Reasons to Enjoy Saunas in Tochigi

Tochigi Prefecture not only boasts tourist attractions like Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Falls, but also offers a variety of sauna facilities. With easy access from the city center, it’s an ideal spot for day trips, featuring numerous places perfect for refreshing your body and mind. For those seeking mental and physical refreshment, Tochigi Prefecture is an ideal choice.

Japan’s largest sauna search site, “Sauna Ikitai,” lists 285 sauna facilities in Tochigi, allowing you to find a place that suits you. Additionally, in areas known for their famous hot springs like Nikko and Kinugawa, there are many saunas that can be enjoyed alongside highly-rated hot springs.

Moreover, you can enjoy local gourmet cuisine in this region, with dishes made from fresh ingredients that captivate visitors. Why not consider a sauna tour in Tochigi as a trip worth experiencing during a weekend or short vacation?

The Charm of Sauna Facilities in Tochigi Prefecture

While Tochigi Prefecture is famous for tourist spots like Nikko and Kinugawa, it also has a rich selection of sauna facilities. With easy access from the city center, it’s an ideal area for day trips where you can enjoy a relaxing sauna experience.

Oya Genkiro No. 6

Located in Utsunomiya City, “Oya Genkiro No. 6” is an experiential art installation set in an underground space.Created by contemporary artist Takashi Kuribayashi, this work sends steam infused with herbs boiled in a giant kiln into the space, enveloping it in dense steam and aroma.This experience stimulates the senses of sight, smell, and touch, offering a special time that feels like a steam sauna while being part of an art piece.The facility is equipped with changing rooms and showers, and wearing swimwear is mandatory.Please check the official website for reservations and details.

KURA:SAUNA UTSUNOMIYA

“KURA:SAUNA UTSUNOMIYA” in Utsunomiya City is a completely private sauna renovated from a storehouse made of Oya stone over 100 years old.It features a soft heat from a wood stove and self-löyly using your choice of aroma or roasted tea ice, offering a relaxing experience that stimulates the senses.Outside, there is a cold barrel bath and an outdoor relaxation space surrounded by greenery, and the second-floor rest area is equipped with Yogibo and a projector.With unlimited drinks and rental ponchos and swimwear available, you can enjoy your visit comfortably even if you come empty-handed.Spend a luxurious time in this hidden gem in the city, refreshing both body and mind.

Nasu Utopia Minosawa Art Village

Located in Nasu Town, Tochigi Prefecture, “Nasu Utopia” is a complex facility that has been art-renovated from the former Minosawa Elementary School, offering a unique retreat space that combines nature, art, and authentic sauna experiences.You can enjoy the following two types of saunas:CUBERU:A Finnish-style sauna made of concrete with excellent heat retention, using a HARVIA electric stove. Self-löyly is possible, and it can accommodate up to 8 people. Rekka:A wood stove sauna modified from a truck container, reaching temperatures of over 120°C, offering a powerful heat experience.

 THE PINE

Located in Nasu Town, Tochigi Prefecture, “THE PINE” is a completely private sauna by reservation only, situated within the Nasu Sports Garden.With a homemade wood stove and turbo intake system, the sauna room temperature rises to a maximum of 110°C, maintaining a comfortable high-temperature environment even on cold days.The cold bath uses well water from the Nasu Highlands, known for its smooth texture and coldness.Additionally, a Goemon bath made from a repurposed sake brewery tank is available, offering a unique experience.The outdoor relaxation space is surrounded by large pines, ginkgo, and maple trees, allowing you to relax while feeling the nature of each season.Furthermore, there is an indoor relaxation space with heating to protect against the winter cold and wind.

 The Grand Spa Nandaimon

Located in Utsunomiya City, “The Grand Spa Nandaimon” is popular as the largest spa facility in the city. It offers a variety of sauna rooms to suit individual preferences. Additionally, it features a large pool and fitness gym, making it a comprehensive relaxation facility where you can spend the entire day.

Unique Sauna Meals in Tochigi Prefecture

Tochigi Prefecture offers a variety of delicious meals. Here are some dishes perfect for after a sauna.

