Station Utsunomiya Romantic Village

Discover the Heart of Tochigi’s Rural Charm

Utsunomiya Romantic Village is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the scenic countryside of Utsunomiya, where nature, agriculture, and local culture converge. More than a mere rest stop, it serves as a dynamic cultural hub that celebrates the region’s agricultural roots and artisanal spirit. Located just minutes from the city center, it offers travelers a seamless blend of urban convenience and rural tranquility.

Visitors can explore a diverse range of experiences—from sampling locally crafted beer at the Romantic Village Craft Brewery and savoring fresh farm-to-table meals, to participating in seasonal harvest events and hands-on workshops. With dedicated spaces for relaxation, shopping, and overnight stays, including a soothing onsen, the station is a destination in its own right. Whether you're enjoying a weekend festival, hiking through nearby green spaces, or simply unwinding in a peaceful setting, Utsunomiya Romantic Village delivers an authentic, enriching journey through Tochigi’s vibrant countryside.

Utsunomiya Romantic Village stands out as the only roadside station in the region to feature its own on-site craft brewery, where visitors can taste limited-edition brews like the seasonal Spacia X Special Edition "Nikkō no Yoka", crafted with local ingredients. Beyond beer, the station is home to the only artisanal milk ice cream made from Jersey cow milk in Tochigi Prefecture, available exclusively here. With hands-on experiences like potato bagging events and unique seasonal festivals, it offers a one-of-a-kind blend of agriculture, craft, and local tradition.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on Sundays to secure a spot at the Sakurajima Market for fresh seasonal produce, as the morning harvest display is available only until 11:00 AM and often sells out by midday.

• Hidden Gems: Visit the Villa de Agri greenhouse between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on weekdays to view the rotating seasonal flower displays and participate in the free guided tour of the hydroponic farming system.

• Weekend Special: On Sundays, visit the Brewery Craft Shop during the 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM window to purchase limited-edition seasonal craft beer bottles, such as the "Nikko’s Last Scent" special release, which is only available on-site during the event weekend.

• Food Experience: Head to the Dining Pavilion at 12:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays to enjoy the "Local Farmer’s Lunch" featuring a rotating menu of dishes made with ingredients harvested that morning, including the featured item: yamato-style grilled saitama pumpkin.

• Family Activity: Join the Kids Nature Festival on November 9th at 10:00 AM, which requires pre-registration via the official website, to participate in the hands-on chili pepper decoration workshop using real harvested chilies from the on-site farm.

• Shopping Strategy: Purchase the 11th Month Special Gift Box at the Aozora Hall on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd of each month between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. This box includes five locally made items like pickled vegetables and honey and is only available for one day per month.

• Best Photo Spot: Visit the Farmers Forest Trail behind the main parking area just before sunset on weekdays to capture the illuminated walking path lined with seasonal autumn foliage and the “Golden Gate” archway, which is lit up from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the market in early spring; peak season for canola flower picking from late March to April.

Summer (June–August): Summer harvest events feature fresh produce; evening activities include BBQ at BBQ Jū Jū Park.

Autumn (September–November): Sweets and crafts highlight autumn harvest; samurai-themed festivals and pumpkin events in October.

Winter (December–February): Limited seasonal offerings; warm indoor experiences at the onsen and brewery.