Utsunomiya: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 36°33′18.4″N 139°52′57.2″E / 36.555111°N 139.882556°E / 36.555111; 139.882556
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{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
<!-- See Template:Infobox settlement for additional fields and descriptions -->
<!-- See Template:Infobox settlement for additional fields and descriptions -->
| name = {{raise|0.2em|Utsunomiya}}
| name = Utsunomiya
| native_name = {{lower|0.1em|{{nobold|{{lang|ja|宇都宮市}}}}}}
| native_name = {{nobold|{{lang|ja|宇都宮市}}}}
| settlement_type = [[Core cities of Japan|Core city]]
| settlement_type = [[Core cities of Japan|Core city]]
<!-- images, nickname, motto -->
<!-- images, nickname, motto -->
Line 8: Line 8:
| imagesize =
| imagesize =
| image_alt =
| image_alt =
| image_caption = Utsunomiya Castle, Statue of gyoza<br />Futaarasan Shrine, [[Ōya Stone|Oya Stone]] Museum<br />Utsunomiya Tower, City view from the tower
| image_caption = [[Utsunomiya Castle]], Statue of gyoza<br />Futaarayama Shrine, [[Ōya Stone|Oya Stone]] Museum<br />Utsunomiya Tower, City view from the tower
| image_flag = Flag of Utsunomiya, Tochigi.svg
| image_flag = Flag of Utsunomiya, Tochigi.svg
| flag_alt =
| flag_alt =
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<!-- population -->
<!-- population -->
| population_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags -->
| population_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags -->
| population_total = 519223
| population_total = 513584
| population_as_of = January 1, 2020
| population_as_of = July 1, 2023
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_est =
| population_est =
Line 89: Line 89:
| area_code =
| area_code =
<!-- blank fields (section 1) -->
<!-- blank fields (section 1) -->
| blank_name_sec1 = City Symbols
| blank_name_sec1 = Phone&nbsp;number
| blank1_name_sec1 = - Tree
| blank_info_sec1 = 028-632-2222
| blank1_info_sec1 = [[Ginkgo biloba]]
| blank1_name_sec1 = Address
| blank1_info_sec1 = 1-1-5, Asahi, Utsunomiya-shi, Tochigi-ken 320-8540
| blank2_name_sec1 = - Flower
| blank2_info_sec1 = [[Satsuki azalea]]
| blank3_name_sec1 = - Bird
| blank3_info_sec1 =
| blank4_name_sec1 =
| blank4_info_sec1 =
| blank5_name_sec1 =
| blank5_info_sec1 =
| blank6_name_sec1 =
| blank6_info_sec1 =
| blank7_name_sec1 =
| blank7_info_sec1 =
<!-- blank fields (section 2) -->
<!-- blank fields (section 2) -->
| blank_name_sec2 = Phone&nbsp;number
| blank_name_sec2 = [[Köppen climate classification|Climate]]
| blank_info_sec2 = 028-632-2222
| blank_info_sec2 = [[Humid subtropical climate|Cfa]]
| blank1_name_sec2 = Address
| blank1_info_sec2 = 1-1-5, Asahi, Utsunomiya-shi, Tochigi-ken 320-8540
<!-- website, footnotes -->
<!-- website, footnotes -->
| website ={{Official|1=http://www.city.utsunomiya.tochigi.jp}}
| website ={{Official|1=http://www.city.utsunomiya.tochigi.jp}}
| footnotes =
| footnotes =
| module = {{Infobox place symbols| embedded=yes
| tree = [[Ginkgo biloba]]
| flower = [[Satsuki azalea]]
| bird =
| flowering_tree =
| butterfly =
| fish =
| other_symbols =
}}
}}
}}
[[File:Utsunomiya city hall ac (2).JPG|right|170px|thumb|Utsunomiya City Hall]]
[[File:Utsunomiya city hall ac (2).JPG|right|170px|thumb|Utsunomiya City Hall]]


{{Nihongo|'''Utsunomiya'''|宇都宮市|Utsunomiya-shi|extra={{IPA-ja|ɯᵝt͡sɯ̃ᵝno̞mija̠|lang}}}} is the prefectural capital city of [[Tochigi Prefecture]] in the northern [[Kantō region]] of [[Japan]]. {{As of|2020|01|01}}, the city had an estimated population of 519,223, and a population density of {{Convert|1246|/km2||persons|adj=pre}}. The total area of the city is {{Convert|416.85|km2||abbr=on}}.<ref name="Utsunomiya-hp">{{cite web |url=https://www.city.utsunomiya.tochigi.jp/shisei/johokokai/gyoseisiryo/1020024/1020096/1021143.html |title= Utsunomiya City official home page|location= Japan|language= ja}}</ref> Utsunomiya is famous for its ''[[gyoza]]'' (pan fried dumplings). There are more than two hundred ''gyoza'' restaurants in Utsunomiya.<ref>{{cite web|last=Szymanski |first=Andrew |url=http://www.cnngo.com/tokyo/eat/utsunomiya-gyoza-town-200431 |title=Welcome to Utsunomiya - gyoza town &#124; CNN Travel |publisher=Cnngo.com |date=2009-09-21 |access-date=2014-02-10}}</ref>
{{Nihongo|'''Utsunomiya'''|宇都宮市|Utsunomiya-shi|extra={{IPA-ja|ɯᵝt͡sɯ̃ᵝno̞mija̠||TomJ-Utsunomiya.ogg}}}} is the capital and largest city of [[Tochigi Prefecture]] in the northern [[Kantō region]] of [[Japan]]. {{As of|2023|07|01}}, the city had an estimated population of 513,584, and a population density of {{Convert|1232|/km2||persons|adj=pre}}. The total area of the city is {{Convert|416.85|km2||abbr=on}}.<ref name="Utsunomiya-hp">{{cite web |url=https://www.city.utsunomiya.tochigi.jp/shisei/johokokai/gyoseisiryo/1020024/1020096/1021143.html |title= Utsunomiya City official home page|location= Japan|language= ja}}</ref> Utsunomiya is famous for its ''[[gyoza]]'' (pan fried dumplings). There are more than two hundred ''gyoza'' restaurants in Utsunomiya.<ref>{{cite web|last=Szymanski |first=Andrew |url=http://www.cnngo.com/tokyo/eat/utsunomiya-gyoza-town-200431 |title=Welcome to Utsunomiya - gyoza town &#124; CNN Travel |publisher=Cnngo.com |date=2009-09-21 |access-date=2014-02-10}}</ref>


{{Nihongo|Greater Utsunomiya|宇都宮都市圏|Utsunomiya Toshi-ken}} had a population of 888,005 in the 2000 census. The nearby city of [[Oyama, Tochigi|Oyama]] is included in Greater Tokyo, but Greater Utsunomiya is not, despite the two areas amalgamating somewhat. It is the 10th most populated city in the [[Kantō region]].
{{Nihongo|Greater Utsunomiya|[[:ja:宇都宮都市圏]]|Utsunomiya Toshi-ken}} had a population of 888,005 in the 2000 census. The nearby city of [[Oyama, Tochigi|Oyama]] is included in Greater Tokyo, but Greater Utsunomiya is not, despite the two areas amalgamating somewhat. It is the 10th most populated city in the [[Kantō region]].


