What is Tochigi Prefecture?

Located in the Kanto region of Japan, Tochigi Prefecture is a captivating area where grand nature and rich history harmonize. Known as a sacred site for Shugendo since ancient times, historical families such as the Utsunomiya and Satake flourished during the medieval period. Their historical footsteps still breathe in local cultural heritage such as the Tochigi Festival and the ruins of Utsunomiya Castle.

The vibrant scenery of Tochigi Prefecture, which changes with each season, mesmerizes its visitors. The breathtaking natural views of Nikko and the grand architecture of Nikko Toshogu, a World Heritage site, underscore its visual appeal. The beauty of this place transforms through the seasons: fresh green in spring, deep green in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowscapes in winter, presenting different expressions each time you visit.

Furthermore, Tochigi Prefecture is known for its delicious local specialties like Tochigi Wagyu and Nikko strawberries. Dishes made with these flavorful ingredients delight the taste buds of those who visit and offer a way to experience the culture of the area.

Three Selected Tourist Destinations in Tochigi Prefecture

1. Ashikaga School Ruins

● Attractions

Ashikaga School Ruins, known as one of Japan's oldest schools, was designated as a national historic site in the Taisho era (1912-1926). Visitors can experience the rich history from the Muromachi period, especially as it was renowned as the "University of Eastern Japan" during the Edo period. Today, the restored buildings and gardens allow visitors to immerse themselves in the traditional atmosphere of Japanese academia.

The site features classical architecture, a Confucian temple honoring Confucius, and a library with valuable books. The spirit of Ashikaga School as an educational origin continues to inspire and educate visitors.。

● History

The establishment of Ashikaga School has several theories, but historical records confirm its revival in 1439 by the Kanto regional governor Uesugi Norizane. Despite the turmoil after the Onin War, the school continued its academic activities, especially flourishing during the Warring States period.

After concluding its role at the end of the Edo period, the school was cherished as a regional symbol and was restored in 1990.。

● Access

• Address: 2338 Shoheicho, Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture
• Access:
  • 10 minutes walk from JR Ryomo Line "Ashikaga Station"
  • 15 minutes walk from Tobu Isesaki Line "Ashikaga City Station"
  • 15 minutes by car from Ashikaga Interchange on the Kita-Kanto Expressway
  • Nearest bus stops: Ashikaga School East, Toriichi-chome
• Parking Information:
  • Ashikaga School Multipurpose Parking Lot: 8 cars, free
  • Taiheiki-Kan Tourist Parking Lot: 40 cars, 10 large buses, free
  • Taka-Uji-Kun Plaza Parking Lot: 35 cars, free
  • Toriichi-chome Multipurpose Plaza: 39 cars, free (limited to 3 hours parking)
• Google Maps Link: Ashikaga School Ruins

2. Ashikaga Flower Park

● Attractions

Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture is a mesmerizing spot where a variety of flowers bloom throughout the seasons across its vast grounds. The park is especially famous for its magnificent wisteria trellises in spring, with an enchanting nighttime illumination. The 80-meter long white wisteria tunnel is a particular highlight. From late October to early February, the park hosts one of Japan's top three illuminations, "The Garden of Light Flowers," attracting families and couples.

The "Miraculous Wisteria," over 150 years old, was cited by CNN as one of the "World's Top 10 Dream Travel Destinations (2014)" for its resemblance to the "Tree of Souls" from James Cameron's movie "Avatar"​​。

● History

The origin of Ashikaga Flower Park dates back to the 1920s, when the father of the park's owner planted a large wisteria in the corner of his garden. In 1968, the park was opened to the public as Hayakawa Farm, and in 1996, four large wisteria plants were relocated to their current location.

The relocation was successfully carried out by Konami Tsukamoto, Japan's first female arborist. The park's spring illumination and light-up have been designated as a "Japanese Night View Heritage," a first for any facility in the country to receive multiple recognitions in this category. The park is also a renowned "Lovers' Sanctuary"

● Access

• Address: 607 Hasamacho, Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture
• Contact: Ashikaga Flower Park Tel: 0284-91-4939
• Business Information: Operating hours 10:00 - 17:00, varies by season
• Closed Days: 3rd Wednesday and Thursday of February, December 31
• Admission Fees: Adults: 400 - 2,100 yen / Children: 200 - 1,100 yen, varies depending on the flowering condition
• Access:
  • By train & bus: About 3 minutes walk from JR Ryomo Line Ashikaga Flower Park Station
  • By car: 15 minutes from Ashikaga IC on Kita-Kanto Expressway, 18 minutes from Sano-Fujioka IC on Tohoku Expressway
• Parking Information: 40 large buses, 300 cars, free
• Google Maps Link: Ashikaga Flower Park