11 Must-See Tourist Spots in Yonago, Tottori – There’s Still So Much to Discover!

Yonago City in Tottori Prefecture is located almost at the heart of the San'in region. With a history dating back to ancient times, it has long developed as a commercial hub. Overflowing with nature throughout the city and offering seasonal attractions, Yonago is increasingly accessible not only by land but also by air and sea, making it an ever-more attractive tourist destination.

In this article, we delve into the charms of Yonago. Whether you prefer a journey through culture and history or a stroll through the nostalgic downtown to experience local warmth, you’re sure to discover your own unique Yonago!

1. Yonago Castle Ruins – The Most Famous Castle in the San'in Region

Climb the stone steps from Minatoyama Park at the base of the hill to the castle’s former site on the 90-meter high summit, where Yonago Castle was once built. The view from here is truly breathtaking – an uninterrupted 360-degree panorama overlooking the beautiful city of Yonago. In the distance, you can see the Sea of Japan, which the San'in region proudly boasts, and even the majestic Daisen mountain appears on the horizon.

The history of Yonago Castle dates back to the Sengoku period. After the Battle of Sekigahara, Nakamura Kazuichi became the first feudal lord and established the castle at Iiyama, but it is said that it was later relocated to its current site by the Mōri clan, renowned for their naval expertise. Although the castle itself has been demolished, the impressive stone walls that hint at its former grandeur remain a highlight.

Sometimes it’s nice to pause and leisurely reflect on history.

2. The “Kaimuke Onsen” Resort – For Silky Smooth Skin and Health

Discovered in 1900, Kaimuke Onsen is a relatively young hot spring but boasts the largest hot spring area in the San'in region. Backed by Daisen—one of Japan’s top three famous mountains—and stretching along the nearly 20 km long scenic Yumi-ga-hama Coast right in front of you.

The hot spring water is of the sodium-calcium chloride type, with source temperatures ranging from 63°C to 83°C across 19 sources.
There are outdoor baths and hotels or traditional ryokan offering guest rooms with panoramic views of Daisen and Yumi-ga-hama. With hot springs, seaside bathing, as well as opportunities for hiking and skiing, Kaimuke Onsen is popular as a resort destination.

3. Greeting the God of Longevity – Awashima Shrine

Awashima Shrine, Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture
This shrine is particularly impressive with its 188-step long staircase from the entrance, leading up a mountain that is considered a sacred mountain with an elevation of 38 meters. It is said that Awashima Shrine was once a small island floating on a lake rather than part of the mountain. Because of this, the entire mountain—including Awashima Shrine—was designated as a natural monument by Tottori Prefecture in 1982.

The ancient forest covering the mountain has been revered as the dwelling place of gods since the Edo period. On the western slope, the large azalea-like plant “Shashanbo” blooms, attracting visitors who come specifically to see it. While the climb may be a bit challenging, take in the view as you ascend to receive the blessings of longevity. Located only about a 10-minute drive from the city center, the shrine is also very accessible.

4. Yonago Waterbird Park – A Resting Place for Birds

Spanning approximately 28 hectares, Yonago Waterbird Park is a protected area for waterfowl and a wintering site for flocks of tundra swans. The surrounding area is rich with wild birds, and about 42% of the bird species recorded in Japan have been observed here. More than 100 species and up to 10,000 individual birds are spotted annually, making it a famous tourist destination for bird enthusiasts.

In the park, you can see birds like the common greenshank and teal raising their young in the summer, and in the winter, rare birds such as the nationally designated natural monument, the black-tailed gull, among others, appear in abundance. Be sure to keep an eye out for these feathered residents during your visit.

5. Discover a New Yonago – Kamo River & Nakakai Sightseeing Boat

While exploring a new town on foot is fun, sometimes a boat ride can be a delightful change of pace.

The Nakakai Sightseeing Boat is a tour boat that cruises through the downtown area of Yonago. It departs from the old Kamo River and features the thrilling Tenjin Bridge, which barely clears the height limit! As you sail by the traditional townhouses, a nostalgic feeling may wash over you.

Once you head out into the Nakakai area, you’ll be treated to an entirely different world. The tour, which includes views of the Yonago Castle Ruins and the cityscape, offers a packed itinerary of sightseeing entertainment. Coupled with the engaging commentary of the boat captain, the 40-minute journey may pass by in the blink of an eye, leaving you wanting more.

6. Teramachi-dori – A Street Full of Downtown Warmth

Have you heard of Teramachi-dori, also known as “Temple Ginza”? As the name suggests, nine temples including Fukugen-in and Zuisei-ji line the street, making it a renowned destination among temple enthusiasts nationwide. Temples that were once scattered around the city during the founding of Yonago were gradually brought together, eventually earning the street its name.

