Tochigi Regional Guide
Tochigi Prefecture
Located roughly 100 km north of Tokyo, Tochigi offers outstanding access from the Greater Tokyo Area— only about 50 minutes by Shinkansen to the prefectural capital of Utsunomiya.
To the north lies the Nasu – Nikko region, surrounded by mountains rising over 2,000 meters and displaying breathtaking seasonal scenery. In contrast, the southern area opens into gentle plains and pastoral landscapes that soothe the soul.
Key Points
Sightseeing
Regions
114 GOLF COURSES
HOME TO THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE OF NIKKO
4 SEASONS OF GOLF & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
JAPAN’ S LARGEST STRAWBERRY PRODUCER
FAMOUS FOR ONSEN & RYOKAN
NASU REGION One of Japan’ s leading highland resort destinations.
NIKKO REGION Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shrines and Temples of Nikko.
CENTRAL TOCHIGI / UTSUNOMIYA The transportation and economic hub.
EASTERN TOCHIGI Rich in traditional crafts.
SOUTHERN TOCHIGI Historically a center of commerce.
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Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Nikko Toshogu Shrine, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the ' Shrines and Temples of Nikko ', is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Edo Shogunate. With 55 magnificent structures— including 8 National Treasures and 34 Important Cultural Properties, the richly colored carvings and intricate architectural details represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship. Among the highlights are the famous“ Sleeping Cat,” a symbol of peace, and the Three Wise Monkeys— See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.
Mashiko pottery began in the late Edo period and first gained popularity for everyday wares like bowls and jars. Everything changed in 1924 when master potter Shoji Hamada made Mashiko his home. Along with the Mingei movement, he transformed the local craft into an expressive art form that drew attention from around the world. Today, the town is alive with creativity— about 160 kilns and 50 pottery shops line the streets, where young creators and veteran artisans work side by side.
With more than 600 hot-spring sources, Tochigi is one of Japan’ s great onsen destinations. From Kinugawa, Kawamata, Yunishigawa, Nikko Yumoto, and Nasu, to Shiobara and many others, the prefecture offers a diversity of spring qualities and scenic settings.