Just 50 minutes by Shinkansen from Tokyo, you’ll find a UNESCO World Heritage shrine.
It’s more elaborate than any temple in Kyoto, featuring gold leaf carvings and the famous “see no evil” monkey sculptures.
Tochigi Prefecture has over 350 wisteria trees, each more than 150 years old.
These trees form beautiful purple flower tunnels that attract visitors from around the world.
The region is known as Japan’s gyoza capital.
Near Utsunomiya Station, there are streets filled with restaurants. They serve crispy dumplings that locals have perfected over generations.
Add in 1,300-year-old hot springs and waterfalls that fall 97 metres into mountain valleys.
You get a destination offering world-class experiences, minus the crowds found at Japan’s famous tourist spots.
Things to Do in Tochigi:
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April-May): Cherry blossoms peak mid-April; wisteria at Ashikaga late April to mid-May
- Summer (June-August): Hydrangeas bloom June-July; perfect hiking weather and kakigori season
- Autumn (September-November): Fall colours peak mid-October to early November around Nikko
- Winter (December-March): Ashikaga Flower Park illuminations (October-February); fewer crowds at hot springs
To get there, take the JR Utsunomiya Line from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya Station.
It takes 1 hour 40 minutes on the local or rapid train, and just 50 minutes by Shinkansen.
For Nikko, take the Tobu Nikko Line from Asakusa Station (2 hours direct).
The JR Pass covers JR routes but not Tobu lines.
Local Transport
- Lake Chuzenji/Kegon Falls: Take bus from JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station (40 minutes, ¥1,150)
- Kinugawa Onsen: Direct train from Asakusa (2 hours) or connect via Shimo-Imaichi Station
- Mount Nasu: Bus from Kuroiso Station (1 hour to ropeway base)
How Long to Stay
- Day trip: Focus on one area like Nikko or Utsunomiya
- 2-3 days: See major highlights across the prefecture
- 4-5 days: Relaxed pace with hot spring stays and detailed exploration
Historic Sites You Cannot Miss
Nikko Toshogu Shrine
This UNESCO World Heritage site is Tochigi’s crown jewel.
Built in the 17th century to honour Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shrine features incredible wood carvings covered in gold leaf.
Look out for the famous “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” monkey carvings.
Best for: History enthusiasts, photography, cultural immersion
Season: Year-round; early morning visits avoid crowds
Practical Info: Open 8am-5pm (April-October), 8am-4pm (November-March).
Adult admission ¥1,300.
Nikko National Park
Beyond the shrine, this vast park contains Lake Chuzenji and numerous hiking trails.
The park shows Japan’s beauty in every season.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, and in autumn, the maple leaves shine.
Best for: Nature photography, hiking, scenic drives
Season: April-November for full access; winter brings snow-covered landscapes
Practical Info: Park entry free; individual attractions charge separately
Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura
Step back in time at this theme park that recreates life during Japan’s Edo period (1603-1868).
Watch ninja shows, samurai sword fights, and try on traditional Japanese clothes.
Perfect for families with children.
Best for: Families, cultural experiences, interactive entertainment
Season: Year-round; spring and autumn most comfortable for outdoor activities
Practical Info: Open 9am-5pm daily. Adult admission ¥4,700, children ¥2,400.
Oya History Museum
Built inside a former stone quarry in Utsunomiya, this unique museum tells the story of Japan’s stone industry.
The underground galleries carved from stone create an otherworldly atmosphere.
Modern art installations add contemporary appeal to this historic space.
Best for: Unique architecture, art lovers, cool summer retreat
Season: Year-round; underground galleries maintain constant temperature
Practical Info: Open 9am-5pm, closed Mondays. Adult admission ¥800.
Natural Beauty to Explore
Mount Nasu
This beautiful mountain range offers some of Japan’s best hiking.
Take the cable car up Mount Chausu for stunning views without the climb.
Spring brings cherry blossoms, whilst autumn transforms the mountainside into brilliant reds and golds.
Best for: Hiking, photography, cable car rides
Season: April-November (cable car operates year-round)
Lake Chuzenji
This peaceful mountain lake sits at 1,269 metres above sea level.
Boat trips run during warmer months, offering a relaxing way to see the surrounding forests.
The area becomes especially beautiful when autumn colours reflect in the still water.
