CountermeasuresWe are implementing the following.

Hoshino Resorts　Bandaisan Onsen Hotel by Hoshino Resorts
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