Embark on a captivating journey through the heartland of Kanto as we unveil the 12 top-rated things to do in Tochigi, Japan. Known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and remarkable natural beauty, Tochigi offers a unique blend of experiences that promise to enthrall both the seasoned and novice traveler.

This scenic region invites you to immerse yourself in an array of vibrant landscapes, from serene waterfalls and enchanting parks blooming with color, to tranquil rivers and panoramic mountain views. Each destination on our curated list will provide you with a new perspective of Tochigi’s stunning natural beauty.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast seeking thrilling adventures, a history buff eager to delve into the past, or a sightseeing tourist yearning to capture beautiful memories, Tochigi offers something to satisfy your travel desires. Its diverse attractions seamlessly blend the charm of traditional Japan with the allure of nature, offering an unforgettable sightseeing experience. Are you ready to explore the beauty of Tochigi? Let’s start our journey!

1. Ashikaga Flower Park

Witness the sheer vibrancy and beauty of nature at the Ashikaga Flower Park. This park is known for its variety of flowers, including the mesmerizing wisteria which blooms in breathtaking formations. Make sure to visit during the wisteria season to see these incredible cascades of flowers.

Picture yourself in a realm where nature’s most vibrant hues come alive – welcome to Ashikaga Flower Park. Nestled in Tochigi, Japan, this floral sanctuary is a dream destination for those with a fondness for botany, or anyone seeking a visual feast of spectacular colors. A plethora of blooms greets visitors throughout the year, but the park’s true crowning glory is the enchanting wisteria. As you meander through the park, you’ll be captivated by the cascades of these stunning blossoms falling from trellises and archways above. The wisteria blooms burst forth in various colors ranging from white to pink and purple, forming an almost surreal spectacle reminiscent of a painted sky.

Your journey wouldn’t be complete without visiting during the wisteria season, which runs from late April to mid-May. This is when the park comes alive with a breathtaking display of wisteria, creating what is often referred to as a “floating carpet of flowers.” The pièce de résistance is the 150-year old giant wisteria trellis which, in full bloom, is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Officiel Website: Ashikaga Flower Park

Address: 607 Hasamacho, Ashikaga, Tochigi 329-4216

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

2. Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura

Step back in time at Edo Wonderland, a theme park that recreates life in the Edo era of Japan. Don’t miss out on traditional games, cultural performances, and a chance to dress up in period-specific attire. The park also offers a variety of workshops where you can learn about traditional Japanese arts and crafts.

Journey into the heart of Japan’s history at Edo Wonderland, a unique theme park in Tochigi Prefecture that presents a meticulously reconstructed slice of the Edo period. This vibrant park offers an authentic peek into the lifestyle, traditions, and cultural richness of this pivotal era in Japan’s history. From the moment you cross the threshold, you’ll be swept up in the immersive environment. Wooden buildings, cobblestone streets, and townsfolk in traditional attire set the stage for an unforgettable journey back in time. Here, the past comes alive not just as a backdrop, but as an interactive experience.

Don’t miss the opportunity to try your hand at traditional games, or the chance to watch captivating cultural performances – an enriching spectacle that leaves travelers enchanted. You can even slip into a period-specific kimono or samurai armor, a delightful experience that also provides great photo opportunities.

Official Website: Edo Wonderland

Address: 470-2 Karakura, Nikko, Tochigi 321-2524

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

3. Tobu World Square

Marvel at the Tobu World Square, where you’ll find miniatures of famous world landmarks. With over 100 replicas that have been painstakingly crafted, it’s a unique place to get a global tour without leaving Tochigi.

Picture embarking on an international sightseeing journey, all within the span of a few hours. Tobu World Square, located in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, makes this seemingly impossible journey a reality. With a careful eye for detail and commitment to authenticity, this attraction takes ‘miniature’ to an exciting new level. At Tobu World Square, you’ll encounter over 100 meticulously crafted replicas of iconic world landmarks, each scaled to 1/25 of its original size. Stroll by the Eiffel Tower, admire the grandeur of the Pyramids, or marvel at the exquisite detail of the Great Wall of China – all without needing a passport.

The detail in the miniatures is truly remarkable. Skyscrapers, historic sites, and even miniature people fill the park, accurately displaying different global cultures and architectural styles. The models are so precise that you’ll feel as though you’ve shrunk down and stepped into a Lilliputian world.

Visit during the day to see the intricacies in bright sunlight, or stay until evening to see these architectural wonders beautifully illuminated. Tobu World Square offers an unforgettable perspective on the world’s most famed sites, creating an experience that’s as educational as it is fun. Discover the world, all from the comfort of Tochigi.

Official Website: Tobu World Square

Address: 209-1 Kinugawaonsen Ohara, Nikko, Tochigi 321-2522

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

4. Mobility Resort Motegi

Calling all auto-enthusiasts! Explore the Mobility Resort Motegi, home to the Twin Ring Motegi race circuit. This multifaceted resort offers a variety of motor-related and outdoor activities. The Honda Collection Hall, filled with a variety of Honda products from throughout history, is a must-visit.

For automobile enthusiasts and speed lovers alike, the Mobility Resort Motegi, situated in Tochigi, Japan, is an exhilarating destination that can’t be missed. Home to the renowned Twin Ring Motegi racing circuit, this resort brims with a range of activities that will delight every gearhead.

The Twin Ring Motegi, a major highlight, is a hive of high-octane action. Whether it’s the thrill of watching sleek vehicles race around the track, or the chance to participate in driving experiences, this circuit offers adrenaline-pumping fun. But the resort’s appeal doesn’t stop at racing; it provides a variety of outdoor activities to make your visit truly comprehensive.

However, the star of the show for many is the Honda Collection Hall. Inside this modern museum, you’ll find a diverse collection of Honda products, tracing the lineage of this automotive giant from its humble beginnings to its present-day innovations. From vintage motorcycles and race cars to prototype models and cutting-edge robots, there’s much to appreciate about Honda’s engineering prowess and the evolution of automotive technology.

Official Website: Mobility Resort Motegi

Address: 120-1 Hiyama, Motegi, Haga District, Tochigi 321-3533

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

5. Shinkyo Bridge

Take a leisurely stroll across the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. This sacred bridge, which is considered one of Japan’s finest, presents an absolutely beautiful view during the autumn when the surrounding trees turn vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange.

A visit to Tochigi, Japan, is incomplete without a tranquil stroll across the famed Shinkyo Bridge. More than a simple crossing over the Daiya River, this bridge embodies a profound spiritual significance and is often recognized as one of Japan’s most beautiful bridges.

Shinkyo Bridge, also known as the ‘Sacred Bridge,’ is an integral part of the Futarasan Shrine. It carries a rich history, being accessible exclusively to the imperial messengers in ancient times. Today, everyone can tread on its lacquered, vermilion surface, experiencing the grandeur that was once reserved for a select few.

While the Shinkyo Bridge is visually impressive throughout the year, it reaches its zenith in the autumn. As the season changes, the surrounding foliage undergoes a magical transformation. The trees arrayed along the riverbanks burst into a dazzling spectacle of reds, yellows, and oranges. The radiant autumn leaves, coupled with the reflective shimmer of the river below, create a scene that’s nothing short of breathtaking.

Official Website: Shinkyo Bridge

Address: 321-1401 Tochigi, Nikko, 上鉢石町

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

6. Nasu Animal Kingdom

This animal park is a delight for visitors of all ages. Nasu Animal Kingdom offers a unique opportunity to interact with a wide range of animals in open spaces. It’s also the only place in Japan where you can see the performance of a bear on a balance ball!

Unleash your inner animal lover at Nasu Animal Kingdom, a sprawling haven nestled in the verdant beauty of Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. This dynamic park is a must-visit for anyone with a fondness for our furry, feathery, and scaly friends. What sets Nasu Animal Kingdom apart is its emphasis on creating spaces that closely resemble the animals’ natural habitats. This approach results in happier animals and provides a unique chance for visitors to interact and observe them in an environment that feels delightfully natural.

From frolicking meerkats to graceful flamingos, the park is home to a wide array of animals. For those seeking a closer encounter, there are areas where you can feed and pet some of the friendlier residents, making this a truly interactive experience.

However, the show-stopper is undoubtedly the bear on a balance ball. Nasu Animal Kingdom is the only place in Japan where you can witness this unique performance. This sight of a bear demonstrating its balancing skills on a giant ball is not only endearing but also a testament to the wonderful training by the park’s staff.

Official Website: Nasu Animal Kingdom

Address: 1042-1 Oshima, Nasu, Nasu District, Tochigi 329-3223

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

7. Ryuzu Falls

Ryuzu Falls, or “Dragon Head Falls,” is one of Nikko’s most beautiful natural landmarks. The waterfall is especially stunning during the autumn foliage season. There’s also a pleasant trail that leads up to the falls from the shores of Lake Chuzenji.

Welcome to one of Nikko’s most captivating natural treasures – the Ryuzu Falls. Nestled in the Tochigi Prefecture of Japan, these falls, aptly named “Dragon Head Falls,” are a sight to behold, offering a breathtaking display of nature’s raw power and beauty. The waterfall gets its name from its unique shape that resembles a dragon’s head. Water cascades down the rocky terrain, splitting into two streams, much like a mythical dragon’s two-pronged tongue, creating an impressive spectacle.

