Introducing the top 10 unmissable local gourmet dishes from the Tochigi region.

Introducing the top 10 unmissable local gourmet dishes from the Tochigi region.
When visiting the Tochigi region, be sure to enjoy the authentic local gourmet dishes at their best.

Table of Contents

Utsunomiya Gyoza
Sano Ramen
Kenchin Soup
Shimotsukare
Sauce Katsu Don
Tochiotome
Yuba
Fried Potato Skewers
Salted Bean Daifuku
Daikon Soba

No.1

Utsunomiya Gyoza

The classic gyoza everyone loves!

When you think of Utsunomiya, you think of gyoza, and when you think of gyoza, it’s Utsunomiya! There's even a statue dedicated to gyoza in front of Utsunomiya Station. Utsunomiya Gyoza (宇都宮餃子...

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No.2

Sano Ramen

The artistry of hand-rolled noodles—Sano’s treasure, a heartwarming bowl of "Sano Ramen"

Sano Ramen (佐野ラーメン, Sano ramen) is a beloved local specialty of Sano City in Tochigi Prefecture, known for its hand-rolled noodles made with a bamboo pole and its clear, soy sauce-based soup....

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No.3

Kenchin Soup

A heartwarming soup filled with the blessings of Tochigi

Kenchin Soup (けんちん汁, Kenchin-jiru) is a traditional dish from Tochigi Prefecture. This comforting soup is packed with fresh root vegetables and tofu, making it both flavorful and nourishing. T...

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No.4

Shimotsukare

A traditional local dish that is now easier to find.

Shimotsukare (しもつかれ) is a ceremonial dish traditionally offered to Inari Shrines on "Hatsuuma," the first Horse Day of February, alongside red rice. This auspicious dish is believed to ward of...

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No.5

Sauce Katsu Don

Originating in Ashikaga City, Tochigi – the irresistible aroma of sauce will ignite your appetite!

Sauce Katsu Don (ソースカツ丼) is a regional specialty in Tochigi Prefecture, offering a unique twist on the classic katsudon (deep-fried pork cutlet bowl topped with egg). Unlike the traditional v...

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No.6

Tochiotome

A Perfect Harmony of Sweetness and Tartness — Tochigi's Pride, the Tochiotome Strawberry

Tochigi Prefecture is recognized as Japan's "Strawberry Kingdom," maintaining the highest strawberry production for over half a century. Among its many varieties, Tochiotome reigns as the most-prod...

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No.7

Yuba

A refined and elegant ingredient with a beautiful appearance

Yuba (ゆば, Yuba) is a traditional ingredient from Nikko, believed to have existed since the Nara period in Japan. The kanji used for Yuba in Nikko is "湯波," which differs from the Kyoto version "...

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No.8

Fried Potato Skewers

The soul food of Sano City in Tochigi Prefecture!

Fried Potato Skewers (いもフライ, Imo Furai) originated after World War II when they were first sold from carts by vendors to local women working in Sano City’s silk weaving industry. These snac...

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No.9

Salted Bean Daifuku

A refreshing sweetness, thanks to a touch of salt.

Salted Bean Daifuku (塩豆大福, Shiomame Daifuku) is a classic Japanese confectionery highly beloved in Tochigi Prefecture. As the name suggests, this treat features a soft mochi exterior mixed w...

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No.10

Daikon Soba

A refreshing harmony of daikon radish and aromatic soba, a traditional taste of Tochigi

Daikon Soba (大根そば, Daikon soba) is a beloved local dish from Tochigi Prefecture that combines finely shredded daikon radish with soba noodles, exemplifying the region’s creativity and resourcef...

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