Utsunomiya travel guide and discussion

~Experience a futuristic tram ride while enjoying gyoza, cafes, and nature~ The "Utsunomiya Light Rail (Lightline)" connects the East Exit of Utsunomiya Station to the Haga Takanezawa Industrial Park. Opened in 2023, this next-generation tram spans approximately 14.6 kilometers. One of its main draws is the ever-changing scenery, transitioning from downtown Utsunomiya to quiet residential neighborhoods and lush, green landscapes. Today, I'll be sharing a 1-day sightseeing itinerary that takes you along the Lightline, starting right from Utsunomiya Station. ⸻ 🌅 START|Utsunomiya Station East Exit First, hop on the Lightline at the "Utsunomiya Station East Exit" stop! If you're planning to ride all day, I highly recommend the 1-Day Pass for adults, priced at 1,000 yen. It allows unlimited rides on the Lightline for a specified day. You can purchase it up to three days in advance at the commuter pass sales counter at Utsunomiya Station East Exit. There’s also a 1-Day Pass bundled with a 300-yen Gyoza Ticket for 1,300 yen. Since you can use it at participating restaurants along the line, it's a great option if you're planning to eat gyoza🥟 ⸻ Riding the Lightline is surprisingly easy. If using an IC card (Suica, PASMO, etc.) When boarding → Tap the green card reader next to the door When getting off → Tap the yellow card reader You can board and exit from any door◎ If paying with cash, take a numbered ticket from the machine on the platform before boarding, and pay your fare along with the ticket when getting off. If using a 1-Day Pass You'll receive a paper-type pass, so you don't need to show it to the driver every time you get on or off. You can freely use any door. ⸻ ☀️ ① Eki Higashi Koen-mae (Station East Park) "A quick detour from Utsunomiya Station East Exit" Start by getting off at "Eki Higashi Koen-mae". It’s highly recommended to enjoy a stroll around the Utsunomiya Station area, snap some photos of the Lightline, and discover cafes or restaurants in the station's east side. Because the Lightline runs right through the city, just gazing out the window at the streets of Utsunomiya gives you a great sightseeing vibe. ⸻ 🥟 ② Head back to Utsunomiya Station East Exit for a Gyoza Lunch! After spending the morning exploring along the Lightline, head back to the Utsunomiya Station area for lunch. When it comes to Utsunomiya, it has to be gyoza! As mentioned, there’s a 1-Day Pass option that includes a "Gyoza Ticket," valid at participating restaurants along the route. With participating spots like "Utsunomiya Minmin Miya-mirai Store" and "Utsunomiya Gyozakan Kenta Gyoza East Exit Store," incorporating a gyoza tour into your trip is a fantastic idea🥟(Miyarail⁠) ⸻ 🌿 ③ Kiyohara Chiku Shimin Center-mae (Kiyohara District Civic Center) "From the city to nature!" In the afternoon, hop back on the Lightline and head east. Getting off at "Kiyohara Chiku Shimin Center-mae," it's about a 10-minute walk to Kiyohara Central Park. With its expansive lawns and lush greenery, it's the perfect place for a quick break during your city stroll. (Utsunomiya Sightseeing Navigator - Utsunomiya City Official Sightseeing Website⁠) As you ride the Lightline, you'll notice the scenery gradually shifting from the Utsunomiya Station area, City → Residential areas → Lush green spaces Enjoying this transition is part of the fun. ⸻ ☕ ④ Cafe Time in the Yui no Mori Area Take the Lightline further towards "Yui no Mori". The areas around "Yui no Mori Nishi," "Yui no Mori Chuo," and "Yui no Mori Higashi" are dotted with various cafes and restaurants. There are many stylish cafes introduced along the Lightline route that are just a 10-minute walk from the stops, making it a great idea to ride the train specifically for cafe-hopping. (Utsunomiya Sightseeing Navigator - Utsunomiya City Official Sightseeing Website⁠) Take a breather here and enjoy some sweets and coffee☕🍰 ⸻ 🌳 ⑤ Kashinomori Koen-mae (Kashinomori Park) "Riding all the way to the final stops!" If you have time to spare, head even further down the line. The Lightline continues all the way to the "Haga Takanezawa Industrial Park," and riding the entire line makes for a journey of about 14.6 km. (Utsunomiya Sightseeing Navigator - Utsunomiya City Official Sightseeing Website⁠) Get off at stops like "Kashinomori Koen-mae" to explore the surroundings, then take the Lightline back towards Utsunomiya Station. Seeing different views on the way there and on the way back is another enjoyable aspect of this trip. ⸻ 🌇 GOAL|Utsunomiya Station East Exit Arriving back at Utsunomiya Station in the evening, it's a great idea to enjoy gyoza or sweets one last time◎. With a 1-Day Pass, you get unlimited rides, "Hop off whenever you spot something interesting" allowing for a truly flexible and spontaneous journey. ⸻ 🚋 Recommended Highlights of Lightline Sightseeing ・Head east directly from Utsunomiya Station without any transfers ・Enjoy the changing scenery of the city and nature right from your window ・Unlimited hop-on and hop-off with a 1-Day Pass ・Easily combine gyoza, cafes, and parks into one trip ・The "ride itself" is fun, even if you aren't a train enthusiast ・Take free detours along the route for a journey that's different from standard sightseeing ⸻ 🎫 The 1-Day Pass is Highly Recommended! Adults: 1,000 yen Children: 500 yen With 300-yen Gyoza Ticket: Adults 1,300 yen Available for purchase up to 3 days in advance, and can be bought at the Utsunomiya Station East Exit commuter pass sales counter between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM. (Miyarail⁠) Using a 1-Day Pass might also score you special perks like discounts or gifts at participating shops along the route. (Miyarail⁠) ⸻ 📍 Utsunomiya Light Rail 📍 Utsunomiya Station East Exit - Haga Takanezawa Industrial Park 🕘 Timetables differ for weekdays and weekends/holidays, so please check the official website 🚶 Just a short walk from JR Utsunomiya Station East Exit to the "Utsunomiya Station East Exit" stop The Utsunomiya Light Rail isn't just a means of transportation; it's like a sightseeing attraction that lets you travel through Utsunomiya while taking in the views from the window. Eating gyoza, taking a break at a cafe, strolling through the greenery... Just pondering "Where should I get off today?" while riding is an absolute joy, making this a highly recommended journey for days when you want to take your time and fully enjoy Utsunomiya🚋🌿✨