While Ryuzu Falls are a sight for sore eyes any time of the year, they are especially mesmerizing during the autumn foliage season. When the surrounding trees dress in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, the scenery becomes nothing short of a painted masterpiece. This dramatic display of colors juxtaposed against the cascading waterfall provides an unforgettable visual experience.

Website: Ryuzu Falls

Address: Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1661

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

8. Kegon Waterfall

Standing as one of Japan’s tallest and most beautiful waterfalls, the Kegon Waterfall is a must-visit natural wonder in Tochigi. During the winter, the waterfall transforms into a magnificent icy spectacle, while in the spring and summer, it’s surrounded by lush greenery.

Imposing and beautiful, the Kegon Waterfall holds the esteemed title of being one of Japan’s tallest and most attractive waterfalls. Situated in the Tochigi Prefecture, it has captured the hearts of many with its stunning year-round spectacle.

At nearly 100 meters tall, Kegon Waterfall’s powerful cascade plummets into the depths of Lake Chuzenji, creating a mesmerizing display of natural grandeur. The raw energy of the water’s ceaseless descent is not just a sight to behold, but a harmonious symphony of sounds that engulfs the senses.

Winter at Kegon Waterfall is a scene from a fairy tale. The falling water freezes into a spectacular icicle display, transforming the waterfall into a glittering icy monument. It’s a sight that’s so magical it almost defies belief. As the seasons shift to spring and summer, Kegon Waterfall comes alive with lush greenery. The surrounding vegetation flourishes, painting a vivid backdrop to the silver stream of the waterfall. The air is fresher, the atmosphere invigorating, and the scenery an absolute feast for the eyes.

Official Website: Kegon Waterfall

Address: Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1661

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

9. Shibazakura Park

Experience a carpet of pink as Shibazakura Park comes into bloom. “Shibazakura”, also known as moss phlox, creates a stunning natural carpet of pink and purple, creating a scene that’s straight out of a fairy tale.

Imagine stepping into a world awash with vibrant hues of pink and purple, a dreamy landscape that seems to have been conjured up by a fairy’s wand. Welcome to the enchanting Shibazakura Park in Tochigi, Japan.

The park’s star attraction is the ‘shibazakura’, a flower also known as moss phlox. As the season shifts towards spring, this resilient little plant bursts into a brilliant display of blooms, carpeting the landscape in an almost surreal blanket of pink and purple.

From a distance, the field of shibazakura resembles a beautifully painted canvas, a sweeping spectacle of color that stretches as far as the eye can see. Up close, the individual flowers reveal their intricate detail, creating a mesmerizing pattern that’s equally captivating. The sight of shibazakura in full bloom against the backdrop of clear, blue skies is an unforgettable scene, one that inspires a sense of awe and wonder at nature’s beauty. It’s a sight that evokes the feeling of stepping straight into a fairy tale, where everything is bathed in a warm, ethereal glow.

Official Website: Shibazakura Park

Address: 321-3402 Tochigi, Haga District, Ichikai, 市貝町Miage, ６１４−1

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

10. Oya History Museum

Explore the Oya History Museum for a fascinating insight into the local history and culture. The museum is uniquely situated within a former stone quarry and showcases the historical and cultural significance of Oya stone, known for its unique texture and color.

Delve into the rich tapestry of Tochigi’s past at the Oya History Museum, a fascinating treasure trove that seamlessly blends history, culture, and geology. This museum isn’t your typical historical exhibition; it’s a journey into the heart of a former stone quarry.

The Oya History Museum is built within the cavernous depths of an old Oya stone quarry, its cavernous walls telling a tale of the region’s industrious past. This locally quarried stone, known for its unique texture and soft, warm hue, has played a pivotal role in shaping the local landscape and culture.

The museum offers an insightful look into the history of Oya stone excavation, which dates back over a thousand years. Exhibits showcase the tools used by ancient quarry workers, historic photographs, and a myriad of Oya stone products, from intricately carved sculptures to practical building materials. One of the highlights of your visit will undoubtedly be walking through the vast underground space, its dimly lit corridors revealing the impressive scale of the mining operation. This immersive experience allows you to appreciate the labor that went into extracting this precious resource.

Official Website: Oya History Museum

Address: 909 Oyamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-0345

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

11. Kinugawa River

Engage in some thrilling outdoor activities at Kinugawa River. This beautiful river is known for its hot spring resorts and exciting river boat rides. The scenic beauty surrounding the river is sure to leave you captivated.

If outdoor adventures and serene nature are what you seek, then Kinugawa River in Tochigi, Japan, is your perfect destination. This idyllic location not only offers exhilarating activities but also immerses you in breathtaking scenic beauty.

