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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Utsunomiya sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of Japan like a precious gem, Utsunomiya awaits to be discovered like a hidden garden adorned with colorful blooms of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Utsunomiya:
1. Futaarayama Shrine
Futaarayama Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Utsunomiya, Japan, famous for its autumn leaves and history dating back to the 6th century.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the shrine’s beautiful grounds, climb the stone staircase to the main hall, and admire the stunning architecture.
The shrine is also renowned for its cherry blossoms in the spring, and its annual firewalking ceremony in February.
Don’t miss: The Futaara Matsuri festival held every May, featuring traditional Japanese dancing and music, and a parade of portable shrines.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb, and remember to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views.
Plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and catch the warm golden light.
2. Utsunomiya Castle Ruins
Utsunomiya Castle Ruins is a historical site located in Utsunomiya, Japan. The castle was built in the 10th century and served as the residence of various feudal lords.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle ruins and get a glimpse of its former grandeur. The site offers stunning views of Utsunomiya city and is a great place for a peaceful walk or picnic.
There are several informational signs throughout the site to help visitors understand the history of the castle.
Don’t miss: The main attraction at Utsunomiya Castle Ruins is the impressive stonework that has survived for over 400 years.
One of the most iconic parts of the castle is the Tatsumi Yagura tower, which offers a glimpse into the castle’s military past.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Utsunomiya Castle Ruins is during the cherry blossom season in late March to early April when the site is surrounded by beautiful pink blooms.
Visitors should come prepared with comfortable shoes as there may be uneven terrain. It’s also recommended to bring snacks and drinks as there are no facilities on site.
3. Hachimanyama Park
Hachimanyama Park is a scenic park located in Utsunomiya, Japan known for its stunning views and vibrant autumn foliage.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely hike through the park’s many trails, enjoy a picnic amidst nature, or simply relax and soak in the panoramic views of Utsunomiya from the top of the mountain.
The park is especially popular during autumn when the leaves of the maple trees turn a brilliant shade of red and orange.
Don’t miss: The park’s Hachimanyama Observation Deck, which offers a stunning 360-degree view of the city and surrounding mountains. The deck is especially beautiful at night when the city is lit up.
Insider travel tips: – The park can get quite crowded during autumn, especially on weekends, so it’s best to visit on a weekday if possible.
4. Mihashi Shrine
Mihashi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Utsunomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while exploring the shrine’s beautiful architecture and gardens. The shrine is also known for its cherry blossom trees, which make for a stunning visit during the spring.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the impressive torii gate, which stands at 12 meters tall. You can also try your luck at omikuji, a type of fortune-telling that is popular at Japanese shrines.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider visiting Mihashi Shrine at night during one of their special illuminations. Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are stairs and uneven pathways throughout the shrine grounds.
5. Matsugamine Catholic Church
Matsugamine Catholic Church is a modern Catholic church located in Utsunomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: The church boasts a minimalist interior with sleek lines that create a solemn yet welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can attend daily mass services or simply admire the stunning architecture.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the beautiful stained-glass windows that cast a rainbow of colors throughout the interior. The church also offers guided tours in Japanese.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to dress modestly if attending a mass service. Photography is not allowed during services, but visitors are welcome to take pictures outside of service times.
6. Utsunomiya Tower
Utsunomiya Tower is a 100-meter high observation tower located in Utsunomiya City, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the observatory deck at a height of 85 meters. The observation deck is accessible via an elevator that takes around 40 seconds to reach the top.
Don’t miss: The dynamic view of the cityscape at night from the observatory deck.
The tower is illuminated with a unique LED system, which changes its color and pattern as per season or special events.
Insider travel tips: Grab some unique souvenirs and treats at the souvenir shop located at the foot of the tower. Book the Tower restaurant in advance, which serves exquisite dishes with a panoramic view of the city.
The best time to visit the tower is around sunset, where visitors can experience both the day and night view of the city.
7. Oya History Museum
The Oya History Museum is a former underground quarry turned into a museum located in Utsunomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the tunnels and see the impressive subterranean architecture, fossils, and sculptures made from the stone extracted from the quarry.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the giant Buddha carved out of the rock and the 60-foot tall underground waterfall.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes because there is a lot of walking involved.