==Geography==
==Geography==
Utsunomiya is located in south-central Tochigi Prefecture in the northern [[Kantō plain]]s. It is approximately {{Convert|100|km||abbr=on|round=5}} north of [[Tokyo]]. The historic town of [[Nikkō, Tochigi|Nikkō]] is approximately {{Convert|25|km||abbr=on|round=5}} northwest of Utsunomiya. The average altitude of the city is {{Convert|100|m|}}.
Utsunomiya is located in south-central Tochigi Prefecture in the northern [[Kantō plain]]s. It is approximately {{Convert|100|km||abbr=on|round=5}} north of [[Tokyo]]. The historic town of [[Nikkō, Tochigi|Nikkō]] is approximately {{Convert|25|km||abbr=on|round=5}} northwest of Utsunomiya. The average elevation of the city is {{Convert|100|m|}}.


==Surrounding municipalities==
===Surrounding municipalities===
[[Tochigi Prefecture]]
[[Tochigi Prefecture]]
* [[Nikkō, Tochigi|Nikkō]]
* [[Nikkō, Tochigi|Nikkō]]
Line 131: Line 127:
* [[Mibu, Tochigi|Mibu]]
* [[Mibu, Tochigi|Mibu]]
* [[Kaminokawa, Tochigi|Kaminokawa]]
* [[Kaminokawa, Tochigi|Kaminokawa]]
* [[Tsuga, Tochigi|Tsuga]]
* [[Takanezawa, Tochigi|Takanezawa]]
* [[Takanezawa, Tochigi|Takanezawa]]
* [[Shioya, Tochigi|Shioya]]
* [[Shioya, Tochigi|Shioya]]


==Climate==
===Climate===
Utsunomiya has a [[humid subtropical climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification]] ''Cfa'') with hot and humid summers and cool winters. The average annual temperature in Utsunomiya is {{cvt|13.3|C}}. The average annual rainfall is {{cvt|1454|mm}} with September as the wettest month. The temperatures are highest on average in August, at around {{cvt|25.7|C}}, and lowest in January, at around {{cvt|-1.8|C}}.<ref>[https://en.climate-data.org/asia/japan/tochigi/utsunomiya-5788/ Utsunomiya climate data]</ref>
Utsunomiya has a [[humid subtropical climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification]] ''Cfa'') with hot and humid summers and cool winters. The average annual temperature in Utsunomiya is {{cvt|14.3|C}}. The average annual rainfall is {{cvt|1524.7|mm}} with September as the wettest month. The temperatures are highest on average in August, at around {{cvt|26.0|C}}, and lowest in January, at around {{cvt|2.8|C}}.<ref name=JMA/>


