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Tochigi: Shrines, Waterfalls, and Culinary Adventures
Tochigi Prefecture is located in the Kanto region of Japan and is known for its natural beauty, historical architecture, and delicious food. Famous tourist destinations include Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Waterfall, which offer spectacular natural scenery and historical architecture. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal flowers at Ashikaga Flower Park, especially the world-famous wisteria flowers in spring.
Tochigi Prefecture is also a popular tourist destination for strawberry picking, where visitors can taste sweet and delicious strawberries such as “Tochiotome”. In terms of food culture, local gourmet foods such as Utsunomiya Gyoza and Sano Ramen are also an attraction.
With its rich tapestry of nature, history, and food, Tochigi Prefecture invites you to immerse yourself in the essence of Japan’s traditions and scenic beauty.
Where is Tochigi?
Nikko Area
About 2 hours 30 minutes from Tokyo Station by trains.
Nikkō Tōshogū Shrine
Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a World Heritage Site and is dedicated to the famous Japanese shogun, which is Japanese Samurai, Tokugawa Ieyasu. The shrine is known for its beautiful golden architecture and sculptures, and is especially famous for its "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" three monkeys and a sleeping cat. Nikko Toshogu Shrine is visited by many as a place where visitors can experience Japanese history and culture, and is surrounded by beautiful natural surroundings. It is an important cultural asset that is also regarded as a masterpiece of Japanese shrine architecture.
Rinnoji Temple
Rinnoji Temple is registered as a World Heritage Site and is located in the beautiful natural surroundings of the mountains of Nikko. This temple, along with Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Nikko Futaarasan Shrine, is considered part of the "Nikko Sanzan," a collective term for the Shinto and Buddhist shrines of Nikko. It is particularly well known for being built by Tokugawa Iemitsu, grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and is closely associated with the Tokugawa Shogun family. Rinnoji Temple is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history, and is a place that offers peace and tranquility to visitors. It is one of the key destinations for those interested in Japanese Buddhist culture and history.
Futarasan Shrine
Futaarasan Shrine is a World Heritage Site and an important symbol of Nikko's natural beauty and history. The shrine is based on the belief that the mountains of Nikko, especially Nantai-san, are sacred and revered as deities. Futarasan Shrine preserves the ancient Japanese belief in the importance of nature and offers visitors beautiful natural scenery and tranquility. It is one of Nikko's major tourist attractions and a special place for history and nature lovers.
Edo Wonderland
Edo Wonderland is a theme park in Nikko City where visitors can experience Japanese life and culture during the Edo period (1603-1868). In this park, the streets of those days are recreated, and visitors can watch samurai and ninja shows and take pictures wearing kimono. There is also a workshop where visitors can see the skills of Edo period craftsmen and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy period meals. Since visitors can enjoy themselves while learning about history, this is a popular spot for families and history buffs.
Kinugawa Hot Spring
Kinugawa Onsen is a popular hot spring resort located in Tochigi Prefecture. This hot spring resort is located on the coast of the beautiful Kinugawa River and is characterized by its calm, natural surroundings. Many inns and hotels in Kinugawa Onsen offer hot spring baths for a relaxing stay. The scenery is beautiful in each of the four seasons, and is especially exceptional during the fall foliage season. Visitors can also enjoy delicious cuisine prepared with local ingredients in the hot spring resort areas. This is a recommended place for those seeking refreshment and healing.
Kegon Falls
Kegon Falls is a famous waterfall in Nikko National Park in Tochigi Prefecture. The falls are known for the spectacular sight of water falling from a height of about 97 meters. Visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery that differs from season to season, especially during the season of fresh green leaves in spring and autumn leaves in fall, when the area is crowded with many tourists. Kegon Falls is considered one of the symbols of Japan's natural beauty and a must-see for visitors to Nikko.
Tobu World Square
Tobu World Square is a miniature park located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture. The facility displays 1/25th scale miniature reproductions of famous architectural structures and world heritage sites from around the world. Visitors can see the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, the Pyramids, and other iconic landmarks of the world all at once. The elaborate detailing and the seasonal nature of the exhibit make it a fascinating point of interest for adults and children alike. The educational component also makes it a fun place to learn about world cultures and architecture.
Utsunomiya Area
About 1 hour from Tokyo Station by trains.
Utsunomiya Zoo
Utsunomiya Zoo is a zoo located in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, where visitors can enjoy interacting with a variety of animals. Popular with families and animal lovers, visitors can observe the ecology of the animals up close. The zoo also offers a wide range of educational programs and events that allow visitors to enjoy themselves while learning about the animals. Visitors can spend a relaxing time interacting with the animals in a natural setting.
Utsunomiya Gyoza
Utsunomiya Gyoza is a dumpling and a typical gourmet dish of Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, and is famous throughout Japan for its delicious taste. Unique to the area are the juicy, garlicky meat filling and the thin, crispy skin. There are many gyoza specialty restaurants in Utsunomiya, where visitors can enjoy various types of gyoza, including yaki-gyoza, sui-gyoza, and steamed gyoza. For locals and tourists alike, tasting Utsunomiya gyoza is one of the highlights of a visit to Utsunomiya. The taste and diversity of Utsunomiya gyoza are the main attractions of the city.
Strawberry Picking
Strawberry picking in Tochigi Prefecture is one of the most popular activities in Japan. Tochigi Prefecture is very high in strawberry production and is especially famous for its sweet and juicy strawberries such as “Tochiotome.” Strawberry picking allows visitors to pick strawberries directly at the farm and enjoy the fresh taste on the spot. If you visit during the winter and spring seasons, you will be able to taste the strawberries at their best. Popular with families and couples, this is an attractive experience unique to Tochigi Prefecture where you can enjoy delicious strawberries while having fun in nature.
Sano Area
About 1 hour 30 minutes from Tokyo Station by trains.
Ashikaga Flower Park
Ashikaga Flower Park is a famous botanical garden located in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture. It is known for its seasonal flowers, especially the wisteria flowers in spring, which create a spectacular flower tunnel that attracts many visitors from Japan and abroad. Illuminations of light are also held throughout the year, creating a fantastic atmosphere in the park at night. As a spot where visitors can fully appreciate the beauty of nature, it is a popular destination for families, couples, and photography enthusiasts.
Sano Ramen
Sano ramen originated in Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture, and is characterized by its light, soy sauce-based soup. The appeal of this ramen lies in its simple but deep flavor and unique medium-thick, curly noodles. Sano ramen is loved by many people for its never-ending flavor, and is popular among locals as well as tourists.
