Discover the Allure of Tochigi! Enjoy Local Products on a Roadside Station Tour

Tochigi Prefecture is known as an attractive tourist destination where rich nature and culture blend seamlessly. Among its highlights are the “Roadside Stations,” essential spots for both tourists and locals. With over 25 locations scattered throughout the area, these facilities offer not only fresh local produce and unique specialties but also regional gourmet experiences and relaxing hot springs. Each roadside station has its own unique souvenirs, including Tochiotome gelato and local wagyu beef, which can only be found here. With such a variety of ways to enjoy them, Tochigi’s roadside stations are perfect companions for drives and family trips. There’s so much charm packed into them that one visit is not enough to experience it all. Why not embark on a roadside station tour to discover Tochigi’s unique local products on your next outing?

The Appeal of Touring Tochigi’s Roadside Stations

Tochigi Prefecture is an area dotted with roadside stations where you can enjoy local specialties and gourmet food. These stations feature direct sales outlets selling local produce and crafts, as well as dining facilities offering regional cuisine. Many also have hot springs and accommodations, making them popular spots for extended stays. There are a total of 25 roadside stations in the prefecture, each with its own personality and features.

The Charm of “Roadside Station Utsunomiya Romantic Village”

Located in Utsunomiya City, “Roadside Station Utsunomiya Romantic Village” boasts a vast area and is a complex facility where you can enjoy a full day. Here, you can purchase fresh vegetables and fruits, as well as homemade bread and sweets. Additionally, it has a hot spring facility to soothe your tired body from driving.

Exclusive Local Products at “Roadside Station Motegi”

Located in Motegi Town, “Roadside Station Motegi” is famous for its Tochiotome gelato. Made from fresh strawberries, its rich flavor captivates visitors. There’s also a direct sales outlet with fresh vegetables, making it perfect for souvenir shopping.

Experience Mashiko Pottery at “Roadside Station Mashiko”

As the name suggests, “Roadside Station Mashiko” in Mashiko Town is known for its connection with Mashiko pottery. Frequent pottery markets and events attract many visitors. The café, using local ingredients, offers delicious meals along with scenic views.

Must-Buy Souvenirs Unique to Tochigi

Tochigi Prefecture is rich in local specialties, and among them, souvenirs are particularly recommended. Each roadside station offers products unique to its area.

Fresh Vegetables and Fruits

Fresh vegetables and fruits are highlights at any roadside station, but at “Roadside Station Omigawa,” you can also purchase local wagyu and pork, making for a luxurious home-cooked meal. The lineup changes with the seasons, offering new discoveries with each visit.

Products Unique to Tochigi, Famous for Soba

As Tochigi is known nationwide as a soba region, soba-related products are a must-try. When visiting “Roadside Station Nikko,” be sure to try them. Both the soba dishes you can enjoy on-site and the dried noodles for souvenirs are popular.

A Convenient Base for Gathering Tourist Information

Functioning as a tourist information center, it provides access information to various locations, aiding in travel planning. Before or after visiting places like “Nasu Highland Yuai Farm,” make use of it when heading to scenic spots in “Nasu Highland.”

How Can You Enjoy Tochigi’s Local Products at Roadside Stations?

Tochigi’s roadside stations offer a wide variety of local specialties. For example, at “Roadside Station Utsunomiya Romantic Village,” fresh local strawberries and Utsunomiya’s famous gyoza are popular. Additionally, Wakayama Shoten, known as a chestnut specialty store since its founding, offers “Pure Chestnut Kanoko Yokan – Just a Little Thought,” recommended as a seasonal autumn souvenir. When visiting, be sure to look for products unique to each roadside station.

Are There Roadside Stations with Hot Springs in Tochigi?

Yes, “Roadside Station Kitsuregawa” has a hot spring facility. This roadside station is themed around “Taisho Romance, Taisho Modern,” exuding a retro atmosphere. Besides the hot springs, you can also enjoy camping, allowing for a relaxing day. Additionally, you can purchase Sakura City specialties in this area, making it perfect for souvenir shopping.

What Events Are Held at Roadside Stations in Tochigi?

Various events are held at roadside stations throughout Tochigi Prefecture. As unique local events, there are local gourmet fairs and harvest festivals. Some also host cultural events like music live performances and craft workshops. Checking official websites or local information before visiting ensures you won’t miss out on seasonal fun.

Which Roadside Station with Foot Baths Do You Recommend?

Famous for its “foot baths” is “Roadside Station Kitsuregawa.” Here, you can enjoy a free foot bath, perfect for refreshing yourself during a drive. Surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, you can spend a relaxing time. While soothing your tired body, enjoy delicious meals as well.

Conclusion

Tochigi Prefecture has many attractive roadside stations. Each offers unique local products and events, allowing for a variety of enjoyable experiences. Especially recommended are spots like “Utsunomiya Romantic Village” and “Kitsuregawa,” where you can experience everything from gourmet food to hot springs. Be sure to include these charming locations in your next outing plan.

Enjoy Local Products on a Roadside Station Tour in Tochigi

Tochigi Prefecture is popular as a tourist destination filled with natural beauty and cultural charm. With over 25 roadside stations in the prefecture, each has its own unique features and attractions. Fresh produce and local gourmet, hot spring facilities, and more offer a variety of experiences, making them worthwhile visits for tourists.

At “Roadside Station Utsunomiya Romantic Village,” you’ll find fresh vegetables and fruits, homemade bread and sweets, and enjoy hot springs within its vast grounds. “Roadside Station Motegi” is famous for its Tochiotome gelato made with fresh strawberries, captivating many visitors. Additionally, “Roadside Station Mashiko” is known for its connection with Mashiko pottery, frequently hosting pottery markets and events.

Furthermore, Tochigi is also famous as a soba region, and “Roadside Station Nikko” offers recommended soba-related products. Fresh vegetables and fruits are available at any roadside station, but local wagyu and pork sold at “Roadside Station Omigawa” make for special souvenirs. The lineup changes with the seasons, offering new discoveries with each visit.

Touring all 25 diverse roadside stations in Tochigi Prefecture will result in a fulfilling journey, from finding unique souvenirs to encountering local culture. On your next outing, why not set out to discover Tochigi’s unique local products, which can’t be fully enjoyed in just one visit?