3 Days Itinerary in Utsunomiya, Japan - Travel Guide

Days	Description
1	Day 1 - Gyoza Galore and Cultural Heritage
2	Day 2 - Nature Escapade and Leisure Exploration
3	Day 3 - Tea Tradition and Musical Journey

Introduction

Come and explore the extraordinary charm of Utsunomiya, Japan in 3 days! This itinerary offers an immersive experience into the city's vibrant culture, famous culinary treats, historical sites, and picturesque nature scenes. From sampling world-renowned gyoza to taking part in traditional Japanese tea ceremony, expect an unforgettable journey that traverses both old and new facets of Utsunomiya.

Day 1 - Gyoza Galore and Cultural Heritage

Your Utsunomiya adventure begins at Utsunomiya Station, stepping into the heartbeat of a city teeming with history and culinary delights. Ready for breakfast? Try out the city's signature dish at a nearby gyoza restaurant. Utsunomiya's gyoza is a must-try, famed for its juicy filling and crispy shell. Next, catch a bus to the serene Oya History Museum, where you can learn about the city’s mining history and admire the sacred Oya stone – a magical landscape carved out by Mother Nature herself. Wrap up the day at Orihime Shrine, a place of worship with stunning architecture worth capturing with your lens. To end the day on a high note, enjoy a karaoke session in the evening – a popular pastime in Japan, before retiring for the night.

Day 2 - Nature Escapade and Leisure Exploration

Kick off your second day with a visit to Matsugamine Catholic Church, a gorgeous European-style sanctuary that's a pebble's throw from Utsunomiya Station. Then, take a journey to the Nikko National Park – a couple of hours away – and marvel at the stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and hiking trails. See the breathtaking Kegon Falls, one of Japan's highest waterfalls, and let the majestic nature scene take your breath away. Afterwards, stroll the charming streets of Kanaya Hotel History House, once a preferred rest stop for foreign diplomats and a window into the golden times of Utsunomiya. Wrap up the day with a shopping spree at Bell Mall, a sprawling retail hub where you can snag awesome local finds.

Day 3 - Tea Tradition and Musical Journey

Starting your day off again near Utsunomiya Station, visit Utsunomiya Tower for a bird's eye view of the city. Take your morning tea with a different vibe by learning about traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Ishii-Tei Chaya. Then, head to the Utsunomiya Museum of Art, home to countless awe-inspiring pieces from local and national artists. If you're a fan of music, don't miss the chance to explore Tohoh Gakuen Utsunomiya Junior College’s collection of musical instruments from across the world. As you wrap up your 3-day itinerary, check out an Izakaya for dinner, and remember, there's always room for one more gyoza.