Unveiling Tottori: Japan's Hidden Gem Where Nature, Culture, and Adventure Collide

Japan's Least Populated Prefecture | Tottori Prefecture Travel Guide (YouTube link)

Tottori & Kinosaki ONSEN (YouTube link)

Tottori Prefecture, nestled on the Sea of Japan coast, holds the distinction of being Japan's least populated prefecture. However, what it lacks in crowds, it more than makes up for in natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and off-the-beaten-path charm.

Tottori offers a unique blend of mountains, coastline, and charming towns, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a tranquil and authentic Japanese experience.

Discovering Tranquility: Shitori Shrine (YouTube link)

Here's a glimpse into what awaits you in Tottori:

Natural Wonders:

• Tottori Sand Dunes: The crown jewel of Tottori is the vast Tottori Sand Dunes, stretching for over 16 kilometers along the coast. These impressive dunes, reaching heights of up to 50 meters, are a haven for sandboarding, camel rides, and exploring the unique desert-like landscape.
• Mt. Mitoku: It is located in Tottori Prefecture, Japan, is a sacred mountain revered for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. It's home to several temples and shrines, including the famous Sanbutsu-ji Temple, which houses important Buddhist artifacts. 
• The mountain offers stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also enjoy hot spring baths and local cuisine, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and spiritual seekers.
• Mount Daisen: A dormant volcano, Mount Daisen is a majestic peak offering stunning vistas, hiking trails, and a chance to soak in natural beauty. You can find charming villages, hidden waterfalls, and serene hot springs nestled around the mountain.
• Uradome Coast: This scenic coastline boasts dramatic rock formations, secluded beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Take a boat tour to admire the unique rock formations and spot marine life.

【Tottori/鳥取】MISASA Hot Springs〔三朝温泉〕(YouTube link)

Cultural Delights:

• Traditional Crafts: Tottori is a treasure trove of traditional crafts. Witness the creation of beautiful woodblock prints, delicate lacquerware, and exquisite ceramics.
• Sand Museum: A unique highlight of Tottori is the annual Sand Museum (online ticket booking; time: 1 hr), showcasing intricate sculptures made entirely of sand. The artistry and detail of these sculptures are truly awe-inspiring.
• Shrine and Temple Visits: Explore the numerous shrines and temples scattered throughout Tottori, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage. Visit a serene sanctuary: Shitori Shrine or the renowned historical Sanbutsu-ji Temple.
• Misasa Onsen: Misasa Onsen, renowned for its high radon content, is a popular health resort. Soak in the therapeutic waters, especially at the riverside rotenburo. The charming town offers scenic bridges, historic temples, and the soothing sounds of nature.

Local Flavors:

• Tottori is a paradise for seafood lovers. Savor the freshest catch, including crab, sandfish, and delicious sea urchin. Don't miss the local specialty, "Tottori WagyuTottori Wagyu" beef, renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
• Eastern Tottori's twist on yakisoba? Look for "horu soba," a beloved local dish featuring beef entrails (horumon) served in over 30 eateries. Each shop offers its unique spin, so go on a culinary adventure and discover your favorite combination of sauce, entrails, and noodles!

Tottori may be off the beaten path, but it's precisely this aspect that makes it a gem waiting to be explored. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, Tottori promises an unforgettable Japanese adventure.

Download the timetable pdf (link)

References

1. JR鳥取駅・鳥取空港～鳥取砂丘へのアクセス
2. 空港～鳥取駅区間　連絡バス 時刻表(鳥取駅まで約20分)
3. 空港～倉吉駅・青山剛昌ふるさと館区間　連絡バス 時刻表
• The first bus (1便) from Kurayoshi Station to Tottori Airport requires a reservation. No reservations are needed for the other buses.
4. 鳥取砂丘周辺 Map & Information (pdf)
5. 鹿野そば道場
6. 三朝温泉　木屋旅館
7. 三朝観光 (pdf; good)
8. Misasa Onsen Official Site (transportation link)
• Tokyo (Haneda) Airport --ANA ~1h 25m--> Tottori Airport --Limousine bus ~45 mins --> JR Kurayoshi Station --local bus ~ 20m--> Misasa Onsen
• Misasa Onsen Kanko Shoko Center (8:55 AM) --1h 39m --> Tottori Airport (10:20 AM)
• Kurayoshi station (9:30 AM) --airport limousine 50m--> Tottori Airport (10:20 AM)
9. Mount Daisen Hiking Trail
10. Shukubo at Wakoin Temple (Buddhist cuisine) in Tottori (total: 13 posts)
11. Shoji Ueda Museum of Photography
12. Camel ride experience (in Japanese)
• Beginning January 2024, camel photo opportunities will be available only on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, and during school breaks including spring, summer, autumn, winter, Golden Week, and Silver Week.
13. Mt. Mitoku Reception Information Center (link)
14. Mt. Mitoku 三徳山 Hiking map (pdf)
• Round trip: 1h 30m - 2h
15. Sakai Dune Center Panoramic Hill Bus Pack (11/01/2024 - ~)
• Discount tickets can be purchased at Tottori Bus Terminal operated by Nihon Kotsu (日本交通株式会社).
16. Nihon Kotsu (日本交通株式会社) 
• Please note that bills other than 1,000 yen bills cannot be exchanged on route buses. Please prepare coins in advance.
17. 鳥取駅～砂丘 (Timetable pdf)