#slowtraveling From JR Utsunomiya west exit, Kanto Bus toward Tachiwa, 30 min to “Shiryokan Iriguchi,” then 5 min walk (bus ¥620, IC cards work). I descended at 10 a.m. in August — outside 34°C, inside 10°C year-round, jacket mandatory. The quarry ran 1919–1986, 30 m deep, 20,000 m² of cathedral-darkness in Oya tuff — the same stone Frank Lloyd Wrightused in the old Imperial Hotel. Entry ¥800 adult, ¥400 child, last entry 4:30 (Apr–Nov) or 4:00 (Dec–Mar), closed Mon (or Tue if holiday). The main chamber is 20 m to the ceiling, grid columns left as structural props, chisel marks from pre-war hand-cutting still on the west wall. Concertsand Noh playshappen here; I caught neither, just the silence and a single drip. The above-ground wing shows tools, transport sledges, and a 1930s dynamite crate. Oya Kannon Temple, a cliff-carved Buddhist cave, is 5 min uphill and free — do both. Wear layers, not just a jacket — the floor is damp and your ankles chill first. No food inside, no water sold, vending machine at the bus stop only. A mistake: rushing in 30 minutes to “tick the quarry” — you need 60 min minimum to let the scale land. Would you call this a museum or a tomb for a mountain? The columns didn’t care. I sat on the rail and watched my breath for ten minutes.

This time, we'll introduce "Temomi Men & King Gyoza Saika" located in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture! Utsunomiya is famous for its gyoza, but this is a popular restaurant specializing in "King Gyoza" and hand-kneaded noodles✨ It's a popular spot visited by celebrities like Uji Koji, and has been loved by locals for many years! 🍜 Hand-kneaded noodles 🥟 King Gyoza 📺 Visited by celebrities · —————— 📍 "Temomi Men & King Gyoza Saika" (Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture) A popular restaurant among both locals and tourists. If you're looking for gyoza in Utsunomiya, this is definitely a place to consider! 💰 Price range ・Around 800-1,500 yen · —————— ✅ A popular restaurant visited by celebrities like Uji Koji📺✨ It's been featured on TV, and is a popular spot with many fans who come from outside the prefecture. ✅ The famous "King Gyoza" is truly impressive! 🥟 Much larger than regular gyoza, and generously filled with juicy filling. ✅ The chewy texture of the hand-kneaded noodles is superb! 🍜 Homemade hand-kneaded noodles that perfectly complement the soup. Recommended for ramen lovers. ✅ Generous portions for ultimate satisfaction! 🔥 Order ramen and gyoza as a set, and you'll be completely full. If you want a hearty meal in Utsunomiya, "Hand-Kneaded Noodles & King Gyoza Saika" is highly recommended! Please give it a try! ☺️ · —————— Please use this as a reference! ☺️ #Tochigi #Gourmet #GourmetTravel #DomesticTravel #Tourism

#slowtraveling Utsunomiya (Tochigi) is the gyoza capital—per-capita consumption beats any city in Japan. From Tokyo, JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya (50 min, ¥4,000 reserved / ¥3,740 unreserved), west exit, then 7-minute walk to Gyoza Yokocho (饺子横丁) behind the station, or the older Fuga-dori / Eigyokudo cluster near the west gate. I landed 17:40 on a weekday, did hashigo-zake across three counters: Minmin (original, ¥450 for 6 pan-fried, cash only, bow to the grill master), Osho (chain but local roots, ¥430, IC ok), then a 9-seat standing shop with garlic-chive skins (¥500, cash, no menu—point at the tray). Rule: one order per stop, max three stops. Utsunomiya gyoza is smaller and crisper than Osaka’s, served with a local chili oil (shumai-dare variant) you won’t find labeled in English. Cash is king—carry ¥3,000 in ¥1,000 notes; the alley ATM line at 19:00 is real. Mistake: ordering boiled only. The city’s identity is the pan-fried bottom + steamed top; skip that and you skipped Utsunomiya. Another mistake: driving in—parking fills by 18:30 on festival nights (first Saturday of the month has the Gyoza Festival, avoid unless you want the crush). Would you ride 50 minutes of shinkansen for 18 dumplings across three counters, or does the train time outvalue the filling?

