Utsunomiya Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

Tokyo Day Trip | Utsunomiya can be experienced like this.

| Utsunomiya can be experienced like this. Utsunomiya is located in Tochigi Prefecture, north of Tokyo, and is famous for its delicious Japanese dumplings. There are many Japanese dumpling restaurants near Utsunomiya Station. In addition to dumplings, the following two attractions are worth visiting and can be used as a day trip to Tokyo's niche destinations. 📷Wakatakenosha Wakayama Farm📷 Utsunomiya's "Wakatakenosha Wakayama Farm" is located at the foot of the Nikko Mountains. This huge bamboo forest is also the filming location of "Rurouni Kenshin"! Here you can also see many rare bamboo varieties, such as tortoiseshell bamboo and golden Mingzong bamboo. You can also experience tasting matcha with a cup made of bamboo. There are also dreamy bamboo forest light shows on weekends and holidays! 📷Oya History Museum📷 If you are interested in nature and geology, you can go to the "Oya History Museum" for exploration. Oya stone is a specialty of Utsunomiya. You can learn about the history of Oya stone mining at the Oya History Museum. The Oya History Museum has a huge underground mine network with a mining area of more than 20,000 square meters. The environment inside is very wild, and it feels like entering a pyramid. Enya has also filmed TV shows here, so fans will come here to check in. At the ROCKSIDE MARKET in the museum, you can also buy various Oya stone souvenirs and Mashiko ware. At noon, eat a meal of Utsunomiya's specialty dumplings or ramen at the nearby "BELL TERRACHE OYA", experience Oya stone stickers and then continue the afternoon itinerary.

Addison.Foster.28

🎄2026 Tochigi Christmas Lights | 6 Great Nighttime Spots Including Ashikaga Flower Park✨

