Major Attractions
Utsunomiya Gyoza Festival
Held annually on November 1-2 at Castle Park since 1999, this massive festival celebrates the city's signature dish with dozens of vendors offering unique gyoza varieties. Tens of thousands of gyoza enthusiasts descend upon Utsunomiya to sample dumplings from the city's finest restaurants in a festive atmosphere.
Gyoza Statue
Standing 1.5 meters tall outside JR Utsunomiya Station, this iconic gyoza statue serves as the ultimate photo opportunity and symbol of the city's culinary obsession. The cheerful monument greets visitors with a playful reminder of Utsunomiya's status as Japan's undisputed gyoza capital.
Utsunomiya Gyoza-kai
Japan's only gyoza cooperative represents 145 member restaurants committed to maintaining the highest standards of gyoza preparation. This unique organization promotes gyoza culture, organizes events, and ensures that Utsunomiya's reputation for exceptional dumplings remains unchallenged throughout the nation.
Oya District
Designated as Japan Heritage, this extraordinary stone town features underground quarries transformed into atmospheric spaces and houses Japan's oldest stone-carved Buddha. The distinctive Oya stone has been quarried here for centuries, creating a unique landscape of carved cliffs and historical mining sites.
Four Seasons Bamboo Forest
Japan's largest bamboo forest open to public visitors offers a serene escape into towering groves that create natural cathedral-like spaces. The forest provides peaceful walking paths where sunlight filters through dense bamboo stalks, creating a meditative atmosphere that showcases the tranquil beauty of these remarkable plants.
Jazz & Cocktail Venues
Utsunomiya's sophisticated nightlife scene features numerous live jazz venues and cocktail bars staffed by award-winning bartenders. This unexpected cultural dimension has earned the city recognition as a hub for jazz music and mixology, offering evening entertainment that contrasts beautifully with its daytime gyoza culture.