25 recommended sightseeing spots in Tottori Prefecture. Discover the charm of Tottori beyond just the sand dunes!

When it comes to tourist attractions in Tottori Prefecture, many people would answer Tottori Sand Dunes as number one or number two. People often have trouble deciding which is east and which is west of neighboring Shimane Prefecture, but Tottori Prefecture has plenty of other distinctive tourist spots!

In particular, since it has begun to call itself the "Kingdom of Manga" in recent years, new popular spots such as Mizuki Shigeru Road and Aoyama Gosho Manga Museum have appeared one after another. Of course, there are also plenty of attractive sights where you can experience nature and history. In this article, we will introduce 25 of the best tourist spots in Tottori Prefecture.

1. Tottori Sand Dunes

Needless to say, this is one of the largest sand dunes in Japan, and many people visit this place as a tourist destination in Tottori Prefecture.

With an astonishing scale of 2.4km from north to south and 16km from east to west, ripples and wind patterns appear in the sand in the early morning, and at dusk the dunes are dyed red by the setting sun, creating a truly romantic scene! The fascinating world of sand changes in various ways, from sand curtains when it rains to sand pillars the day after a storm, and is a special sight that can only be seen in Tottori.

There are also plenty of activities unique to the Tottori Sand Dunes, such as tourist camels and sandboarding, where you can slide across the sand on a special board! The Sand Museum, which exhibits unique art pieces called "sand sculptures" made entirely from sand, is also popular as a new tourist attraction at the Tottori Sand Dunes. The sand scenery is sure to get you excited, but please be aware that it is illegal to graffiti on the sand.

2. Kurayoshi White-Walled Storehouses

Kurayoshi in Tottori Prefecture once developed as a castle town of Utsubuki Castle. During the Edo period, it flourished as a commercial and industrial town, and the streets along Tamagawa River, known as the White-Walled Storehouses, are a famous tourist spot. Traditional buildings known as "Akagawara" (Red Roof Tile), buildings 1 to 16, have been converted into restaurants and specialty shops, utilizing miso and soy sauce storehouses from the Edo and Meiji periods.

There are also about 100 other buildings remaining from the early Edo period to the Taisho period, and you can encounter many photogenic landscapes just by strolling through the town of Kurayoshi Tamagawa. Kurayoshi is located almost in the center of Tottori Prefecture, and there are many hot springs in the surrounding area, so it is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling throughout the prefecture.

3. Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum

Hokuei Town in central Tottori Prefecture is the hometown of Gosho Aoyama, the author of the internationally popular manga series Detective Conan. The Gosho Aoki Hometown Museum, which opened in 2007, is a new tourist attraction in Tottori Prefecture that calls itself the "Kingdom of Manga."

Inside the museum, there are many reproductions of Aoyama's original drawings and related items on display, and there is also a corner where you can try out tricks that appear in Detective Conan. There are also mini attractions using items that fans will love, such as Conan's favorite skateboard and a bow-tie-shaped voice changer.

In addition, anyone who visits the museum can take a quiz about Aoyama's works, and if you answer all the questions correctly, you will receive a "Meister Certificate"! The area from the nearest JR Yura Station to the Gosho Aoki Hometown Museum is called Conan Street, and there are objects of manga scenes all over the place.

4. Mizuki Shigeru Road

Sakaiminato, located in the northwestern tip of Tottori Prefecture between the Sea of ​​Japan and Lake Nakaumi, is the hometown of Mizuki Shigeru, the author of Gegege no Kitaro. The 800m-long street stretching from Sakaiminato Station is named Mizuki Shigeru Road, and along the road are objects of familiar characters and monsters from Gegege no Yokai Rakuen. What started out as 23 objects has grown to nearly 200 in 25 years.

