Tochigi: The Best Travel Destination You’ve Never Heard Of
If you’re looking for a unique travel destination in Japan that’s off the beaten path, Tochigi is the perfect destination. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, Tochigi has everything you could want in a Japanese travel experience.
Some of the top attractions in Tochigi include:
- Nikko National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to ancient shrines and temples, breathtaking waterfalls, and stunning hiking trails.
- Ashikaga Flower Park: This park is famous for its wisteria tunnels that bloom in a riot of colors in the spring.
- Nasu Animal Kingdom: This zoo and the amusement park have a wide variety of exotic animals and thrilling rides for visitors of all ages.
Pro-tip: To fully experience the beauty of Tochigi, consider visiting in the autumn months to witness the stunning fall foliage.
Attractions in Tochigi
From ancient shrines and castles to beautiful mountains, Tochigi is one of Japan’s best-kept secrets. With so many attractions, it’s no wonder it is one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations.
Let’s look at some of the attractions Tochigi has to offer.
Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site
If you are looking for a beautiful and culturally rich travel destination, Tochigi is the perfect place to visit. One of its must-see attractions is the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Japan’s most magnificent shrine.
Located in the city of Nikko, Nikko Toshogu Shrine was built in the 17th century to enshrine Tokugawa Ieyasu’s remains, the Tokugawa shogunate’s founder and is one of the country’s most lavish and elaborately decorated shrines. The shrine’s buildings and gates feature intricate carvings, vivid colors, and gold leaf accents that illustrate the skill and craftsmanship of Japan’s traditional artisans. In addition to the main shrine, the complex also features beautiful gardens, a five-story pagoda, and several other smaller shrines and temples.
Pro tip: To avoid crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the shrine, visit early in the morning or in the off-season.
Enjoy the beauty of Kinugawa Onsen, a hot spring resort town
Kinugawa Onsen is a popular hot spring resort town located in Tochigi, Japan, known for its natural scenery, seasonal attractions, and relaxing hot springs.
Here are some of the top attractions to enjoy in Kinugawa Onsen:
1. Kinugawa River Cruise – enjoy a serene boat ride through the Kinugawa River, admiring the beautiful surroundings.
2. Edo Wonderland – an immersive theme park that takes you back through time to the Edo period with samurai shows, ninja performances, and traditional crafts.
3. Nikko Toshogu Shrine – a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate architecture and rich history.
4. Tobu World Square – a unique theme park featuring over 100 miniature replicas of iconic landmarks from around the world.
Kinugawa Onsen offers something for everyone with its blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxing hot springs.
Pro tip: Don’t miss out on the local cuisine, such as yuba, a traditional soy-based dish, and tofu, which are known to be some of the best in Japan.
Explore the breathtaking natural scenery at Oze National Park
Oze National Park is home to some of Japan’s most beautiful and natural scenery, making it a must-visit attraction in Tochigi.
The park is renowned for its spectacular views of marshlands, volcanic peaks, streams, and forests. Visitors can go hiking, fishing, and birdwatching on the hundreds of kilometers of trails located in the park.
During different seasons, the park has distinct beauty. Spring offers blooming azaleas, while summer welcomes beautiful sunflowers. In autumn, visitors can witness the breathtaking foliage, and in winter, the park offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hot springs.
With its unique combination of natural and outdoor attractions, Oze National Park offers a refreshing and unforgettable experience that every travel enthusiast must have on their bucket list.
Things to Do in Tochigi
If you’re looking for a unique and exciting travel destination, then Tochigi is the place to be. From its stunning views of Mount Tsukuba, to its vibrant culture and cuisine, there’s something to do for everyone in Tochigi.
This article will explore all the things you can do in Tochigi, from outdoor activities to cultural experiences. So read on to find out why Tochigi is the perfect place to visit!
Take a hike on the Mt. Nantai hiking trails
Mt. Nantai hiking trails are a must-do activity for anyone visiting Tochigi. With its stunning views, serene surroundings, and well-maintained trails, this hike offers an unforgettable experience for hikers of all levels.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your hike:
- Start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough time to reach the summit and return.
- Stay on the marked trail and follow the signs to avoid getting lost.
- Bring enough water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized throughout the hike.
- Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes with good traction to avoid slipping.
- Take breaks as needed and pace yourself to avoid exhaustion.
- Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views from the summit.
With its panoramic views of Lake Chuzenji and the surrounding forests, Mt. Nantai hiking trails offer a one-of-a-kind hiking experience that you won’t want to miss.
Taste traditional Japanese sweets at Sano Yakuyoke Daishi Temple
Sano Yakuyoke Daishi Temple offers an opportunity to taste traditional Japanese sweets that are unique to the region and are not easily found elsewhere. These traditional Japanese sweets, or wagashi, are made with natural and simple ingredients and each has its own history and story to tell.
Here are some of the most popular wagashi to try at the temple:
Yomogi Mochi: This sweet is made with mochi, a sweet rice cake, and yomogi, a Japanese herb with a distinctive aroma and texture.
Uiro: This sweet is made with rice flour, sugar, and water and comes in various flavors such as matcha and red bean.
Castella: This sweet is a type of sponge cake that was originally brought to Japan by the Portuguese and has become a popular Japanese confection over the years.
Trying these unique wagashi treats at Sano Yakuyoke Daishi Temple is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Tochigi prefecture.
Visit the Ashikaga Flower Park, home to Japan’s largest wisteria arbor
The Ashikaga Flower Park, located in Tochigi, Japan, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone looking to experience the beauty of wisteria arbor.