Traveling to Tokyo in winter? Consider spending a night in Tochigi! Besides the dreamy floral displays and lights at Ashikaga Flower Park, there's also a fairytale forest, riverside bamboo lanterns, and a city light-dappled stroll. Here are 6 unique spots, each perfect for a winter night trip, chosen based on your accommodation location. 🌟 1. 🌸Ashikaga Flower Park|A Winter Garden Created by 5 Million Lights The "Garden of Light" transforms the floral landscape into a sea of ​​lights at night. Wisteria lanterns, the rose garden of light, and their reflections in the water are all great photo opportunities. This season marks the 25th anniversary of the lighting event, with a new 21-meter-tall Christmas tree added, perfect for a leisurely evening. 📍Location: Ashikaga Flower Park 🚆Access: Approximately 3-minute walk from JR Ryomo Line "Ashikaga Flower Park Station". 📅Dates: October 17, 2026 to February 14, 2027; Closed December 31. 🕒Hours: Generally opens at 3:30 PM, lights on from approximately 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM; November 7 to January 3, weekdays until 9:00 PM, weekends and Japanese public holidays until 9:30 PM. 💰Night Admission: Adults 1,500 yen; Children aged 4 to elementary school students 800 yen. 2. 🏰Grimm's Forest|Step into a Glowing Fairytale World The combination of forest, park, and castle-shaped lights creates a fairytale scene, perfect for those who enjoy cute styles and family photos. It is recommended to arrive before the lights come on to familiarize yourself with the park before enjoying the changes at night. 📍Location: Grimm's Forest, 747 Shimokoyama, Shimotsuke City, Tochigi Prefecture. 🚆Transportation: Take a bus from JR Utsunomiya Line "Ishibashi Station" to "Grimmori Ichimon" stop, then walk for about 2 minutes; alternatively, it's about a 25-minute walk from the station. 📅Dates: November 22, 2026 to January 3, 2027. 🕒Hours: Weekdays 17:00 to 20:00; Weekends and Japanese public holidays 17:00 to 21:00. 💡Note: The lights will not be on November 24, December 1, 8, 15, and 22; cancellation may be due to inclement weather. 3. 🏮Haba River Bamboo Lanterns|The Gentle Riverside Nightscape of Kuranosai "Uzuma no Takeakari" uses the soft light emanating from carved bamboo tubes to illuminate the Haba River, creating a tranquil atmosphere compared to large-scale illuminated displays, especially when paired with historical buildings along the riverbank. You can first explore the old streets of Tochigi City in the afternoon, and then return to the riverbank after dark to photograph the bamboo lanterns and their reflections. 📍Location: Tochigi City, from Tokiwa Bridge to Tochiwa River Bridge. 🚆Access: Walk from JR or Tobu Station to Kuranosai and the banks of the Tochiwa River. 📅Dates: October 24, 2026 to February 28, 2027. 🕒Lights on: 16:30 to 22:00. 📷Photography tips: Choose a spot near a bridge or a bend in the river to capture the bamboo lanterns, the river surface, and the street scene in the frame. 4. ✨Utsunomiya City Illumination | Enjoy Gyoza before strolling and viewing the lights A winter night in Utsunomiya can begin with a gyoza dinner, followed by a walk to Orion Square, the Kamagawa River, and the surrounding shopping streets. The lights are distributed in various locations throughout the city center, ideal for travelers who don't want to hire a special car and prefer a relaxed evening activity. 📍Location: Olympic Square, Kamagawa Project, Banba Plaza and surrounding streets. 🚆Access: Walking distance from Tobu Utsunomiya Station; city buses are available from JR Utsunomiya Station. 📅Dates: November 19, 2026 to January 17, 2027. 🕒Lights on: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM (may vary slightly by area). 🍽️Suggested Itinerary: Take a stroll in two or three adjacent areas after dinner for a relaxed experience. 5. 🎅Santa Hills|Christmas Atmosphere in Forest Cabins Santa Hills itself is a forest camping and cabin accommodation facility. Winter lights add a warm Christmas touch to the grounds. For travelers who enjoy log cabins, forests, and a slow-paced travel experience, consider combining the illumination tour with accommodation. 📍Location: Santa Hills, Nakagawa-cho, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture. 🚗Access: Driving is the most convenient option. 📅Dates: November 7, 2026 to January 3, 2027. 🕒Please confirm nighttime viewing hours and daytime entry arrangements with the park before your trip. 🏡Reservations: For log cabin or camping stays, please make reservations through the Santa Hills official reservation system. 6. 🛍️Sano Premium Outlets|Shopping and Winter Illumination Photography If you want to combine shopping and nighttime views in one day, consider Sano Premium Outlets. Enjoy the illuminations along the outdoor shopping street in the evening. There are also festive decorations during Christmas, making it a suitable stop on a road trip itinerary in the Ashikaga and Sano area. 📍Location: Sano Premium Outlets. 🚗Transportation: Convenient by car; for public transportation, check bus schedules departing from Sano Station. 📅Dates: November 6, 2026 to February 24, 2027. 🕒Lights on: After sunset until closing. 🎄Note: Christmas decorations are on display until December 25; winter lights will remain afterward. 📝Tochigi Night Tour Practical Guide ・For a large-scale sea of ​​lights: Ashikaga Flower Park is the top choice. ・For fairy tales and forests: Grimm's Forest or Santa Hills. ・For strolling and taking photos: Babawa River or Utsunomiya City. ・For shopping: Sano Premium Outlets. · The six locations are scattered across different cities, so it's not recommended to visit them all in one night; if driving, you can plan your trip by area around Ashikaga, Sano, or Utsunomiya. · Winter nights can be cold outdoors, so remember to bring gloves, hand warmers, and spare batteries; for attractions visited by bus, check the last bus back beforehand. #TochigiTourism #TochigiChristmasLights #AshikagaFlowerPark #GrimmForest #HabagawaRiver #Utsunomiya #SanoOutlet #JapanWinterTourism #TokyoSuburbs

四季旅行日曆

【Autumn Ginkgo Leaves and the Historic Electric Locomotive】

Utsunomiya Station East Park (Motoimaizumi, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture) is a spot featuring beautiful autumn scenery and railways. 【Autumn Ginkgo Leaves and the Historic Electric Locomotive】 Utsunomiya Station East Park (Motoimaizumi, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture) is a unique destination where you can simultaneously enjoy stunning autumn foliage and a rare, historic train car that is a must-see for railway enthusiasts. 1. The Breathtaking Autumn Foliage of Station East Park · Golden Ginkgo Avenue: The greenway extending from the park is lined with approximately 60 ginkgo trees, peaking from early to mid-November. This 170-meter "Golden Tunnel" is a spectacular sight, featuring a soft, plush carpet of yellow leaves underfoot. · A Vibrant Autumn Palette: Beyond the golden ginkgos, the park features fiery maples and other seasonal colors. The scenery, illuminated by the morning sun against a clear blue sky, makes for the perfect photo opportunity. 2. The Charm of the EF57 Class No. 7 Electric Locomotive · A Living Legend: Japan’s Only Surviving Unit: On display is the "EF57 7," a DC electric locomotive manufactured for the Japanese National Railways in 1942. Only 15 units were ever built, and this No. 7 is the sole survivor in existence today. · Rugged, Retro Design: With its distinctive protruding "leading bogie decks" at the front and back and its uniquely styled pantographs, the locomotive's heavy, vintage aesthetic represents the backbone of Japan's major rail lines before and after the war. · A Journey Equivalent to 87 Earth Orbits: This locomotive pulled legendary limited express trains like the "Tsubame" and "Hato," as well as express trains like the "Hakkoda" and "Tsugaru." By the time it retired in 1978, it had traveled approximately 3.46 million kilometers—roughly the distance of 87 laps around the globe. · Preservation and Public Access: Housed safely under a protective roof, the locomotive is meticulously maintained by the "EF57 7 Preservation Society," a group of local volunteers. During special spring and autumn events, the driver’s cab and other interior sections are occasionally opened to the public.