8. Utsunomiya Peace Park
Utsunomiya Peace Park is a serene and beautiful park located in Utsunomiya City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a peaceful stroll through the park or relax on one of the benches while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
The park features a large pond, a waterfall, and a variety of trees, plants, and flowers. There is also a playground for children and a walking path that circles the park.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the peaceful atmosphere that the Utsunomiya Peace Park offers. It’s the perfect place to escape from the busy city life and enjoy some quiet time.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic lunch and eat it by the pond, enjoying the beauty of the park. Visit during the cherry blossom season in early spring to see the trees in full bloom.
The park is free to enter and is easily accessible by bus or train.
9. Nasu Animal Kingdom
Nasu Animal Kingdom is a popular zoo and amusement park located in Utsunomiya, Japan.
What to see or do: The park boasts over 60 species of animals, including tigers, lions, bears, and giraffes.
Visitors can also enjoy various amusement park rides and attractions, such as a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, and a petting zoo.
Don’t miss: The park’s unique animal shows, featuring trained birds and dogs, are a must-see. The white tiger exhibit is also a popular attraction not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: Beat the crowds by arriving early in the morning, and don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes as the park is quite large.
Bring cash as some attractions don’t accept credit cards. Also, be sure to grab a map at the entrance to plan out your day efficiently.
10. Oya-ji Temple
Oya-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Utsunomiya city, Japan. It is carved into a 200,000-year-old rock face and features stunning sculptures and statues of Buddha and other deities.
What to see or do: Explore the temple’s intricate and beautiful rock carvings, including a 3-meter-tall statue of the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Kannon.
Visitors can also view the temple’s main hall, built in the traditional Japanese style and featuring a stunning wooden statue of the Buddha.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the temple’s underground quarry, where the rock for the temple and other buildings in the area was sourced.
You can also visit the on-site museum to learn more about the history and significance of Oya-ji Temple and its unique features.
Insider travel tips: – To fully appreciate the temple’s beauty and history, consider hiring a guide to provide insight and context.
11. Ohya Stone Museum
Ohya Stone Museum is a unique museum dedicated to showcasing the history and significance of Ohya stone, a type of volcanic stone that has been used for centuries in Japanese architecture and art.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s fascinating exhibits, including a wide variety of Ohya stone sculptures, carvings, and architectural pieces.
There are exhibits on the geology and history of the stone, as well as its cultural significance and uses in traditional Japanese art.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of the Ohya Stone Museum is a huge underground cavern that has been carved entirely out of the stone.
Visitors can wander through the cavern on a guided tour, marveling at the stunning rock formations and learning about the history of the stone.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, about an hour and a half by train from Tokyo.
12. Kiyohara Baseball Stadium
A baseball stadium located in Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan.
What to see or do: Watch a baseball game with locals and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the stadium. The stadium has a seating capacity of 12,000 and hosts various baseball events throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Grabbing some local snacks like yakitori or fried chicken from the food stalls inside the stadium.
Also, keep an eye out for the passionate cheering squads known as ‘oya-kohkoh’ which add to the energetic atmosphere of the stadium.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues on game days. Try to catch a game during the spring season, when cherry blossoms bloom around the stadium, creating a picturesque backdrop.
Additionally, don’t forget to bring a cushion or mat to sit on as the seats can get hard after a while.
13. Utsunomiya Zoo
A spacious and well-maintained zoo located in Utsunomiya city, Japan.
What to see or do: The zoo houses a wide variety of animals such as lions, tigers, bears, elephants, and primates. Visitors can also enjoy the bird sanctuary, reptile house, and petting zoo.
The exhibits are thoughtfully designed with natural habitats for the animals, creating an immersive and educational experience.
Don’t miss: The African Savanna exhibit where you can see giraffes, antelopes, and zebras roaming free. The monkey park is also a must-visit, where you can observe the playful macaques up close.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit the zoo on weekdays as it can get crowded on weekends and holidays. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes as the zoo is quite large and requires some walking.
The souvenir shop offers a variety of cute and educational gifts for kids and adults.