{{Weather box|width=auto
{{Weather box
|width=auto
|collapsed = Y
|location = Utsunomiya, Tochigi (1981–2010)
|metric first = yes
|single line = Y
|single line = yes
|metric first = Y
|location = Utsunomiya (1991−2020 normals, extremes 1890−present)
|Jan record high C = 21.0
|Jan record high C = 21.0
|Feb record high C = 24.6
|Feb record high C = 24.6
|Mar record high C = 25.9
|Mar record high C = 27.2
|Apr record high C = 30.4
|Apr record high C = 30.4
|May record high C = 33.2
|May record high C = 34.4
|Jun record high C = 37.5
|Jun record high C = 37.5
|Jul record high C = 38.7
|Jul record high C = 38.7
|Aug record high C = 37.5
|Aug record high C = 37.5
|Sep record high C = 36.5
|Sep record high C = 36.5
|Oct record high C = 32.5
|Oct record high C = 33.5
|Nov record high C = 25.1
|Nov record high C = 25.1
|Dec record high C = 24.7
|Dec record high C = 24.7
|year record high C = 38.7
|Jan high C = 8.3
|Feb high C = 9.1
|Mar high C = 12.6
|Apr high C = 18.5
|May high C = 22.5
|Jun high C = 25.2
|Jul high C = 28.7
|Aug high C = 30.5
|Sep high C = 26.4
|Oct high C = 20.9
|Nov high C = 15.5
|Dec high C = 10.7
|year high C = 19.1
|Jan mean C = 2.5
|Feb mean C = 3.3
|Mar mean C = 6.8
|Apr mean C = 12.5
|May mean C = 17.2
|Jun mean C = 20.6
|Jul mean C = 24.2
|Aug mean C = 25.6
|Sep mean C = 21.9
|Oct mean C = 16.1
|Nov mean C = 10.1
|Dec mean C = 4.9
|year mean C = 13.8
|Jan low C = -2.7
|Feb low C = -1.9
|Mar low C = 1.5
|Apr low C = 7.0
|May low C = 12.5
|Jun low C = 16.9
|Jul low C = 20.8
|Aug low C = 22.2
|Sep low C = 18.4
|Oct low C = 11.8
|Nov low C = 5.0
|Dec low C = -0.7
|year low C = 9.3
|Jan record low C = -14.8
|Jan record low C = -14.8
|Feb record low C = -13.3
|Feb record low C = -13.3
Line 206: Line 163:
|Nov record low C = -6.7
|Nov record low C = -6.7
|Dec record low C = -10.9
|Dec record low C = -10.9
|year record low C = -14.8
|precipitation colour = green
|precipitation colour = green
|Jan precipitation mm = 33.9
|Jan precipitation mm = 37.5
|Feb precipitation mm = 42.9
|Feb precipitation mm = 38.5
|Mar precipitation mm = 88.4
|Mar precipitation mm = 87.7
|Apr precipitation mm = 120.5
|Apr precipitation mm = 121.5
|May precipitation mm = 146.6
|May precipitation mm = 149.2
|Jun precipitation mm = 174.7
|Jun precipitation mm = 175.2
|Jul precipitation mm = 205.8
|Jul precipitation mm = 215.4
|Aug precipitation mm = 209.8
|Aug precipitation mm = 198.5
|Sep precipitation mm = 220.4
|Sep precipitation mm = 217.2
|Oct precipitation mm = 146.5
|Oct precipitation mm = 174.4
|Nov precipitation mm = 68.1
|Nov precipitation mm = 71.1
|Dec precipitation mm = 35.5
|Dec precipitation mm = 38.5
|year precipitation mm = 1524.7
|Jan snow cm = 10
|Feb snow cm = 10
|Jan mean C = 2.8
|Mar snow cm = 5
|Feb mean C = 3.8
|Mar mean C = 7.4
|Apr mean C = 12.8
|May mean C = 17.8
|Jun mean C = 21.2
|Jul mean C = 24.8
|Aug mean C = 26.0
|Sep mean C = 22.4
|Oct mean C = 16.7
|Nov mean C = 10.6
|Dec mean C = 5.1
|year mean C = 14.3
|Jan high C = 8.6
|Feb high C = 9.7
|Mar high C = 13.4
|Apr high C = 18.8
|May high C = 23.3
|Jun high C = 25.9
|Jul high C = 29.5
|Aug high C = 30.9
|Sep high C = 27.0
|Oct high C = 21.4
|Nov high C = 15.9
|Dec high C = 10.8
|year high C = 19.6
|Jan low C = -2.2
|Feb low C = -1.3
|Mar low C = 2.1
|Apr low C = 7.4
|May low C = 13.0
|Jun low C = 17.4
|Jul low C = 21.4
|Aug low C = 22.5
|Sep low C = 18.8
|Oct low C = 12.6
|Nov low C = 5.7
|Dec low C = 0.2
|year low C = 9.8
|Jan humidity = 61
|Feb humidity = 59
|Mar humidity = 60
|Apr humidity = 64
|May humidity = 69
|Jun humidity = 76
|Jul humidity = 79
|Aug humidity = 78
|Sep humidity = 77
|Oct humidity = 74
|Nov humidity = 71
|Dec humidity = 66
|year humidity = 70
|Jan sun = 211.7
|Feb sun = 193.3
|Mar sun = 194.2
|Apr sun = 184.9
|May sun = 175.4
|Jun sun = 118.5
|Jul sun = 118.9
|Aug sun = 140.9
|Sep sun = 119.8
|Oct sun = 140.3
|Nov sun = 165.9
|Dec sun = 197.4
|year sun = 1961.1
|Jan snow cm = 7
|Feb snow cm = 8
|Mar snow cm = 2
|Apr snow cm = 0
|Apr snow cm = 0
|May snow cm = 0
|May snow cm = 0
Line 231: Line 253:
|Oct snow cm = 0
|Oct snow cm = 0
|Nov snow cm = 0
|Nov snow cm = 0
|Dec snow cm = 3
|Dec snow cm = 1
|Jan humidity = 62
|year snow cm = 18
|unit precipitation days = 0.5 mm
|Feb humidity = 60
|Jan precipitation days = 4.3
|Mar humidity = 61
|Feb precipitation days = 5.5
|Apr humidity = 64
|Mar precipitation days = 9.6
|May humidity = 70
|Apr precipitation days = 11.2
|Jun humidity = 77
|May precipitation days = 12.4
|Jul humidity = 80
|Jun precipitation days = 14.9
|Aug humidity = 78
|Jul precipitation days = 16.0
|Sep humidity = 79
|Aug precipitation days = 13.8
|Oct humidity = 74
|Sep precipitation days = 13.6
|Nov humidity = 71
|Oct precipitation days = 11.4
|Dec humidity = 66
|Jan precipitation days = 4.4
|Feb precipitation days = 5.9
|Mar precipitation days = 9.9
|Apr precipitation days = 11.1
|May precipitation days = 12.5
|Jun precipitation days = 14.8
|Jul precipitation days = 16.2
|Aug precipitation days = 12.7
|Sep precipitation days = 14.2
|Oct precipitation days = 11.1
|Nov precipitation days = 7.1
|Nov precipitation days = 7.1
|Dec precipitation days = 4.0
|Dec precipitation days = 4.7
|unit precipitation days = 0.5 mm
|year precipitation days = 124.4
|source 1 = Japan Meteorological Agency<ref name=JMA>{{cite web
|Jan snow days = 3.6
| url = https://www.data.jma.go.jp/obd/stats/etrn/index.php?prec_no=41&block_no=47615&year=&month=&day=&view=
|Feb snow days = 3.8
|script-title=ja:気象庁 / 平年値（年・月ごとの値）
|Mar snow days = 1.9
| publisher = [[Japan Meteorological Agency]]
|Apr snow days = 0.0
| access-date = May 19, 2021}}</ref>
|May snow days = 0.0
|Jun snow days = 0.0
|Jul snow days = 0.0
|Aug snow days = 0.0
|Sep snow days = 0.0
|Oct snow days = 0.0
|Nov snow days = 0.0
|Dec snow days = 1.1
|Jan sun = 204.8
|Feb sun = 186.2
|Mar sun = 187.9
|Apr sun = 179.5
|May sun = 166.9
|Jun sun = 112.1
|Jul sun = 114.1
|Aug sun = 138.9
|Sep sun = 112.2
|Oct sun = 145.0
|Nov sun = 164.5
|Dec sun = 199.1
|source 1 = [[Japan Meteorological Agency]]<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.data.jma.go.jp/obd/stats/etrn/view/nml_sfc_ym.php?prec_no=41&block_no=47615&year=&month=&day=&view=
|script-title=ja:平年値（年・月ごとの値） | access-date = 2011-11-26 | publisher = Japan Meteorological Agency
}}</ref><ref><!--RECORDS-->{{cite web
| url = http://www.data.jma.go.jp/obd/stats/etrn/view/rank_s.php?prec_no=49&block_no=47638&year=&month=1&day=&view=h0
|script-title=ja:観測史上1～10位の値（年間を通じての値）| access-date = 2011-11-26 | publisher = Japan Meteorological Agency
}}</ref>
|date=November 2011
}}
}}


==Demographics==
===Demographics===
Per Japanese census data,<ref>[https://www.citypopulation.de/php/japan-tochigi.php Utsunomiya population statistics]</ref> the population of Utsunomiya has increased rapidly over the past 50 years.
Per Japanese census data,<ref>[https://www.citypopulation.de/php/japan-tochigi.php Utsunomiya population statistics]</ref> the population of Utsunomiya has recently plateaued after decades of strong growth.


