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When you step onto the pedestrian deck at the west exit of Utsunomiya Station, you will find a particularly eye-catching statue standing there. This statue, made of Oya stone, is about 2 meters tall and weighs 1.7 tons. It depicts a Venus wrapped in a gyoza skin, and its unique appearance captivates the hearts of visitors.
This “Gyoza Statue” was created in 1994 as part of a town revitalization project for the television program “Omakase! Yamada Shokai.” The idea was conceived by the host, Kuniko Yamada, and the design was handled by contemporary sculptor Koji Nishimatsu. The statue was made using Oya stone, a specialty of Utsunomiya City. Initially, it was installed at the east exit of JR Utsunomiya Station, but due to redevelopment in front of the station, it was relocated to its current position on the west exit pedestrian deck. (utsunomiya-cvb.org)
However, the history of this statue has not been a smooth one. In 2008, during the relocation from the east exit to the west exit, the statue lost its balance while being lifted by a crane, the wire came off, and it fell. The impact split the statue in two. Fortunately, it was repaired, and in October of the same year, it was reinstalled on the west exit pedestrian deck. (utsunomiya-cvb.org)
The background to Utsunomiya’s fame as the “City of Gyoza” is deeply connected to postwar history. During World War II, soldiers of the 14th Division stationed in Utsunomiya tasted authentic gyoza in Manchuria and brought back its deliciousness. Furthermore, Utsunomiya is a production area for main gyoza ingredients such as garlic chives and Chinese cabbage, and these factors combined to establish a gyoza culture in the city. (news.mynavi.jp)
Currently, there are about 80 gyoza specialty shops in Utsunomiya City, each competing with its own unique flavor. For citizens, gyoza is an indispensable part of the daily table, and for tourists, it is one of the pleasures of visiting Utsunomiya.
This gyoza statue, as a symbol of Utsunomiya’s gyoza culture, continues to welcome many people today. Its unique appearance seems to quietly tell visitors about Utsunomiya’s history, culture, and the passion of its people.