Vinland saga

2 Exquisite Must-Try Gourmet Spots Around Utsunomiya!

🥟🥩 2 Recommended Foodie Spots in Utsunomiya & Northern Tochigi! When people think of Utsunomiya, they think of gyoza! But Tochigi has so much more to offer beyond just dumplings ✨ This time, we’re featuring a gyoza tasting experience in Utsunomiya and some incredible roast pork worth traveling a bit further for! 🥟 ① Utsunomiya Gyoza Kirasse Main Store This is the ultimate spot to sample and compare Utsunomiya’s famous gyoza! Located in the heart of Utsunomiya, "Kirasse Main Store" allows you to enjoy flavors from five popular gyoza specialty shops all in one place! The permanent shops include: ・Utsunomiya Minmin ・Menmen ・Koran ・Ryumon ・Satsuki They offer a wide variety, including pan-fried, boiled, deep-fried, and soup gyoza! To order, just pay at each shop’s counter and let them know where you're sitting. Once you receive your number tag, your food will be delivered right to your table. Since you can try so many different kinds of gyoza, it's highly recommended for first-time visitors to Utsunomiya! 📍 Kirasse Main Store B1F MEGA Don Quijote, 2-3-12 Babadori, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 🥩 ② Roast Pork Wan (Otawara Store) Next, head north from Utsunomiya to Otawara City! The star of the show here is, without a doubt, the incredibly thick roast pork! As you can see from the photos, the thickness of the meat is mind-blowing ✨ It’s perfectly seared on the outside while remaining incredibly moist and juicy on the inside! Despite the thick cut, it's tender and packed with savory flavor. Served as a set meal with rice, soup, and a mountain of shredded cabbage, it’s absolutely satisfying! This is a must-visit spot for any meat lover! 📍 Roast Pork Wan (Otawara Store) Otawara City, Tochigi Prefecture 🚗 Perfect for a Tochigi Food Tour! Compare famous gyoza in Utsunomiya and indulge in exquisite roast pork in Otawara! Both are top-tier gourmet spots I highly recommend for your Tochigi trip ✨ *Note: Since Utsunomiya and Otawara are quite far apart, traveling by car is recommended.