This time, we'll introduce the Oya Stone Museum in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture! It's a popular tourist spot with a vast underground space, and stepping inside feels like entering another world...✨ It's a famous and talked-about spot, also known as a filming location for movies, music videos, and commercials! ⛏️ Underground Temple 📸 Instagrammable Spot ✨ Otherworldly Space · —————— 📍 Oya Stone Museum (Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture) Approximately 30 minutes by car from Utsunomiya Station. A popular tourist destination showcasing the remains of an Oya stone quarry! 💰 Admission Fee ・Adults 800 yen · —————— ✅ A massive space like an underground temple ⛏️✨ The underground quarry, reaching tens of meters in height, is breathtaking. A spectacular view full of extraordinary atmosphere unfolds before you. ✅ Famous as a filming location for movies and music videos 📸 Its fantastical atmosphere has made it a popular filming location for many productions. It's also a recommended spot for photography enthusiasts. ✅ Cool and comfortable even in summer ❄️ The underground space maintains a low temperature throughout the year. It's perfect for summer sightseeing. ✅ A must-visit during your Utsunomiya sightseeing trip ✨ A popular spot where you can learn about the history of Oya stone. Recommended for family trips and dates. If you want to experience something out of the ordinary in Tochigi, the Oya Stone Museum is highly recommended! Please do visit! ☺️ · —————— Please use this as a reference! ☺️ #Tochigi #DomesticTravel #StunningScenery #Sightseeing #Travel

If you're in Utsunomiya and want a highly efficient and delicious introduction to the local gyoza culture, head straight to Kirasse Honten (also known as Utsunomiya Gyoza Kaikan) - 来らっせ本店. The main highlight of the place: Here you can order the All-Star Gyoza Set! In a single serving, you get one gyoza from various popular restaurants around the city (Minmin, Koran, Ryumon, Satsuki, and more). They have 5 different sets in total, with 6 pieces each—meaning you get the chance to compare 30!!! different gyoza restaurants in Utsunomiya! It's honestly an incredibly fun and thrilling experience; I've never seen anything quite like it before! Usually, a set comes with 6 pieces, and every dumpling is slightly different in terms of its wrapper, filling, juiciness, and crunch. It's so incredibly convenient and delicious! We tried almost all the sets and were absolutely blown away. Every gyoza is like a little discovery. One might be thinner and crispier, another juicy and meaty, and a third with a unique twist in the filling. In just one sitting, you can literally taste several of the best spots in the city. What else is awesome: · You can dine in or order via Uber Eats (super convenient if you're tired from walking around). We ordered twice, and everything was packaged perfectly. The packaging even labels which restaurant each specific dumpling came from, so you won't get mixed up! · A huge selection of sets and individual portions. · There's a souvenir corner where you can buy frozen gyoza to take home. · The atmosphere is simple but very welcoming—a classic Japanese foodie spot. Kirasse Honten is one of the smartest and tastiest spots in Utsunomiya for gyoza lovers. We especially recommend it for those who are short on time but want to experience as many flavors as possible. Address: Mega Don Quijote Lapark Utsunomiya, B1F (Basement) Save this post if you're heading to Utsunomiya! 🥟 It's a must-visit for all dumpling lovers.

In Tochigi Prefecture, not far from Utsunomiya, lies one of the most unusual and atmospheric places in Japan — Oya Kannon Temple (大谷観音). This Buddhist temple was entirely carved out of natural volcanic rock back in the 8th century. The main shrine is a massive statue of the goddess Kannon, standing over 11 meters tall and sculpted directly into the cave wall. Surrounding it are dozens of smaller statues, altars, and niches, creating the vibe of a true underground sanctuary. What impresses the most here: · The sheer scale and craftsmanship of ancient artisans — everything was hand-carved into solid rock · The soft, diffused light that filters through natural openings in the stone · The quiet, almost mystical atmosphere — you really just want to stop and take it all in here · The chance to head further down and explore other carved chambers of the temple The temple is small but gives off an incredibly powerful energy. It’s a place where ancient faith and nature blend into something truly extraordinary. How to get there: Address: 909 Oyamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-0345 The most convenient way is to take bus #45 from Utsunomiya Station, departing from platform 6 (about a 25–30 minute ride). You can also grab a taxi, but remember that cab rides in Japan can cost you a pretty penny 😆 Oya Kannon is a rare example of a cave temple that’s worth visiting even if you aren't normally into temples. There’s a unique tranquility and a deep sense of connection to history here. A great idea is to pair your visit with the Oya Quarry — they’re literally a 5–7 minute walk from each other. It makes for a jam-packed and unforgettable day out. Save this post! 🙏

