Nightlife tour in Utsunomiya City
Joined 2025
Utsunomiya's nightlife is a fun mix of local hangouts and fancy spots. It's famous for gyoza (dumplings), we will likely start with eating those at lively restaurants
But there's more! Utsunomiya loves jazz music and cocktail bars where talented bartenders make amazing drinks.
We will start from cozy izakayas (Japanese pubs) and local alleys like Yatai Yokocho to more elegant bars. It's a great way to experience a true Japanese night out.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel or train station
- At your hotel or train station - I will contact you on mobile.
Gyoza Dinner
You absolutely cannot visit Utsunomiya without trying its famous gyoza. There are over 300 gyoza restaurants in the city!
Option 1: Kirasse (餃子会館 宇都宮みんみん 本店): This is a popular spot, almost like a gyoza food court, where you can sample gyoza from several famous restaurants under one roof. It's a great way to compare different styles. It's located near Tobu Utsunomiya Station.
Option 2: Utsunomiya Minmin (宇都宮みんみん): One of the most famous and iconic gyoza restaurants. Be prepared for a potential wait, but it's worth it for the classic Utsunomiya gyoza experience. Several branches are available around the stations.
Option 3: Masashi (正嗣): Another highly-rated gyoza spot known for its simple yet delicious gyoza.
Izakaya Experience
After satisfying your gyoza craving, dive into a traditional Japanese izakaya. This is where you can enjoy a wide variety of small dishes (yakitori, sashimi, fried foods, etc.) along with local sake and beer.
Option 1: Yatai Yokocho (屋台横丁): This is a unique alley filled with a dozen or so mini-bars and izakayas. It's a fantastic way to experience a local, lively atmosphere. You can hop between different small establishments.
Option 2: Aoyagi Tei (あおやぎ亭): Recommended by expats, this is a comfortable Japanese izakaya near JR Utsunomiya Station. They are used to international customers and offer a good selection of traditional Japanese dishes, fish, and sake.
Option 3: Shosuke (庄助): Reputed to be the oldest izakaya in Utsunomiya, offering an authentic experience with delicious home-style cooking and a variety of sake.
Cocktail Bar or Jazz Club
Utsunomiya prides itself on its skilled bartenders and jazz scene. Wind down your evening with a sophisticated drink or some live music.
Option 1: BAR CHAMONIX: Highly rated on Tabelog, this is a classic bar known for its cocktails. It's a good choice for a refined drink.
Option 2: Musshu OGAWA Paipu no Kemuri (パイプの煙 本店): Another well-regarded bar for cocktails and a relaxing atmosphere.
Option 3: Indulz Dream: If you're a jazz fan, this is a long-running jazz club that often features live performances and has an extensive cocktail menu. It's a great way to experience Utsunomiya's "City of Jazz" reputation.
Option 4: Kindaijin (近代人): Located near Tobu Utsunomiya Station, this is a haven for jazz lovers, often hosting live performances on Sundays.
Ending Point
At your hotel or Utsunomiya train station
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guiding Fee
Interpreting Fee
Guide's Rail fare
Guide's Admissions
Pick up and Drop off at your hotel
I can also within Pick up and Drop off at your hotel Tokyo 23 wards, please message me for details.
Your Rail fare
Your drink
Your food
Tour Important Information
Beer Brewery: Est. ¥1,500 per person.
cocktail Tasting Experience: Est. ¥1000 per person.
drinks and foods at Izakaya:
Standard Drink and food set: ¥2,000–¥3,000 per person
(Optional Premium Izakaya Set: ¥5,500 per person.)
Dessert Cocktails: Est. ¥1000 per person.
Estimated Totals
Basic Plan (Standard Dinner):
¥1,500 + ¥1,000 + ¥2,000–¥3,000 + ¥1,000 = ¥5,500–¥6,500
Premium Plan (Premium Izakaya Set with Sake Pairing):
¥1,500 + ¥1,000 + ¥5,500 + ¥2,000 + ¥1,000 = ¥11,000
Important message from the supplier
My schedule can be flexible, up to my deadline of works.
I can guide you in any area of Japan, please contact me in advance!
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Andy L.
Hello! I’m Your Friendly Guide to Japan’s Kanto Region
I’m based in the beautiful Tochigi Prefecture and absolutely love sharing Japan’s amazing culture, history, and hidden spots with visitors like you. Before doing tour guiding, I was a public school teacher, so I’m great at making stories come alive and helping you really connect with the places we visit.
I speak Japanese at an advanced level (N2), and I’ve spent a lot of time exploring Japan—from living a year in the peaceful town of Kamishihoro in Hokkaido to wandering the bustling streets of Tokyo. This means I can give you insider tips and deep insights that go beyond the usual tourist trails.
*What I Offer*
I mainly guide around the Kanto area, which includes Tokyo, Yokohama, Saitama, Ibaraki, Gunma, and of course, Tochigi. Here are some of the fun tours I can take you on:
- **Utsunomiya Cultural Immersion:** Spend a day discovering the unique charm and tasty eats of Utsunomiya.
- **Tokyo All-in-One:** Explore both East and West Tokyo in a single day for a full city experience.
- **Anime & Pop Culture Tours:** Tailor-made adventures based on your favorite shows, games, and characters.
- **Kanto Day Trips:** Visit iconic spots like Nikko’s stunning temples or Kamakura’s historic sites.
I also love guiding in other parts of Japan, especially Kyoto—I’ve seen every World Heritage Site there! Plus, I often run tours in Osaka, Nara, Nagoya, Hikone, and more, all easy to reach by train.
*Customize Your Journey*
Every tour is flexible and designed just for you. To make your trip even more memorable, I’ll create a free, beautifully crafted photo album with music from your tour—perfect for sharing or keeping as a souvenir.
Ready to explore Japan in a fun, relaxed way with someone who’s passionate about showing you the real stories behind every place? Let’s chat and start planning your perfect adventure!
$159/ per group
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