ぽんごん

🇯🇵 Nikko Toshogu Shrine — Discovering Japan's Most Magnificent Shrine

I had seen photos of Nikko Toshogu Shrine before, but nothing quite prepared me for seeing its incredible details in person. Hidden among the peaceful forests of Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture, this magnificent shrine is one of Japan's most impressive historical and cultural attractions. Unlike the simple elegance often associated with traditional Japanese shrines, Toshogu is famous for its colourful buildings, intricate carvings, golden decorations, and extraordinary craftsmanship. Dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, the shrine is not only an important religious site but also a place filled with Japanese history and symbolism. What surprised me most was how every corner seemed to tell a different story. From the famous Three Wise Monkeys to the beautifully decorated Yomeimon Gate, there is so much to discover here. 🐒 The Three Wise Monkeys — A Famous Symbol of Wisdom One of the first details I wanted to see was the famous Three Wise Monkeys carving. Located on the Sacred Stable, the wooden carving shows three monkeys covering their eyes, ears, and mouth. Their familiar message is often interpreted as "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil." Although the carving looks simple at first, it carries a deeper meaning about how people should choose what they see, hear, and say. It is one of the most recognisable features of Nikko Toshogu, and a popular photo spot for visitors. I found it fascinating that such a small carving has become one of Japan's best-known cultural symbols. ✨ Yomeimon Gate — A Masterpiece of Japanese Craftsmanship For me, the highlight of Nikko Toshogu is undoubtedly Yomeimon Gate. Often called the "Gate of the Setting Sun," it is famous for its extraordinary decorative details. The gate is covered with colourful carvings, gold accents, and hundreds of intricate figures. The more closely you look, the more details you begin to notice. There are animals, mythical creatures, flowers, and traditional decorative patterns throughout the structure. It is easy to spend quite some time simply admiring the craftsmanship. What makes Yomeimon particularly impressive is the level of detail. Rather than being just an entrance, it feels like a work of art in its own right. 🐱 Nemuri-neko — The Famous Sleeping Cat Another small but famous attraction is Nemuri-neko, or the Sleeping Cat carving. Created by the legendary sculptor Hidari Jingoro, this delicate carving is located near the entrance to the pathway leading towards Tokugawa Ieyasu's mausoleum. At first glance, it looks like an ordinary cat peacefully sleeping. However, it is traditionally associated with peace and tranquillity. Nearby, visitors may also notice sparrows carved into the surrounding decorations, creating a symbolic contrast between the peaceful cat and the birds. Although the carving is much smaller than the magnificent Yomeimon Gate, it is one of the details that makes visiting Toshogu so memorable. 🏯 Tokugawa Ieyasu's Mausoleum — A Journey Through History Beyond the main shrine buildings, there is a staircase leading deeper into the forest towards Tokugawa Ieyasu's mausoleum. The climb involves many stone steps, but the atmosphere changes as you move further away from the busier areas. Tall cedar trees surround the pathway, creating a peaceful and almost mysterious feeling. At the top, you will find the mausoleum area, which offers a quieter experience compared with the more decorative main buildings. For me, this part of the visit provides a better understanding of the historical importance of Nikko Toshogu and the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu. 🌲 Walking Through the Sacred Cedar Forest One thing I particularly enjoyed about Nikko Toshogu was its natural surroundings. The shrine is part of a larger UNESCO World Heritage area known as the Shrines and Temples of Nikko, which includes Futarasan Shrine and Rinnoji Temple. Walking through the grounds, you will find towering cedar trees, traditional stone lanterns, and peaceful forest paths. The contrast between the elaborate shrine architecture and the natural forest scenery makes the entire area feel special. If you have enough time, I would recommend exploring the nearby shrines and temples instead of visiting Toshogu alone. 🍁 Visiting Nikko Toshogu in Different Seasons Nikko is beautiful throughout the year, and each season brings a different atmosphere. · Spring: Fresh greenery and pleasant weather make walking around the shrine grounds enjoyable. · Summer: The surrounding cedar forest offers a refreshing escape from the heat of the city. · Autumn: Red, orange, and golden leaves create a beautiful backdrop for the historic buildings. · Winter: Snow-covered rooftops and quiet forest surroundings give the shrine a peaceful and atmospheric appearance. Personally, I think autumn is particularly beautiful because the colourful foliage complements the shrine's already vibrant architecture. 🚶 My Travel Tips for Visiting Nikko Toshogu If you are planning a visit, here are some useful things to know: · Getting there: From Tokyo, take the Tobu Railway from Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko, or travel by JR train via Utsunomiya. · Getting around: From Tobu-Nikko Station or JR Nikko Station, local buses can take you towards the World Heritage area. Walking is also possible, although some sections are uphill. · How long to spend: Allow around 2–3 hours for Toshogu itself. If you want to explore Rinnoji Temple and Futarasan Shrine as well, consider spending half a day or longer. · Wear comfortable shoes: There are many stone paths and staircases, especially if you plan to visit the mausoleum. · Photography: Take time to look closely at the carvings instead of photographing only the main buildings. · Check opening hours: Admission fees and visiting hours may vary by season, so check the official information before travelling. · Arrive early: Visiting earlier in the day can make it easier to enjoy the shrine before the larger tour groups arrive. ❤️ Final Thoughts Nikko Toshogu Shrine is much more than a beautiful Japanese shrine. It is a place where history, traditional craftsmanship, religion, and nature come together. Every building has its own character, and even the smallest carvings have stories and meanings behind them. What I loved most was discovering how much detail had gone into creating this extraordinary place. From the famous Three Wise Monkeys to the magnificent Yomeimon Gate, every part of the visit offered something interesting. If you are visiting Japan and want to experience a destination beyond the usual city attractions, I would definitely recommend adding Nikko Toshogu to your itinerary. Sometimes, the most memorable places are not just beautiful to look at — they are the ones that make you curious about the history and culture behind them. 📍 Location: Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan #Nikko #NikkoToshogu #日光东照宫 #JapanTravel #TochigiJapan #UNESCOWorldHeritage #ThreeWiseMonkeys #YomeimonGate #JapanCulture #JapanTravelTips #JapanShrines #TripFeatured

JJ_lim

[Nikko Cafe] Rich Cheesecake and Coffee Just Steps from the Station.