{{Historical populations
{{Historical populations
Line 302: Line 287:
| 2000 | 487,560
| 2000 | 487,560
| 2010 | 511,296
| 2010 | 511,296
| 2020 | 518,757
|align = none
|align = none
| footnote =
| footnote =
Line 309: Line 295:
Archaeologists have uncovered evidence that the area of Utsunomiya has been continuously settled since the [[Japanese Paleolithic]] period onwards, and numerous [[kofun|burial mounds]] from the [[Kofun period]] are found within its borders. The {{nihongo|Utsunomiya Futarasan Shrine|宇都宮二荒山神社||}}, which is the [[Ichinomiya]] of [[Shimotsuke Province]] claims to have been founded in 353 AD. The town of Utsunomiya developed around this shrine, and the area was under the control of the Utsunomiya clan, an offshoot of the [[Fujiwara clan]] from the [[Heian period|Heian]] through [[Sengoku period]]s, and was destroyed by [[Toyotomi Hideyoshi]].
Archaeologists have uncovered evidence that the area of Utsunomiya has been continuously settled since the [[Japanese Paleolithic]] period onwards, and numerous [[kofun|burial mounds]] from the [[Kofun period]] are found within its borders. The {{nihongo|Utsunomiya Futarasan Shrine|宇都宮二荒山神社||}}, which is the [[Ichinomiya]] of [[Shimotsuke Province]] claims to have been founded in 353 AD. The town of Utsunomiya developed around this shrine, and the area was under the control of the Utsunomiya clan, an offshoot of the [[Fujiwara clan]] from the [[Heian period|Heian]] through [[Sengoku period]]s, and was destroyed by [[Toyotomi Hideyoshi]].


During the [[Edo period]], the Utsunomiya area was ruled by a succession of ''[[daimyō]]'' clans under [[Utsunomiya Domain]], and prospered from its location at the junction of the [[Nikkō Kaidō]] and the [[Ōshū Kaidō]]. During the [[Bakumatsu period]] [[Boshin War]], the [[Battle of Utsunomiya Castle]] was a major conflict in the northern Kantō area. Following the [[Meiji restoration]], Utsunomiya was briefly (1871–1873) part of Utsunomiya Prefecture, which was then merged into the new Tochigi Prefecture, and became capital of the prefecture in 1884. Utsunomiya became an important garrison for the [[Imperial Japanese Army]].
During the [[Edo period]], the Utsunomiya area was ruled by a succession of ''[[daimyō]]'' clans under [[Utsunomiya Domain]], and prospered from its location at the junction of the [[Nikkō Kaidō]] and the [[Ōshū Kaidō]]. During the [[Bakumatsu period]] [[Boshin War]], the [[Battle of Utsunomiya Castle]] was a major conflict in the northern Kantō area. Following the [[Meiji restoration]], Utsunomiya was briefly (1871–1873) part of Utsunomiya Prefecture, which was then merged into the new Tochigi Prefecture, and became the capital of the prefecture in 1884. Utsunomiya became an important garrison for the [[Imperial Japanese Army]].


With the establishment of the municipalities system on April 1, 1889, the town of Utsunomiya was officially established. At the end of the 1889, Utsunomiya had a population of 30,698 making it the third most populous municipality in the Kantō area, after Tokyo and [[Yokohama]]. Utsunomiya was raised to city status on April 1, 1896. On July 12, 1945 much of Utsunomiya and the surrounding areas were destroyed in the American [[Bombing of Utsunomiya during World War II]].
With the establishment of the municipalities system on April 1, 1889, the town of Utsunomiya was officially established. At the end of 1889, Utsunomiya had a population of 30,698 making it the third most populous municipality in the Kantō area, after Tokyo and [[Yokohama]]. Utsunomiya was raised to city status on April 1, 1896. On July 12, 1945, much of Utsunomiya and the surrounding areas were destroyed in the American [[Bombing of Utsunomiya during World War II]].


The city limits were expanded from 1951 to 1955 by annexing neighboring Suzumenomiya town and Hiraishi, Yokokawa, Mizuhono, Kunimoto, Shiroyama, Tomiya, Toyosato, and Sugatagawa villages and the part of Shinoi village from [[Kawachi District, Tochigi|Kawachi District]] and Kiyohara village from [[Haga District, Tochigi|Haga District]]. In 1996, Utsunomiya was designated a [[Core cities of Japan|core city]] within increased autonomy. On March 31, 2007, Utsunomiya absorbed the towns of [[Kamikawachi, Tochigi|Kamikawachi]] and [[Kawachi, Tochigi|Kawachi]] (both from Kawachi District), pushing the population of Utsunomiya City over 500,000.
The city limits were expanded from 1951 to 1955 by annexing neighboring Suzumenomiya town and Hiraishi, Yokokawa, Mizuhono, Kunimoto, Shiroyama, Tomiya, Toyosato, and Sugatagawa villages and the part of Shinoi village from [[Kawachi District, Tochigi|Kawachi District]] and Kiyohara village from [[Haga District, Tochigi|Haga District]]. In 1996, Utsunomiya was designated a [[Core cities of Japan|core city]] with increased autonomy. On March 31, 2007, Utsunomiya absorbed the towns of [[Kamikawachi, Tochigi|Kamikawachi]] and [[Kawachi, Tochigi|Kawachi]] (both from Kawachi District), pushing the population of Utsunomiya City over 500,000.


==Government==
==Government==
Line 330: Line 316:
*[[Utsunomiya Kaisei]]
*[[Utsunomiya Kaisei]]
*[[Teikyo University]] Utsunomiya campus
*[[Teikyo University]] Utsunomiya campus

* Utsunomiya has 68 public [[elementary school]]s and 25 public [[junior high school]]s operated by the city government as well as one junior high school operated by the prefectural government and one elementary school and one junior high school by the national government. In addition, there is one private elementary school and four private junior high schools. The city has ten public [[high school]]s operated by the Tochigi Prefectural Board of Education. There are also five private high schools. In addition, Tochigi Prefecture also operates eight special education schools for the handicapped.
* Utsunomiya has 68 public [[elementary school]]s and 25 public [[junior high school]]s operated by the city government as well as one junior high school operated by the prefectural government and one elementary school and one junior high school by the national government. In addition, there is one private elementary school and four private junior high schools. The city has ten public [[high school]]s operated by the Tochigi Prefectural Board of Education. There are also five private high schools. In addition, Tochigi Prefecture also operates eight special education schools for the handicapped.