If you're sick of the usual temples and skyscrapers and want to see a completely different side of Japan — head over to Utsunomiya. You'll find massive underground quarries here that look straight out of a fantasy or post-apocalyptic movie set. The Oya Stone Quarry (大谷採石場) is a gigantic man-made cave system where a unique volcanic tuff (Oya stone) has been mined for centuries. Some of the caverns reach up to 30 meters high, and the space is so enormous that entire buildings could easily fit inside. Things to do: · Wander through the massive underground halls and enjoy the fantastic acoustics · Marvel at the surreal and beautiful artificial columns and arches · Snap some photos at spots used for shooting music videos and commercials · Visit the nearby Oya Kannon — a temple carved directly into the rock (it has a very atmospheric vibe) How to get there: Address: 909 Oyamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-0345 From Utsunomiya Station, you can hop on a bus (takes about 30–40 minutes) or grab a taxi (highly recommended, much more convenient). Our experience: The sheer scale of this place blew our minds. It's completely unlike the rest of Japan — you genuinely feel like you've stepped into another world. It looks especially stunning during the day when sunlight streams through the openings above. ‼️Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes — the ground is uneven. It's best to visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds. During summer, it's noticeably cooler inside than outdoors. Bottom line: If you're hunting for off-the-beaten-path spots near Tokyo (just 1.5–2 hours by train), the Utsunomiya quarries are a must-visit. You can really feel the combined forces of nature and human effort here. Save this post so you don't forget! 🪨 Has anyone been to Oya Quarry yet? Share your thoughts in the comments below 👇

🌟 The Charms & Highlights of Candeo Hotels Utsunomiya This is a one-of-a-kind "4-star hotel" that goes far beyond your typical business or leisure stay. ♨️ The Top-Floor "Sky Spa" is Absolutely Amazing: Featuring an authentic sauna and an open-air bath that makes you feel closer to the starry sky. Experience the ultimate relaxation and "totonoi" (sauna trance) while taking in the sparkling night skyline of Utsunomiya or the crisp morning air. 🛋️ Sophisticated & Relaxing Design: The modern, stylish guest rooms are furnished with cozy sofas, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious stay that feels like a premium private villa. 🥗 A Breakfast Buffet to Nourish Body and Soul: Enjoy a spectacular spread of carefully crafted, handmade dishes using an abundance of fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Kick off your day the perfect way with a customizable breakfast tailored to your tastes! 📍 Address: 1-1 Miyamirai, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 🗺️ Access: Directly connected to the East Exit of JR Utsunomiya Station (approx. 1-2 minutes on foot) Utsunomiya

Tonkatsu Hiyama @ Utsunomiya City - Large Roast Cutlet Set Visited a renowned tonkatsu restaurant in the outskirts of Utsunomiya 🐷 When ordering, the staff informed me that the frying time would take about 10 minutes. The attentive service reflects the precision of their work. Upon serving, the owner recommended enjoying the dish with rock salt provided on a separate plate. The sweetness of the roast's fat and the umami of the meat shine through, showcasing its high quality without relying on sauce. They use carefully selected Yorkshire pork. The fine texture of the meat and the premium fat make the roast cutlet surprisingly light and easy to eat. The set includes dessert and coffee, offering a high level of satisfaction. This is a classic and honest tonkatsu that excels through its ingredients and cooking technique. And a surprise at checkout. The antique cash register, which I thought was just a decorative object, was actually in active use. A delightful experience from start to finish. Address: 2-2-7 Wakamatsubara, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture Business Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12:00 - 13:30 18:00 - 20:00 Closed on Monday and Tuesday.

When mentioning Utsunomiya, many people immediately think of the "City of Gyoza." This city, located in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, is almost synonymous with gyoza, as you can find traces of it everywhere 🥟. From Tokyo Station, you can take the Shinkansen and arrive in about 50 minutes. As soon as you step out of JR Utsunomiya Station, you'll be greeted by the local mascot, "Gyoza Dog Juubei," and a gyoza statue, instantly immersing you in the gyoza atmosphere. When in Utsunomiya, you must visit the street filled with gyoza restaurants. The entire street is enveloped in the rich aroma of gyoza. You'll also find various gyoza-themed art installations, such as the "GYOZA" photo spot. Even the streetlights are shaped like gyoza, which is truly fascinating. You can also walk to the nearby Utsunomiya Futaarayama Shrine⛩️. This shrine has a history of over 1,600 years, and its 15-meter-tall torii gate at the entrance is one of Utsunomiya's landmarks. The most interesting part is that they even have gyoza-shaped omikuji (fortune slips) 🥟. Utsunomiya Futaarayama Shrine 📍Address: 1-1-1 Babadori, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture ⏰Shrine Office Hours: 09:00 - 17:00

