Recharge your mind and body with healing and energy! 11 Popular Tourist Spots in Kanuma City

Kanuma City, located on the west side of Utsunomiya City, is blessed with abundant flowers, greenery, and many rivers, making it rich in natural beauty. Among them, the famous Oashi River and Kuro River in northern Kanto are popular tourist spots. Locals and tourists alike often visit for activities such as fishing.

Kanuma is also known as the "Home of Soba," where you can enjoy "Kanuma Nira Soba." Made with buckwheat flour cultivated in Kanuma and kneaded with the pure waters from the city's many rivers, Kanuma soba offers a high-quality taste. It's a highly recommended local delicacy.

In addition, Kanuma is a town filled with legends of Tengu (mythical creatures), and it’s well-known for having many ascetic monks in the past. There are plenty of historical tourist spots where you can feel the weight of history.

This time, we’ll introduce 12 popular tourist attractions that are unique to Kanuma City!

1. Shimotsuzawa Yana

Shimotsuzawa Yana, located along the famous clear waters of the Oashi River in northern Kanto, is one of Kanuma City's popular tourist spots. From early June to the end of October, it’s bustling with many visitors. Besides the traditional yana (a river fishing trap), there are fish ponds where you can enjoy catching fish by hand. There’s also a fishing pond where you can catch fish and have them grilled on the spot.

The sight of the Oashi River’s flowing water from the yana is truly powerful. As you relax and take in the beautiful scenery of the Oashi River and surrounding mountains, enjoying grilled salted ayu (sweetfish) is a special treat. Fresh ayu sashimi is also highly recommended. There's also a wading pool where kids can have fun catching ayu, making it a thrilling experience different from typical water play. The refreshing river breeze and comfortable atmosphere make it a spot where you might find yourself staying longer than planned.

2. Deai no Mori Strawberry Farm

Deai no Mori Strawberry Farm is Japan’s first strawberry farm featuring movable bench cultivation. The facility is fully barrier-free, making it easily accessible for visitors using wheelchairs or strollers. It’s a safe and enjoyable place for people of all ages, from children to seniors. They grow two types of strawberries: "Tochiotome" and "Tochihime." Freshly picked strawberries are juicy and refreshing, with the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Comparing the two varieties is also a fun experience!

Reservations are not required, but those who book in advance are given priority, so making a reservation ahead of time is recommended. Reservations need to be made at least three days before your visit. Nearby, you can also enjoy camping at "Deai no Mori General Park," combining strawberry picking with outdoor fun for a fulfilling experience.

3. Senjuyama Park

Senjuyama Park is a nostalgic and charming place, famous as a cherry blossom spot in spring. It's a beloved tourist attraction in Kanuma City. The park’s symbolic Ferris wheel offers a panoramic view of the townscape of Kanuma City. The colorful "Fairy Tale Train" is especially popular with children. Unlike other amusement parks, all the rides are available at very affordable prices.

In addition to the rides, visitors can enjoy the park’s beautiful natural scenery. There are about 300 cherry trees and around 1,000 azalea bushes, offering breathtaking views during their blooming seasons. The best time to visit is from April to early May. The park also features a magnificent hall where you can view the mystical wooden seated statue of Senju Kannon Bodhisattva.

Senjuyama Park is a perfect blend of a retro amusement park, natural landscapes, and cultural highlights like the Senju Kannon. It’s a must-visit when touring Kanuma City!

4. Furumine Shrine

In Kanuma City, there’s a famous tourist attraction and spiritual power spot called Furumine Shrine. The enshrined deity is Yamato Takeru no Mikoto. Within its vast grounds, you’ll find the Furumine Garden, a traditional strolling garden. Fed by the clear streams of the Oashi River, the garden makes full use of the natural landscape, offering beautiful scenery. After visiting the shrine, taking a leisurely stroll while enjoying the garden and surrounding views is highly recommended.

In April, cherry blossoms bloom; in June, hydrangeas come alive; and throughout the year, you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenery. Especially in autumn, the brilliant reds and oranges of the fall foliage are stunning and sure to take your breath away.

One of the shrine’s unique charms is its variety of approximately 14 different Tengu Goshuin (temple stamps). Known as the "Shrine of the Tengu," you’ll find Goshuin featuring various expressions of these legendary creatures. Which Tengu stamp you’ll receive is part of the fun! Show them off and compare them with your companions when you visit.

If you get tired while strolling, there’s a teahouse where you can relax and enjoy the garden’s beautiful views. With advance reservation, you can also experience Kaiseki cuisine, so planning a meal here is a great option. Local handicrafts and souvenirs are also available for purchase.

