9 recommended tourist spots in Mibu Town, Tochigi, the town of toys

Have you heard of Mibu Town, located in the central-southern part of Tochigi Prefecture? Historically, it was a castle town of the Mibu Domain and a post town. Because of this, there are many tourist spots related to its history.

Additionally, it is also known as "Toy Town" and has many facilities related to toys. There are attractions that will make not only children but also adults excited, making it a perfect destination for a family trip.

This time, we have gathered nine popular tourist attractions in Mibu Town.

1. Mibumachi Toy Museum

The Toy Museum in Mibu Town is filled with vibrant colors the moment you step inside, making it an exciting place just to be in. It features large playground equipment and a ball pool, making it an ideal tourist spot for young children to play freely. There is also a special corner where you can create your own Licca-chan doll.

Additionally, the museum displays many nostalgic toys, ensuring that adults will also have a great time reminiscing. You might even reunite with the toys you played with as a child!

The museum is about a 5-minute taxi ride from Omochanomachi Station on the Tobu Railway Utsunomiya Line. It also has a free parking lot, making it a convenient stop for those traveling to Mibu by car.

2. Tochigi Wanpaku Park

Tochigi Wanpaku Park is a popular tourist spot with a vast area featuring a variety of attractions that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from young children to the elderly. Highlights include the "Dream Flower Bed," where different flowers bloom depending on the season, the "Ship of Wonders," which houses fascinating phenomena, and "Children's Castle," packed with fun playground equipment that will surely captivate kids. There are many more attractions within the park, making it a great place to take your time and relax.

Admission is free, making it an excellent destination for families. The park also has a parking lot, so visitors traveling by car can enjoy a stress-free visit.

3. Mibu Castle Ruins Park

Mibu Castle Ruins Park is built on the remains of the main enclosure of Mibu Castle, located in the center of Mibu Town. The park preserves reconstructed gates and stone walls, allowing visitors to experience the historical atmosphere of the past.

In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in full splendor, attracting many visitors eager to admire their beauty. The park also features playground equipment, making it an enjoyable destination for families with children.

Additionally, the park houses a museum of history and folklore, as well as a library, which are worth visiting during your trip.

4. Toy Town Bandai Museum

The "Toy Town Bandai Museum" is a must-visit tourist attraction that will delight both children and adults. The museum is divided into different sections, including Japan, the World, Edison, and Gundam areas, offering a fascinating collection of exhibits. It features historic toys, as well as toys that many visitors may have played with themselves.

A major highlight of the museum is a life-sized bust of Gundam, which can only be seen here. Whether you're a Gundam fan or not, this impressive display is sure to excite visitors. Beyond the exhibits, there is also a play area where visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences.

Be sure to check out the numerous Gachapon (capsule toy) machines as well.

5. Shinonome Park

Shinonome Park is a well-known cherry blossom viewing spot that attracts many tourists and spectators in spring. It is also listed as one of the "100 Scenic Spots of Tochigi," making it a must-visit destination during the cherry blossom season.

In April, the annual "Mibu Town Shinonome Flower Festival" is held, celebrating the beauty of the cherry blossoms. However, the park is enjoyable throughout the year, making it a great place for a picnic, or to admire fresh greenery and autumn foliage.

The park is conveniently located about a 7-minute walk from Tobu Mibu Station. Free parking is also available, making it easy to visit by car during a sightseeing tour of Mibu.

6. Mibu Roadside Station

If you’re looking to buy souvenirs from Mibu, be sure to check out "Roadside Station Mibu." This spot is packed with local specialties, including fresh vegetables and souvenir products. It's also a great place to gather tourist information.

One of the top recommendations here is the soft-serve ice cream. Popular choices include the mixed soft serve made with Mibu's Tochigi-grown Tochiotome strawberries and the Lemon Milk soft serve, a flavor unique to Tochigi. These special flavors can only be found here, so be sure to give them a try. A restaurant is also available, making it a great place for lunch or dinner after a day of sightseeing.

7. Ogoto Shrine

Ogoto Shrine (Okoto Jinja) is said to have been founded in the 5th year of the Kanji era. It is known for its blessings of household safety, protection from misfortune, and academic success.

Various festivals are held throughout the year, so if you’re interested, planning your visit around one of these events could enhance your sightseeing experience. A parking lot is available, so visitors traveling by car can also visit with ease.

8. Ushizuka Burial Mound

Ushizuka Kofun in Mibu Town is named a "scallop-shaped burial mound" due to its resemblance to a scallop shell when viewed from above. It was designated as a national historic site in 1926. The burial mound is approximately 60 meters long and about 5 meters tall, making it an impressive sight.

Nearby, you can also find the Kurumazuka Kofun. Additionally, about 500 meters away is the Atagozuka Kofun, so exploring these together can make for an interesting historical tour.

9. Iwasaku-Nesaku Shrine

Iwasaku-Nesaku Shrine, also known as "Iwanesan," is cherished by the locals of Mibu. The area is historically significant, as a prince of Emperor Sujin is said to have lived here for an extended period and achieved remarkable longevity. Due to this, it is also known as Kamezuka Kofun and has been designated as a cultural property of Tochigi Prefecture. It is believed to bring blessings for warding off misfortune, safe childbirth, and household safety.

When visiting, be sure to check out "Yumefukujin," a divine representation of a tapir (Baku). Its unique appearance is captivating.

◎ Summary

The 10 must-visit sightseeing spots in Mibu Town, Tochigi Prefecture, are packed with charm. Relaxing in one of the local parks is also highly recommended, so be sure to use this as a guide when planning your visit.

Mibu is both a "toy town" where children can have fun and a historic town with a nostalgic atmosphere. There are numerous sightseeing spots to enjoy from different perspectives. Many more shrines, temples, and burial mounds that were not covered here still await exploration. Be sure to visit Mibu Town and experience a fulfilling sightseeing adventure.

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