==Transportation==
==Transportation==
===Railway===
===Railway===
[[File:Utsunomiya-STA West.jpg|thumb|Utsunomiya Station West Exit (August 2023)]]
Utsunomiya is served by the high-speed [[Tohoku Shinkansen]] line from Tokyo, as well as a number of suburban lines operated by [[East Japan Railway Company]] (JR East) and the [[private railway]] operator [[Tobu Railway]].
Utsunomiya is served by the high-speed [[Tohoku Shinkansen]] line from Tokyo, as well as a number of suburban lines operated by [[East Japan Railway Company]] (JR East) and the [[private railway]] operator [[Tobu Railway]].


Line 348: Line 334:
*{{STN|Nishi-Kawada}} - {{STN|Esojima}} - {{STN|Minami-Utsunomiya}} - {{STN|Tōbu Utsunomiya}}
*{{STN|Nishi-Kawada}} - {{STN|Esojima}} - {{STN|Minami-Utsunomiya}} - {{STN|Tōbu Utsunomiya}}


Construction of a [[light rapid transit]] system connecting Utsunomiya railway station with the neighbouring town of Haga was approved in 2016, with completion scheduled for December 2019.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/utsunomiya-light-rail-line-approved.html |title=Utsunomiya light rail line approved |date=7 October 2016 |work=[[Railway Gazette International]] |access-date=4 June 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://mainichi.jp/articles/20160123/ddl/k09/010/030000c |script-title=ja:宇都宮市などが国交省に申請　／栃木 |date=23 January 2016 |work=[[Mainichi Shimbun]] |access-date=23 January 2016 |language=ja}}</ref>
Construction of a [[Light rail|light rail transit]] system, [[Utsunomiya Light Rail]], connecting Utsunomiya railway station with the neighbouring town of [[Haga, Tochigi|Haga]] was approved in 2016, with completion scheduled for December 2019.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/utsunomiya-light-rail-line-approved.html |title=Utsunomiya light rail line approved |date=7 October 2016 |work=[[Railway Gazette International]] |access-date=4 June 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://mainichi.jp/articles/20160123/ddl/k09/010/030000c |script-title=ja:宇都宮市などが国交省に申請 ／栃木 |date=23 January 2016 |work=[[Mainichi Shimbun]] |access-date=23 January 2016 |language=ja}}</ref>{{Needs update|date=August 2022|reason=has not opened yet}} The network started operation on August 26, 2023 and Utsunomiya became the first city in Japan to have a new tram system in 75 years after [[Takaoka, Toyama]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/08/16c7e5e9d81d-japans-1st-new-tram-in-75-years-starts-operating-north-of-tokyo.html|title=Japan's 1st new tram system in 75 years starts operating north of Tokyo|website=Kyodo News|date=August 26, 2023|accessdate=August 26, 2023}}</ref>
[[File:Utsunomiya_LRT_Linemap.svg|thumb|500x500px|Map of the {{Ill|Utsunomiya Haga Light Rail Line|ja|宇都宮ライトレール宇都宮芳賀ライトレール線}} operated by Utsunomiya Light Rail Co., Ltd. ]]


===Highways===
===Highways===
Line 365: Line 352:
*site of Tobuyama Castle
*site of Tobuyama Castle
*[[Ōya-ji]] – a Buddhist temple including a museum with artifacts dating back to the [[Jōmon Period]].
*[[Ōya-ji]] – a Buddhist temple including a museum with artifacts dating back to the [[Jōmon Period]].
*[https://discover-utsunomiya.com/ Official Utsunomiya City Tourism Website]


==Sports==
==Sports==
Line 371: Line 359:
*[[Tochigi Green Stadium]]
*[[Tochigi Green Stadium]]
*[[Kiyohara Baseball Stadium]]
*[[Kiyohara Baseball Stadium]]
*[[Utsunomiya Velodrome]] - Utsunomiya is the host city of the [[Japan Cup (cycling)|Japan Cup]], a UCI sanctioned cycling race.
*[[Utsunomiya Velodrome]] - Utsunomiya is the host city of the [[Japan Cup (cycling)|Japan Cup]], a UCI-sanctioned cycling race.
*[[1990 UCI Road World Championships]] took place in Utsunomiya.
*[[1990 UCI Road World Championships]] took place in Utsunomiya.

==Culture==


===Utsunomiya's famous dumplings===
===Utsunomiya's famous dumplings===


====History of Gyoza====
====History of Gyoza====
Following the Second World War, Japanese soldiers who returned from Manchuria brought home to Utsunomiya gyoza recipes which originated from China. Soon after, the soldiers began to open dumpling (gyoza) restaurants around Utsunomiya. After the Utsunomiya city officials started to apprehend the gyoza popularity in 1990, the Utsunomiya Gyoza Association was created. The creation of this association only grew the gyoza's popularity in the city. The gyoza's popularity attracts many tourists, as well as brings in a significant amount of revenue into the city.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Szymanski|first1=Andrew|title=Welcome to Utsunomiya -- gyoza town|url=http://travel.cnn.com/tokyo/eat/utsunomiya-gyoza-town-200431/|website=CNN Travel|access-date=23 February 2017}}</ref>
Following the Second World War, Japanese soldiers who returned from Manchuria brought home to Utsunomiya gyoza recipes that originated from China. Soon after, the soldiers began to open dumpling (gyoza) restaurants around Utsunomiya. After the Utsunomiya city officials started to realize the popularity of gyoza in 1990, the Utsunomiya Gyoza Association was created. The creation of this association only made gyoza's popularity grow in the city. Utsunomiya gyoza is famous country-wide, so it attracts many tourists, as well as brings in a significant amount of revenue into the city.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Szymanski|first1=Andrew|title=Welcome to Utsunomiya -- gyoza town|url=http://travel.cnn.com/tokyo/eat/utsunomiya-gyoza-town-200431/|website=CNN Travel|access-date=23 February 2017}}</ref>


