Tochigi 栃木 ~A Town of Warehouses with Three Delights

“Tochigi? I’ve never heard of that place.”
If asked, most people would probably answer that way.
Of course, it’s a town in Tochigi Prefecture, but it’s not the prefectural capital. It’s a town that bears the name “Tochigi” yet isn’t the heart of the prefecture.
But… this town, located about an hour from Tokyo, was a town of warehouses with three types of charm.

This town has been designated as a Preservation District for Important Groups of Traditional Buildings.

Tochigi City Tourist Association　https://www.tochigi-kankou.or.jp/#

1. Main street

Your journey begins at Tochigi Station. There are several information signs, but here, you’ll start by heading down Main Street.

The main street stretching straight from the station looks much like any other street in town.
However, if you look closely, you’ll notice that older buildings are scattered among the modern ones.

2. Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings

After soaking up the atmosphere of this town of storehouses on Main Street, try walking down the street just past the slight left turn. This is a trace of an old highway that was once maintained for imperial messengers traveling to Nikko. This roadside area is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.

If you come across a shop that has been making and selling miso (味噌 soybean paste) since the late 18th century, turn back.
You can also enjoy craft beer and other beverages here, in addition to soybean paste products.
official (Japanese) https://abudenmiso.wixsite.com/website

3. Talk about Tochigi, that’s the view

On the way back to the station, instead of taking Main Street, you might want to try the path along the river that runs alongside it.
If you stroll along for a while, letting the river breeze blow through you….