Gyozas and the Underground World of Utsunomiya (2-Day Trip)

The old mining site of Utsunomiya’s famous，Oya Stone，has now been turned into a historical museum. The exhibition features the long history of the mining since the 17^th century，with many materials on display. The underground cavern，covering 20,000 sq. metres，is large enough to fit a baseball field.

With a fantastic atmosphere reminding visitors of the ruins of Ancient Rome.It is used in various scenes such as movie shooting, music videos shooting, weddings, concert, etc. due to its mysterious scenery.

The history of the Utsunomiya Futaarayama Shrine dates back 1,600 years when the shrine was dedicated to the founder of Utsunomiya，Toyoki-Irihiko-no-Mikoto. Most of the festivals held in the city are related to this historic shrine. Many people come to the shrine on special occasions such as New Year and Shichi-Go-San seasons. The illuminated gate and approach to the shrine are an incredible evening sight. The shrine is also home to some nationally important works of art.

“Utsunomiya Gyoza” is an important part of the culinary culture of Utsunomiya City. The city has over 300 Gyoza restaurants，and people enjoy queuing in front of their favourite restaurants. These eateries compete in creating unique recipes to be recognised as “one of the best” Gyoza in the city，with all sorts of ingredients and cooking methods. Go from one eatery to another like the locals do，and sample some of thier wide selection! You can even join Gyoza-making classes led by veteran lecturers. Gyoza-related goods are also popular as souvenirs.

Tour Utsunomiya by renting bicycles from this shop that also offers tourist information.
http://miya-cyclestation.jp/

This Roadside Rest Stops offering a farming and forest experience, dog park, hot spring, pool, and accommodation. Tochigi Prefecture has the largest production of two-rowed barley – an ingredient used to make beer. Romantic village’s brewery has a full lineup of beers including staple original beers, the Mugitaro brand, and Gyoza Roman, a beer that pairs well with Gyoza .Be sure to try a freshly brewed one!

Wakayama Farm is a farm where bamboo has been cultivated with the aim of pesticide-free and organic farming for approximately over 100 years. The 24-hectare bamboo forest on this farm has also been used as the location for various movies and commercials.

In addition to taking a stroll through the bamboo forest，you can pick bamboo shoots in spring，pick berries in the summer and search for chestnuts in the fall.

Visitors can also experience drinking matcha green tea in bamboo cups in the bamboo grove (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays only).

On weekends, the bamboo grove is illuminated. Visitors can enjoy beautiful illumination while strolling through the bamboo grove.