====Popularity of Gyoza====
====Popularity of Gyoza====
The city has 30 restaurants that specialize in serving gyoza. Utsunomiya is allegedly the highest consumer city of gyoza in Japan. There is also a {{Convert|1.5|m|ft|0|adj=on}} statue in the shape of the gyoza outside of Utsunomiya's JR station.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Gilhooly|first1=Rob|title=Utsunomiya brings ‘gyoza’ lovers into fold|url=http://www.japantimes.co.jp/community/2001/03/06/general/utsunomiya-brings-gyoza-lovers-into-fold/#.WK-MtVUrLIV|website=The Japan Times|access-date=23 February 2017}}</ref>
The city has 30 restaurants that specialize in serving gyoza. Utsunomiya is allegedly the highest consumer city of gyoza in Japan. There is also a {{Convert|1.5|m|ft|0|adj=on}} statue in the shape of the gyoza outside of Utsunomiya's JR station.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Gilhooly|first1=Rob|title=Utsunomiya brings 'gyoza' lovers into fold|url=http://www.japantimes.co.jp/community/2001/03/06/general/utsunomiya-brings-gyoza-lovers-into-fold/#.WK-MtVUrLIV|website=The Japan Times|access-date=23 February 2017}}</ref>


====The Gyoza Festival====
====The Gyoza Festival====
Utsunomiya's annual Gyoza Dumplings Festival occurs at the Castle Ruins Park. Visitors are able to taste different types of gyozas served by various gyoza-making restaurants. Festival attendees can also watch various bands and comedians nearby the festival grounds.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Osumi|first1=Magdalena|title=Good time to visit the dumpling capital of Japan|url=http://www.japantimes.co.jp/culture/2013/10/31/events/events-outside-tokyo/good-time-to-visit-the-dumpling-capital-of-japan/#.WK-NSVUrLIW|website=The Japan Times|access-date=23 February 2017}}</ref>
Utsunomiya's annual Gyoza Dumplings Festival occurs at the Castle Ruins Park. Visitors are able to taste different types of gyozas served by various gyoza-making restaurants. Festival attendees can also watch various bands and comedians near the festival grounds.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Osumi|first1=Magdalena|title=Good time to visit the dumpling capital of Japan|url=http://www.japantimes.co.jp/culture/2013/10/31/events/events-outside-tokyo/good-time-to-visit-the-dumpling-capital-of-japan/#.WK-NSVUrLIW|website=The Japan Times|access-date=23 February 2017}}</ref>


==Sister cities==
==Sister cities==
*{{flagdeco|New Zealand}} [[Auckland]] (then [[Manukau City]]), New Zealand, sister city since February 24, 1982<ref>[http://www.manukau.govt.nz/default.aspx?id=1342 Manukau City Council - Sister City] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927062019/http://www.manukau.govt.nz/default.aspx?id=1342 |date=2007-09-27 }}. Retrieved on 11 October 2008</ref>
*{{flagdeco|New Zealand}} [[Auckland]] (then [[Manukau City]]), New Zealand, sister city since February 24, 1982<ref>[http://www.manukau.govt.nz/default.aspx?id=1342 Manukau City Council - Sister City] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927062019/http://www.manukau.govt.nz/default.aspx?id=1342 |date=2007-09-27 }}. Retrieved on 11 October 2008</ref>
*{{flagdeco|US}} [[Tulsa, Oklahoma]], United States, sister city since July 10, 1992 <ref>[http://www.sister-cities.org/interactive-map/relationship/Tulsa,%20Oklahoma/Utsunomiya,%20Japan] Sister Cities International</ref>
*{{flagdeco|US}} [[Tulsa, Oklahoma]], United States, sister city since July 10, 1992<ref>[http://www.sister-cities.org/interactive-map/relationship/Tulsa,%20Oklahoma/Utsunomiya,%20Japan] Sister Cities International</ref>
*{{flagdeco|PRC}} [[Qiqihar, Heilongjiang]], China, Friendship-city since September 30, 1984 <ref>[http://english.qqhr.gov.cn/youhaochengshi.php] Qiqihar Official site</ref>
*{{flagdeco|PRC}} [[Qiqihar]], [[Heilongjiang]], China, Friendship-city since September 30, 1984<ref>[http://english.qqhr.gov.cn/youhaochengshi.php] Qiqihar Official site</ref>
*{{flagdeco|France}} [[Orléans]], France, Friendship-city since May 7, 1989 <ref>[http://www.tourisme-orleans.com/en/orleans-decouvrir-orleans/77-villes-jumelees.html] Orleans Department of Tourism</ref>
*{{flagdeco|France}} [[Orléans]], [[Centre-Val de Loire]], France, Friendship-city since May 7, 1989<ref>[http://www.tourisme-orleans.com/en/orleans-decouvrir-orleans/77-villes-jumelees.html] Orleans Department of Tourism</ref>
*{{flagdeco|Italy}} [[Pietrasanta]], [[Tuscany]], Italy


==Notable people==
==Notable people==
{{Unreferenced section|date=January 2016}}
{{Unreferenced section|date=January 2016}}
*[[Ai Kurogo]], professional volleyball player
*[[Kozue Ando]], professional football player
*[[Kozue Ando]], professional football player
*[[Minori Chihara]], voice actress
*[[Minori Chihara]], voice actress
Line 402: Line 394:
*[[Masako Mori (singer)|Masako Mori]], singer
*[[Masako Mori (singer)|Masako Mori]], singer
*[[Toshio Nobe]], manga artist
*[[Toshio Nobe]], manga artist
*[[Takuya Nomura (wrestler)|Takuya Nomura]], [[professional wrestler]]
*[[Sadao Watanabe (musician)|Sadao Watanabe]], jazz musician
*[[Sadao Watanabe (musician)|Sadao Watanabe]], jazz musician
*[[Susumu Yanase]], politician
*[[Susumu Yanase]], politician
*[[Kanako Itō]], singer
*[[Kanako Itō]], singer
*[[Naoki Yamamoto (racing driver)|Naoki Yamamoto]], professional racing driver
*[[Naoki Yamamoto (racing driver)|Naoki Yamamoto]], professional racing driver
*Lucie, Too, rock band


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 01:13, 14 February 2024

Utsunomiya
宇都宮市
Core city
Utsunomiya Castle, Statue of gyoza Futaarayama Shrine, Oya Stone Museum Utsunomiya Tower, City view from the tower
Utsunomiya Castle, Statue of gyoza
Futaarayama Shrine, Oya Stone Museum
Utsunomiya Tower, City view from the tower
Flag of Utsunomiya
Flag
Official seal of Utsunomiya
Seal
Location of Utsunomiya in Tochigi Prefecture
Location of Utsunomiya in Tochigi Prefecture
Utsunomiya is located in Japan
Utsunomiya
Utsunomiya
 