Best for: Boat trips, photography, peaceful contemplation
Season: April-November for boat services; autumn peak mid-October to early November
Practical Info: Boat tours ¥1,400 adults; multiple departure points around lake
Ryuzu Falls and Kegon Falls
These spectacular waterfalls showcase Tochigi’s dramatic landscapes.
Ryuzu Falls splits into two streams that flow through rocky terrain, whilst Kegon Falls drops 97 metres into the valley below.
Both are easily accessible and offer excellent photo opportunities.
Best for: Photography, short walks, waterfall viewing
Season: Spring for maximum water flow; autumn for colourful surroundings
Practical Info: Kegon Falls elevator ¥570 adults; Ryuzu Falls free viewing areas
Food and Drink Adventures
Utsunomiya Gyoza
Utsunomiya earned the title “Gyoza Capital of Japan” for good reason.
These pan-fried dumplings are crispy outside and juicy inside.
Local favourites include Daiki, Ajisaikan, and Honten restaurants.
Best for: Food tourism, casual dining, local culture
Where to try: JR Utsunomiya Station gyoza street; Kirakirabashi shopping street
Practical Info: Most gyoza shops open 11am-9pm; expect ¥300-600 per serving
Sano Ramen
This local specialty features thick, chewy noodles in rich, flavourful broth.
Each restaurant has its own secret recipe, making ramen hopping a popular activity.
Best for: Comfort food, local specialties, warming winter meals
Where to try: Sano city centre near Sano Station
Practical Info: Bowls typically ¥600-900; most shops open 11am-3pm, 6pm-9pm
Tochigi Wagyu
The prefecture produces some of Japan’s finest beef.
Try it at local restaurants or buy it as a premium souvenir.
Best for: Fine dining, special occasions, food gifts
Where to try: High-end restaurants in Utsunomiya and department store food floors
Practical Info: Restaurant courses from ¥3,000; packaged beef from ¥2,000 per 100g
Kakigori (Shaved Ice)
Perfect for hot summer days, Tochigi’s kakigori comes in dozens of flavours.
Top shops like Yukinoshita and Shimizu Kakigori make stunning dessert sculptures from flavoured ice.
Best for: Summer cooling, Instagram photos, sweet treats
Season: May-September peak season; some shops year-round
Practical Info: Servings ¥500-1,500; most popular shops require queuing
Relaxing Hot Spring Towns
Kinugawa Onsen
Located in Nikko, this historic hot spring town has welcomed visitors for over 300 years.
The mineral-rich waters are said to heal skin problems and joint pain.
Many hotels offer river views and traditional multi-course meals.
Best for: Traditional ryokan experience, relaxation, river scenery
Season: Year-round; autumn colours and winter snow particularly beautiful
Practical Info: Day-trip bathing ¥1,000-2,000; overnight stays from ¥15,000 per person
Shiobara Onsen
Nestled in mountain valleys, Shiobara offers a more secluded hot spring experience.
Eleven different types of spring water provide various health benefits.
The area features beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls.
Best for: Stress relief, mountain scenery, peaceful atmosphere
Season: Year-round; spring flowers and autumn leaves enhance the experience
Practical Info: Day bathing ¥800-1,500; hiking trails free access
Nasu Yumoto Onsen
This ancient hot spring area sits at the foot of Mount Nasu.
The sulphur-rich waters have been used for over 1,300 years.
White, milky-coloured baths are characteristic of this region.
Best for: Historic atmosphere, mountain base location, distinctive waters
Season: Year-round; winter offers snow-covered mountain views
Practical Info: Public baths from ¥400; resort stays from ¥12,000 per person
Shopping and Crafts
Sano Premium Outlets
With over 180 brand-name stores offering discounted prices, this outlet mall attracts bargain hunters from across Japan.
International brands like Coach, Adidas, and Ralph Lauren sit alongside Japanese favourites.
Best for: Designer bargains, international brands, all-weather shopping
Season: Year-round; weekdays less crowded than weekends
Practical Info: Open 10am-8pm daily. Free shuttle bus from Sano Station every 20 minutes.
Mashiko Pottery Town
Home to over 300 pottery workshops, Mashiko is one of Japan’s largest ceramic centres.
Watch craftsmen work, take pottery classes, or buy unique handmade pieces.
The town also sells traditional textiles and lacquerware.
Best for: Craft enthusiasts, hands-on experiences, unique souvenirs
Season: Year-round; spring and autumn pottery festivals offer special events
Practical Info: Pottery classes from ¥2,000; workshop visits often free
Flora and Fauna Highlights
Ashikaga Flower Park
World-famous for its wisteria displays, this park features over 350 wisteria trees, some more than 150 years old.