Sakaiminato is also home to many other attractions, including the Mizuki Shigeru Memorial Museum, Yokai Shrine, and Gegege no Yokai Rakuen! The town itself is a tourist attraction with a yokai motif. The JR Sakai Line, which ends in Sakaiminato, also has a Kitaro train, so if you're sightseeing, be sure to take the train to get there.

5. Tottori Castle Ruins

Tottori Castle, which was the residence of the Tottori Domain with 320,000 koku of rice, consists of two parts: the mountain castle on Mt. Kyushozan, which towers behind the city of Tottori, and the flat castle built at the foot of the mountain. The mountain castle was built by the Yamana clan, the Inaba shugo during the Sengoku period, and is known for having been subjected to a siege called "Killing by Thirst" by Hashiba (Toyotomi) Hideyoshi.

During the Edo period, the inconvenient mountain castle was hardly used, and palaces and turrets were built in the flat castle at the foot of the mountain and used as the government office. The only building that remains today is one room of the old palace called Hosen-an, but the wide moat and the high stone walls of Ninomaru are worth seeing. From the remains of the Ninomaru Gosankai Turret, which was used as a substitute for the castle tower, you can overlook the city of Tottori and experience what it was like to be a lord.

Another thing to note at the Tottori Castle ruins is the Tenkyumaru stone wall! It was built to reinforce the existing stone walls, and the beautiful dome-shaped stonework is extremely rare for castles, making it truly unique and worth a look.

6. Mt. Daisen

Mount Daisen, towering over the western part of Tottori Prefecture with its majestic foothills, is the highest peak in the Chugoku region at 1,729m above sea level! It is covered in the largest beech forest in western Japan and is a popular diving spot.

The beautiful mountain, also known as "Hoki Fuji," is of course enchanting just to look at from afar, but if you're in Tottori Prefecture, why not try to get closer to the top of Mount Daisen? There are plenty of sights to see on the mountain's mid-mountain, including Daisen-ji Temple, said to have been founded in the Nara period, and the observation spot Goenzan Noroshidai, which has been gaining in popularity in recent years!

Other recommended spots include Masumizu Plateau, which has been certified as a sacred place for lovers, and Kagikake Pass, where the fiery autumn leaves are stunning. For lunch, try the Daisen soba, characterized by its strong aroma and sweet broth.

7. Shirato Beach

Many Japanese people have probably heard of the story of "The White Rabbit of Inaba" from the Kojiki. The setting is said to be Hakutokaigan Beach in the western part of Tottori City. It is a beautiful, curved beach with white sand, and from Keta Cape on the western end, you can see a beautiful view of the rocks and sand.

In the myth, the white rabbit was saved by Okuninushi-no-Mikoto and played the role of intermediary between Yakamihime and Mikoto, so this place has also been certified as a sacred place for lovers as "the birthplace of Japan's first love story"! The nearby Hakuto Shrine is also popular as a shrine for matchmaking, and many couples visit to pledge their eternal love with the "Hakuto Kishomon".

8. Uradome Coast

Uradome Sea, near the eastern end of Tottori Prefecture, is a scenic spot with a rugged ria coastline stretching for about 15km. The Uradome Coast, also known as "Matsushima of San'in" after Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture, is attractive for its rocky islands, caves, and strangely shaped rocks of various sizes!

We recommend touring the islands on a pleasure boat, and in addition to leisurely cruises to enjoy the scenery, there are also thrilling small boats that enter caves and coves. You can also enjoy various activities at Uradome Coast in the summer, such as going down to the beach to play on the rocks or trying sea kayaking. The eastern side of the coast is a sandy beach, so it is also a popular spot for swimming.

9. Tottori Flower Corridor

Tottori Prefecture is also home to one of Japan's largest flower parks! At the Tottori Flower Corridor at the western foot of Mt. Daisen, you can enjoy colorful flowers in a variety of situations, including a vast flower field of about 10,000 square meters, a herb garden with over 90 types of flowers, a European garden, and a water flower bed.