Coordinates: 36°33′18.4″N 139°52′57.2″E / 36.555111°N 139.882556°E / 36.555111; 139.882556
CountryJapan
RegionKantō
PrefectureTochigi
First official recorded353 AD
City SettledApril 1, 1896
Government
 • MayorEiichi Sato
Area
 • Core city416.85 km2 (160.95 sq mi)
Population
 (July 1, 2023)
 • Core city513,584
 • Density1,200/km2 (3,200/sq mi)
 • Metro
[1] (2015)
1,103,745 (15th)
Time zoneUTC+9 (Japan Standard Time)
Phone number028-632-2222
Address1-1-5, Asahi, Utsunomiya-shi, Tochigi-ken 320-8540
ClimateCfa
WebsiteOfficial website
Symbols
FlowerSatsuki azalea
TreeGinkgo biloba
Utsunomiya City Hall

Utsunomiya (宇都宮市, Utsunomiya-shi, [ɯᵝt͡sɯ̃ᵝno̞mija̠] ⓘ) is the capital and largest city of Tochigi Prefecture in the northern Kantō region of Japan. As of 1 July 2023, the city had an estimated population of 513,584, and a population density of 1,232 persons per square kilometre (3,190/sq mi). The total area of the city is 416.85 km2 (160.95 sq mi).[2] Utsunomiya is famous for its gyoza (pan fried dumplings). There are more than two hundred gyoza restaurants in Utsunomiya.[3]

Greater Utsunomiya (ja:宇都宮都市圏, Utsunomiya Toshi-ken) had a population of 888,005 in the 2000 census. The nearby city of Oyama is included in Greater Tokyo, but Greater Utsunomiya is not, despite the two areas amalgamating somewhat. It is the 10th most populated city in the Kantō region.

Geography[edit]

Utsunomiya is located in south-central Tochigi Prefecture in the northern Kantō plains. It is approximately 100 km (60 mi) north of Tokyo. The historic town of Nikkō is approximately 25 km (15 mi) northwest of Utsunomiya. The average elevation of the city is 100 metres (330 ft).

Surrounding municipalities[edit]

Tochigi Prefecture

Climate[edit]

Utsunomiya has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa) with hot and humid summers and cool winters. The average annual temperature in Utsunomiya is 14.3 °C (57.7 °F). The average annual rainfall is 1,524.7 mm (60.03 in) with September as the wettest month. The temperatures are highest on average in August, at around 26.0 °C (78.8 °F), and lowest in January, at around 2.8 °C (37.0 °F).[4]

Climate data for Utsunomiya (1991−2020 normals, extremes 1890−present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 21.0
(69.8) 		24.6
(76.3) 		27.2
(81.0) 		30.4
(86.7) 		34.4
(93.9) 		37.5
(99.5) 		38.7
(101.7) 		37.5
(99.5) 		36.5
(97.7) 		33.5
(92.3) 		25.1
(77.2) 		24.7
(76.5) 		38.7
(101.7)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 8.6
(47.5) 		9.7
(49.5) 		13.4
(56.1) 		18.8
(65.8) 		23.3
(73.9) 		25.9
(78.6) 		29.5
(85.1) 		30.9
(87.6) 		27.0
(80.6) 		21.4
(70.5) 		15.9
(60.6) 		10.8
(51.4) 		19.6
(67.3)
Daily mean °C (°F) 2.8
(37.0) 		3.8
(38.8) 		7.4
(45.3) 		12.8
(55.0) 		17.8
(64.0) 		21.2
(70.2) 		24.8
(76.6) 		26.0
(78.8) 		22.4
(72.3) 		16.7
(62.1) 		10.6
(51.1) 		5.1
(41.2) 		14.3
(57.7)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −2.2
(28.0) 		−1.3
(29.7) 		2.1
(35.8) 		7.4
(45.3) 		13.0
(55.4) 		17.4
(63.3) 		21.4
(70.5) 		22.5
(72.5) 		18.8
(65.8) 		12.6
(54.7) 		5.7
(42.3) 		0.2
(32.4) 		9.8
(49.6)
Record low °C (°F) −14.8
(5.4) 		−13.3
(8.1) 		−12.4
(9.7) 		−6.4
(20.5) 		−0.8
(30.6) 		4.7
(40.5) 		10.3
(50.5) 		11.4
(52.5) 		5.5
(41.9) 		−2.7
(27.1) 		−6.7
(19.9) 		−10.9
(12.4) 		−14.8
(5.4)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 37.5
(1.48) 		38.5
(1.52) 		87.7
(3.45) 		121.5
(4.78) 		149.2
(5.87) 		175.2
(6.90) 		215.4
(8.48) 		198.5
(7.81) 		217.2
(8.55) 		174.4
(6.87) 		71.1
(2.80) 		38.5
(1.52) 		1,524.7
(60.03)
Average snowfall cm (inches) 7
(2.8) 		8
(3.1) 		2
(0.8) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		1
(0.4) 		18
(7.1)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.5 mm) 4.3 5.5 9.6 11.2 12.4 14.9 16.0 13.8 13.6 11.4 7.1 4.7 124.4
Average relative humidity (%) 61 59 60 64 69 76 79 78 77 74 71 66 70
Mean monthly sunshine hours 211.7 193.3 194.2 184.9 175.4 118.5 118.9 140.9 119.8 140.3 165.9 197.4 1,961.1
Source: Japan Meteorological Agency[4]

Demographics[edit]

Per Japanese census data,[5] the population of Utsunomiya has recently plateaued after decades of strong growth.

Historical population
YearPop.±%
1950 235,516—    
1960 261,964+11.2%
1970 324,216+23.8%
1980 408,908+26.1%
1990 465,162+13.8%
2000 487,560+4.8%
2010 511,296+4.9%
2020 518,757+1.5%

History[edit]

Archaeologists have uncovered evidence that the area of Utsunomiya has been continuously settled since the Japanese Paleolithic period onwards, and numerous burial mounds from the Kofun period are found within its borders. The Utsunomiya Futarasan Shrine (宇都宮二荒山神社), which is the Ichinomiya of Shimotsuke Province claims to have been founded in 353 AD. The town of Utsunomiya developed around this shrine, and the area was under the control of the Utsunomiya clan, an offshoot of the Fujiwara clan from the Heian through Sengoku periods, and was destroyed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

During the Edo period, the Utsunomiya area was ruled by a succession of daimyō clans under Utsunomiya Domain, and prospered from its location at the junction of the Nikkō Kaidō and the Ōshū Kaidō. During the Bakumatsu period Boshin War, the Battle of Utsunomiya Castle was a major conflict in the northern Kantō area. Following the Meiji restoration, Utsunomiya was briefly (1871–1873) part of Utsunomiya Prefecture, which was then merged into the new Tochigi Prefecture, and became the capital of the prefecture in 1884. Utsunomiya became an important garrison for the Imperial Japanese Army.