Towering Views and Tranquil Vibes in Hachimanyama Park 🌳✨ If you’re searching for a spot combining wide green spaces with a dash of cityscape magic, Utsunomiya Tower in Hachimanyama Park is an outdoor gem! This place is all about peaceful strolls, lush trees swaying above, and panoramic views over Utsunomiya’s urban blend of modern architecture and nature. How to Experience It: Start by wandering the park’s leafy paths—morning is perfect if you like golden sunshine filtering through the trees. The short walk from the park’s entrance to Utsunomiya Tower lets you soak in classic park tranquility before heading up for the main event. Once at the tower, climb up to the observation deck for unbeatable 360° city and mountain views (get those “man-walking-in-the-park” photos with green backdrops for totally insta-worthy shots!). Don’t miss close-ups of the tower's sleek lines against the blue sky: perfection for architecture fans. Must-Do: · Stroll under the vibrant treetops for laid-back park therapy · Go up the tower for top-notch city and landscape photography · Pause at the benches for a moment of quiet surrounded by nature and urban scenes Photo Spots: · Pathways with sun-dappled trees · Modern tower architecture framed by greenery · Outdoor cultural landscapes—try close-up angles for something unique! Tips & Precautions: Visit early or late afternoon for great light and fewer crowds. The park is open all day, and it’s friendly for solo walks or picnics. Bring water—there aren’t many vendors nearby. On summer afternoons, the sun can be strong, so some shade or a hat is a good idea! #Utsunomiya #JapanTravel #HachimanyamaPark #NatureAndCity #PanoramaViews

🍣 Famous Conveyor Belt Sushi @ Utsunomiya This popular conveyor belt sushi restaurant in Japan is a favorite among locals who visit throughout the day. The restaurant boasts a clean and organized atmosphere with an authentic Japanese style, making it suitable for solo diners, families, or groups of friends. The highlight of this place is its fresh sushi at wallet-friendly prices, starting from just a few hundred yen. Despite the affordable cost, the quality exceeds expectations. Whether it's salmon, tuna, ikura, or uni, the sushi is served in generous portions with perfectly cooked rice and fresh fish that’s free from any unpleasant smell. Additionally, the menu offers a variety of options, including sushi rolls, ramen, side dishes, fried items, and desserts. Ordering is convenient via a tablet with multilingual options, making it tourist-friendly. During evenings or holidays, the restaurant may get crowded, but the turnover is quick, so the wait time is minimal. It's a place you can visit repeatedly without disappointment. ✨ Highlights to try · 🍣 Fresh and large salmon/tuna sushi · 🧡 Premium options like ikura & uni · 🍜 Additional menu items like ramen and fried dishes · 💴 Great value for money, allowing you to enjoy multiple dishes without breaking the bank 🚶♂️ How to get there · 🚆 Take a train to Utsunomiya Station (宇都宮駅) · From the station, you can walk, take a bus, or a taxi for about 5–10 minutes (depending on the branch). The restaurant is located in the dining area and is easy to spot with clear signage. 📌 Summary If you're visiting Utsunomiya and looking for delicious sushi at reasonable prices with authentic Japanese standards, this restaurant is a perfect choice. It's great for both lunch and dinner 🍣🇯🇵

Take a short road trip from Tokyo to Tochigi and Ibaraki 🚗. Stop by Utsunomiya to enjoy a gyoza tasting tour! Each restaurant offers unique flavors, varying thickness of the wrappers, and different levels of crispiness, making it impossible to get bored even after a full day of gyoza hopping 🥟🍺. Stay overnight in Utsunomiya, and on the next day, head to the famous Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki. During the autumn season, the park is renowned for its vibrant red Kochia bushes! The entire hill is covered with fluffy, round Kochia, creating a breathtaking view that looks like a red carpet. Additionally, you can enjoy other seasonal flowers like cosmos and pampas grass, offering a variety of landscapes throughout the year 🍂. The park is vast, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. If you have time, renting a bicycle to explore the park is highly recommended. The parking facilities are well-maintained, and the park is easily accessible. From Tokyo, it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by car, making it perfect for a weekend getaway or a scenic drive ✨. 🌟 Combining Utsunomiya Gyoza with Hitachi Seaside Park offers a luxurious itinerary where you can enjoy both gourmet food and stunning scenery. It's especially recommended during the autumn season!

📍Chinese Restaurant Kokakuro 1140 Takagihonmachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture Access Nirazukajinjamae bus stop / Approximately 0 minutes walk from Kanto Expressway Takagihonmachikami bus stop / Approximately 3 minutes walk from Kanto Expressway Takagihonmachi bus stop / Approximately 6 minutes walk from Kanto Expressway Parking available Hours: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM / 4:30 PM - 9:30 PM Closed: Wednesdays ✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲✲ The restaurant has a retro design, and the staff are energetic and friendly. Free extra-large servings of fried rice and dandan noodles!! Black Dandan Noodles The richness, or rather, the thickness, is extraordinary... This isn't just spicy dandan noodles. You can choose between thin noodles or knife-cut noodles. Utsunomiya is known as the city of gyoza, and there are many gyoza restaurants, but the gyoza at Shokakuro are heavy with meat filling! They're flavorful and incredibly satisfying! I highly recommend these gyoza. They're truly delicious. #SpringZeroYenTravel #Tochigi #DayTrip #Utsunomiya #UtsunomiyaGyoza #Gyoza #DandanNoodles

