A Journey Through Tochigi’s War Remains: A Time to Face the Past

In Tochigi Prefecture, numerous historical military facilities and war remains from World War II and earlier times still exist. These sites are not just tourist attractions; they are valuable testimonies that continue to convey the horrors of war to the present day. In Utsunomiya City, there are sites like the former Army Underground Headquarters and the Oya Stone Quarry, which once operated as a munitions factory. These remains continue to preserve their form to convey the wish and lessons for endless peace to the future. Additionally, the War Museum in Nasu Highlands displays valuable materials related to Japan’s war history, leaving many visitors astonished by their historical significance. This journey through Tochigi offers each of us a good opportunity to face the past and consider peace from a new perspective. The weight of history that can be felt here provides a profound learning experience that cannot be found elsewhere.

The Appeal of Touring Tochigi Prefecture’s War Remains

Tochigi Prefecture is widely known as a nature-rich tourist destination, but it is also a historical region with many war remains. These remains are preserved as valuable evidence that conveys the horrors of war and the importance of peace. This article introduces representative war remains in Tochigi Prefecture, along with their historical background and the value of visiting them.

Former Army Underground Headquarters Remains in Utsunomiya City

In Utsunomiya City, there are remains of the former Army Underground Headquarters, excavated in the late stages of World War II. This headquarters was constructed in Yahata Park in preparation for air raids and a mainland battle, but it remained unfinished due to the end of the war. This underground bunker, extending a total of 721 meters, still has parts preserved today, although it is not open to the public for safety reasons. However, its very existence tells the story of the sense of crisis Japan faced at the time.

Tochigi Prefectural Agricultural College and Former Kiyohara Airfield

Another noteworthy site is the large bomb shelter for bombers remaining within the Tochigi Prefectural Agricultural College. This facility was once used as “Kiyohara Airfield” and was built to house large bombers like the B-29. At the time, this airfield was an important military base, and its remnants can still be seen today.

Oya Stone Museum – A Past as a Munitions Factory

The Oya Stone Museum is another spot not to be missed. Here, you can see the remains of the Oya Stone Quarry, which was also used as a munitions factory. Known for its unique stone material, this facility offers a rare landscape in Japan and is worth visiting for its historical background.

Learning Japanese War History at the Nasu Highlands War Museum

In Nasu Highlands, there is a privately operated “War Museum” boasting an extensive collection. Here, you can see valuable exhibits and relics gathered from across Japan, including items not found in national museums. This museum also provides insights into the extraordinary lives of Japanese soldiers like Hiroo Onoda and Shoichi Yokoi.

Visiting Tips and Access Information

For accessing these spots, it is often recommended to visit by private car. However, some locations are also accessible by public transportation, so it is advisable to check in advance. Additionally, many facilities may require advance reservations, so please be aware of this.

For example, to visit the Oya Stone Museum, you can take a bus from JR Utsunomiya Station, which takes about 30 minutes. On the other hand, you will likely need to drive to the Nasu Highlands War Museum. In either case, it provides a good opportunity to learn about the Tochigi region and its historical background from different perspectives.

Conclusion: A Wish for Peace and Creating Memories

Within Tochigi Prefecture, there are various war remains and related facilities. Each place offers a unique perspective on the past. Most importantly, touring these spots can renew our awareness of peace and serve as an opportunity to reflect this in our daily lives. These are places that not only travelers but also local residents should rediscover, so why not visit them once?

Where should I visit to learn about Tochigi’s war remains?

Tochigi Prefecture has various remains and exhibits related to the Pacific War. Start by visiting the “Nasu War Museum.” Here, you will find a collection of valuable war-related exhibits, including Zero fighters, warships, and cannons. Additionally, the “Tochigi Prefectural Museum” is recommended for learning about the region’s history and culture in detail.

Is there a place where I can learn about Tochigi’s air raids and war damage in detail?

“The Memory of Tochigi’s Flames – Tochigi Air Raids and War Damage Storytelling Association” is an important source for learning about the air raids and war damage that occurred in Tochigi Prefecture. This association works to pass down the events that occurred in various parts of the prefecture, including Utsunomiya City, which suffered many casualties.

I want to tour Tochigi’s castle ruins from a historical perspective. Any recommendations?

From a historical perspective, “Katsuyama Castle” is a good choice. This castle was built around the end of the Kamakura period and lasted for nearly 300 years. Located along the Kinugawa River, it was built using cliffs, allowing you to enjoy beautiful scenery.

Are there exhibits or events that children can enjoy?

The special exhibition “80 Years After the War in Tochigi – Learning About the Military and War with Parents and Children” offers opportunities for families to learn through various exhibits. It covers a wide range from the Meiji era to the Pacific War, allowing the whole family to deepen their understanding of history.

Are there any special exhibitions held in Tochigi Prefecture?

The Tochigi Prefectural Museum regularly holds themed exhibitions. Special exhibitions such as “Utsunomiya-6 Tochigi Prefectural Museum Themed Exhibition = Memories of War” have been held in the past, introducing the region’s history from various perspectives. Please check the official website for the latest information.

By visiting these various locations, you can learn about Tochigi’s rich history and the profound lessons within it. Each place offers a different perspective on the connection with regional culture, allowing you to find your own favorite spot.

Summary of the Journey Through Tochigi Prefecture’s War Remains

Tochigi Prefecture is a region dotted with historical war remains alongside its rich natural beauty. These remains continue to convey the horrors of war and the importance of peace to us. In Utsunomiya City, the former Army Underground Headquarters remains preserved even after the war. This site, though unfinished, is a valuable testament to the urgent situation of the time. Additionally, in Nasu Highlands, a privately operated war museum surprises visitors with its collection of valuable exhibits gathered from across Japan.

This journey is not just a sightseeing tour but an opportunity for us to face the past and deeply consider peace. For accessing each spot, using a private car is recommended, but some places can also be visited by public transportation. It is advisable to confirm in advance as some facilities require reservations.

Touring Tochigi’s war remains will deepen visitors’ historical awareness and wish for peace. These places, which local residents should also rediscover, are worth visiting at least once. A profound learning and emotional experience awaits that cannot be found elsewhere.