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Not just Sano ramen! New ways to enjoy Sano City

2025.06.28

Not Just Sano Ramen! Discover New Ways to Enjoy Sano City

A Journey to Discover the New Charms of Sano City

When people think of Sano City in Tochigi Prefecture, many immediately think of “Sano Ramen.” The unique chewy texture created by the special aotake-uchi (bamboo rolling) method has captivated many ramen enthusiasts. However, Sano City’s appeal is not limited to just ramen. In fact, Sano offers a variety of local gourmet foods and experiences. From local dishes like “Mimi Udon” and “Imo Fry” to hands-on experiences like making hand-pulled soba and ramen, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities. Additionally, new and renovated dining establishments are popping up, drawing even more attention. These elements combine to make Sano City a continually evolving destination worth visiting. Why not choose Sano City, with its new face, as your next outing destination?

The Diverse Local Cuisine of Sano City

Sano City in Tochigi Prefecture is widely known for “Sano Ramen,” but that’s not its only charm. You can also enjoy unique local dishes like Mimi Udon and Imo Fry. Let’s introduce these local flavors.

What is Mimi Udon?

Mimi Udon is characterized by its unique ear-shaped form, as the name suggests. The chewy texture combined with a light broth makes this dish perfect for cold winters. It’s available at local diners and specialty shops, and it’s worth trying at least once.

The Popularity of Imo Fry

Imo Fry is a dish of fluffy potatoes fried to a crisp, perfectly paired with sauce. This simple yet addictive flavor attracts many tourists and is a must-have at festivals and events.

Deepen Your Sano City Tour with Experience Plans

In Sano City, you can enjoy not only “eating” but also “making.” Here, we introduce some popular experience plans.

Aotake-Uchi Ramen Making Experience

The traditional aotake-uchi method of noodle making offers a fresh surprise to many. In this experience, you can cook ramen using noodles you made yourself and taste it on the spot, providing a valuable opportunity to shift your perspective from consumer to creator.

Soba Making Experience

For those interested in experiencing Japanese traditional culture, the soba making experience is recommended. By kneading and cutting soba from scratch and tasting it, you can appreciate its deliciousness and sense of achievement. This program, enjoyable for families, will become an unforgettable memory.

Create Unique Souvenirs with Art & Craft Experiences

Sano City offers a variety of art workshops, including the creation of art and crafts. Through these activities, you can also challenge yourself to create original souvenirs.

Pottery Class for Making Your Own Dishes

In pottery classes, you can try making your own dishes. Using authentic equipment like potter’s wheels and hand-building techniques, you can create your own works. The resulting handmade pieces are more special than the experiences gained on the trip.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities in a Nature-Rich Environment

Just a little away from the urban area, you will find a serene natural landscape. This allows for a variety of outdoor activities.

Hiking Course Exploration

For example, there are diverse hiking courses around the city, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Among them, the mountain trail walks, where you can see different expressions of the seasons, are particularly recommended. You can also participate in guided tours to learn about the unique ecosystem of the area.

Relieve Stress! Use Cycling Roads for Health Improvement

Recently developed cycling roads are dotted with scenic spots along the route, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing ride. Rental bike services are available, making it easy to participate (reservation recommended).

As mentioned above, “Not Just Sano Ramen”, consider visiting this city with many other options!

What Activities Can You Enjoy in Sano City Besides Ramen?

Sano City offers a variety of activities beyond ramen. The Sano Premium Outlets is an ideal spot for shopping enthusiasts. At “Mahorotei,” you can experience tea ceremony and feel the traditional Japanese culture. Additionally, you can visit the traditional craft “Tenmei Cast Iron” to learn about its historical background.

What Are the Characteristics of Sano Ramen?

Sano Ramen is characterized by the unique texture of noodles made using the aotake-uchi method. This method achieves a chewy texture and allows the noodles to easily absorb the soup. The soup mainly uses chicken bones and dried sardines, offering a light and refreshing taste.

If Visiting Sano City for the First Time, Are There Recommended Gourmet Spots?

For first-time visitors, “Aotake Hand-Pulled Ramen Menya Oyama” is popular. This shop was ranked 6th in the 2023 Tochigi Prefecture Sano City Ramen BEST10. Other recommended dishes include local specialties like gyoza and dishes made with fresh local ingredients.

How Can You Access Sano City?

It takes about an hour and a half by car from Tokyo, making it suitable for a day trip drive. By using the Tohoku Expressway, you can reach Sano Interchange in about 10 minutes, making it an easily accessible destination for many tourists.

Are There Any Upcoming Events or New Facilities to Watch Out For?

New initiatives by the next generation of Sano Ramen makers are worth noting. More shops are offering evolved flavors, and great progress is expected. Also, new tourist facilities and event information can be checked on official tourism sites, so be sure to take a look.

What is “Tenmei Cast Iron”?

“Tenmei Cast Iron” refers to a series of works made using traditional metalworking techniques that have continued since the Edo period. These products are highly regarded for their beautiful and delicate designs and high durability. Viewing these items provides a great opportunity to deepen your understanding of Japanese crafts.

In this way, Sano City offers diverse experiences and a chance to touch on historical culture, so why not visit once?

Rediscover the Diverse Charms of Sano City

Tochigi Prefecture’s Sano City is famous for its beloved “Sano Ramen,” but that’s not all this city has to offer. Local dishes like Mimi Udon and Imo Fry are also worth trying. Each dish attracts tourists with its uniqueness and deliciousness.

Moreover, Sano City offers more than just “eating” experiences. Notably, the Aotake-Uchi Ramen Making Experience and Soba Making Experience are highlights. These plans allow you to cook and taste noodles you hand-pulled yourself, enjoying the culinary experience as a creator rather than just a consumer.

Additionally, art and craft experiences are popular. In pottery classes, you can try making your own dishes, and these creations become the best souvenirs from your trip.

Blessed with a natural environment, Sano City has well-developed hiking courses and cycling roads around the city, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities. You can refresh both body and mind while enjoying the seasonal landscapes.

Considering all this, why not explore the new, charm-filled Sano City, which offers more than just “Sano Ramen”? Its diverse attractions will surely add new colors to your daily life.