There is also a covered observation corridor about 1 km long and a lily hall where you can see flowers all year round, so you can enjoy sightseeing without getting wet even on rainy days. On sunny days, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the graceful Mt. Daisen beyond the flower garden. Illuminations are also held in the winter, making it a spot that can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

10. Sanbutsu-ji Temple

This mysterious mountain temple was built in a depression in the cliffs of Sanbutsu-ji Temple on Mt. Mitoku in central Tottori Prefecture. It is a small hall built in a so-called "kake-zukuri" style, with pillars directly on the rock face, and is called "Nageire-do" because it is said to have been thrown in by En no Ozunu, the founder of Shugendo, using his spiritual power.

This wooden hall, which makes you wonder "how was it built!?", is a unique piece of architecture even in Japan and has been designated a national treasure. It is said to be the "most dangerous national treasure in Japan," as it can only be reached by traveling for nearly an hour along a steep mountain path. For this reason, various conditions are imposed on the season, time, and clothing for worship.

It is difficult to actually see Nageire-do, but once you overcome the difficulties, you will find a mysterious and mystical landscape that you would never see on an ordinary sightseeing trip! If you are ready to visit, please visit with a solemn feeling.

11. Misasa Onsen

Located in the inner sanctum of Kurayoshi, Misasa Onsen is one of the oldest hot springs in Tottori Prefecture, with a history of over 850 years. It is one of the world's leading radon springs, and is said to have been named after the fact that illnesses are cured by the morning of the third day.

Since the Meiji period, it has been loved by many writers and artists, and the atmosphere of a good old Japanese hot spring town remains in the valley of the Mitoku River. Along the cobblestone streets, in addition to inns and restaurants, there are also souvenir shops and shooting ranges.

There are also attractions such as the Misasa Violin Museum and Jinsho no Yakata, so Misasa Onsen itself is a tourist destination worth exploring, not just staying overnight! It is especially recommended for people who enjoy hot springs as one of their travel pleasures.

12. Hawai Onsen

The Japanese characters for "Hawai" are used to refer to the hot springs in Hawai!

Hawai Onsen began when local farmers discovered hot water bubbling up from the bottom of Lake Togo at the end of the Edo period. That's why even today, many hot spring inns are built as if they are floating on the lake, and some even allow you to fish directly from your room.

The hot spring town on the lake is even more romantic at night. Together with Togo Onsen on the opposite shore, it is a popular hot spring resort with a romantic atmosphere on the lakeside.

13. Kaike Onsen

Kaike Onsen, which stretches out to Maehama in Yonago City in the west of Tottori Prefecture, is said to be one of the largest hot spring resorts in Sanin! Large accommodation facilities line the calm beach of Yumigahama, and it is also known as the "Atami of Sanin."

It is a scenic hot spring resort where you can see Mt. Daisen across the sea, and its proximity to Yonago city and Yonago Airport is also an advantage for tourism. Kaike Beach in front of the resort is crowded with beachgoers in the summer, and is also popular with families with children.

14. Hamamura Onsen

If you are looking for a hot spring inn near Tottori City, we recommend Hamamura Onsen. It is a relatively new hot spring discovered in 1884, but it is close to a beach on the Sea of ​​Japan and is also very crowded in the summer.

There are three foot baths around Hamamura Station, so you can easily enjoy the hot springs without staying overnight. At the inns and guesthouses, you can enjoy fresh seafood from the Sea of ​​Japan.

15. Chizu Post Town

Chizu, located in the southeastern part of Tottori Prefecture, is a post town on the Chizu Orai (Inaba Kaido), which was also used by the Tottori feudal lords for their alternate attendance. Even today, the old townscape remains well, making it a hidden gem of Tottori. A leisurely stroll through the post town will make you feel nostalgic as you visit the historic houses that tell of the prosperity of the past.

