Charming Local Cities in Tochigi Prefecture
Tochigi Prefecture is a place where diverse regions coexist, including Utsunomiya City. It has good access from the metropolitan area and is dotted with many tourist spots and historical sites. Among them, Utsunomiya City is nationally known as the “City of Gyoza,” yet it is also highly rated for its livability. However, Tochigi has many other charming cities besides Utsunomiya. For example, in Nikko City, the World Heritage Site Nikko Toshogu Shrine is famous, but the surrounding area is rich in nature and cultural heritage. Additionally, Oyama City and Ashikaga City each have unique characteristics, offering new discoveries to visitors. In this way, Tochigi Prefecture has many local cities worth visiting, where you can fully enjoy their charm.
Local Cities with Diverse Attractions in Tochigi Prefecture
Tochigi Prefecture is located in the Kanto region and is home to many historical sites and nature-rich tourist destinations. Particularly, Utsunomiya City is known nationwide as the “City of Gyoza,” but that’s not all. There are other attractive cities scattered throughout, and this time we will introduce five noteworthy cities among them.
Oyama City: Harmony of Convenience and Nature
Oyama City has excellent access from central Tokyo and is popular as a residential area. This region is well-equipped with commercial facilities, making it a highly convenient and livable area. Additionally, there are plenty of spots to enjoy nature, such as Oyama Comprehensive Park and Omigawa, which serve as places of relaxation for citizens.
Ashikaga City: A Treasure Trove of History and Culture
Ashikaga City is historically significant and is home to Ashikaga School, considered “Japan’s oldest school.” It also boasts many cultural assets, such as Orihime Shrine. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the Watarase River, attracting many tourists. The townscape, where history and modernity blend, is worth visiting at least once.
Tochigi City: “Little Edo” Reminiscent of the Edo Period
Tochigi City is affectionately known as “Little Edo,” characterized by traditional buildings and a quaint townscape that have continued since the Edo period. Along the Uzuma River, you can enjoy the scenery of old warehouse-style buildings. Additionally, seasonal festivals are actively held in this area, allowing you to enjoy interactions with the local community.
Sano City: Not Just Ramen!
When it comes to Sano City, Sano Ramen is famous, but there are more attractions. For example, you can see historical sites along with beautiful scenery, such as the ruins of Karasawayama Castle and the spring water of Izuruhara Benten Pond. There are also farms where you can experience picking fresh fruits, making it an irresistible area for food lovers.
Kanuma City: Lush Outdoor Spots
Kanuma City is blessed with a beautiful natural environment overlooking the Nikko Mountain Range. Around “Awanodam,” you can enjoy camping and hiking, and the city also has golf courses designed by professionals. Additionally, this region is famous for the “Kanuma Autumn Festival,” where you can enjoy local culture through various festival events.
The Overall Appeal of Tochigi Prefecture
Besides these five cities, Tochigi Prefecture still has many attractions. Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kinugawa Onsen are famous tourist spots, bustling with visitors from both Japan and abroad. Moreover, it is known as a “manufacturing prefecture,” with both industry and agriculture thriving, boasting a high production ratio in the secondary industry nationwide. On the other hand, in the agricultural sector, it ranks 9th nationwide in terms of high production value, with high-quality specialties such as Tochigi Wagyu beef and strawberries.
Of course, it’s not just about gourmet food; there are plenty of elements to enjoy, including diverse cultural experiences, leisure activities, and historical explorations. As a result, it is becoming popular as a destination for a diverse lifestyle, attracting many new residents.
From the above, Tochigi Prefecture has various local cities with unique personalities and characteristics, not just Utsunomiya. How about visiting each one to find your own favorite spot?
Q&A About Local Cities in Tochigi
Q: Besides Utsunomiya, which local cities in Tochigi Prefecture are recommended?
A: Tochigi Prefecture has many charming local cities. For example, Nikko City is very popular as a tourist destination with its rich historical buildings and nature. Additionally, Ashikaga City is a city rich in culture and history, with Ashikaga Flower Park being particularly worth visiting. Moka City is also known for its cherry blossoms and steam locomotives (SL).
Q: Can you tell me about spots in Tochigi Prefecture where you can fully enjoy nature?
A: Tochigi Prefecture has many spots where you can experience magnificent nature. Senjogahara is a vast plateau with beautiful wetlands, perfect for hiking. Also, the breathtaking view from Kinutateiwa Suspension Bridge will be an unforgettable experience. Furthermore, Chausudake is a popular mountain that even beginner climbers can easily challenge.
Q: I am considering moving to Tochigi Prefecture. Can you tell me about the living environment?
A: Tochigi Prefecture has excellent transportation access, including the Shinkansen and expressways, and many areas are characterized by their livability. Especially around Utsunomiya City, there are well-equipped shopping malls and various service facilities, making it convenient. For those seeking a lifestyle in harmony with nature, Nikko City and Nasu Town are recommended.
Q: Besides sightseeing, what activities can be enjoyed in Tochigi?
A: In Tochigi Prefecture, you can enjoy a variety of activities. At Kinugawa Onsen, a famous hot spring area, you can spend a relaxing time, and there are also many golf courses scattered around. Additionally, for outdoor enthusiasts, we recommend trying camping or river activities.
Q: Can you tell me about local gourmet food?
A: Of course, there’s Utsunomiya Gyoza, but that’s not all! Try Ashikaga City’s sauce katsudon and Sano Ramen as well. Also, Oyama City offers unique sweets made with local ingredients, making them perfect for souvenirs.
Conclusion
Tochigi Prefecture is home to a variety of charming local cities, not just Utsunomiya. Each has its own unique culture, nature, and delicious gourmet food, making them worth visiting. Find your favorite travel destination and enjoy new discoveries and encounters.
Summary of the Charm of Tochigi’s Local Cities
Tochigi Prefecture is an area dotted with local cities that have diverse attractions. The central city, Utsunomiya, is known as the “City of Gyoza,” while also being highly rated for its livability. However, there are many other cities worth visiting. Oyama City harmonizes convenience and nature, Ashikaga City boasts rich history and culture, Tochigi City offers the atmosphere of the Edo period, and Sano City has more than just ramen, with nature and historical sites. Additionally, in Kanuma City, you can engage in outdoor activities and enjoy festival events to experience local culture.
All of these cities are easily accessible from the metropolitan area, each offering new discoveries with their unique characteristics. Furthermore, Tochigi Prefecture as a whole is rich in tourist spots, attracting many travelers from both Japan and abroad. Therefore, it is noted as a place where you can enjoy not only gourmet food but also rich cultural experiences and leisure activities.
In this way, Tochigi Prefecture is gaining popularity as a destination for a diverse lifestyle. We recommend visiting each local city to enjoy finding your own favorite spot.