Utsunomiya Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Utsunomiya, located in the Tochigi region of Japan, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a modern twist. Known for its delicious gyoza (dumplings) and stunning shrines, Utsunomiya offers a unique blend of history, nature, and culinary delights that will captivate any traveler.

One of the must-visit attractions in Utsunomiya is the Futaarayama Shrine. This ancient Shinto shrine dates back to the 9th century and is nestled on a hilltop, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the shrine's grounds, adorned with beautiful cherry blossom trees in spring, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere.

For those seeking a taste of history, Utsunomiya Castle is a must-see. Although the castle itself no longer stands, the ruins and surrounding park offer a glimpse into the city's feudal past. Explore the castle grounds, enjoy a picnic under the shade of towering trees, and feel the echoes of the samurai era.

Utsunomiya is also a paradise for food lovers. The city is renowned for its mouthwatering gyoza, and you can find countless restaurants and street stalls serving up these delectable dumplings. Take a gyoza tour and savor the different variations, from traditional pork-filled dumplings to modern twists like cheese or vegetable gyoza.

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in Utsunomiya's picturesque parks and gardens. Oya History Museum and Park is a unique attraction, where you can explore an abandoned stone quarry turned into a vast underground labyrinth. Marvel at the massive stone pillars and learn about the history and importance of the quarry in the region.

For a peaceful retreat, head to Hachimanyama Park. This serene oasis offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring. Take a leisurely walk along the trails, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy a moment of tranquility amidst nature.

Local name: 宇都宮市 Population: 519.3 thous. (2019)Area: 160.94 mi²Elevation: 413 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 36°33'37"N, 139°53'10"E

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TochigiJapan

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Utsunomiya Top Attractions

Utsunomiya Attractions - What to See and Explore

Utsunomiya offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Tobiyama Castle, Utsunomiya Castle, Utsunomiya Museum of Art, Tochigi Prefectural Museum. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Park
Tobiyama Castle
Nestled in the historic city of Utsunomiya, Japan, lies the remnants of Tobiyama Castle, a site that whispers tales of feudal Japan and the samurai who once roamed its grounds. While the castle may not stand as tall and grand as other Japanese castles, its ruins offer...
Forts and castles • City hall • Park
Utsunomiya Castle
Utsunomiya Castle is a Japanese castle located in Utsunomiya, central Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. At the end of the Edo period, Utsunomiya Castle was home to a branch of the Toda clan, daimyō of Utsunomiya Domain.
Museum • Art museum
Utsunomiya Museum of Art
Utsunomiya Museum of Art opened in a wooded area some 5 kilometres north of the centre of Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, in 1997. The collection includes works by Kuroda Seiki and Asai Chū, Paul Klee and Wassily Kandinsky, and special exhibitions are also mounted.

Natural history museum • History museum • Museum
Tochigi Prefectural Museum
Tochigi Prefectural Museum is a prefectural museum in the city of Utsunomiya, Japan. The collection relates to the history and natural history of Tochigi Prefecture. The museum opened in 1982.
Archaeological site
Negoyadai Site
The Negoyadai Site is an archaeological site in the city of Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, in the northern Kantō region of Japan with a Jōmon period settlement trace and necropolis. The site was designated a National Historic Site in 1988 by the Japanese government. It is also referred to as the Seizankōen isseki.
Museum • Art museum
Tochigi Prefectural Museum of Fine Arts
Tochigi Prefectural Museum of Fine Arts opened in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, in 1972. The collection includes works by Hamada Shōji, Takahashi Yuichi, Constable, Corot, Gainsborough, Monet, and Turner, and special exhibitions are also mounted.
Concerts and shows • Concert hall • Convention center
Utsunomiya Bunka Kaikan
Utsunomiya Bunka Kaikan is a concert hall located in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. It features a 2,000-seat great hall and a 500-seat small hall. It opened in 1979. Whitesnake performed at Utsunomiya Bunka Kaikan during their 1983 Japanese tour.
Church
Matsugamine Church
Matsugamine Catholic Church is a Christian church and its cathedral located in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the largest surviving Romanesque Revival buildings in Oya stone architecture and was registered as a Tangible...
Park
Hachimanyama Park
Hachimanyama Park is an urban park located in Hanawada 5-chome, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture. Facilities on the site include Utsunomiya Tower and Hachimanyama Traffic Park.
36°35'60"N • 139°49'29"E
Oya History Museum
Oya Museum is a museum about the Oya Stone Quarry Site located at 909 Oya-cho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan.
Sacred and religious sites
Futaarayama Shrine
Utsunomiya Futaarasan Shrine is located in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture. It is a shiki-uchi-sha Onsha, the first shrine in Shimono-no-kuni. The shrine was formerly a national mintage shrine, and is now an annexed shrine of the Jinja Honcho...
Temple • Buddhist architecture
Ōya-ji
Ōya-dera is a Buddhist temple of the Tendai sect in the city of Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, in northern Kantō region of Japan. The temple is famous for its bas-relief carvings on a cliff face. The honzon of the temple is a bas-relief stone statue of Senjū Kannon.
36°31'52"N • 139°51'40"E
Esojima Station
Esojima Station is a railway station in the city of Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan, operated by the private railway operator Tobu Railway. The station is numbered "TN-38".
Universities and schools
Utsunomiya University
Utsunomiya University is a national university in Japan. The main campus is located in Miné-machi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture.
Universities and schools
Sakushin Gakuin University
Sakushin Gakuin University is a private university in Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan, established in 1989. The predecessor of the school, a women's junior college, was founded in 1967.

