TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Romantic Village (official name: Roadside Station Utsunomiya Romantic Village) is a large roadside station and agricultural recreation facility located in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture. It is a popular spot for families, couples, and tourists, with a large lawn area, a farm stand (selling local products), a restaurant and bakery, a hot spring facility, an experience workshop, a greenhouse, and flower beds, all integrated into one facility. With its seasonal flowers, agricultural events, and menus using local ingredients, it is unique in that it allows you to easily enjoy "agriculture and nature" near the city.
Highlights
- Farmers' Market: A great place to find fresh local vegetables, fruits, and processed foods, perfect for choosing souvenirs.
- Restaurants and bakeries: There are many stores where you can enjoy dishes made with locally produced ingredients and freshly baked bread.
- Flower and Garden Area: Highlights include seasonal flowers (tulips, roses, sunflowers, etc.) and greenhouse displays. There are also plenty of photo opportunities.
- Large grassy area and playground equipment: There is a space perfect for picnics and children's play, so you can relax.
- Experiences and Workshops: Participatory programs such as farming experiences, craft classes, and harvesting experiences are often held according to the season.
- Events: There are many events held throughout the year, including farm markets, food festivals, illuminations, and flower festivals.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Utsunomiya Station (most people travel by bus or car from the nearest station)
- Bus: Take a local bus or sightseeing bus directly from JR Utsunomiya Station or get off at a nearby bus stop (number of buses varies depending on the time of day).
- By car: Approximately 20 minutes on public roads from the center of Utsunomiya (depending on traffic conditions). It is also easily accessible from the Utsunomiya IC on the Tohoku Expressway.
- Parking: There is a large parking lot, making it easy to access by car. However, it may get crowded during events and on weekends.
- Important note: If you are using public transport, please check the timetable in advance to confirm the number of services and operating times.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Quick stop: about 1 hour (shopping at the farm store + snacks)
- Enjoy at your own pace: 2-3 hours (walking around the park, eating, browsing the shops)
- If you include experiences and event participation: Half a day to a full day (workshops, harvesting experiences, lunch, leisurely strolls)
Nearby spots
- Utsunomiya city center: An area with many gyoza restaurants (around Utsunomiya Station) - it's easy to combine sightseeing with gourmet food.
- Utsunomiya Futaarayama Shrine and Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Park: Historical spots and walking areas in the city.
- Oya Museum (Oya stone mine site): Although it requires some driving, it is a popular tourist destination and a convenient combination.
- Nearby tourist farms and orchards: There are facilities scattered around where you can enjoy seasonal fruit picking and more.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: On weekends, national holidays, consecutive holidays, during seasonal flower and harvest seasons, and during events, the number of visitors increases, and the parking lots and facilities become crowded. For a more comfortable experience, we recommend arriving early or visiting on a weekday.
- Manners: Please take your trash with you or dispose of it in the designated area within the park. If you have pets, please follow the facility rules, such as keeping them on a leash and disposing of their waste.
- Opening hours and regular holidays for each facility: Opening hours and regular holidays vary for direct sales stores, restaurants, experience facilities, etc. We recommend checking the official website or calling before visiting.
- Weather and clothing: The outdoor area is large, so please bring appropriate clothing for the weather (hat, rain gear, comfortable shoes). You will need protection from the sun in summer and cold weather in winter.
- Payment: Some smaller stores may only accept cash. It's a good idea to check in advance whether cash or electronic payments are accepted.
Please check the official website and social media for the latest information (opening hours, events, transportation information, etc.) before your visit. We hope you have a wonderful stay!