In particular, the Ishitani family residence, designated as an Important Cultural Property by the country, is a must-see as it is a magnificent village headman's building belonging to a powerful person in the post town! There are also many other historic buildings that are registered as tangible cultural properties by the country, such as the former Shioya Detached Store and the Nakamachi and Shimomachi Community Centers.

16. Itaihara Village

Just over the mountain from Chizu-juku, in a narrow valley, lies a tourist spot known as the "original landscape of Japan's mountain villages." Itaibara Village, located along the Akanami River, is a place where time seems to have stopped, with the land divisions from the Edo period remaining intact and most of the buildings in the village built before the 1950s!

Itaibara has been gradually gaining attention since the 21st century, and there are galleries and restaurants renovated from old houses, but the best part of visiting is still the untouched mountain village scenery. The roads in the village are narrow and cars are not allowed, creating an atmosphere that is irresistible for those who love hidden places.

17. Wakasa Railway

Wakasa Railway, which connects JR Inbi Line Koge Station and Wakasa Town in the southeastern tip of Tottori Prefecture, is a third-sector company that took over operations from JR West. The short line, less than 20 km long, has been on the brink of closure many times but has overcome these challenges with ingenuity and hard work to attract tourists.

The railway has several types of steam locomotives (SL) and an active turntable at the terminus of Wakasa Station, making it a must-see for railway fans! The locomotive experience run, held on the third Saturday of each month from April to November, is very popular with children. The application period is announced on the website at the end or beginning of the month.

There are also many other events that will tickle the hearts of tourists, such as sleeper ownership and the sale of commemorative tickets. Enjoy the tranquil scenery as you are rocked along the single track.

18. Funakamiyama

Located northeast of Mt. Daisen, Mt. Senjo is not particularly high at 687m above sea level, but its mountain shape, surrounded by cliffs stretching for several kilometers, is hard to resist. It is also famous as the place where Emperor Go-Daigo, who was exiled to Oki Island by the Kamakura Shogunate, took refuge for a time after escaping.

In ancient times, it flourished as a sacred place of mountain Buddhism, and you can see two beautiful yet steep waterfalls cascading between the rugged cliffs. With cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall, it's perfect for hiking! There are also plenty of thrilling sights to see, such as "Senjo Nozoki," which looks down at the cliffs.

19. Yonago

Yonago City, which borders Shimane Prefecture, is the second largest city in Tottori Prefecture. In the early Edo period, it was the center of Hoki Province with a fief of 175,000 koku, and after that, the Tottori Domain's chief retainer, Arao Clan, ruled independently from Yonago Castle.

Yonago is close to Matsue and Sakaiminato, and has Yonago Airport, making it a convenient base for sightseeing in Sanin! There are tourist spots in the city, such as the remains of Yonago Castle with its high stone walls, the famous water "Amanomanai," and "Okashi no Kotobuki Castle," which doesn't look like a sweets shop. If you're touring not only Tottori but also Shimane, you can't avoid Yonago.

20. Tottori Nijisseiki Pear Memorial Museum

One of the agricultural products that is a specialty of Tottori is the Nijisseiki pear, which is characterized by its yellow-green skin. The only museum in Japan that is themed around this pear is the Tottori Nijisseiki Pear Museum, located near the white-walled storehouses in Kurayoshi.

Affectionately known as the "Nashikkokan," this facility has a huge pear tree that stands in the center of the dome-shaped building, making a big impact! It is one of the largest Nijisseiki pear trees in Japan, and at its peak, it is said that it could harvest as many as 4,000 pears in a year.

In addition to the exhibits and experiences, the museum also has a parlor where you can enjoy pear sweets, which is highly recommended! You can also try the soft-serve ice cream and original cakes that have a perfect balance of refreshing sweetness and tartness. It is a great tourist spot where you can enjoy eating while learning about Tottori's famous products.