With the establishment of the municipalities system on April 1, 1889, the town of Utsunomiya was officially established. At the end of 1889, Utsunomiya had a population of 30,698 making it the third most populous municipality in the Kantō area, after Tokyo and Yokohama. Utsunomiya was raised to city status on April 1, 1896. On July 12, 1945, much of Utsunomiya and the surrounding areas were destroyed in the American Bombing of Utsunomiya during World War II.

The city limits were expanded from 1951 to 1955 by annexing neighboring Suzumenomiya town and Hiraishi, Yokokawa, Mizuhono, Kunimoto, Shiroyama, Tomiya, Toyosato, and Sugatagawa villages and the part of Shinoi village from Kawachi District and Kiyohara village from Haga District. In 1996, Utsunomiya was designated a core city with increased autonomy. On March 31, 2007, Utsunomiya absorbed the towns of Kamikawachi and Kawachi (both from Kawachi District), pushing the population of Utsunomiya City over 500,000.

Government[edit]

Utsunomiya has a mayor-council form of government with a directly elected mayor and a unicameral city legislature of 45 members. Utsunomiya, together with the town of Kamikawa collectively contributes 13 members to the Tochigi Prefectural Assembly. In terms of national politics, the city is divided between the Tochigi 1st district and Tochigi 2nd district of the lower house of the Diet of Japan.

Economy[edit]

Utsunomiya is the commercial and industrial center of Tochigi Prefecture. Utsunomiya is home to a Canon optical manufacturing plant, a Japan Tobacco plant, Honda design centers, and various other industrial concerns in the Kiyohara Industrial Park. In addition, one of the largest malls in the north Kantō region, Bell Mall is located near central Utsunomiya.

Education[edit]

Transportation[edit]

Railway[edit]

Utsunomiya Station West Exit (August 2023)

Utsunomiya is served by the high-speed Tohoku Shinkansen line from Tokyo, as well as a number of suburban lines operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and the private railway operator Tobu Railway.

JR East – Tohoku Shinkansen

JR East – Tohoku Main Line (Utsunomiya Line/Shōnan-Shinjuku Line/Ueno-Tokyo Line)

JR East – Nikkō Line

JR East – Karasuyama Line

Tobu Railway - Tobu Utsunomiya Line

Construction of a light rail transit system, Utsunomiya Light Rail, connecting Utsunomiya railway station with the neighbouring town of Haga was approved in 2016, with completion scheduled for December 2019.[6][7][needs update] The network started operation on August 26, 2023 and Utsunomiya became the first city in Japan to have a new tram system in 75 years after Takaoka, Toyama.[8]

Map of the Utsunomiya Haga Light Rail Line [ja] operated by Utsunomiya Light Rail Co., Ltd.

Highways[edit]

Local attractions[edit]

Sports[edit]

Culture[edit]

Utsunomiya's famous dumplings[edit]

History of Gyoza[edit]

Following the Second World War, Japanese soldiers who returned from Manchuria brought home to Utsunomiya gyoza recipes that originated from China. Soon after, the soldiers began to open dumpling (gyoza) restaurants around Utsunomiya. After the Utsunomiya city officials started to realize the popularity of gyoza in 1990, the Utsunomiya Gyoza Association was created. The creation of this association only made gyoza's popularity grow in the city. Utsunomiya gyoza is famous country-wide, so it attracts many tourists, as well as brings in a significant amount of revenue into the city.[9]

Popularity of Gyoza[edit]

The city has 30 restaurants that specialize in serving gyoza. Utsunomiya is allegedly the highest consumer city of gyoza in Japan. There is also a 1.5-metre (5 ft) statue in the shape of the gyoza outside of Utsunomiya's JR station.[10]

The Gyoza Festival[edit]

Utsunomiya's annual Gyoza Dumplings Festival occurs at the Castle Ruins Park. Visitors are able to taste different types of gyozas served by various gyoza-making restaurants. Festival attendees can also watch various bands and comedians near the festival grounds.[11]

Sister cities[edit]

Notable people[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ "UEA Code Tables". Center for Spatial Information Science, University of Tokyo. Retrieved January 26, 2019.
  2. ^ "Utsunomiya City official home page" (in Japanese). Japan.
  3. ^ Szymanski, Andrew (2009-09-21). "Welcome to Utsunomiya - gyoza town | CNN Travel". Cnngo.com. Retrieved 2014-02-10.
  4. ^ a b 気象庁 / 平年値（年・月ごとの値）. Japan Meteorological Agency. Retrieved May 19, 2021.
  5. ^ Utsunomiya population statistics
  6. ^ "Utsunomiya light rail line approved". Railway Gazette International. 7 October 2016. Retrieved 4 June 2018.
  7. ^ 宇都宮市などが国交省に申請 ／栃木. Mainichi Shimbun (in Japanese). 23 January 2016. Retrieved 23 January 2016.
  8. ^ "Japan's 1st new tram system in 75 years starts operating north of Tokyo". Kyodo News. August 26, 2023. Retrieved August 26, 2023.
  9. ^ Szymanski, Andrew. "Welcome to Utsunomiya -- gyoza town". CNN Travel. Retrieved 23 February 2017.
  10. ^ Gilhooly, Rob. "Utsunomiya brings 'gyoza' lovers into fold". The Japan Times. Retrieved 23 February 2017.
  11. ^ Osumi, Magdalena. "Good time to visit the dumpling capital of Japan". The Japan Times. Retrieved 23 February 2017.
  12. ^ Manukau City Council - Sister City Archived 2007-09-27 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved on 11 October 2008
  13. ^ [1] Sister Cities International
  14. ^ [2] Qiqihar Official site
  15. ^ [3] Orleans Department of Tourism

External links[edit]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Utsunomiya, Tochigi.
Wikivoyage has a travel guide for Utsunomiya.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Utsunomiya&oldid=1207116693"