Tottori / 日本
Tottori
Explore the Wonders of Tottori: Dunes, Castles, and Culture
Nestled along the Sea of Japan, Tottori Prefecture is Japan’s least populous prefecture but boasts a wealth of natural beauty and unique attractions. Its most famous landmark is the sprawling Tottori Sand Dunes, the largest in Japan, offering a touch of desert landscape against a backdrop of mountains and coastline. The prefecture is also home to enchanting spots like Mount Daisen, a sacred peak beloved by hikers, and beautiful historic towns such as Kurayoshi with its classic white-walled storehouses. Tottori's culture is deeply rooted in its rural traditions, reflected in local festivals, folk tales, and warm hospitality. The region is renowned for its fresh seafood, pear orchards, and quirky attractions like the manga-inspired Mizuki Shigeru Road. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, relaxing hot springs, or a taste of authentic Japanese countryside, Tottori offers an unforgettable and off-the-beaten-path experience.
Safety
Tottori is regarded as one of the safest prefectures in Japan, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. Exercise standard precautions, and be mindful of weather-related risks, especially in coastal or mountainous areas.
Visas
Tottori follows Japan’s national visa policies; most short-term visitors from many countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
Customs regulations
Respect local traditions such as removing shoes indoors and bowing as a greeting. When visiting temples or shrines, follow posted etiquette, and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Prices
Tottori is generally more affordable than Japan’s major cities, with budget accommodation and inexpensive local dining options. Expect moderate prices for attractions and transportation, making it a good value destination.
People and nationalities
Tottori has a small, aging population known for their close community ties and preservation of traditional customs. Locals are welcoming to visitors, and many still practice regional arts, crafts, and agricultural traditions.
Weather
Tottori experiences a temperate climate with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The best time to visit is spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for colorful foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, while winter brings heavy snowfall, especially in the mountains.
Health
Tottori has well-equipped hospitals and pharmacies, especially in Tottori City and Yonago. Emergency services are reliable, and tap water is safe to drink.
Food
Matsuba-gani (Snow Crab)
A winter delicacy harvested from the Sea of Japan, this sweet, succulent snow crab is enjoyed boiled, grilled, or as sashimi, especially in coastal towns like Sakaiminato.
Tottori Wagyu Beef
Highly marbled beef from local cattle, prized for its tenderness and rich flavor, often served as steak, yakiniku (grilled meat), or shabu-shabu (hot pot).
Tottori Nashi (20th Century Pear)
Crisp, juicy pears cultivated in the region, commonly eaten fresh or used in desserts and juices. Tottori is Japan’s largest producer of these pears.
Shijimi-jiru (Freshwater Clam Soup)
A light, savory soup made with local shijimi clams from Lake Nakaumi, flavored with miso or soy sauce and often served with rice.
Dango-Jiru
A comforting soup featuring chewy wheat dumplings, seasonal vegetables, and a savory broth, popular in rural households.
Transport
JR Rail Network
Tottori is served by several JR lines, connecting cities like Tottori, Kurayoshi, and Yonago to Okayama and beyond with limited express and local trains.
Local Bus Services
Buses operate between cities, tourist sites, and rural areas, though schedules may be infrequent in remote locations.
Car Rental
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Tottori’s countryside, mountains, and coastal attractions at your own pace.
Taxis
Taxis are available in major towns and at transport hubs, convenient for short trips or reaching places not served by public transport.
Tottori Sand Dunes Conan Airport
This airport offers domestic flights, primarily to Tokyo and Osaka, providing a quick gateway into the region.
Regions
Aiti
Prefecture
Akita
Prefecture
Aomori
Prefecture
Ehime
Prefecture
Gihu
Prefecture
Gunma
Prefecture
Hirosima
Prefecture
Hokkaidô
Prefecture
Hukui
Prefecture
Hukuoka
Prefecture
Hukusima
Prefecture
Hyôgo
Prefecture
Ibaraki
Prefecture
Isikawa
Prefecture
Iwate
Prefecture
Kagawa
Prefecture
Kagosima
Prefecture
Kanagawa
Prefecture
Kôti
Prefecture
Kumamoto
Prefecture
Kyôto
Prefecture
Mie
Prefecture
Miyagi
Prefecture
Miyazaki
Prefecture
Nagano
Prefecture
Nagasaki
Prefecture
Nara
Prefecture
Niigata
Prefecture
Ôita
Prefecture
Okayama
Prefecture
Okinawa
Prefecture
Ôsaka
Prefecture
Saga
Prefecture
Saitama
Prefecture
Siga
Prefecture
Simane
Prefecture
Sizuoka
Prefecture
Tiba
Prefecture
Tokusima
Prefecture
Tôkyô
Prefecture
Totigi
Tottori
Prefecture
Toyama
Prefecture
Wakayama
Prefecture
Yamagata
Prefecture
Yamaguti
Prefecture
Yamanasi
Prefecture
北海道
東北
関東
中部
近畿
中国
四国
九州・沖縄
What to visit?
History
Tottori is first mentioned in the ancient Izumo Fudoki, a record of local geography and culture compiled for the imperial court.
Construction of Tottori Castle begins, later becoming a center of regional power during Japan’s feudal era.
Tottori Castle endures a famous siege by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, marking a pivotal moment in the region's history.
Tottori becomes a distinct prefecture during the Meiji Restoration’s abolition of the feudal domain system.
The devastating Tottori Earthquake strikes, causing extensive damage and loss of life in Tottori City.
The opening of the Tottori Sand Dunes Conan Airport improves access to the region by air.
A significant earthquake hits central Tottori, causing damage but prompting advances in disaster preparedness.
Activities
Tottori Sand Dunes
Experience Japan’s only large dune system by walking, sandboarding, or even riding a camel across the sweeping sands.
Mount Daisen Hiking
Trek scenic trails on Mount Daisen, the region’s highest peak, and visit Daisen-ji Temple along the way.
Kurayoshi Shirakabe Dozogun
Stroll through Kurayoshi’s picturesque white-walled storehouse district, filled with traditional architecture, cafés, and craft shops.
Mizuki Shigeru Road
Walk this quirky street in Sakaiminato lined with over 150 bronze statues of yōkai (folkloric spirits) from the manga artist Mizuki Shigeru’s works.
Hot Spring Bathing (Onsen)
Relax in soothing mineral waters at Tottori’s onsen towns, such as Misasa Onsen, known for its healing radium-rich springs.