Utsunomiya Travel Guide

Planning your trip to Utsunomiya? Our comprehensive travel guide covers everything from must-see attractions to local culture and customs.


Introduction to Utsunomiya

Located in Tochigi prefecture in Kanto, Japan, Utsunomiya is a bustling city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the “Gyoza Capital” of Japan, Utsunomiya is also famous for its stunning shrines, temples, and museums.

Here is a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your trip to Utsunomiya.

List of Places to Visit in Utsunomiya

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Utsunomiya Castle Ruins
  2. Oya History Museum
  3. Utsunomiya Futarayama Shrine

Natural Attractions of Utsunomiya: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Nikko National Park
  2. Mt. Koguma
  3. Oya-ji Temple

Hiking/Biking Routes of Utsunomiya

Hiking Routes

  1. Utsunomiya Trail
  2. Mt. Hachiman Trail
  3. Mt. Koguma Trail

Biking Routes

  1. Utsunomiya Cycling Road
  2. Oya Cycling Road
  3. Nikko Cycling Road

Best Things to Do in Utsunomiya: Activities and Tours

  1. Gyoza Making Workshop
  2. Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony
  3. Sake Brewery Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Utsunomiya

Day Activity
1 Visit Utsunomiya Castle Ruins, Utsunomiya Futarayama Shrine, and Oya History Museum
2 Take a hike on the Mt. Koguma Trail, visit Oya-ji Temple
3 Explore Nikko National Park
4 Join a Gyoza Making Workshop
5 Take a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony
6 Enjoy a Sake Brewery Tour
7 Visit Mt. Hachiman and nearby shrines

Food and Drink Scene of Utsunomiya

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Gyoza
  2. Yakitori
  3. Japanese-style Curry Rice

Local Beverages

  1. Sake
  2. Beer
  3. Green Tea

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

  1. Hotel LiVEMAX Utsunomiya
  2. Dormy Inn Utsunomiya
  3. Utsunomiya Tobu Hotel Grande

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

  1. Gyoza
  2. Shio Yakitori
  3. Matcha Tea

Local Culture and Customs of Utsunomiya

  1. Be respectful when visiting shrines and temples.
  2. Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.
  3. Bowing is a traditional greeting in Japan.

Best Time to Visit Utsunomiya

The best time to visit Utsunomiya is in the spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, or in the autumn (September to November) when the leaves change color.

Do’s and Don’ts of Utsunomiya

Do:

  1. Learn some basic Japanese phrases.
  2. Follow the rules and customs of the city.
  3. Try the local food.

Don’t:

  1. Wear shoes inside temples or shrines.
  2. Talk loudly or make noise in public.
  3. Leave your trash in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Utsunomiya

Utsunomiya is generally a safe city, but be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Utsunomiya

Japan has an excellent healthcare system. If you need medical assistance, dial 119 for an ambulance.

Getting to Utsunomiya: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Utsunomiya

  1. Narita International Airport - approximately 120 km away
  2. Haneda Airport - approximately 150 km away

Bus Stations Near Utsunomiya

  1. JR Utsunomiya Station Bus Terminal
  2. Tobu Utsunomiya Station Bus Terminal

Other Options

  1. Train - Utsunomiya Station is serviced by the Tohoku Shinkansen, JR Nikko Line, and Tobu Nikko Line.
  2. Car Rental - Rental car companies are available at Narita and Haneda airports.

How to Get Around in Utsunomiya

Utsunomiya has a well-developed transportation system, including buses and trains. Taxis are also readily available.

Where to Go Next from Utsunomiya: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Nikko
  2. Asakusa, Tokyo
  3. Nikko National Park

Conclusion

Utsunomiya is a fantastic travel destination that offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and nature. From hiking trails and museums to local food and cultural customs, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. We hope this travel guide helps you plan your next adventure to Utsunomiya.

Oya History Museum Oya History Museum Utsunomiya Castle Utsunomiya Castle Utsunomiya Gyoza Utsunomiya Gyoza