Originally flourished as a post station in the 17th century， Tochigi city later developed into a merchant city on the banks of the Uzuma River. The river was an important trade route to and from Edo (Tokyo). The black merchant houses and white-walled storehouses can still be seen along the Uzuma River and on Kura-no-Machi Oh-dori (the main street). Go for a stroll and feel the classical atmosphere!

Housed in “Kitagura,” a building constructed in the mid-Meiji period and registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan, Kitagura Cafe Higano is located along Tochigi City’s famous Kuranomachi Street, a popular sightseeing area. The café is operated by Higano Shoten, a traditional confectionery shop founded in 1922. In addition to freshly brewed hand-drip coffee and homemade sweets, visitors can purchase the shop’s signature rice crackers, Okaki, as souvenirs. For coffee lovers, this is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a quiet, charming atmosphere in the heart of historic Tochigi.

Kanahan Ryokan, located in the heart of Tochigi City, opened during the An'ei era (1772–1781). Currently, the oldest building in this inn is the one built in 1918 to accommodate officers when they came to Tochigi for large-scale army training at Tochigi Junior High School (currently Tochigi Senior High School). Kan'in-no-miya family (a branch of the Imperial Family) later stayed in this building, too. There are traditional Japanese storehouses and architecture here and there throughout the inn, allowing visitors to have a relaxing stay in the nostalgic atmosphere. The inn has guestrooms for small groups like couples, as well as rooms in an annex perfect for accommodating large groups for a long stay. Experience the atmosphere of the Edo period through the old townscape and Tochi-Edo cuisine. Tochi-Edo cuisine consists of original dishes inspired by local meals and dishes from the Edo period reproduced using copies of recipes. Culinary creativity brings out the flavor of each ingredient to give a delightful surprise to those who are accustomed to the modern taste.

Shinmeigu Shrine is said to have been built in Kanda-shuku (Present day Kandacho) within Tochigi Castle in 1403. It was relocated to its current location in 1589 by Minagawa Hiroteru and became the guardian of Tochigi town. The name "Tochigi" is said to come from the name of the straw (chigi) used in the roof of the Shinmeigu Shrine."

Hand-ground stone-milled soba noodles – savor the history and flavors of Manganji Temple Izuru Soba originates from Tochigi City’s historic “Izuru Manganji Temple.” In the past, soba was made by temple parishioners and locals as an offering, and it gradually became a well-known local delicacy. Along the Izuru Kaido Road, many soba shops and guesthouses line the route, allowing visitors to enjoy natural scenery while savoring freshly ground stone-milled soba noodles. The Izuru area also promotes “Tochigi Edo Cuisine,” offering not only traditional zaru soba but also unique creations such as white soba, soba flour sweets, and the specialty “Koedo Soba Kaiseki.” This is not only a culinary experience but also a cultural journey that blends history, faith, and gastronomy.