Last updated：
Utsunomiya in Tochigi Prefecture is well known as the “city of gyoza,” boasting a rich culture and tradition around this delicious food, with numerous gyoza shops lining the streets.
Utsunomiya is also famous for its vibrant jazz and cocktail scene. You can find sophisticated jazz bars that light up the night and creative cocktails to enjoy.
The city has a rich history and offers plenty of cultural experiences. Once a bustling temple town, post town, and castle town, Utsunomiya flourished during the Edo period, even earning the nickname “Little Kyoto.” Today, the city’s historical and cultural heritage is preserved, with impressive shrines and castle ruins remaining.
Among its many charms, we’ll focus on the tourist spots around Utsunomiya Station that you can explore entirely on foot.
Utsunomiya is located in Tochigi Prefecture, just north of Tokyo.
By using the Tohoku Shinkansen, you can reach Utsunomiya Station in 48 minutes from Tokyo Station or in 42 minutes from Ueno Station (¥4,490).
Alternatively, the Ueno-Tokyo Line Rapid Rabbit will take you from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya in about 1 hour and 40 minutes (¥1,980), or from Akabane Station in 1 hour and 23 minutes (¥1,694).
Though the Shinkansen is faster, you might enjoy taking the slower rapid train to leisurely enjoy the countryside views on your way to Utsunomiya.
From Shinjuku Station, you can also take the Shonan-Shinjuku Line (bound for Utsunomiya), which takes about 1 hour and 52 minutes (¥1,980).
Utsunomiya Station has two exits: West and East. Despite being a large station, its layout is simple, with a single connecting passageway between the exits, making it easy to navigate.
The West Exit is livelier, with a bus terminal and several shops and restaurants.
As the “city of gyoza,” the West Exit area is lined with many gyoza specialty shops.
Inside JR Utsunomiya Station, you’ll find a tourist information center where you can pick up a free Utsunomiya tourist map. It’s your perfect companion for exploring Utsunomiya on foot, so be sure to grab one!
They also offer maps in foreign languages, available for download online.
Utsunomiya is also known for its “Lemon Milk.” Be sure to try this unique drink, which has a subtle lemon flavor mixed with milk for a refreshing new experience.
Lemon Milk is available for purchase at kiosks within JR Utsunomiya Station.
Sitting on the pedestrian deck of Utsunomiya Station’s West Exit is the iconic “Gyoza Statue.” This 1.6-meter statue, carved from Oya stone, depicts Venus wrapped in a gyoza skin. Its cute appearance brings smiles to all who visit.
Erected in 1994 as part of a TV show’s town revitalization project, the Gyoza Statue has become a symbol of Utsunomiya. Its charm remains strong, and many visitors stop to take photos with it.
The statue was created by contemporary sculptor Koji Nishimatsu, and its playful design of Venus in gyoza skin reflects the lively and cheerful spirit of Utsunomiya.
Gyoza Street is an area filled with Utsunomiya’s famous gyoza specialty shops. It’s located about a 15-minute walk from the West Exit of Utsunomiya Station.
Utsunomiya Minmin Main Store
Goku
Gyoza no Carol
There are many gyoza specialty shops along the main street from Utsunomiya Station to Nikko Kaido, but this street is called “Gyoza Street” because it’s at the center of this area and houses the famous Utsunomiya Minmin shop, a symbol of Utsunomiya gyoza.
Korasse is a facility that brings together famous and long-established Utsunomiya gyoza shops. Here, you can sample a variety of gyoza from different shops, making it a must-visit for gyoza lovers.
Korasse is about a 20-minute walk from Utsunomiya Station (or you can take a bus from the West Exit).
Korasse is a must-visit if you want to enjoy a variety of Utsunomiya gyoza.
Read more about Korasse
South of Korasse is the Orion Shopping Street, which boasts over 70 years of history.
Since Orion Shopping Street is covered, you can enjoy shopping without worrying about the weather. The street retains many old-fashioned stores, giving it a nostalgic feel.
It’s about a 20-minute walk from Utsunomiya Station.
