Tochigi Prefecture is found in the heart of the Kantō region of Honshu, Japan.
It’s a place brimming with hidden gems and unique stories.
The busy Tokyo often overshadows Tochigi to the south, but it offers many surprising and fascinating experiences.
Why should you care about Tochigi?
Tochigi has scenic beauty, hot springs, and history.
But it also has some odd and little-known facts that might pique your curiosity.
Have fun in Tochigi prefecture with these recommendations:
- Nikkō is home to the lavishly decorated Tōshō-gū shrine
- The Ashikaga Flower Park features dazzling Wisteria tunnels
- Utsunomiya is famous for its delicious gyoza dumplings.
- You can visit the historic Tochigi warehouse district
- Nasu Alpaca Farm lets you pet and feed adorable alpacas
- Strawberry picking is a popular activity in Tochigi
- The Kegon Falls is one of Japan's top three waterfalls.
- Tochigi produces a unique type of pottery called Mashiko ware
- Nasu Heisei no Mori Forest
- Tochigi is home to over 200 onsen (hot springs).
- Edo Wonderland.
- The Kanuma Autumn Festival features ornate wooden floats.
This article looks at some unusual facts about Tochigi Prefecture.
Nikkō is home to the lavishly decorated Tōshō-gū shrine
Nikkō in Tochigi Prefecture boasts the stunning Tōshō-gū shrine.
This Shinto shrine is incredibly ornate.
You’ll find vibrant colours and intricate carvings.
It’s a sight you won’t forget.
Tōshō-gū is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nikkō, filled with historical and cultural significance.
This shrine also serves as the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
The Ashikaga Flower Park features dazzling Wisteria tunnels
You won’t believe your eyes when you walk through the stunning Wisteria tunnels at Ashikaga Flower Park.
These tunnels are lit up beautifully at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
The park is home to one of Japan’s oldest and largest Wisteria trees, making it a must-see.
Utsunomiya is famous for its delicious gyoza dumplings.
Utsunomiya, located in Tochigi Prefecture, is the gyoza capital of Japan.
The town boasts over 200 gyoza shops, each offering its own unique twist on the famous dumplings.
These dumplings have thin, crispy skins that become delightfully crunchy when pan-fried.
You’ll find a hot filling of meat, cabbage, and chives inside.
What sets Utsunomiya’s gyoza apart is the generous use of garlic.
This gives the dumplings a robust, savoury flavour that you won’t forget.
You can visit the historic Tochigi warehouse district
Wandering through the Tochigi warehouse district is like stepping back in time.
The area brims with Edo-era buildings that showcase traditional Japanese architecture.
The wooden structures often feature beautifully crafted white plaster walls.
Many warehouses have been preserved or restored, vividly illustrating 17th—to 19th-century Japan.
Some now house museums, shops, and restaurants.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Uzumagawa River.
The riverside views add an extra charm to your visit.
Nasu Alpaca Farm lets you pet and feed adorable alpacas
At Nasu Alpaca Farm, you’ll meet over 230 alpacas.
These fluffy animals are super friendly and love attention.
You can pet and feed them. It’s a great way to get close to these cute creatures.
Remember, there’s no place to wash your hands after feeding them, so bring hand sanitiser.
Strawberry picking is a popular activity in Tochigi
Tochigi is Japan’s largest producer of strawberries.
You can explore the many strawberry farms scattered throughout the prefecture.
Many farms offer all-you-can-eat strawberry picking.
You’ll find different varieties, like Tochiotome and Skyberry.
Timing is key.
The best season for strawberry picking is from December to May.
Enjoy plucking these juicy fruits straight from the plant.
The Kegon Falls is one of Japan’s top three waterfalls.
You’ll find Kegon Falls in Nikko National Park, Tochigi. It’s considered one of Japan’s top three waterfalls.
The waterfall stands at 97 metres tall. You can see it from a viewing platform nearby.
To get a closer look, hop on an elevator ride. It’s worth it!
Tochigi produces a unique type of pottery called Mashiko ware
In Tochigi, you’ll find Mashiko ware, a particular pottery.
Mashiko ware comes from the town of Mashiko in Tochigi Prefecture.
The pottery dates back to the Edo era and has a rustic style.
Mashiko ware is known for its rich, earthy look and high quality.
No extra ingredients are added to the clay, making it pure.
The pottery is used for everyday items like plates, bowls, and cups.
Each piece of Mashiko ware is a blend of tradition and craftsmanship.
It received national recognition as a traditional craft in 1979.
Nasu Heisei no Mori Forest
The area bursts into colourful life when the wildflowers bloom.
It’s a sight to behold.
Walk through paths lined with vibrant flowers.
You can spot many different species.
The whole area turns into a natural painting, full of vivid colours.
Tochigi is home to over 200 onsen (hot springs).
Tochigi is the ultimate destination for hot spring lovers.
You’ll find over 200 onsen scattered throughout the prefecture.
Each one offers something unique.
Tochigi has everything, whether you like secluded mountain inns or bustling resort towns.
Some onsen are famous for their healing properties, while others boast stunning views.
Why not take a dip in the soothing waters and relax?
Edo Wonderland.
When you visit Edo Wonderland in Nikko, you’re transported back to the Edo period (1603-1868).
It’s an immersive experience where you can dress up as samurai, ninjas, or townsfolk.
You can participate in samurai sword training or try a ninja obstacle course.
There’s also the chance to ride a traditional houseboat called a yakatabune.
Visitors can enjoy traditional performances featuring instruments like the shamisen.
The Kanuma Autumn Festival features ornate wooden floats.
At the Kanuma Autumn Festival, you can see gorgeous wooden floats called “Yatai.”
These floats are hand-carved and beautifully decorated.
They parade through the streets of Kanuma, making the festival a must-see event.