1. Utsunomiya Gyoza

Utsunomiya Gyoza is a must-try. These hot and juicy dumplings pair perfectly with beer. Many restaurants offer original recipes using locally sourced ingredients, making it fun to find your favorite spot.

2. Sano Ramen

Originating from Sano City in Tochigi Prefecture, Sano Ramen is known for its chewy texture due to its high-water-content noodles. The light soy sauce-based soup complements the noodles, creating an unforgettable taste. This diverse menu is unique to the region.

Worth a Visit Alongside Sightseeing!

Tochigi Prefecture boasts numerous wonderful tourist spots. From world heritage sites like “Nikko Toshogu Shrine” and “Kegon Falls” to beautiful natural landscapes, there is much to explore. Alongside these tourist attractions, be sure to visit the unique sauna facilities throughout the area. Each offers different themes and amenities, providing new discoveries.

In addition to day trips, there are facilities with accommodation plans, allowing for a leisurely visit as a short trip. Most importantly, you can escape from a busy life and rejuvenate both body and mind.

In conclusion, we have introduced recommended sauna spots and meals in Tochigi Prefecture, which are gaining attention nationwide. Take this opportunity to visit and discover new favorite spots.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sauna Experiences in Tochigi Prefecture

What are the recommended sauna facilities in Tochigi Prefecture?

Tochigi Prefecture has many attractive saunas, but one particularly recommended is Quiet Storm Nasu. This facility offers a free-style Finnish outdoor sauna experience, and in spring, you can enjoy an outdoor bath surrounded by a field of daisies and dandelions. It also features unique facilities like a pond water bath and an Airstream sauna.

Are there affordable saunas in Tochigi Prefecture?

Yes, there are many affordable sauna facilities in Tochigi Prefecture where you can enjoy a sauna experience for under 1,000 yen. Nifty Onsen introduces facilities that can be used even more affordably with discount coupons. These facilities offer high-quality sauna experiences at reasonable prices.

Are there saunas that can be enjoyed with nature?

For those who want to relax in harmony with nature, Quiet Storm Nasu is recommended. Here, you can place a chair in your favorite spot or relax in a hammock while enjoying the sauna amidst nature. You can spend a pleasant time in the vast natural surroundings.

Where can I find deals and reviews for saunas in Tochigi Prefecture?

Online services like “Nifty Onsen” feature numerous reviews and discount coupon information. By referring to reviews from people who have actually visited, you can find facilities that suit your preferences and discover new ways to enjoy them. It’s also a good idea to check various sites for the latest information and deals.

Any advice for first-time visitors?

When visiting sauna facilities in Tochigi Prefecture for the first time, it is recommended to research your desired facility in advance and plan your visit. Also, actively use discount coupons and campaign information. Most importantly, spend your time in a way that allows you to relax. Each facility has different features, so choose according to your preferences.

Summary of the Charm of Saunas and Gourmet in Tochigi

Tochigi Prefecture is known for its rich nature and hot spring areas, in addition to its diverse sauna facilities. Its convenient location from the city makes it perfect for day trips or short vacations. Facilities like “Nikko Grand Hotel Hotel Mikazuki,” “Yunishigawa Onsen Honke Bankyu Ryokan,” and “The Grand Spa Nandaimon” each offer unique attractions. These facilities provide a space where traditional Japanese hot spring culture and modern comfort are blended for relaxation.

Moreover, enjoying local gourmet cuisine is one of the pleasures of Tochigi. The juiciness of “Utsunomiya Gyoza” pairs excellently with beer, while the chewy texture of “Sano Ramen” is unforgettable once tasted. These dishes are perfect after a sauna, attracting visitors.

Additionally, Tochigi has many tourist spots, including world heritage sites like “Nikko Toshogu Shrine” and “Kegon Falls.” By combining visits to these tourist spots with unique sauna experiences, you can discover new things. Many facilities offer accommodation plans, allowing for a leisurely visit as a short trip, providing an excellent opportunity to escape a busy life and rejuvenate both body and mind.

In this way, Tochigi Prefecture welcomes visitors not only with tourist attractions but also with diverse sauna experiences and delicious gourmet food. Why not embark on a journey to discover new favorite spots at facilities with different themes and amenities?