Despite the passage of many years, the traditional and dignified cityscape along Teramachi-dori remains unspoiled. At the same time, the area exudes a warm, down-to-earth atmosphere reminiscent of a friendly neighborhood where elderly locals exchange greetings while strolling. It’s worth taking a leisurely walk here to experience the nostalgic charm of a small town.

7. Refresh Your Mind and Body with Pure Water – Amenomanai

Yonago is known as one of Japan’s premier regions for pristine water. Among its many sources, “Amenomanai” stands out as one of the top 100 famous waters in Japan. With a daily water flow of up to 2,500 tons, it has long been an integral part of local life.

In recent years, the surrounding facilities have been fully developed, including a waterwheel shed, promenade, restrooms, and parking. Today, Amenomanai is considered one of the must-visit tourist spots in Yonago. The presence of large fish swimming around is a testament to the water’s clarity. Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the vicinity while listening to the soothing sound of the waterwheel and watching fish swim gracefully—it’s an experience that refreshes both body and soul.

Also, be sure to prepare a portable water tank. The site is located in a narrow area within a small community, so please pay attention to the local signage as you make your way there.

8. Tokoen Garden

Located within the Hotel Tokoen, this garden was designed by sculptor Ryu Masanori around seven distinct themes. The gardens are named “The Garden of Tendai,” “The Garden of Wind,” “The Garden of Abandonment,” “The Garden of Village,” “The Garden of the Enclosure,” “The Garden of Clouds,” and “The Garden of Dye.”

Meticulously maintained with seasonal flowers in bloom, the garden attracts various birds and insects. Its tranquil and elegant atmosphere makes it a delightful place for a relaxing stroll. It is said that even His Majesty the Emperor, who once stayed at Hotel Tokoen, might have enjoyed a leisurely walk here, contemplating the same serene beauty. Although it is about a 20-minute drive from central Yonago, the garden is open to non-guests as well—so be sure to drop by.

9. Learn Yonago’s History at the San'in History Museum of Yonago City

In the heart of Yonago lies a striking red brick Western-style building. Built in 1930, it was designated as a tangible cultural asset of the city in 1977 and now serves as the San'in History Museum of Yonago City.

Considering the technical skill and design required to construct such a building before the war, it must have been a remarkable and groundbreaking achievement at the time. The museum offers a diverse look at Yonago’s folk culture, daily life and schooling during that era, as well as materials related to the February 26 Incident. This variety makes it an engaging facility from multiple perspectives.

For anyone interested in exploring Yonago’s deep history, this museum is a must-visit.

10. Fun for the Whole Family! – Daisen Tom Sawyer Ranch

While a historical tour is enriching, sometimes it’s equally delightful to relax with some playful and adorable animals.

Located at the foot of Daisen, the Daisen Tom Sawyer Ranch is a spacious facility where animals of various sizes frolic freely. From turtles, rabbits, capybaras, and alpacas to kangaroos—the opportunity to walk with alpacas is a rare treat. In addition, the ranch offers hands-on events such as mini pig races and goat milking, making it a fun experience for the entire family.

After plenty of play, if you get hungry, there’s a barbecue area available. Outside of peak periods, you may even bring your own supplies, though the appeal for tourists is that you can simply enjoy the experience hands-free. Located only three minutes from the Yonago IC, its accessibility is outstanding.

11. Hakuhō Hill Exhibition Hall

Hakuhō Hill Exhibition Hall was built to display and explain Japan’s oldest Buddhist murals and the remains of the nationally designated historic site, Yodohai-ji. The facility is divided into three exhibition rooms, each dedicated to a different theme, where approximately 160 cultural properties are on permanent display.

Room 3, which is a full-scale reconstruction of an ancient temple’s interior, is particularly impressive. Knowing that the temple interior was recreated here in Yonago after more than a thousand years attracts fans from both inside and outside the prefecture. It is the only place in Japan where you can experience this, so it’s a must-see tourist spot when visiting Yonago.

Please note that the exhibition hall is closed every Tuesday. Right in front of the hall is the Yodoeyu Onsen—so if you feel tired, you might take a short break there.

◎Summary of Yonago’s Tourist Attractions

We have delivered a rich and content-packed introduction to the hidden charms of Yonago—a city filled with abundant nature and deep history that you might think you already know but never truly did. Whether you enjoy leisurely strolls or time-travel back to the past, discover your own unique journey in Yonago.

While we have featured the representative tourist spots in this article, those who wish to learn even more might consider a guided tour by a local volunteer guide. Why not spend your next holiday in Yonago—a city imbued with old-town charm, conveniently accessible via a 25-minute airport shuttle from Yonago Kitaro Airport?

Search

Customer Support

11 Must-See Tourist Spots in Yonago, Tottori – There’s Still So Much to Discover!