Located along the Nikko Kaido road leading to the famous Nikko Toshogu Shrine, you'll find "Cheese Garden THE NIKKO." Just a 3-minute walk from Tobu-Nikko Station, this lovely spot is designed around the concept of "a tranquil retreat with a touch of Japanese spirit." It features an array of sweets, miscellaneous goods, and souvenirs, starting with their signature "Goyodei Cheesecake." There is also a cafe attached, making it a great place to take a break during your sightseeing. The cafe offers unique local dishes like udon with seasonal Nikko vegetables, and omurice or oyako-don made with local Nikko Goyo eggs. For dessert lovers, there's the "Goyodei Cheesecake Matcha Parfait," complete with matcha ice cream, matcha sauce, and delicate candy art. Another tempting option is the Miya Yuzu Soda, made with "Miya Yuzu" from Utsunomiya, Tochigi. Since I had some time before my train home, I decided to stop in for a break. I ordered the rum raisin cheesecake and a coffee. The cheesecake was incredibly rich, the rum raisin flavor was spot on, and it paired perfectly with the coffee! Inside, I saw some foreign tourists having a blast whisking their own matcha for a matcha au lait. Giving people the chance to experience whisking their own tea is such a clever idea! With such a wide variety of treats, it’s also the perfect place to pick up souvenirs from your Nikko trip. It’s a cozy, wonderful shop right near the station—easy to pop into while waiting for a train.

旅する江戸っ子

UTSUNOMIYA — How serious is this city about gyoza? Feast to your heart's content, then dive into the underground wonders of Oya.

Golden, crispy-bottomed dumplings and a massive subterranean stone cathedral might seem like worlds apart, but you can experience both in one trip to Utsunomiya in Tochigi Prefecture—a city that blends culinary delights with breathtaking sights. 🥟🪨 🥢 Why is Utsunomiya the gyoza capital? The city is packed with gyoza shops, each offering its own unique take, making it the city's signature food. There's even a dedicated gyoza festival! The real fun lies in comparing the different wrappers, fillings, and cooking styles across various establishments. 🔥 Don't settle for just one style Start with the classic pan-fried (yaki) gyoza for that perfect crunch, then mix it up with boiled (sui) or deep-fried (age) options depending on the shop's specialties. Pro tip: Share small plates with friends so you can sample a wider variety before getting too full. 📍 Want to try multiple shops in one go? Head to Kirasse, a food hall featuring gyoza from several famous local shops. It’s the perfect starting point if you're feeling indecisive. Just be sure to check the operating hours, menus, and closing days before you go. 🪨 After the feast, head to Oya The Oya History Museum is a former stone quarry that opens its doors to a massive underground world. The towering stone pillars and distinct tool marks on the walls reveal the sheer scale of the excavation and the history of the craftsmen. Moving from a bustling dining table to this silent stone hall feels like stepping into another dimension. 🧥 It can get chilly down there, so bring a light jacket. Wear comfortable walking shoes and watch your step on the stairs and uneven surfaces. 🚃 Getting there From Tokyo, take the Tohoku Shinkansen or the JR Utsunomiya Line to JR Utsunomiya Station. You can start with a food tour in the city or head straight to Oya and save the gyoza for later—just keep an eye on the opening times. 🚌 Catching the bus to the museum From the west exit of JR Utsunomiya Station, hop on a bus bound for Oya–Tateiwa. Get off at the Shiryokan-iriguchi stop and walk for about 5 minutes. It’s always a good idea to check the bus schedules for your return trip in advance. 📌 Sample one-day itinerary: Arrive in Utsunomiya → Gyoza feast → Bus to Oya → Explore the museum → Return to the city center. A single day featuring piping hot, crispy delights and the cool, quiet depths of the earth—this is a side of Japan that's even more exciting than you’d imagine. 🥟✨