Running through a landscape adorned with verdant hills and captivating flora, the Kinugawa River is a picturesque gem that brings the charm of nature right at your feet. Its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding scenery create a calming spectacle that instantly uplifts the spirit.

However, the allure of the Kinugawa River extends beyond its aesthetic appeal. Renowned for its hot spring resorts, this river area invites you to experience the soothing warmth of natural hot springs. Let the mineral-rich waters pamper your senses, offering relaxation and rejuvenation amid the tranquility of nature. For those seeking a dash of excitement, the river’s thrilling boat rides promise a fun-filled adventure. Navigating the gentle rapids under the guidance of expert boatmen adds a dash of adrenaline to your tranquil escape.

Official Website: Kinugawa River

Address: 1414 Ohara， Kinugawa Onsen， Nikko-city， Tochigi

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

12. Kirifuri Waterfall

Conclude your journey in Tochigi with a visit to the Kirifuri Waterfall. It’s an enchanting place where you can immerse yourself in the peaceful sounds of cascading water.

Capping off your Tochigi adventure with a visit to the captivating Kirifuri Waterfall is a must. Located in the heart of the Nikko National Park, this beautiful natural wonder is the perfect place to reflect on your experiences in this diverse and fascinating region. The name ‘Kirifuri’ translates to ‘falling mist,’ a fitting description of this waterfall where the water seems to dance and mist in the air before reaching the pool below. The waterfall’s cascades are framed by verdant foliage, creating a spectacular sight that is both serene and invigorating.

As you watch the water tumble down the rocks, you can’t help but feel a sense of calm and peacefulness permeating the air. The well-maintained trail leading up to the falls offers a pleasant stroll, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surrounding nature while breathing in the fresh mountain air. As you stand at the viewpoint, looking at the majestic waterfall and reflecting on your journey, you’ll undoubtedly feel a sense of satisfaction and connection with nature.

Website: Kirifuri Waterfall

Address: Tokorono, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1421

Reviews Visit: TripAdvisor

As we reach the end of our curated journey through the top-rated attractions in Tochigi, we hope that you’re brimming with anticipation to experience these breathtaking sights and unique activities firsthand. From the vibrant colors of the Ashikaga Flower Park and the historic allure of the Oya History Museum, to the exhilarating boat rides on the Kinugawa River and the serene beauty of the Kirifuri Waterfall, Tochigi promises a myriad of experiences that will leave you spellbound. Each destination is a chapter in Tochigi’s rich tapestry of culture and nature, waiting to be explored. Embark on your adventure and let Tochigi’s treasures etch unforgettable memories in your travel diary.

Where to Stay in Tochigi for Sightseeing

Tochigi’s vast array of attractions are complemented by a diverse range of accommodations that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re seeking the indulgence of luxury, the comfort of a mid-range hotel, or the affordability of a budget option, Tochigi has you covered.

Luxury Accommodations

The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko: Nestled in the lush landscapes of Nikko, The Ritz-Carlton offers a luxurious retreat with stunning views of Lake Chuzenji and Mount Nantai. Its beautifully appointed rooms, world-class service, and exquisite dining options provide a truly lavish stay.

Kanaya Hotel Kinugawa: Overlooking the scenic Kinugawa River, the Kanaya Hotel offers a sophisticated blend of traditional Japanese elegance and modern comforts. Its renowned hospitality and serene onsen (hot spring) baths promise a tranquil, luxurious escape.

Nasu Onsen Sanraku Ryokan: Nestled in the picturesque Nasu Highlands, this ryokan exudes an atmosphere of tranquility. It boasts traditional Japanese rooms, delicious local cuisine, and relaxing onsen baths, promising a unique, luxury experience.

Mid-Range Accommodations

Hotel Epinard Nasu: Located in close proximity to various attractions, Hotel Epinard Nasu offers spacious rooms, delightful culinary options, and a soothing onsen. It’s the perfect base for travelers seeking a comfortable and convenient stay.

Nikko Station Hotel Classic: Just steps away from Nikko’s train station, this hotel boasts a superb location. Its comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and warm hospitality make it an excellent choice for travelers.

Budget Accommodations

Hotel Sealuck Pal Utsunomiya: Offering excellent value for money, this hotel features clean, cozy rooms and a complimentary breakfast. Its central location in Utsunomiya makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Jizaiso Ryokan: This traditional Japanese inn offers an authentic experience at an affordable price. The welcoming atmosphere, comfortable rooms, and included breakfast make it a great choice for travelers on a budget.

Regardless of where you choose to stay, you’ll find each option offers a warm welcome and an ideal base to explore the wonders of Tochigi. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions