If you’re unsure where to go, head here! 6 must-visit tourist spots in Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture

Sano City in Tochigi Prefecture has gained fame thanks to "Sano Ramen" and the local mascot "Sanomaru." The city is home to many recommended tourist spots. Located about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Tokyo, Sano City is an ideal destination for a sightseeing drive.

In this article, we introduce six highly recommended tourist spots in Sano City. Be sure to use this as a reference when planning your trip to Sano!

1. Sano Premium Outlets

If you’re looking to enjoy shopping in Sano City, head to Sano Premium Outlets. The spacious complex is home to approximately 170 well-known brand stores.

The outlet is set against the backdrop of the grand Mikamo Mountain in Sano City, and the design of the facility is inspired by the East Coast of the United States. Additionally, on specific days, there is a childcare service where specialized instructors engage children in crafts and play activities, making it a safe and enjoyable place for families.

This is a great tourist spot for those who want to escape daily life and immerse themselves in shopping.

2. Sano Tourist Farm Agritown

If you want to enjoy seasonal fruits from Sano City, Sano Tourism Farm Agri Town is the place to go. Depending on the season, you can enjoy strawberry picking, blueberry picking, and peach picking. Additionally, the facility offers attractions such as a giant sunflower maze, farming experiences, and workshops for making jam and curry.

Strawberry picking is especially popular, featuring Tochiotome and Skyberry, two famous varieties from Tochigi. During peak season, the farm attracts around 60,000 visitors annually from both inside and outside the prefecture.

Inside the facility, you’ll also find a café corner serving original gelato made by Agri Town and Hyoka, a famous Sano Ramen restaurant. This makes it an excellent spot where you can enjoy both sightseeing and local cuisine at once.

3. Roadside Station Domannaka Tanuma

If you need a break from sightseeing in Sano, stop by Roadside Station Domannaka Tanuma. The name comes from the fact that the Tanuma district of Sano City is located near the geographical center of the Japanese archipelago. One of the highlights here is a free foot bath, perfect for relaxing after a long drive. Sitting in a car for extended periods can cause leg swelling, but the foot bath can help promote blood circulation and relaxation.

The Irodori-kan sells original jams and dressings, while the Asadori-kan offers freshly harvested local vegetables. During summer, the station even hosts a haunted house, and a variety of seasonal events are held throughout the year, making it an exciting place to visit at any time.

4. Soshu-ji Temple (Sano Yakuyoke Daishi)

For those interested in power spots, Soshuji Temple (Sano Yakuyoke Daishi) is a must-visit. If you live in the Kanto region, you may have seen it featured in TV commercials. This temple is one of the Three Great Daishi Temples in Kanto and becomes incredibly crowded during New Year's.

A wide variety of protective amulets are available, allowing visitors to take their time choosing one that suits them. The area around the temple is also famous for Sano Ramen, so after visiting, you might want to search for your favorite ramen shop nearby. Plenty of free parking is available, making it a convenient spot for those traveling by car.

5. Akami Onsen Fishing Flower Park

At Akami Onsen Fishing & Flower Park, you can enjoy trout fishing. Visitors can have their freshly caught rainbow trout grilled over charcoal on-site. The fishing pond is covered, so you don’t have to worry about rainy weather. The park is also home to a beautiful Japanese garden, where you can admire seasonal flowers and even feed koi fish on sunny days.

The water in the park’s ponds comes from the Iduruhara Benten Pond, which is one of Japan’s 100 Famous Water Sources. The clear, pure water is mesmerizing and adds to the beauty of the scenery. This is a great place for outdoor activities and unique experiences that aren’t part of everyday life.

6. Utsuno Cave

If you're looking for an adventurous experience, Utsuno Cave is the perfect spot. This limestone cave was formed 250 million years ago, creating a cool and mysterious atmosphere regardless of the outside temperature.

The stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave are still slowly growing, offering a glimpse into the wonders of nature. Though the cave is narrow and takes only about 10 minutes to explore, it provides a unique experience that feels completely separate from everyday life.

The entrance has an old, eerie atmosphere, often compared to a haunted house. If you're easily scared, it’s best to visit with at least one companion.

◎ Summary

We introduced six must-visit tourist spots in Sano City. While Sano is famous for its mascot "Sanomaru" and Sano Ramen, there are plenty of other attractions worth exploring. Whether you're traveling with family, a partner, or solo, there are various activities to enjoy. If you’re unsure where to go, use this guide to plan your itinerary and create unforgettable memories on your trip to Sano City!

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If you’re unsure where to go, head here! 6 must-visit tourist spots in Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture