What is Utsunomiya Gyoza?
Utsunomiya Gyoza is a local delicacy representing Utsunomiya City in Tochigi Prefecture, known as one of the most famous gyoza towns in Japan.
There are over 200 gyoza specialty shops in Utsunomiya City, attracting numerous tourists throughout the year seeking delicious gyoza.
The characteristics of Utsunomiya Gyoza include a light flavor with plenty of vegetables, making them easy to eat in large quantities.
The appeal also lies in the variety of styles you can enjoy, such as grilled, boiled, and fried gyoza.
Why is gyoza so popular in Utsunomiya?
And what are the best ways to enjoy Utsunomiya Gyoza?
This article will delve into the charm of Utsunomiya Gyoza, recommended shops, and how to access them!
The Appeal of Utsunomiya Gyoza
1. Why is Utsunomiya called the "Gyoza Town"?
There is a historical background to how Utsunomiya became known as the gyoza town.
① Soldiers Returning from Manchuria after World War II
After the war, Japanese soldiers returning from former Manchuria (now Northeast China) brought back gyoza recipes they had enjoyed in Manchuria to Utsunomiya.
The climate of Utsunomiya is suitable for growing wheat, and vegetables like garlic chives and cabbage are abundant, making it easy to procure gyoza ingredients.
② The Establishment of a Gyoza Enjoyment Culture
From the 1960s, gyoza specialty shops began to increase in Utsunomiya, and the habit of eating gyoza became established among the citizens.
Now, there are over 200 gyoza specialty shops in Utsunomiya City, making it truly a gyoza sanctuary.
2. What are the characteristics of Utsunomiya Gyoza?
Utsunomiya Gyoza has the following characteristics:
✅ Plenty of Vegetables and Healthy:
The proportion of cabbage, garlic chives, and Chinese cabbage is higher than meat, characterized by a light flavor.
✅ Light Seasoning:
Garlic and seasonings are used sparingly, making it delicious even without sauce!
You can enjoy the sweetness and umami as they are.
✅ Not only grilled gyoza but also boiled gyoza are popular:
In Utsunomiya, there is a culture of enjoying boiled gyoza in soup, offering a different taste from grilled gyoza.
3. Where to eat gyoza in Utsunomiya! Recommended Popular Shops
While there are many gyoza shops in Utsunomiya City, here are some particularly popular ones.
① Utsunomiya Minmin (Established Famous Shop)
- A long-established shop for over 60 years, representing Utsunomiya Gyoza
- Offers three types: grilled gyoza, boiled gyoza, and fried gyoza
- Each plate contains 6 pieces, and prices are reasonable
Location: 4-2-3 Babadori, Utsunomiya City
Opening Hours: 11:30–20:00 (closes when sold out)
② Masashi (Delicious Even Without Sauce!)
- A specialty shop offering only gyoza (no rice)
- The juicy meat flavor and vegetable sweetness are exquisite
- Frozen gyoza for souvenirs are also available
Location: 4-3-1 Babadori, Utsunomiya City
Opening Hours: 11:30–20:00 (closes when sold out)
③ Kourasse Main Store (Gyoza Tasting Available!)
- A food court-style shop where you can enjoy the taste of five famous Utsunomiya Gyoza shops at once
- Very popular with tourists, recommended for those who want to taste various gyoza at once
Location: 2-3-12 Babadori, Utsunomiya City
Opening Hours: 11:00–21:00
Convenient Information for Travelers
Access Information (How to Get to Utsunomiya)
Access by Train
- From Tokyo: About 50 minutes to Utsunomiya Station by Tohoku Shinkansen
- From Osaka: About 2.5 hours to Tokyo Station by Tokaido Shinkansen → Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station
Access by Car
- From Tokyo: About 1.5 hours to Utsunomiya IC via Tohoku Expressway
Wi-Fi Information
- Free Wi-Fi is available around Utsunomiya Station and in cafes
- Gyoza specialty shops often do not have Wi-Fi, so downloading maps in advance is convenient
Language Support
- English brochures are available at tourist information centers
- Some gyoza shops offer menus in English and Chinese
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Utsunomiya Gyoza is a representative local delicacy of Japan, known for its light flavor and vegetable-rich healthiness.
With many gyoza specialty shops in Utsunomiya City, enjoying a taste comparison is also recommended!
Be sure to savor the gyoza of Utsunomiya along with your sightseeing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the recommended way to eat Utsunomiya Gyoza?
A: They're delicious on their own, but eating them with a sauce of vinegar and pepper is also popular!
Q: How many can one person eat?
A: Many people eat around 10 to 20 pieces, but since they're light, some eat up to 30 pieces!
Q: Where can I buy Utsunomiya Gyoza?
A: Frozen gyoza can be purchased at the souvenir shop at JR Utsunomiya Station or roadside stations.
Q: Are all the shops crowded?
A: Popular shops often have lines, but at Kourasse Main Store, you can enjoy gyoza from various shops at once, so it's recommended!
Experience the gyoza culture of Tochigi and Utsunomiya!