A one-day travel plan to explore Moka City in Tochigi Prefecture! 📍Chaya Amamaki A famous pizza restaurant nestled in the mountains Address: 1234 Kamiooba, Mashiko Town, Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture, JP 321-4212 🕰️ Hours: 11:30 AM–3:00 PM, Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays Since the hours are limited, visiting early is recommended! Their pizza crust is crispy and absolutely delicious 😋 📍Ninpei Antique Furniture Store Address: 1095 Aramachi, Moka City, Tochigi Prefecture, JP 321-4305 🕰️ Hours: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM, Closed on Thursdays A shop where you can purchase antique furniture at better prices than in urban areas The store's atmosphere is also very charming 📍Pejite Address: 973-6 Mashiko, Mashiko Town, Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture, JP 321-4217 🕰️ Hours: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM, Closed on Thursdays A spacious store with a modern Japanese vibe, showcasing works by various ceramic artists Some apparel items are also available 📍Utsunomiya Minmin 🕰️ Hours: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM, Closed on Tuesdays When it comes to Utsunomiya gyoza, this is the place to go Be prepared to wait in line, but it's worth it! Enjoy light and crispy pan-fried gyoza and chewy boiled dumplings Moka City and Mashiko Town in Tochigi Prefecture are about a 2-hour drive from Tokyo Definitely give it a visit!

🗺 Place Name: Oya Temple ✨Highlights: Oya Temple is located in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture. One of its most notable features is the 27-meter-tall Peace Kannon (平和観音 Heiwa Kannon), carved as a memorial to soldiers of the Pacific War and to pray for world peace. It was sculpted from stone quarried at the Oya Quarry and built on the rock wall of Oya Temple. The artist Hida Asajiro (飛田朝次郎) and the stone craftsmen of Oya took about six years to complete the hand-carved statue. If you climb the stairs to the side of the Kannon, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the observation point. 🚅 How to get there: From the west exit of JR Utsunomiya Station, go to bus stop number 6 and take the "Oya-Tatsuiwa-yuki" bus for about 30 minutes. Get off at the "Oya-Kannon-mae" stop and walk for about 3 minutes. 🗣Tips: From December to March, the temple is closed every Thursday and from December 21 to 31.

I want you to go on a normal day off! I've compiled a list of recommended spots in Utsunomiya that are easy to get to from Tokyo on the day you feel like it♥. Wakatake-san is recommended at this time of year, and the mysticism of the Otani Museum is also great! Utsunomiya Zoo is a local place, so you can get close to the animals and there are surprisingly many rides, which is great😂❤️ The local aspect is also interesting! I think it's a seasonal place with that kind of feeling! Adults can totally enjoy it too! You can eat gyoza on the way home, and it's all close so you can go there, isn't it great? 🥹🫰 📍Address: 552-2 Kamikanai-cho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-2115 🕰️Opening hours: Normal period (March to December) 9:00-17:00 *Last entry 16:30 Winter period (January to February) 9:30-16:30 *Last entry 16:00 #Seasonal places in Japan #Domestic travel #Tourism

#0yentravelJanuary2025#Utsunomiya 📍Otani Museum An underground space with a mining site. I enjoyed the illuminated stone quarry! 📍Wakatake no Mori Wakayama Farm A farm where you can enjoy a vast bamboo forest and beautiful gardens. You can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The well-maintained bamboo is beautiful! There was also a swing! 🍴Gyoza When you think of Utsunomiya, you think of gyoza! I've been to Utsunomiya more than five times, and I always go home after eating gyoza 🥟 Utsunomiya Gyozakan Nishiguchi Ekimae Chuo Branch This was my first visit! It was full of office workers. The gyoza isn't heavy, so you can eat it all in one go!

====📍Wakatake no Mori Wakayama Farm 2018 Takagihonmachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture 🚃Nearest station Utsunomiya Station 🚶♀️Access 30 minutes by bus from the station, then 10 minutes on foot 20 minutes by taxi from the station ⏱Business hours Weekdays: 9:00-17:00 Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 9:00-20:00 *Last admission is 30 minutes before closing time *Closing time is 21:00 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays in summer (June-August) *Illumination is from sunset to 20:00 🗓Closed New Year's holidays 🎫Prices [Daytime] Adults: ¥750 Elementary and junior high school students: ¥500 Preschool children (3-5 years old): ¥250 [Illumination] *Only held on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays Adults: Admission fee + ¥750 (¥1,500 in total) Elementary and junior high school students: admission fee + ¥500 (¥1,000 in total) Preschoolers (3-5 years old): admission fee + ¥250 (¥500 in total) [Tea shop use] Additional ¥750 (take-home bamboo utensils, tea snacks included) ==== A super relaxing spot full of negative ions in Utsunomiya 🫣🌿🧡 A historic bamboo forest dating back to the early Edo period, the area is the size of five Tokyo Domes 🤩!! ! There are many kinds of bamboo growing here, including bright green bamboo, golden yellow bamboo, and mysterious bamboo with a tortoiseshell pattern🕊🌱🌿🍃 It has also been used as a location for live-action movies such as Rurouni Kenshin and Kingdom, and commercials for Oi Ocha☺️🫶 As you walk through the bamboo forest, you will find swings, athletic facilities, and tea shops🎶 The matcha and chestnut sweets served in real bamboo containers are elegant, and eating them in a space surrounded by bamboo was extremely relaxing🤭🍵💓 The bamboo containers are OK to take home, so I took them home and used them as a small item holder🎶 In addition to the bamboo forest, chestnuts and blueberries were also grown🥰🌰🫐 There is a cafe, souvenir shop, and exhibition space at the entrance, so you can enjoy them all together🫶 By the way, the bamboo forest is lit up at night, so you can enjoy a different atmosphere from the daytime🫣🌃🌙 What did you think? We've introduced you to a bamboo forest that's perfect for an autumn outing 💓 Everyone, please come and visit it on your next outing 🎶 #DomesticTravelLogLine

