Tochigi-Ji-Guide in English
Haga Area
where steam locomotives rumble through the land
An area represented by Mashiko, the town of pottery, and Moka Railroad that operates steam locomotives. There are also many places of historic interest (remains, classic grounds, etc.) and a world-famous circuit facility. This area is also known for strawberry production.
Sightseeing spot navigation
Mashiko Pottery
Mashiko pottery is a typical Tochigi specialty. Mashiko pottery is popular as kitchen utensils and everyday items and also highly acclaimed as an art form. With many kilns established throughout the town, Mashiko has become one of Japan’s leading pottery production centers. Pottery fairs are held from late April to early May and in November, attracting many people. The town also has “Ceramic Art Messe Mashiko,” a museum in which Mashiko pottery produced by past and modern potters is on display.
Twin Ring Motegi
Twin Ring Motegi is the world’s first race circuit facility to have both an oval course (approx. 2.4 km in full circle) and a road course (approx. 4.8 km in total length).
Besides watching motor sports, visitors can also enjoy themselves at a variety of facilities here, including the Honda Collection Hall with a large collection of racing cars and other vehicles and the Fun Fun Labo for enjoyable learning of safe driving and traffic systems.
Moka Railroad
Moka Railroad, which serves the 41.9-km section between JR Shimodate Station in Ibaraki and Motegi in Tochigi Prefecture, runs steam locomotives primarily on weekends and national holidays. The locomotive shuttles between the two stations once a day, attracting many people hoping to see a steam locomotive that has become a rarity nowadays.
Strawberries
Tochigi is Japan’s No. 1 strawberry production area. Tochiotome, a large, sweet variety of strawberry with a vivid red color, represents Japanese strawberries. This variety is large in size and sweet, juicy and soft in taste. The harvest season starts around December. Many farms offer tourists an opportunity to experience strawberry picking.
Reference
- Mashiko Town Tourist Association TEL:0285-70-1120
- Motegi Town Tourist Association TEL:0285-63-5671
- Moka City Tourist Association TEL:0285-82-7205
- Agriculture, Commerce and Industry Division of Ichikai Town TEL:0285-68-1118
- Haga Town Tourist Association TEL:028-677-6018