Purple flower tunnels create magical walking paths from late April to mid-May.
The park also grows roses, tulips, and seasonal illuminations.
Best for: Flower photography, romantic walks, seasonal illuminations
Season: Late April to mid-May for wisteria; winter illuminations October-February
Practical Info: Open 9am-6pm. Admission varies by season (¥300-¥1,900). Special night illuminations in winter.
Nikko’s Hydrangea Gardens
The Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park showcases over 100 hydrangea varieties.
These colourful flowers bloom from June to July in shades of blue, pink, purple, and white.
The traditional Japanese garden setting makes this especially photogenic.
Best for: Garden photography, peaceful walks, traditional Japanese architecture
Season: June-July for hydrangeas; beautiful year-round gardens
Practical Info: Open 9am-5pm. Adult admission ¥510; garden and villa tour available
Nasu Animal Kingdom
See over 500 animals from 70 species in this family-friendly park.
Highlights include capybaras, red pandas, and bird shows.
Many animals roam freely, creating close-up encounters impossible at traditional zoos.
Best for: Families with children, animal encounters, outdoor activities
Season: Year-round; spring and autumn most comfortable for outdoor areas
Practical Info: Open 9am-5pm daily. Adult admission ¥2,400, children ¥1,000
Where to Stay
Hot Spring Resorts
Luxury options include Hotel Epinard Nasu and traditional ryokan inns throughout the onsen towns.
These typically include elaborate kaiseki dinners and private or communal hot spring baths.
Budget range: ¥15,000-¥40,000 per person including meals.
Budget Accommodation
Business hotels and guesthouses offer affordable stays throughout Tochigi.
Nasu Yumoto Onsen Sanraku provides hot spring access at reasonable prices.
Capsule hotels in Utsunomiya cater to solo travellers seeking basic comfort near the station.
Budget range: ¥3,000-¥8,000 per night.
Unique Stays
Some temples offer overnight stays with vegetarian meals and morning prayers.
Farm stays let visitors experience rural Japanese life whilst enjoying fresh local produce.
The Nasu Kogen area has several working farm stays, such as Farm Inn Marchen-no-mori. Here, guests can join in daily activities.
Budget range: ¥8,000-¥15,000 per person including meals.
Essential Travel Tips
Language: Basic Japanese phrases help, but many tourist sites have English signs and maps.
Money: Bring cash as many smaller establishments do not accept cards.
ATMs at post offices and convenience stores accept international cards.
Transport: Local buses connect major attractions, but renting a car offers more flexibility for exploring rural areas.
Etiquette: Remove shoes when entering temples and traditional accommodations.
Photography may be restricted in some shrine buildings.
Weather: Mountain weather changes quickly. Bring layers and waterproof clothing regardless of season.
Sample Itineraries
One Day from Tokyo
Morning: Take Tobu Nikko Line from Asakusa (2 hours direct), visit Toshogu Shrine
Afternoon: Bus to Lake Chuzenji (40 minutes), see Kegon Falls and lake views
Evening: Return bus to Nikko Station, train back to Tokyo
Three Days in Tochigi
1: Arrive Nikko via Asakusa, explore shrine complex and stay overnight
2: Morning at Lake Chuzenji, afternoon travel to Utsunomiya for gyoza tour and Oya Museum
3: Train to Ashikaga for Flower Park, then bus to Nasu area for mountains and hot springs
Five Days Relaxed
Days 1-2: Nikko area with traditional ryokan stay at Kinugawa Onsen
Day 3: Travel to Mashiko for pottery experiences and cultural workshops
Days 4-5: Nasu region base for mountain activities, animal kingdom, and multiple onsen visits
Tochigi Prefecture mixes famous heritage with peaceful countryside charm.
This makes it a top spot in Japan for travellers wanting more than just the bright lights of the capital.
Discover why this region has amazed visitors for over a thousand years.
From shogun pilgrims to modern adventurers, people are drawn here by its rich culture and stunning nature.
Wrapping Up
Tochigi is a place where shogun history, mountain landscapes, and everyday flavours meet.
Nikko’s shrines are great for a day trip, but a week lets you find hidden valleys and hot springs.
Either way, the prefecture makes a lasting impression.
It offers top-notch heritage and quiet countryside charm.
You don’t have to go far from Tokyo to find some of Japan’s best experiences.
