Tochigi Travel Recommendations

Tochigi Prefecture is located in the Kanto region of Japan, approximately 100 kilometers north of Tokyo. It is known for its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and delicious food. The prefecture has a population of approximately 1.9 million people and is divided into two regions, the northern part that consists of mountainous terrain, and the southern part, which has a flat landscape.

Getting to Tochigi Prefecture

Tochigi Prefecture can be easily accessed from Tokyo by train or bus. The fastest and most convenient way to get there is by taking the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya Station, which takes approximately 50 minutes. From Utsunomiya Station, visitors can take a local train or bus to their desired destination. Alternatively, there are also direct buses that run from Tokyo Station to various cities in Tochigi Prefecture.

Best Season to Visit Tochigi

Tochigi Prefecture is a popular destination throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on the season and the activities that visitors want to do. Spring (March-May) is a popular time to visit because of the cherry blossom season, especially at places like Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Park, where visitors can enjoy picturesque views of the castle ruins and cherry blossoms. Summer (June-August) is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities in the mountains, like hiking and camping. Autumn (September-November) is a beautiful time to visit because of the changing leaves, especially at Nikko National Park, which is known for its stunning autumn foliage. Winter (December-February) is a great time to visit for winter sports, especially at resorts in the northern part of the prefecture like Nasu and Mt. Jeans.

Must-see Places in Tochigi

Tochigi Prefecture offers a wide range of attractions that cater to different interests. Here are some of the must-see places in the prefecture:

Nikko National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to many historical landmarks, including Toshogu Shrine, which is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The park is also known for its stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls, lakes, and mountains.

Kegon Falls

Kegon Falls, is a majestic waterfall considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. The waterfall originates from Lake Chuzenji and plunges down a 97-meter cliff surrounded by lush greenery. The sheer force and beauty of the cascading water create a mesmerizing sight and a symphony of sound. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the waterfall from a designated observation deck, which provides a stunning vantage point. Kegon no Taki is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the natural splendor that Tochigi has to offer.

Mashiko Pottery Village

This small village is famous for its pottery, which has been produced there for over 400 years. Visitors can browse shops and studios, and even try their hand at making their own pottery.

Kinugawa Onsen

This hot spring resort town is famous for its relaxing hot springs and scenic views of the Kinugawa River. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine and cultural activities like tea ceremonies.

Oya History Museum

This museum is located in an old underground quarry that was used to extract Oya stone, a type of volcanic rock. Visitors can learn about the history of the quarry and see impressive sculptures and carvings made from Oya stone.

Ashikaga Flower Park

This park is known for its beautiful wisteria flowers, which bloom in April and May. Visitors can enjoy a variety of colorful flowers throughout the year, as well as light displays in the evening.

Nikko Edo Wonderland

This theme park recreates a traditional Japanese village from the Edo period (1603-1868). Visitors can dress up in samurai or ninja costumes, watch traditional shows, and take part in workshops on calligraphy, swordsmanship, and other Japanese arts.

Cuisines you can enjoy in Tochigi

The region is also famous for its delicious local cuisine that attracts foodies from all over the world. In this essay, we’ll discuss some of the most popular cuisines that you can enjoy in Tochigi Prefecture.

Yuba cuisine

Yuba cuisine is one of the most popular dishes in Tochigi Prefecture. Yuba is a by-product of soy milk production and is made by boiling soy milk and skimming off the film that forms on the surface. It is a soft, delicate and slightly sweet food that is used in a variety of dishes.

In Tochigi Prefecture, you can find many restaurants that offer Yuba cuisine. Some of the popular dishes include Yuba Soba, which is a soba noodle dish served with a side of yuba, Yuba Maki, which is yuba rolled with sushi rice and other fillings, and Yuba Dojo, which is a soup made with yuba and fish.

Tochigi Beef

Tochigi Beef is a high-quality beef that originates in Tochigi Prefecture. It is known for its tender texture and rich, juicy flavor. Tochigi Beef is produced by carefully selecting and breeding Japanese Black cattle, which are raised with a special diet and rigorous standards of care.

This premium beef is used in a variety of dishes in Tochigi Prefecture. Some of the most popular dishes include Tochigi Beef Sukiyaki, which is a stew made with sliced Tochigi Beef and vegetables cooked in a sweet and savory broth, and Tochigi Beef Shabu-Shabu, which is a hot pot dish where thinly sliced Tochigi Beef is dipped in a hot broth and eaten with dipping sauces.

Miso dishes

Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans. It is a staple ingredient in Japanese cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes, including soups, marinades, and sauces.

In Tochigi Prefecture, you can find many restaurants that specialize in miso dishes. Some of the popular dishes include Miso Dengaku, which is grilled vegetables or tofu covered in a sweet miso sauce, and Miso Ramen, which is a noodle soup made with miso and topped with various ingredients like pork, vegetables, and egg.

Soba noodles

Soba noodles are thin noodles made from buckwheat flour and are a popular food in Tochigi Prefecture. They are known for their nutty flavor and are typically served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a broth.

