Oyama Travel Guide (Tochigi (prefecture)/Kanto/Japan/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Oyama

Oyama is a charming city located in Tochigi Prefecture, within the Kanto region in Japan. Known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and delicious local cuisine, Oyama is a must-visit destination for any traveler in Japan. With a population of over 160,000 people, the city boasts a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of tourist attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Oyama

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Oyama is home to a wealth of historically significant attractions and museums. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Oyama City Museum of History and Folklore - This museum showcases the history and culture of Oyama through various exhibits, including dioramas, photographs, and artifacts.
Oyama Castle Ruins - This ancient castle was destroyed in 1870, but its ruins remain standing as a symbol of the region’s history and heritage.
Ishibashi Museum of Art - This museum features over 1,000 pieces of art, including ceramics, paintings, and sculptures from Japan and around the world.
Kasama Art Museum - This museum is located in a historic building that used to be a sake brewery. It features a collection of contemporary Japanese art.

Natural Attractions of Oyama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Oyama is also home to various natural wonders and outdoor attractions that provide breathtaking views and thrilling experiences.

Mt. Takamatsu - Standing at over 566 meters tall, this mountain offers hiking trails with stunning views of the city and surrounding nature.
Mito Forest Park - This park features a large lake, playground, and various walking trails that lead through the lush forest.
Kamonomiya Shrine - This ancient shrine is located on a small hill and offers a peaceful atmosphere and scenic views of the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oyama

For outdoor enthusiasts, Oyama provides various hiking and biking routes that offer spectacular views of the city and nature. Some of the most popular routes include:

Oyama Mountain Circuit - This hiking trail offers a challenging climb up Mt. Oyama, with plenty of scenic stops along the way.
Utsunoya Pass - This pass offers a relatively easy hike and is a favorite spot among locals for its stunning autumn foliage.
Kinugawa River Cycling Road - This cycling road is a scenic route that follows the Kinugawa River and offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding nature.

Best Things to Do in Oyama: Activities and Tours

Oyama offers plenty of activities and tours that cater to various interests and age groups. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Hot Air Balloon Ride - Take a hot air balloon ride and get a bird’s eye view of the city and its surroundings.
Sake Brewery Tour - Take a tour of a local sake brewery and learn about the brewing process, history, and culture of sake-making in Japan.
Karaoke - Experience Japanese-style karaoke and sing your heart out in one of the many karaoke bars in Oyama.

Week-Long Itinerary for Oyama

If you’re planning to spend a week in Oyama, here’s an itinerary that covers the city’s most popular attractions and activities:

Day	Activity
1	Visit Oyama City Museum of History and Folklore, and Oyama Castle Ruins
2	Hike up Mt. Takamatsu and take in the panoramic views of the city
3	Take a tour of a local sake brewery and taste some delicious sake
4	Explore the Ishibashi Museum of Art and the Kasama Art Museum
5	Visit Kamonomiya Shrine and take a relaxing walk through Mito Forest Park
6	Take a hot air balloon ride and see the city from a different perspective
7	Enjoy some local cuisine and shopping for souvenirs before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Oyama

Oyama is famous for its delicious local cuisine and sake. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Nikomi Udon - Udon noodles served in a hot pot with a flavorful broth that contains meat and vegetables.
Motsu Nabe - This hot pot dish features beef or pork intestines and vegetables cooked in a spicy sauce.
Nasu Dengaku - Grilled eggplant topped with a sticky miso sauce, which is a popular dish in Oyama during the summer season.

Local Beverages

Oyama Sake - This local sake is famous for its light and sweet taste, which pairs well with the region’s cuisine.
Yakult - A fermented dairy drink that has its origins in Oyama.

Where to Stay in Oyama: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Oyama offers various accommodation options that cater to different budgets and travel styles. Here are some recommended places to stay:

Oyama Royal Hotel - A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city, with comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.
Oyama Kokusai Hotel - A modern hotel that offers great value for money, with comfortable rooms and friendly staff.
Oyama Guest House - A cozy guest house with affordable rates, located near the city center and various tourist attractions.

What to Buy in Oyama: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Oyama offers various souvenirs and local products that make for great gifts or keepsakes. Here are some recommended items:

Tsuchi-To-Tsutsuji - A traditional ceramic incense burner that is unique to Oyama.
Kamona Edohoo - A type of traditional Japanese paper that is handmade in Oyama and features beautiful patterns and designs.
Oyama Sake - Take home a bottle or two of this delicious local sake.

Local Culture and Customs of Oyama

Oyama has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its traditional festivals and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Respect for elders - In Japan, it is important to show respect to elders and those in positions of authority.
Etiquette in temples and shrines - When visiting temples and shrines, it is customary to bow and show respect.

Best Time to Visit Oyama

The best time to visit Oyama is during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is mild and the foliage is beautiful. The cherry blossom season in early April is also a popular time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oyama

Do:

Do try local cuisine - Oyama is known for its delicious food and sake, so be sure to indulge in the local cuisine.
Do follow local customs - Be respectful of the local customs and traditions, and take the time to learn about them.

Don’t:

Don’t litter - Japan is known for its cleanliness, so be sure to properly dispose of your trash.
Don’t be late - Japan has a culture of punctuality, so make sure to be on time for appointments or events.

Safety and Health

Safety in Oyama

Oyama is a safe city, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it is always important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night.

Health in Oyama

Japan has an excellent healthcare system, and Oyama is no exception. There are various hospitals and clinics throughout the city, and most doctors and medical staff speak English.

Getting to Oyama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Oyama

The nearest international airport to Oyama is Narita International Airport, which is located about 150 km away. From there, you can take a train or bus to Oyama.

Bus Stations Near Oyama

There are various bus stations throughout Oyama, including the Oyama Station East Exit Bus Terminal and the Tochigi Kotsu Bus Terminal.

Other Options

The most convenient way to get to Oyama is by train. The city is served by the JR Ryomo Line and the Tobu Utsunomiya Line, making it easy to access from Tokyo and other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Oyama

Oyama is a relatively small city, and most tourist attractions are located within walking distance of one another. However, if you need to travel farther, the city also has various transportation options, including buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Oyama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of Tochigi Prefecture and the Kanto region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

Nikko - Located about 50 km from Oyama, Nikko is known for its stunning natural beauty and historic temples and shrines.
Utsunomiya - This city is famous for its gyoza (dumplings) and is located about 26 km from Oyama.

Conclusion

Oyama is a fascinating city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. With its beautiful scenery, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, it is a must-visit destination for any traveler in Japan. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to Oyama and given you insight into all that the city has to offer.