08/24/2026
If you're traveling to Nikko or Lake Chuzenji, be sure to add Oya to your itinerary, too!
This magical subterranean palace, reminiscent of a dungeon from RPG games like Dragon Quest, is actually the site of a massive former underground quarry used to mine Oya stone. It also serves as a "natural refrigerator," staying cool all year round.
With plenty more to see—including the majestic 27-meter-tall Peace Kannon and a temple built as if cradled by towering rock faces—Oya is packed with unforgettable highlights.
🪨Discover the fascinating world carved from stone in Oya.
Just a 30-minute drive from central Utsunomiya, the Oya district is one of Tochigi's most remarkable cultural destinations. Famous for its distinctive Oya Stone, the area has been recognized as a Japan Heritage site for its unique stone culture.
Begin your journey at the Oya History Museum, where a vast underground quarry resembles a magnificent subterranean cathedral. Once used for stone mining, the space now hosts art exhibitions and serves as a popular filming location for movies and music videos. Its naturally cool temperature also makes it a perfect summer escape. ❄️
Just a short walk away is Oya-ji Temple, home to the Oya Kannon, a Buddhist statue carved directly into the rock face and designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Nearby stands the impressive 27-meter-tall Heiwa Kannon, a symbol of peace and one of Oya's most iconic landmarks.
From spectacular underground caverns to historic temples and monumental stone sculptures, Oya offers a unique journey through nature, history, and culture—all in one unforgettable destination.
📍Oya District
Location: Oya-machi, Utsunomiya City, Tochigi
Access: About 30 minutes by Kanto Bus from JR Utsunomiya Station (bound for Tateiwa)
Admission:
• Oya History Museum: Adults ¥800 / Elementary & Junior High School Students ¥400
• Oya-ji Temple: Adults ¥500 / Junior High School Students ¥200 / Elementary School Students ¥100
• Heiwa Kannon: Free
Official Websites:
• Oya History Museum: http://www.oya909.co.jp/
• Oya-ji Temple: https://www.ooyaji.jp/ch/index.html
📍Where to next? Find your inspiration at Visit Tochigi!
Visit Tochigi: https://www.visit-tochigi.com/