| Utsunomiya can be experienced like this. Utsunomiya is located in Tochigi Prefecture, north of Tokyo, and is famous for its delicious Japanese dumplings. There are many Japanese dumpling restaurants near Utsunomiya Station. In addition to dumplings, the following two attractions are worth visiting and can be used as a day trip to Tokyo's niche destinations. 📷Wakatakenosha Wakayama Farm📷 Utsunomiya's "Wakatakenosha Wakayama Farm" is located at the foot of the Nikko Mountains. This huge bamboo forest is also the filming location of "Rurouni Kenshin"! Here you can also see many rare bamboo varieties, such as tortoiseshell bamboo and golden Mingzong bamboo. You can also experience tasting matcha with a cup made of bamboo. There are also dreamy bamboo forest light shows on weekends and holidays! 📷Oya History Museum📷 If you are interested in nature and geology, you can go to the "Oya History Museum" for exploration. Oya stone is a specialty of Utsunomiya. You can learn about the history of Oya stone mining at the Oya History Museum. The Oya History Museum has a huge underground mine network with a mining area of more than 20,000 square meters. The environment inside is very wild, and it feels like entering a pyramid. Enya has also filmed TV shows here, so fans will come here to check in. At the ROCKSIDE MARKET in the museum, you can also buy various Oya stone souvenirs and Mashiko ware. At noon, eat a meal of Utsunomiya's specialty dumplings or ramen at the nearby "BELL TERRACHE OYA", experience Oya stone stickers and then continue the afternoon itinerary.

Do you know the famous bamboo forest on the outskirts of Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture? Today's post will introduce you to "Wakatake no Mori Wakayama Farm"! · -〖What is "Wakatake no Mori Wakayama Farm"?〗--- "Wakatake no Mori Wakayama Farm" is a farm that has been growing mainly bamboo shoots and chestnuts for over 100 years🎋🌰 The bamboo forest stretches as far as the eye can see, and on sunny days the sunlight filtering through the trees is beautiful✨ Depending on the season, you can also pick blueberries in the berry fields and experience bamboo crafts, so it's a place that even small children can enjoy! · -〖Bamboo forest used as a filming location🎋〗--- "Wakatake no Mori Wakayama Farm" has been used as a filming location for many familiar things! ・Movies "Rurouni Kenshin" and "Kingdom" ・Commercial "Oi Ocha" And many more! It's irresistible for fans🫶 · --〖Matcha in a bamboo forest🌿〗--- For 750 yen, you can enjoy matcha in a bamboo forest! Isn't it a little expensive...? Some people may think so, but this actually comes with chestnut sweets and a bamboo bowl😗 You can also take the bamboo bowl home◎ Please try taking a break in the bamboo forest✨ · --〖A wide variety of souvenirs!〗--- At "Wakatake no Mori Wakayama Farm", the souvenir corner is a must-have! Bamboo shoots are in season in April-May, blueberries in July-August, and chestnuts in September-October! However, even outside of the above seasons, we sell additive-free boiled bamboo shoots and chestnut snacks, so please be sure to get some! · --〖Summary〗--- In today's post, we introduced "Wakatake no Mori Wakayama Farm"! It's been hot lately, but please come and enjoy the soothing sound of the bamboo leaves! · --〖Basic Information〗--- 🎋Wakatake no Mori Wakayama Farm 2018 Takagihonmachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi [Access] 🚎JR Utsunomiya Station West Exit Bus Stop Kanto Bus Routes 52, 56, 58 10 minutes walk after getting off at "Nozawadera-mae" [Opening Hours] [Weekdays] 9:00-17:00 [Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays] 9:00-20:00 · Closed at 21:00 from June to August [Closing Days] New Year's Holidays #DomesticTrip