21. Eshima Bridge

Eshima Ohashi Bridge, nicknamed "Beta Fumizaka" (Beta-Fumizaka) became famous overnight thanks to a TV commercial. This bridge, which crosses from Sakaiminato City, Tottori Prefecture to Eshima Island, which floats in Lake Nakaumi, Shimane Prefecture, has a height difference of 44 meters, making you feel like you're going up and down a water slide.

It's 1,446 meters long, making it a great tourist spot for a drive! From the highest point of the bridge, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Nakaumi, and there is a sidewalk so you can walk across. It's a spot you can't miss if you're looking to take a photo that will look great on social media.

By the way, to get the angle seen in the commercial, you need to cross the bridge and go to the end on the other side of Eshima Island.

22. Megumibanda Ruins

Located at the northwestern foot of the Mt. Daisen mountain range, the Mukibanda Ruins is a Yayoi period ruin that has also been designated as a national historic site. This valuable and vast ruin is believed to have been the center of ancient Izumo, and is being maintained and preserved as the Mukibanda Historical Site Park.

Reconstructed houses, storehouses, and burial mounds are scattered across a spacious hill, and it is possible to tour the interiors. The scenery is also wonderful, and you can get a panoramic view of Miho Bay from the area around the ruins exhibition hall behind the settlement ruins. There is a wide expanse of green lawn, so even families with small children can enjoy themselves.

23. Fudoin Temple Iwayado

Of the three precious historical buildings known as Japan's three great Ippei-do halls, two are located in Tottori Prefecture. One is the Ippei-do hall of Sanbutsu-ji Temple, which we introduced earlier. The other is Fudoin Iwayado, located near the southeastern tip of Tottori Prefecture.

The suspended hall, which is tightly fitted into a hollow in a large natural rock, is believed to have been built in the early Muromachi period and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The principal image, Kurohika Acala, is said to have been created by Kukai, and is a tourist attraction that is affectionately known as O-Fudo-san.

24. Kanemochi Shrine

Kamochi Shrine is located in Hino Town in the southwest of Tottori Prefecture. The "gold" here originally referred to iron sand used in the "Tatara" ironmaking process that was popular in the Sanin region. However, today, due to its direct name, many tourists visit the shrine in search of better financial luck.

In response to such raw human desires, the shrine sells many blessed items that are said to bring good fortune in money. Particularly popular are yellow handkerchiefs! They are dyed with yellow tallow and are said to bring good luck, so many people wrap their lottery tickets in them.

Other unique attempts that have been gaining popularity include "Tana kara bota mochi," which seems to bring unexpected good fortune, and a purification ceremony to thank for an unused wallet. Be sure to take home not only memories but also good fortune when you visit Tottori.

25. Sunaba Coffee

Tottori doesn't have a Starbucks, but it does have the best sand dunes in Japan! This Sunaba Coffee was born from a silly pun by the governor. It is an orthodox (?) coffee shop opened by a local company, and already has 10 stores, including the one in front of Tottori Station.

The year after it opened in 2014, Starbucks entered Tottori for the first time, and Sunaba Coffee ran a "big crisis campaign." It's a complete joke spot, but it has become a tourist attraction, with lines forming during the day on holidays.

There are many food items on the menu, including light meals, and it opens from 8am, so it's also recommended for breakfast! In July 2019, the Tottori Station store was relocated and renovated as the New Tottori Station store, and we can expect it to continue to grow at a rapid pace.

Summary of recommended sightseeing spots in Tottori Prefecture

Tottori may be the least populated prefecture in Japan, but on the other hand, it has two airports (Tottori Sand Dunes Conan Airport and Yonago Kitaro Airport). This means that sightseeing by plane is very convenient!

The prefecture is also neatly divided into three major areas, East, Central, and West, so it is relatively easy to plan your trip. If you've ever thought, "I'd like to go to Tottori Sand Dunes, but is there anything else to see?" Be sure to use this article as a reference and enjoy a fun and original sightseeing trip.

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