With over 350 wisteria trees of different varieties in bloom, the park boasts the largest wisteria arbor in Japan. Visitors can wander through the long clusters of flowers hanging from trellises and bridges, and enjoy the incredible fragrances and colors. There are also ponds surrounded by wisteria and other flowers, adding to the serenity of the park.
Additionally, the park illuminates the flowers at night, creating a magical atmosphere. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the stunning Ashikaga Flower Park and witness the breathtaking beauty of wisteria arbor.
Pro tip: The best time to visit the park is during the peak season of wisteria bloom, usually from mid-April to mid-May.
Food and Drink in Tochigi
Tochigi offers an amazing variety of food and drink to its visitors. From its traditional Japanese fare to some of the most unique flavor combinations, the options in Tochigi are endless.
Whether you’re looking for something authentically Japanese or something a bit more out of the box, Tochigi has something for everyone. Let’s dive into some of the best food and drink that Tochigi has to offer.
Try Tochigi’s famous gyoza dumplings at Nikko Gyoza Center
Tochigi is famous for its gyoza dumplings, and there’s no better place to try them than at the Nikko Gyoza Center.
Located in Nikko, the Nikko Gyoza Center offers a wide range of gyoza fillings, including pork, chicken, seafood, and vegetable. The fillings are wrapped in a thin, delicate dough and pan-fried until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The restaurant also offers a variety of side dishes, such as edamame, tofu, and salads, to complement your meal.
Pro Tip: Go early to avoid long waits, as the Nikko Gyoza Center is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. And don’t forget to try the dipping sauce, a perfect blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and chili oil.
Savor local sake at Kawaba Brewery
Kawaba Brewery in Tochigi is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in savoring locally brewed sake. Renowned for its excellent rice wine, Kawaba Brewery offers a range of sake varieties that can be sampled at its picturesque brewery in the mountains of Tochigi.
The brewery tour includes a visit to the brewery’s facilities, where visitors can learn about the sake-making process and the importance of locally sourced ingredients. At the end of the tour, visitors can indulge in a sake tasting session, where they can sample different sake types and flavors.
In addition to its sake, Kawaba brewery also offers a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, making it an ideal destination for foodies as well. So head over to Kawaba brewery for a unique and authentic sake experience. Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring home a bottle or two of your favorite sake as a souvenir.
Sample yuba, a tofu skin delicacy at Yuba Village
Yuba skin is a popular delicacy made from soy milk and can be sampled at Yuba Village in Tochigi, making it a must-try for food enthusiasts visiting this hidden gem destination.
Yuba skin is made by simmering soy milk and skimming off the film created on the surface, which is then dried into sheets. At Yuba Village, the yuba is made fresh daily and served in various dishes such as yuba sashimi, yuba sushi, and yuba soup.
Not only is yuba delicious, but it is also a great source of protein, fiber, and minerals like calcium and iron. Additionally, the idyllic scenery and serene atmosphere of Tochigi make it an ideal destination for food and travel enthusiasts alike.
Getting Around Tochigi
If you’re looking for a unique travel destination that not many have heard of, look no further than Tochigi! Rich in natural beauty, culture, and history, Tochigi is sure to satisfy any traveler’s desire.
When it comes to getting around Tochigi, there are a variety of transportation options available to travelers. Whether you want to explore using the train, bus, or rental car, the options are endless, so let’s look at some of the ways you can get around Tochigi.
Rent a car or hire a private driver for maximum flexibility
To enjoy maximum flexibility when traveling around Tochigi, renting a car or hiring a private driver can be an ideal option. While public transportation is widely available in Tochigi, it may not provide the comfort, convenience, and flexibility needed to explore the region to the fullest.
Renting a car allows you to explore Tochigi at your own pace, visit remote locations, and experience the breathtaking landscape of the region. Private drivers offer the added benefit of local expertise, providing insider information and valuable guidance on the best attractions, restaurants, and cultural experiences.
Whether you choose to rent a car or hire a private driver, be sure to plan ahead, understand the road rules and regulations, and have a valid driving license or hire a licensed driver. With the right preparation and mindset, you can enjoy the best that Tochigi has to offer.
Use Tochigi’s public transportation, including buses and trains
Tochigi is well-known for its convenient and reliable public transportation, including buses and trains. Whether you’re traveling within the prefecture or exploring further afield, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Buses: Tochigi’s bus system is extensive and covers most of the prefecture. It’s an affordable and efficient way to get around, with regular services to major attractions and tourist destinations.
Trains: Tochigi has a number of train lines, making it easy to travel between cities and towns. The Shinkansen bullet train also stops in the prefecture, providing fast and convenient access to Tokyo and other parts of Japan.
Some of the popular train lines in Tochigi are –
Nikko Line: This line connects Utsunomiya Station with Nikko and other popular tourist spots.
Aizu Line: This line runs from Aizu-Wakamatsu in Fukushima Prefecture through Nikko and on to Kinugawa Onsen.
Pro tip: Purchase a pass like the Tobu Nikko Free Pass to save money on transportation and attractions in Tochigi.
Take a guided tour to see the top Tochigi attractions and receive detailed insight from local experts.
Tochigi Prefecture in Japan is a hidden gem that boasts a range of stunning attractions and scenic landscapes. The best way to discover this underrated destination is to take a guided tour that provides a detailed insight into the region’s culture, history, and natural beauty.
A guided tour takes care of all the logistics, allowing you to sit back and relax while experiencing the best Tochigi has to offer. Local experts guide you to popular attractions like the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the Kinugawa Onsen resort, and the Tobu World Square theme park while offering in-depth knowledge about the places.
With a hassle-free guided tour, you can get the most out of your Tochigi experience and truly appreciate the beauty of this unique travel destination.