One must-see spot at Furumine Shrine is Miyama Tomoe no Yado. Said to be the place where the great Buddhist priest Shodo Shonin, founder of Nikko, trained, it’s believed to be one of the most powerful energy spots. Recharge your body and soul, collect your Tengu Goshuin, and enjoy a healing visit at Furumine Shrine!

5. Machi no Eki Shin-Kanuma-juku

Machi no Eki Shin-Kanuma-juku is a perfect hub for sightseeing in Kanuma City, offering gourmet foods crafted by local artisans and unique souvenirs you can only find in Kanuma.

The large lawn area often hosts various events. The building itself has a calming, traditional Japanese atmosphere, making it easy for anyone to stop by. Both locals and tourists love this place. The restrooms are called "Comfort Station," designed to provide a pleasant, relaxing space—a clean restroom is always a welcome find during a trip!

At the Local Products Hall, you can buy fresh local vegetables and specialty products from Kanuma. One popular item is the "Yatai Monaka," an adorable sweet shaped like a festival float. At Oekoshi, they serve Kanuma soba made with freshly milled local buckwheat flour. They grind the flour daily with a stone mill and hand-make the soba with great care. Their specialty "Nira Soba" is a must-try local gourmet dish you shouldn’t miss when visiting Kanuma.

At Nakama Chiya, you can enjoy light meals like curry and soft serve ice cream. The curry features carefully selected Kanuma Wagyu beef, and the soft serve includes unique flavors like strawberry with fruit chunks and soba tea. They also offer the famous Premium Soft Cream Cremia, a rare treat available in limited locations. Be sure to try it while enjoying other local gourmet options!

6. Awano Shiroyama Park

Located on the site of the former Awano Castle, Awano Shiroyama Park is a popular tourist destination in Kanuma City. It’s especially famous for its azaleas that bloom from late April to early May. Around 20,000 azalea plants have been planted here, making it one of the top azalea viewing spots in Tochigi Prefecture. During peak bloom season, many visitors come to admire the vibrant colors.

The Shiroyama Park Azalea Festival is held in sync with the azalea blooming season. On weekends, there are fun events for children, making it an enjoyable spot for families. Aside from the azalea festival, the park hosts seasonal events throughout the year. It’s a good idea to check the event schedule before visiting!

One of the park’s most popular attractions is the 115-meter-long Sky Roller. Kids love it! It offers thrilling speed and a refreshing breeze as you ride. From the top of the Sky Roller, you can get a panoramic view of the Awano townscape. The park also features walking trails, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. On sunny days, it’s a great spot for a picnic. Be sure to visit Awano Shiroyama Park when sightseeing in Kanuma City!

7. Deai no Mori General Park Auto Campground

The Deai no Mori General Park Auto Campground is a popular spot where you can easily enjoy camping and barbecuing while being surrounded by nature. You can enjoy beautiful scenery all year round. It’s about an hour’s drive from the Tokyo metropolitan area and roughly 20 minutes from the Tohoku Expressway Kanuma IC, making it a convenient getaway.

The famous Oashi River, one of the clearest rivers in northern Kanto, flows nearby. In summer, visitors can enjoy water activities and fishing. During cherry blossom season, the rows of sakura trees from Deai Bridge along the riverside create a stunning view, perfect for a scenic walk. There's also a nearby strawberry farm where you can pick strawberries, so you can enjoy both camping and strawberry picking during your stay.

The barbecue area is fully equipped with iron plates, grills, and tents. There are sanitary facilities, including showers and laundry, available 24 hours a day, which is especially convenient for families with children and female campers. Barrier-free toilets are also provided, making it easy for everyone to visit without hassle. On clear nights, you can stargaze, creating unforgettable memories.

Additionally, there is a hot spring facility where you can relax and soothe your tired body. Depending on the season, you can also join various events such as agricultural experiences and soba noodle-making workshops. Planning your visit to coincide with these activities is highly recommended!

8. Ido Wetlands

Located at an elevation of around 1,300 meters, Ido Wetlands is a stunningly beautiful spot, often referred to as “Little Oze” because of its picturesque scenery. It lies along the Yokone Highland Hiking Course. Over 400 species of plants, including alpine flora, grow here. In May, the area is covered in a brilliant red as Yamatsutsuji and Rengetsutsuji (types of azalea) bloom, creating a breathtaking view. During autumn, the colorful foliage makes for an unforgettable sight. There are wooden boardwalks along the trail, making it easy and comfortable to walk.

