Utsunomiya is a city located in the Tochigi Prefecture in Japan. According to Japan Guide, Utsunomiya is considered to be the “capital of gyoza” and is known for inexpensive and delicious gyoza dumplings. Utsunomiya is also home to Nikko National Park, which is accessible via the Tobu World Square Theme Park. The park features over 100 scale models of famous buildings and structures from around the world. Families with young children may also enjoy visiting the Utsunomiya Zoological Park, where they can see a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. Other kid-friendly attractions in Utsunomiya include the Tochigi Heritage Village, which is a Open Air Museum that has a collection of buildings which date back to the Edo period, and the Nature Walk Karasawayama, which is a nature preserve with hiking trails and picnic areas.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Utsunomiya, Japan
1. Visit the Utsunomiya Zoo.
The Utsunomiya Zoo is located in Koriyama Park and is home to over 500 animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys. The zoo also has a petting zoo where children can interact with smaller animals.
2. Go to the Utsunomiya Tower.
The Utsunomiya Tower is a 100-meter tall observation tower that offers panoramic views of the city. The tower has an elevator that takes visitors to the top, where there is a restaurant and a gift shop.
3. Take a leisurely stroll through Toshogu Shrine.
Toshogu Shrine is a Shinto shrine that is famous for its beautiful architecture and gardens. The shrine is located in the center of the city and is surrounded by a forest.
4. Visit the Utsunomiya Museum.
The Utsunomiya Museum is located in Koriyama Park and is home to a collection of art and historical artifacts. The museum also has a planetarium and a library.
5. Go to the Oya-jinja Shrine.
The Oya-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine that is located in the center of the city. The shrine is known for its large torii gate and for its beautiful gardens.
6. Visit the Utsunomiya Castle.
The Utsunomiya Castle is a Japanese castle that was built in the 16th century. The castle is located on a hill in the center of the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
7. Take a walk through the Utsunomiya Park.
The Utsunomiya Park is a large park that is located in the center of the city. The park has a lake, a playground, and a walking path.
8. Visit the Utsunomiya Aquarium.
The Utsunomiya Aquarium is located in Koriyama Park and is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, penguins, and dolphins. The aquarium also has a touch tank where children can interact with stingrays and other animals.
9. Go to the Utsunomiya Botanical Garden.
The Utsunomiya Botanical Garden is located in Koriyama Park and is home to a variety of plant life, including flowers, trees, and shrubs. The garden also has a greenhouse, where visitors can see tropical plants.
10. Take a ride on the Utsunomiya Railway.
The Utsunomiya Railway is a train that runs through the city. The railway has a variety of different routes, and visitors can choose to ride in a traditional Japanese train car or in a modern train car.