Tsurugajo Kaikan is a tourist product centre in front of Tsuruga Castle, just a five-minute walk from the main castle keep.

This building is filled with every Aizu souvenir imaginable, from the Akabeko, the nodding-headed red cow-inspired traditional toy that is loved as a charm to ward off evil, to lacquerware, local sake and sweets. There is even a duty-free corner for overseas visitors.

For people who enjoy hands-on experiences, why not try hand painting a ceramic figure? Here at Tsurugajo Kaikan you can paint your own folk craft item, either an Akabeko, or an Okiagari-koboshi (a small rocking toy that stays upright), or one of the animals of the Chinese zodiac. There is also a kimono rental shop for visitors to sample traditional dress. Wear your kimono as you wander around the castle town of Aizu and take pictures to create memories that will last a lifetime. 

There are also food stalls in the building. The Aizu traditional pork cutlet over rice with special sauce (Sauce Katsu-don) or the Kitakata ramen are popular dishes, or you could try another Aizu favourite: wappa-meshi, a steamed rice dish with various toppings, placed in a bowl made from a thin curved sheet of cypress or cedar wood.