Utsunomiya Orion Shopping Street
You’ll also find many retro-style buildings around Orion Street, giving you a sense of nostalgia just by walking through the area.
Mihashi Street
Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Park is a public park located on the site of the former Utsunomiya Castle. Although the main keep no longer stands, a restoration effort has been ongoing, and today you can see the reconstructed yagura (turrets) and earthen walls.
It’s about a 20-minute walk from Utsunomiya Station, but you can also get there by bus in about 15 minutes.
If you visit Korasse first, it’s just a 10-minute walk to Utsunomiya Castle, making it a perfect stop after enjoying some gyoza.
Read more about Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Park
Futarayama Shrine is located at the heart of Utsunomiya and is the only Myojin Taisha in Tochigi Prefecture. Its history dates back to the era of Emperor Sujin (97 BC to 30 BC). The shrine is deeply connected to the city’s development and is a focal point for local festivals.
It’s about a 20-minute walk from Utsunomiya Station and is in the same area as Korasse and Gyoza Street.
Climb the 95 stone steps to reach the main hall.
You can feel the history in the architecture of the shrine buildings.
Shrine Gate
Main Hall
Futarayama Shrine is also famous for enshrining various gods.
Arashigami Shrine (God of Epidemic Control)
Matsuo Shrine (God of Sake)
Heading west from the West Exit of Utsunomiya Station, you’ll find the main street, “Oodori.” If you’re walking to Korasse, Gyoza Street, or Futarayama Shrine from the station, this is the road you’ll follow.
Miyanohashi Intersection
The sidewalks are well-maintained, making it safe to walk along the road.
Along the way, you’ll cross Miyanohashi Bridge over the Tagawa River, offering scenic views to enjoy as you walk.
There are several cafes around Utsunomiya Station, perfect for resting after a long day of sightseeing.
Parlor & Café “BC”
BC Café is particularly recommended for its great atmosphere. It also offers free Wi-Fi and power outlets.
There’s also a Starbucks inside the station.
If you want to explore all the tourist spots mentioned above on foot, here’s a recommended route:
1. Arrive at Utsunomiya Station and Take a Photo with the Gyoza Statue!
After arriving at JR Utsunomiya Station, conveniently accessible by Shinkansen or rapid trains, don’t forget to take a commemorative photo with the charming Gyoza Statue on the West Exit pedestrian deck.
2. Enjoy Utsunomiya Gyoza at Korasse!
Directly connected to the station, Korasse brings together many of Utsunomiya’s famous gyoza shops. You can enjoy grilled or boiled gyoza in your preferred style.
3. Savor the Retro Vibe of Orion Shopping Street!
Stroll through Orion Shopping Street, where you’ll find nostalgic shops and cafes with a Showa-era retro atmosphere.
4. Experience History at Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Park
At Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Park, you can see reconstructed turrets and enjoy views of the city from the earthen walls.
5. Pay Your Respects at Futarayama Shrine
Visit Utsunomiya’s main shrine, Futarayama Shrine, known for its connection to love and marriage. The serene and historical environment makes for a peaceful visit.
6. Shopping and Gourmet at Gyoza Street
Gyoza Street is perfect for a food crawl or souvenir hunting. Find your favorite gyoza and take home memories of Utsunomiya.
7. Relax at a Café Near Utsunomiya Station
After a day of exploration, take a break at one of the cafes near the station. Reflect on your travels while enjoying the bustling atmosphere of Utsunomiya.
8. Buy Lemon Milk and Board Your Train Home
Before leaving, don’t forget to grab some Lemon Milk from the station kiosk. It’s the perfect way to bring a taste of Utsunomiya with you on your way home.
Utsunomiya Station is less than 2 hours from Tokyo by train, making it an easy day trip. In Utsunomiya, you’ll discover unique local specialties and scenery that can’t be found in Tokyo.
From history and culture to delicious gyoza, Utsunomiya offers a wide variety of experiences all within walking distance. Even without a rental car, you can fully enjoy what the area has to offer on foot.
Since it’s so close to Tokyo, you can easily enjoy a day trip to Utsunomiya.
Take a spontaneous trip to Utsunomiya and see what this charming city has to offer.