Cha-aim

This is a late food post. How late? It's from December 2023. The restaurant has even taken this dish off the menu. I can only share it as a novelty food experience. In Utsunomiya, you have to mention gyoza. Soldiers returning to Japan from Northeast China (formerly Manchuria) brought back the gyoza-making methods they learned there to Utsunomiya. Plus, Utsunomiya has an inland climate—hot in summer and cold in winter. A steaming, nutritionally balanced gyoza was just the thing to help people replenish their energy. Furthermore, the area is rich in high-quality ingredients like flour, pork, chives, and cabbage, so gyoza took root here. Utsunomiya is a place that has turned gyoza into its city calling card. On a slightly chilly night in December, I wanted a steaming hotpot more than pan-fried gyoza. Horse meat hotpot piqued my interest. The 3 types of horse meat were lean, marbled, and fatty (similar to brisket fat). The fatty part is very close to the brisket fat in Chaoshan hotpot, but even "harder" (since horses get so much exercise). It didn't have a gamey taste, but it wasn't exactly fragrant either. Rather than being amazingly delicious, it was more of a surprising novelty.

_TI***mm

Pin this magnificent landmark and admire the beauty of the Bodhisattva Kannon of Peace, carved from the Oya rock face in Utsunomiya.

This spot is considered the most breathtaking and historically significant natural viewpoint in Tochigi Prefecture: the "Heiwa Kannon" (Goddess of Peace), a colossal statue of the Bodhisattva over 27 meters tall, intricately hand-carved into the ancient Oya cliff face. The surrounding atmosphere is incredibly beautiful and uplifting. The park's layout is perfectly designed, nestled amidst a complex array of sheer cliffs and lush trees, offering a refreshing cool breeze that is incredibly relaxing and invigorating. The highlight of this trip, and a popular feature along the walking route, is the "steep mountain pass and natural rock formations surrounding the statue." Giant rock walls are carved into the ground, running parallel to a safe fence. A must-see photo opportunity is taking pictures from a high vantage point, gazing directly through the intricate carvings on the cliff face, bathed in soft golden sunlight. Additionally, there's a charming viewpoint with stairs on the side, allowing visitors to easily access and enjoy panoramic views. This is the location of the Kannon statue. Located within Oya Park in Utsunomiya City, it's easily accessible by bus from Utsunomiya Station (West Exit), getting off at the Oya Kannon stop, and then a short walk to the park area. The spectacular open area is free to visit. The beautiful scenery and clear skies are sure to impress. (The best time to visit, with clear weather, and to comfortably explore the nearby Oya Stone History Museum, is year-round.) We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sneakers, as the terrain consists of flat areas and natural stone paths around the cliff face connecting the viewpoints. For attire, we suggest choosing a coat or clean, minimalist outfit in light colors such as white, cream, or denim. This will enhance your appearance and create stunning, elegant photos against the backdrop of the grey-green Oya stone cliffs. #heiwakannon #oyastone #utsunomiya #tochigi #japan #japantravel #goddessofimmoniculum #beautifulphotospot #purenature #japantravelreview #oyastonecliff

Benrii

Nasu Kogen SA (Inbound): The Ultimate Spot for Tohoku & Kanto Souvenirs!

🚗 On my way back from Fukushima and Aizu, I stopped by the Nasu Kogen Service Area (Inbound) on the Tohoku Expressway. I was genuinely surprised by the incredible selection of souvenirs here! ✨ In my opinion, the inbound side is much more impressive than the outbound side. From Tochigi staples like "Goyotei Cheesecake" and "Goyotei no Tsuki" to items from all across Kanto and Tohoku, the variety is amazing. 🍽️ Here are a few things that really caught my eye: · Nasu's famous "Goyotei Cheesecake" · The light and fluffy "Goyotei no Tsuki" cakes · Local ramen sets from Kitakata, Shirakawa, and Koriyama in Fukushima · Iwashita New Ginger-themed snacks and pink merchandise · Seasonal fruits like pears and apples It was actually quite funny to see so many Fukushima souvenirs here, even though I was just coming back from Aizu! (lol) There are also terrace seats outside where you can take a breather under the clear blue sky 🌿 It felt less like a typical highway stop and more like browsing a curated souvenir boutique. 📍 Nasu Kogen Service Area (Inbound / Toward Tokyo) If you forgot to pick up gifts on your way back from Tohoku, this is the place to go. Definitely worth a stop if you have a bit of extra time. What’s your "must-buy" souvenir whenever you stop at a service area? 📍 4092-2 Toyohara Hei, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Located on the Tohoku Expressway (Tokyo-bound) between Shirakawa IC and Nasu IC. Operating hours vary by shop. The terrace restaurant is usually open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (open from 7:00 AM on weekends and holidays from March to November; last order at 8:30 PM). Please check the official website for souvenir shop hours.

bonちゃん@ポイ活トラベラー