Things to See and Do in Utsunomiya by Category

Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Utsunomiya.

Active

Tochigi Green Stadium
Utsunomiya
Sport complexFootballSport venue
Brex Arena Utsunomiya
Utsunomiya
SportSport venue
Kiyohara Baseball Stadium
Utsunomiya
BaseballSport venueSport
Kanseki Stadium Tochigi
Utsunomiya
SportSport venueArenas and stadiums
Utsunomiya Velodrome
Utsunomiya
Sport venueSport

Day trips

Utsunomiya – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Utsunomiya, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Nikkō Tōshō-gū (Nikkō), Kegon Falls (Nikkō National Park), Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of History (Mito).

21 milesNW
Ornate circa-1636 shogun shrine complex
Nikkō Tōshō-gū, Nikkō
Nikkō Tōshō-gū is a resplendent Shinto shrine nestled in the verdant forests of Nikkō, Japan, a city that harmoniously blends natural beauty with historical significance. This shrine, which is part of the "Shrines and Temples of Nikkō," a UNESCO World Heritage...
25 milesNW
Waterfall with an elevator to the bottom
Kegon Falls, Nikkō National Park
Nestled in the verdant embrace of Nikkō National Park, Kegon Falls stands as one of Japan's most iconic and enchanting natural landmarks. This majestic waterfall, tumbling down a staggering 97 meters, is the highest and most famous of the many waterfalls in Nikkō.
34 milesE
Museum, History museum
Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of History, Mito
Nestled in the heart of Mito, the capital city of Ibaraki Prefecture, the Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of History stands as a beacon of cultural heritage and education. This museum offers a deep dive into the rich historical tapestry of the region, presenting artifacts...
19 milesE
Theme park, Amusement park, Sport venue
Twin Ring Motegi, Motegi
Nestled in the picturesque hills of the Tochigi Prefecture, Twin Ring Motegi is a premiere sports facility that has become a mecca for motorsports enthusiasts from around the globe. Opened in 1997, this complex is not just a racetrack; it is an embodiment of Japan’s...
21 milesNW
Mountain-top 8th-century Shinto shrine
Futarasan jinja, Nikkō
Futarasan Jinja, a serene Shinto shrine nestled in the lush greenery of Nikkō, Japan, offers a spiritual retreat for visitors and a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. This historic shrine, established in 767, is dedicated to the deities of Nikkō's...

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Best Time To Visit Utsunomiya

Learn when is the best time to travel to Utsunomiya weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

April and May are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in March, August and October.

Average temperatures in °F

JFMAMJJASOND

The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

JFMAMJJASOND

The lowest rainfall is recorded in January and December. Most of it rains in June and September.

Length of day in hours

JFMAMJJASOND

We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Utsunomiya?

The top attractions to visit in Utsunomiya are:

What is the best time to visit Utsunomiya?

April and May are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in March, August and October. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.