Did you know that Yakult runs a cafe? In today's post, we'll introduce you to the Yakult Service Center Gohonmaru✌️ · --〖What is the Yakult Service Center?〗--- The Yakult Service Center is a complex facility that includes a cafe where you can enjoy light meals made with Yakult products, a Yakult cosmetics salon, and a gallery🙌 We want more people to know about Yakult products. We want our customers to find new ways to enjoy Yakult through the cafe and the salon. It seems that this idea has been put into practice 🥺 There are only two stores in the whole country, and both are in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, so it's safe to say that it's a tourist attraction exclusive to Tochigi 😘 This time, I went to "Yakult Service Center Gohonmaru" 🚶♀️ · --〖Photo spot for Yakult 1000📷´-〗--- In front of the "Yakult Service Center", there is a big Yakult 1000, so I took a commemorative photo 📸 Also, there are curtains, lights, etc., and there are Yakult everywhere, and it's super cute 🫶 Please try to find the hidden Yakult! 👀 · --〖Must try "Ice de Yakult"🍨〗--- At the "Yakult Service Center", you can try the online-only "Ice de Yakult"😋 This time, I ordered "Ice de Yakult Gelato & Milk"! This is an extremely rare ice cream, with only 30 pieces per day😮 And the only place you can eat it in person is the "Yakult Service Center Gohonmaru"! 🫢 The taste is... You can really taste the Yakult flavor, which is irresistible for Yakult lovers! ◎ · --〖There is also a beauty salon on the second floor🧖♀️〗--- I didn't visit this time, but there is a beauty salon on the second floor of the "Yakult Service Center Gohonmaru". It seems that you can get a facial treatment using Yakult cosmetics here! 😗 It's also recommended for those who want to try Yakult cosmetics👍 · --〖Summary〗--- In today's post, I introduced "Yakult Service Center Gohonmaru"! If you're looking for a cafe in Utsunomiya, please consider it as a candidate! ☕️ · --〖Basic Information〗--- 🍨 Yakult Service Center Gohonmaru 1-43 Honmaru-cho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi [Access] 🚃13-minute walk from Higashi-Utsunomiya Station 🚃25-minute walk from JR Utsunomiya Station [Parking] Available [Business hours] 10:00~19:00 (L.O. 18:30) [Closed] Wednesday #Domestic trip #Tochigi #Tochigi trip #Tochigi sightseeing #Tochigi gourmet #Cafe #Cafe tour #Cafe lover #Yakult #Yakult cafe #Yakult service center #Cafe activity #Cafe tour

Imaizumi Yasaka Shrine was enshrined as a guardian deity to ward off evil spirits when Utsunomiya Castle was constructed in 1063. It was originally founded as Shinmei-gu Shrine, and in 1910 it was merged with Yasaka Shrine in Bakuro-machi, changing its name to Yasaka Shrine, where it remains to this day. There is a pond on the grounds, with a red bridge spanning it. There are also carp swimming leisurely, which we enjoyed gazing at for a while. The Komainu (little dog) and Komainu (little cat) are a kind of symbol here! They were donated by worshippers in hopes of the long life and health of pets. The shrine office also has pet-related items available, and apparently they hold a guide dog fundraiser every New Year. ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ ꕥShrine name: Imaizumi Yasaka Shrine ꕥAddress: 4-16-28 Imaizumi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi ꕥAccess 🚉Utsunomiya Station →🚶♀️About 12 minutes walk ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ #besttrip2023 #shrines and temples #shrine tours #tourist spots #Utsunomiya

I went to Utsunomiya with my husband on a business trip. Until now, we've mostly stayed in hotels near the station, but this time we decided to stay at the Marriott Group's Fairfield by Marriott Utsunomiya, which is a little further away from the station (30 minutes by car). The area is a roadside station, so there are a lot of elderly people, but when we got to the hotel, it was very quiet and a lovely space surrounded by greenery and trees. It's a shame there's no breakfast, but when I woke up in the morning, I went to the first floor, poured myself a cup of coffee, and started working, so it was a pretty good start to the day. There were a lot of people working in the lobby, so it might be the best corporate trip for a real startup lol. I stayed well, worked well, and today was a good day ^ ^ #couples trip

Yakko Sushi Kagetsu 050-5868-1236 3031-1 Tomatamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi A sushi restaurant located about 15 minutes by taxi from JR Utsunomiya Station and Tobu Utsunomiya Station. There is not much bus service, so we recommend going by car or taxi. This sushi restaurant has a counter and private rooms, and the budget is 3,000 yen for lunch and 5,000 to 7,000 yen for dinner (drinks not included). The sushi includes ingredients unique to Tochigi, such as Nikko yuba and yashio trout, so you can enjoy Tochigi through food. There is also a conveyor belt sushi restaurant in Utsunomiya City that is part of the same chain, so we recommend that you also go there. #Utsunomiya #UtsunomiyaGourmet #Sushi

#Tourist Spot Yahatayama Park 5-1-1 Hanada, Utsunomiya TEL 028-642-0462 Utsunomiya Tower in the park: open from 9:00 to 16:30 Go-karts in the park: open from 9:00 to 16:00 A place of relaxation for Utsunomiya residents, 20 minutes by bus and foot from JR Utsunomiya Station, and 20 minutes on foot from Tobu Utsunomiya Station. In addition to attractions such as Utsunomiya Tower (with observation deck) and go-karts (for junior high school students), the park is also home to 900 cherry trees and 800 azaleas, so you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in April and the azalea flowers during Golden Week. If you have children, there are go-karts and a jungle gym so they can play, and adults can enjoy cherry blossom viewing, making it a fun spot.

Hakata Rairyu 028-666-0178 6-8 Enomachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, Seki Building 1F Business hours: 10:45-24:00 This restaurant is located diagonally across from Utsunomiya Tobu Department Store. This restaurant serves Hakata ramen, which is rare in Utsunomiya. The white tonkotsu ramen has not too much back fat and the noodles have just the right firmness. If you want to eat delicious tonkotsu ramen, this is the place for you! #Utsunomiya