There’s also an observation point called “Elephant’s Nose,” where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Kanto Plain. On clear days, you can even see Mt. Fuji. It takes about 40 minutes to walk the entire loop, making it a beginner-friendly hike, perfect for families with children. Nearby attractions include Godan no Taki (Five-Step Waterfall), so you can choose a route that suits your interests.

9. Kanuma Imamiya Shrine

Kanuma Imamiya Shrine is a traditional tourist destination brimming with historical charm in Kanuma City. Its main hall features intricate carvings and vibrant vermilion-colored buildings, creating a mystical atmosphere and giving you a sense of its long history. It’s conveniently located near Kanuma City Hall, making it easy to find. Locals affectionately call it “Imamiya-san.” There’s also a parking lot nearby with space for about 50 cars, so it’s very convenient for tourists.

In particular, the carvings on the Wani-guchi (decorative gong) and Karamon (Chinese-style gate) are breathtaking. The elegant Gongen-style shrine building is designated as a cultural property of Tochigi Prefecture. The detailed craftsmanship of the main hall’s carvings is nothing short of artistic, enhancing the shrine’s mystical feel. As you stroll around the shrine grounds, taking in the architecture and scenery, you’ll feel refreshed and at peace.

Every autumn, the shrine hosts the famous Kanuma Autumn Festival, the annual grand festival of Imamiya Shrine. During the event, numerous elaborately decorated floats with detailed carvings parade through the city. This festival is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan and attracts many locals and tourists alike.

10. Maenikko Tsutsuji no Yu Exchange Center

Maenikko Tsutsuji no Yu Exchange Center is a hot spring resort surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountains in Kanuma City. It's the perfect place to relax and refresh during your sightseeing trip in Kanuma. There’s parking available for about 100 cars, but it’s so popular with both locals and tourists that it’s often lively and bustling.

The hot spring water is an alkaline simple sulfur spring, which makes your skin feel smooth and moisturized. It’s also known as the “Beautiful Woman’s Hot Spring” because it warms you from deep within, and many visitors become regulars thanks to its excellent reputation.

The baths are divided into indoor and outdoor areas. The indoor bath features cypress wood and red granite tiles and is large enough to accommodate about 15 people. The open-air bath offers an amazing view surrounded by mountains and nature. There’s also a jacuzzi, great ventilation, and a peaceful atmosphere where you can soak while enjoying the beautiful scenery, forgetting the hustle and bustle of city life.

In front of the mirrors, you’ll find amenities such as lotion, moisturizer, tissues, and cotton swabs. The washing area is fully equipped with shampoo and conditioner, so you can visit empty-handed. You can also purchase face towels if needed. There’s a restaurant and a free rest area available. At the restaurant, you can enjoy authentic soba noodles handmade with local buckwheat flour. Be sure to visit in between sightseeing!

11. Oashi Gorge

Oashi Gorge is a tourist spot located in the northernmost part of Kanuma City. You can enjoy its beautiful nature all year round. In particular, autumn offers spectacular views with vivid colors of orange and red leaves. Even though it’s deep in the mountains, there’s parking for about 20 cars, making it easy and accessible for families to visit comfortably.

Oashi Gorge features about 20 waterfalls, both large and small. One of the highlights is “Otaki” (Great Waterfall) located upstream, where there’s a viewing platform for leisurely sightseeing. During the autumn season, the combination of waterfalls and colorful autumn leaves creates an amazing contrast.

Downstream, there’s the “Shiroi Hirabashi” (White Flat Bridge), where you can admire the stunning sight of large maple trees turning bright red. It’s so picturesque, you’ll want to snap a photo to commemorate your visit! The river is incredibly clear, and you can even see fish swimming. In certain areas, swimming is allowed, making this a great place to visit in summer as well.

◎ Summary

Kanuma City is full of charm, offering a relaxing time surrounded by vast nature. It’s only about a 90-minute drive from the Tokyo metropolitan area. In addition to its beautiful natural scenery, Kanuma is also home to traditional buildings and tourist spots steeped in ancient legends, which add to its appeal.

Kanuma has many places where you can heal from daily fatigue, refresh both your mind and body, and recharge your energy. The city is also well-equipped with facilities that make sightseeing comfortable and accessible for families and elderly visitors, which is another great point. Once you visit, you’ll surely want to come back again. Don’t miss the chance to experience all the attractions Kanuma City has to offer—plan your trip soon!

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Recharge your mind and body with healing and energy! 11 Popular Tourist Spots in Kanuma City