Tochigi Prefecture is home to some of the best soba noodle restaurants in Japan. Some of the popular dishes include Tanuki Soba, which is soba noodles served with deep-fried tempura bits and green onions, and Mori Soba, which is soba noodles served cold with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, sake, and mirin.

Utsunomiya Gyoza

Utsunomiya Gyoza is a type of Japanese dumpling that originates in Tochigi Prefecture. It is a small, bite-sized dumpling that is made with a filling of ground pork, cabbage, garlic, and other ingredients. It is typically fried on one side and then lightly steamed on the other.

Utsunomiya Gyoza is famous all over Japan and is considered one of the must-try foods in Tochigi Prefecture. There are many restaurants in the region that specialize in gyoza and offer a variety of different fillings and dipping sauces.

Mochi

Mochi is a traditional Japanese rice cake made from glutinous rice. It is typically served in small, bite-sized pieces and is often filled with sweet fillings like red bean paste or strawberries.

In Tochigi Prefecture, you can find many shops that offer freshly made mochi. Some of the popular variations of mochi include Daifuku, which is mochi filled with sweet red bean paste, and Ichigo Daifuku, which is mochi filled with a whole strawberry and sweet red bean paste.

Recommended Accommodations in Tochigi

The Ritz-Carlton Nikko, Nikko City

Located in the sacred town of Nikko, The Ritz-Carlton is a luxury hotel that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake. The hotel has 94 rooms and suites that are elegantly designed with traditional Japanese aesthetics, including sliding shoji doors and tatami floors. The hotel also boasts an indoor pool and spa, along with a fine dining restaurant that serves local delicacies and Japanese sake.

Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel, Nikko City

Built-in 1893, Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel is a historic hotel that has preserved its traditional Japanese architecture and interiors. The hotel has 99 guest rooms that overlook the Kinugawa River or the surrounding mountains. The hotel also has a hot spring bath and sauna, along with a restaurant that serves Japanese and French cuisine.

Nasu Highland Resort Hotel & Spa, Nasu

Located in Nasu, a popular resort destination, Nasu Highland Resort Hotel & Spa is a luxurious hotel that offers stunning views of Mount Nasu and the surrounding highlands. The hotel has 314 guest rooms and suites that are designed with a blend of Western and Japanese styles. The hotel also has indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, along with a spa, fitness center, and several restaurants that serve Japanese, Chinese, and Western cuisine.

Nikko Kanaya Hotel, Nikko City

Established in 1878, Nikko Kanaya Hotel is another historic hotel in Nikko that has preserved its traditional Japanese architecture and interiors. The hotel has 96 guest rooms that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The hotel also has an open-air hot spring bath, indoor pool, fitness center, and several restaurants that serve Japanese and Western cuisine.

Hotel Epinard Nasu, Nasu

Surrounded by forested hills and lush gardens, Hotel Epinard Nasu is a charming hotel that offers a tranquil retreat from the city. The hotel has 144 guest rooms and suites that are designed with simple elegance and modern conveniences. The hotel also has a hot spring bath, sauna, tennis court, bowling alley, and several restaurants that serve Japanese and Western cuisine.

Okunikko Konishi Hotel, Nikko City

Located in the heart of Nikko National Park, Okunikko Konishi Hotel is a luxurious hotel that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The hotel has 96 guest rooms that are designed with traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern amenities. The hotel also has an indoor hot spring bath, sauna, massage services, and a restaurant that serves local delicacies and Japanese sake.

Hotel Harvest Nasu, Nasu

Hotel Harvest Nasu is a modern hotel that offers beautiful views of the Nasu mountains and countryside. The hotel has 170 guest rooms and suites that are decorated with soothing colors and contemporary furnishings. The hotel also has a hot spring bath, sauna, fitness center, and several restaurants that serve Japanese, Chinese, and Western cuisine.

Hotel Green Plaza Nasu, Nasu

Surrounded by tranquil woodlands and beautiful gardens, Hotel Green Plaza Nasu is a relaxing hotel that offers a peaceful retreat from the city. The hotel has 337 guest rooms and suites that are designed with a mix of Japanese and Western styles. The hotel also has several hot spring baths, sauna, spa, outdoor pool, fitness center, and several restaurants that serve Japanese and Western cuisine.

Nikko Station Hotel Classic, Nikko City

Nikko Station Hotel Classic is a modern hotel that is conveniently located near the Nikko train station. The hotel has 78 guest rooms that are designed with simple elegance and modern amenities. The hotel also has an indoor hot spring bath, sauna, and a restaurant that serves Japanese and Western cuisine.

Conclusion

Tochigi Prefecture is a great place to visit for those who want to experience the beauty and history of Japan beyond Tokyo. The prefecture offers a wide range of attractions that cater to different interests and can be easily accessed from Tokyo by train or bus. Visitors can enjoy scenic natural views, historical landmarks, delicious food, and traditional cultural experiences throughout the year.