Sano Day Trip by Car: Ramen, Imo Fry, Nature and a bit of History

Tochigi Prefecture , Japan

Sano Day Trip by Car: Ramen, Imo Fry, Nature and a bit of History

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a delightful day trip to Sano City in Tochigi, a hidden gem of Japan. Meet at Nogi Station — about an hour from Tokyo — and travel comfortably by private car while exploring local food, nature, and a touch of history.

Begin your journey by tasting ramen loved by locals — a true Sano specialty.

Next, visit Sano Yakuyoke Daishi Temple, famous for warding off bad luck and attracting many visitors during New Year.

Then, enjoy the calm beauty of Benten Pond and the nearby Isoyama Benzaiten Shrine, a peaceful hilltop spot with lovely views of the surrounding area.

Afterward, try the local favorite Imo Fry, a crispy potato snack cherished by the community.

Finally, stop by the Roadside Station, where you can browse local products and relax in a soothing foot bath — a perfect way to end your Sano adventure.

This small-group tour offers a relaxing escape from the city, blending local food, nature, and a touch of history in one memorable day.

Available options

Sano Day Trip by Car: Ramen, Imo Fry, Nature and a bit of History

What's included

Bottled water

The tour will be personally driven by my husband, from the meeting point to the drop-off location.

Detailed itinerary

Enjoy authentic local ramen at a popular shop loved by locals in Sano.

Visit Sano Yakuyoke Daishi, a temple famous for warding off bad luck and visited by many during New Year. Following your visit to Sano Yakuyoke Daishi, enjoy shopping for local gifts at the nearby Sano Cultural Center.

Admire the crystal-clear water and surrounding nature. Climb Isoyama Benzaiten for panoramic views of Sano and enjoy the peaceful hilltop shrine atmosphere

Taste Sano’s local snack, Imo Fry — crispy fried potato sticks loved by locals.
After enjoying Imo Fry, visit the Roadside Station in Sano to browse local products.

What's not included

Meals are not included. Please bring about ¥2,000–¥3,000 in cash for ramen and Imo-fry, as most of shops only accept cash. You can use credit card for shopping at Road Station.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please meet us just outside the ticket gate of Nogi station (JR Utsunomiya line).

About Tochigi Prefecture

Tochigi Prefecture is known for its natural beauty, historic temples, and hot springs. It is home to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and offers a mix of cultural heritage and outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Nikko Toshogu Shrine

A UNESCO World Heritage site and the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. It is famous for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture.

Historical 3-4 hours Moderate (1,300 JPY for the outer grounds, 3,000 JPY for the inner shrine)

Kegon Falls

One of Japan's most famous waterfalls, located in Nikko National Park. It is a stunning 97-meter drop surrounded by lush greenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (access to the park may require a fee)

Shinkyo Bridge

A sacred bridge and the gateway to the shrines and temples of Nikko. It is one of the three most famous bridges in Japan.

Historical 30 minutes Free (unless you want to cross it, which requires a fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gyoza

Pan-fried dumplings filled with pork and vegetables, a popular street food in Utsunomiya.

Snack Not vegetarian or vegan, contains gluten.

Soba Noodles

Buckwheat noodles served cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth, a staple in Nikko.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, contains gluten.

Yuba

Tofu skin, a delicacy in Nikko, often served in soups or as a topping for soba noodles.

Dinner Vegetarian, contains soy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Nikko National Park White-water rafting in the Dabason River Soaking in hot springs Picnicking by Lake Chuzenji Visiting Nikko Toshogu Shrine Exploring Oya History Museum Swimming in Lake Chuzenji Boat tours on the Daiya River

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring offers cherry blossoms and mild weather, while autumn provides colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tochigi is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a peaceful environment. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi companies and shops

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 150 km

By train

Utsunomiya Station, Nikko Station

By bus

Utsunomiya Bus Terminal, Nikko Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The train network is efficient and covers most of the prefecture, including Shinkansen services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nikko Utsunomiya

Day trips

Kashima Shrine

50 km • Half day

One of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, dedicated to the Shinto deity of martial arts and war.

Oya History Museum

10 km • Half day

A museum showcasing the history of the Oya stone industry, with underground tunnels and exhibits on local history.

Festivals

Nikko Festival • October Utsunomiya Gyoza Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Try local specialties like gyoza in Utsunomiya and soba noodles in Nikko.
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and year.
Consider staying in a ryokan for a traditional Japanese experience, complete with tatami-matted rooms and onsen baths.
Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transportation.