A World of Stone Art Beneath the Earth—This is what awaits you at Oya History Museum ｜Underground quarry turned art space in Utsunomiya, Tochigi. Once an active Oya stone quarry, the massive underground complex now captivates visitors as a unique exhibition site and filming location.
In this article, we present a Q&A-based guide to help first-time visitors enjoy the site with ease. It’s especially helpful for solo travelers and those visiting Japan for the first time—ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience.
Let the silence of the Oya underground space lead you into a world like no other. Our Q&A format will help you prepare with confidence.
Contents
Oya History Museum Access Guide
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By Train
Tokyo Station
Take the Tohoku Shinkansen “Yamabiko” to Utsunomiya Station (approx. 50 min)
From the West Exit of Utsunomiya Station, take the Kanto Bus bound for “Oya Shiryokan” (approx. 35 min)
Get off at “Oya Shiryokan” bus stop, then walk a short distance
Total travel time: approx. 1 hr 40 min
Shinjuku Station
Take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line Rapid to Utsunomiya Station (approx. 1 hr 50 min)
From the West Exit, board the Kanto Bus to “Oya Shiryokan” (approx. 35 min)
Get off at “Oya Shiryokan” bus stop, then walk a short distance
Total travel time: approx. 2 hr 30 min
Sendai Station
Take the Tohoku Shinkansen “Yamabiko” to Utsunomiya Station (approx. 1 hr 30 min)
From the West Exit, board the Kanto Bus to “Oya Shiryokan” (approx. 35 min)
Get off at “Oya Shiryokan” bus stop, then walk a short distance
Total travel time: approx. 2 hr 10 min
One Point Advice
Visitor Info｜Hours, Fees, Access
Admission: Adults 800 yen / Children 400 yen
Hours: 9:00–17:00 (last entry at 16:30)
Closed: Tuesdays (or following weekday if a holiday), and winter closure from December to March
Official Travel Guide: https://www.visit-tochigi.com/
Oya Museum Highlights & Sample Itinerary
Oya Quarry｜Underground Stone Cathedral
Descending from ground level, you’ll enter a vast underground space with ceilings over 30 meters high. Once used to extract Oya stone , The underground quarry now echoes with the silence of a forgotten time. Chisel marks on the walls, light projections, and cool air make every step feel like a descent into another world. It’s a solemn, awe-inspiring experience, like walking through a stone sanctuary.
Time Required: 30–40 min
Admission: Adults 800 yen / Children 400 yen
Audio Visual Space｜Art in Stone
Portions of the quarry feature limited-time projection mapping and audio installations. These immersive displays take advantage of the underground space’s scale and acoustics, offering an experience far beyond a typical art museum. Used as filming locations for music videos and movies, the space itself becomes the art—deepening your emotional connection to the surroundings.
Time Required: 15–20 min (varies by event)
Admission: Included in entry fee
Oya Stone History｜Above-Ground Exhibits
Above ground, a display area provides insight into Oya stone —its origins and uses through the centuries. From quarrying tools to architectural models, the exhibits enrich your appreciation of what you’ll see underground. Linking historical knowledge with immersive experience adds new depth to your visit.
Time Required: 15–20 min
Admission: Included in entry fee
Nearby Spots & Day Trips from Oya
Oya Kannon｜Stone Buddha in a Cave Temple
About a 10-minute walk from the museum, Oya Kannon (Oya-dera Temple) houses Japan’s oldest stone statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon. Set within a cave in a cliff face, the atmosphere is solemn and serene. Towering beside it is the 27-meter Peace Kannon, carved directly into the stone. This spiritual site offers a tranquil contrast to the underground experience and makes a perfect follow-up walk.
Utsunomiya Gyoza-kan｜Local Gyoza Experience
Take the bus back to Utsunomiya Station and walk 5 minutes to the flagship branch of Utsunomiya Gyoza-kan. Offering grilled, boiled, and fried dumplings, this popular restaurant is ideal for a late lunch or early dinner. More than just Chinese dumplings , gyoza here represents a beloved local specialty in Utsunomiya. After a quiet time underground, this lively dining experience offers a flavorful shift in atmosphere.
Nikko Toshogu｜Shrine of Tokugawa Ieyasu
From Utsunomiya Station , take the JR Nikko Line (approx. 45 min) to visit the UNESCO-listed Nikko Toshogu Shrine . Richly adorned with gold leaf and elaborate carvings, this site honors shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. Famous icons like the “See No Evil, Speak No Evil, Hear No Evil” monkeys and the Sleeping Cat appear throughout the shrine. It’s an excellent cultural complement to the industrial heritage of Oya.
Oya Museum Q&A｜Visitor Essentials
How long does it take to explore the museum?
The main cavern takes about 30–40 minutes to walk through. If you stop for photos or take your time, allow up to an hour.
Is it cold inside? What should I wear?
The underground space at Oya History Museum stays around 8°C (46°F) year-round.
Can I take photos inside?
Yes, photography is allowed. However, tripods and flash photography are not permitted. Please be courteous to others.
Are lockers or luggage storage available?
Coin lockers are available inside. Larger bags can be left at the reception desk.
Is the museum child-friendly?
Children are welcome, though there are stairs and uneven surfaces. Strollers cannot be used, so please take care.
Oya Museum Summary｜Plan Your Next Step
Transformed from a quarry into a spectacular underground space , Oya History Museum offers a rare and tranquil experience. It’s an ideal spot for solo travelers and remains comfortable to explore even on rainy or hot days.
We’ve shared helpful Q&A, tips on clothing and photography, and clear access information to help you prepare. First-time visitors will find it easy to enjoy Oya History Museum without stress.
Afterward, why not explore nearby highlights like Oya Kannon or savor local gyoza in downtown Utsunomiya?
