Tochigi Prefecture, located in northern Kanto region, is known for rich nature and historical cultural heritage. Housing the World Cultural Heritage "Shrines and Temples of Nikko" including Nikko Toshogu Shrine, it treasures 17 national treasures as a cultural property storehouse.

"Shrines and Temples of Nikko" (registered 1999) encompasses 103 buildings of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Nikko Futarasan Shrine, and Nikko Rinnoji Temple as World Cultural Heritage. Particularly important is Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a mausoleum deifying and enshrining Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Nikko Toshogu's Yomeimon Gate, also called "Higurashi Gate," earned this name because its beauty captivates viewers all day without boredom. The gate features 508 carvings, famous for the "see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil" three monkeys attributed to Hidari Jingoro. The gongen-zukuri architecture integrating main hall, stone chamber, and worship hall represents a masterpiece collecting early Edo period decorative art essence.

Rinnoji Taiyuin, Tokugawa Iemitsu's (Taiyuin-den) mausoleum, features gorgeous decorations rivaling Toshogu. The karamon gate decorated with 315 dragon carvings demonstrates Edo period sculpture technique pinnacles. Main hall, connecting chamber, and worship hall designated as national treasures feature spectacular interior decorations with gold leaf and lacquer.

Kegon Falls, cascading from Lake Chuzenji, boasts magnificent 97-meter height. This representative Oku-Nikko scenic spot attracts many tourists, particularly during autumn foliage season. Elevator access to observation platform provides close-up waterfall power experiences.

Lake Chuzenji, positioned at 1,269 meters elevation, is a dammed lake formed by Mount Nantai eruptions. This beautiful approximately 25-kilometer circumference lake offers popular cruise boat tours. Lakeside Chuzenji Onsen welcomes tourists year-round.

Nasu Kogen, highland resort spreading across Mount Nasu's southern foothills, covers vast areas from 200 to 1,000 meters elevation. Known for Nasu Imperial Villa, it features diverse facilities including ranches, museums, and outlet malls. Theme parks like Nasu Safari Park and Nasu Highland Park are also popular.

Mashiko town, famous for Mashiko pottery, hosts ceramic markets in spring and autumn attracting nationwide visitors. Producing Living National Treasures including Hamada Shoji, it served as mingei (folk art) movement center. Many kilns continue operating, preserving traditional techniques while creating contemporary works.

Tochigi's food culture centers on yuba (tofu skin), most famously known as Nikko specialty. Yuba rich in soybean nutrition developed as important shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) ingredient, with diverse yuba dishes still enjoyed. Utsunomiya gyoza leads Japan in per-capita consumption, with many specialized gyoza restaurants citywide.

Tochiotome, Tochigi-developed strawberry variety featuring well-balanced sweetness and acidity, enjoys nationwide popularity. Kanpyo production comprises over 95% of national share, representing traditional ingredients of thinly shaved and dried bottle gourd.