Sano: A Muslim-Friendly Getaway Near Ashikaga’s Wisteria Festival

Japan’s enchanting wisteria festival is currently in full bloom and will continue to captivate visitors until May 18th. For Muslim travelers planning to experience this floral spectacle, finding a place for prayer is conveniently within reach, thanks to the Ashikaga Mosque, a mere half-hour drive from Ashikaga Flower Park. But did you know that nestled just a stone's throw away from this floral paradise, home to a magnificent 160-year-old wisteria tree, lies a city recognized for its Muslim-friendly amenities?

Also read: The Ultimate Guide For Muslim Travellers to Great Wisteria Festival in Japan

A mere 15-minute journey from Ashikaga Flower Park, the city of Sano unfolds as a treasure trove of destinations and facilities perfectly suited for Muslim tourists. From its breathtaking natural landscapes to its rich historical tapestry, Sano offers a compelling extension to your wisteria adventure. For those with extra time after beholding the legendary blooms, this charming city presents an excellent option for further exploration or even an overnight stay.

Top Activities and Tourist Spots In and Around Sano

1. Sano Yakuyoke Daishi Temple

Image credit: Sano Yakuyoke Daishi Temple | Official Website

For history enthusiasts, this temple is an unmissable addition to your itinerary. Established over a millennium ago by a revered Buddhist priest from Nara, Sano Yakuyoke Daishi Temple, a prominent temple in the Kanto region, is believed to bestow good fortune upon its visitors. At the dawn of each new year, the temple teems with locals participating in hatsumode, their first prayers of the year.

Address: 2233 Kanaikamicho, Sano 327-0015 Tochigi Prefecture
Opening hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

2. Sano Premium Outlets

Image credit: Sano Premium Outlets | Official Website

More than just a shopping destination, Sano Premium Outlets is a visual delight with its charming architecture reminiscent of the U.S. east coast, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Mount Mikamo. This shopper's paradise boasts a staggering 180 outlets offering everything from clothing and cosmetics to household goods and accessories. You'll also find several international brands here, including Adidas, Calvin Klein, and Coach.

Address: 2058, Koena-cho, Sano-Shi, Tochigi 327-0822
Opening hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

3. Izuruhara Benten Pond

Image credit: Izuruhara Benten Pond | Official Facebook

A short distance from the city center lies a serene oasis that offers a feast for both the eyes and the soul. Izuruhara Benten Pond features remarkably clear waters, allowing you to gaze at the bottom and admire the graceful koi carp swimming within. The surrounding trees form a tranquil canopy, creating a perfect spot to escape the city's hustle and bustle. This pond is particularly enchanting during autumn when the warm hues of the foliage provide a stunning contrast to the cool, clear water below.

Address: 1117 Izuruharacho, Sano, Tochigi 327-0102, Japan
Opening hours: Daily, 25 hours

4. Watarase Keikoku Railway

Image credit: Japan National Tourism Organization | Official Website

Venture slightly beyond Sano to Nikko City and hop aboard the Watarase Keikoku Railway, connecting Nikko with Kiryu City in Gunma Prefecture. This 44-kilometer scenic journey will leave you spellbound by the breathtaking natural landscapes. Each season paints a different picture: delicate cherry blossoms in spring, refreshing greenery in summer, vibrant reds and yellows in autumn, and a blanket of snow in winter. To fully immerse yourself in nature's embrace, some of the train cars feature no windows, allowing you to feel the gentle breeze during your ride.

5. Kuranomachi Yuransen

Image credit: Visit Tochigi | Official Website

This delightful activity requires a short 30-minute train ride from Sano City, but the experience it offers is well worth the journey. From Sano Station, simply take the Ryomo Line to Tochigi Station to reach the pier where your adventure begins. Kuranomachi Yuransen is a sightseeing boat tour that takes you along the Uzuma River, passing by beautiful warehouses that seem to transport you back to the Edo Period.

Address: 2-6 Yamato-cho Tochigi
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Winter), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Summer)

Sano Masjid

Image credit: Sano Masjid | Official Facebook

Muslim travelers exploring Sano City can rest assured that finding a place for prayer is easily accessible. Just an 11-minute walk from Sano Station will bring you to Sano Masjid. This proximity not only provides convenience for travelers arriving in or departing from Sano but also further solidifies Sano's reputation as a Muslim-friendly city.

Address: Horigomechō, 116, 166-2, Horigome, Sano, Tochigi 327-0843
Opening hours: Daily, 24 hours

Halal and Muslim-Friendly Food in Sano

1. Wakaba

Image credit: Wakaba | Official Facebook

If you're craving halal sushi, especially mindful of the sauces used, Wakaba is an excellent choice. Initially, this restaurant didn't offer halal options, but as Sano grew as a Muslim-friendly destination, the owner began adapting the menu with halal ingredients in 2015. The restaurant even provides a prayer space for its Muslim patrons. Despite these adaptations, the flavors remain authentic and delicious. Located just a 3-minute walk from Sano Station, this restaurant makes a convenient starting point to fuel your explorations in Sano. Beyond sushi, Wakaba also serves other Japanese favorites like curry, tempura, soba, and chicken teriyaki.

Address: 63 Wakamatsucho, Sano, Tochigi 327-0846
Opening hours: Monday-Friday (5:00 PM - 10:00 PM)

2. Nikkoken

Image credit: @nikkokensano

Sano City is indeed renowned for its ramen. A fantastic place to savor this local specialty is Nikkoken. Muslim travelers can dine here with confidence, as the ramen served is halal. Imagine enjoying a bowl of springy noodles in a savory broth, topped with tender chicken and a perfectly soft-boiled egg. And if you're still feeling peckish, their juicy gyoza (dumplings) are a must-try.

Address: 138 Wakamatu-chō, Sano, Tochigi 327-0846
Opening hours: 11:30 AM - 2:15 PM & 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM (Friday-Wednesday)

3. Miso Manju Arai Ya Tanuma no Mori

Image credit: Miyageboshi | Official Website

For those with a sweet tooth looking to sample a local Sano treat, a visit to Miso Manju Araiya is essential. Manju itself is a traditional Japanese confection made from steamed flour dough, typically filled with sweet red bean paste. However, as its name suggests, Miso Manju features a unique and rich miso filling. This delightful snack also makes a wonderful souvenir!

Address: 1124 Yoshimizu-cho, Sano 327-0313
Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Tuesday-Sunday)

How to Reach Sano

Image credit: Becris | Canva Pro

Located approximately 80 kilometers from Tokyo, the most convenient way to reach Sano is by train. You can take the Tobu Line from Ueno Station in Tokyo and alight at Sano Station. Alternatively, you can use the JR Line by taking the JR Utsunomiya Line from Ueno Station to Sano Station. Both train journeys take around one and a half hours. Another option is to take a highway bus from Tokyo to Sano, with a travel time of roughly the same duration.

Also read: 10 Halal Anime Food Guide for Muslim Travellers in Japan

With its blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and increasingly welcoming facilities for Muslim travelers, Sano presents a compelling destination for those venturing near Ashikaga's famed wisteria festival. From exploring ancient temples and indulging in retail therapy to savoring halal local cuisine and enjoying scenic train rides, Sano offers a diverse range of experiences that promise a memorable and inclusive getaway just a short hop from the iconic floral display.