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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Yonago.
Nestled in the heart of Tottori Prefecture, Yonago is a vibrant city that offers visitors a myriad of possibilities.
With its breathtaking natural landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage, Yonago is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this city has everything to make your stay an unforgettable one.
So, pack your bags and get ready to indulge in the beauty and excitement that Yonago has in store for you.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Yonago:
1. Mount Daisen
A volcanic mountain located in the Chugoku region of Japan and considered one of the highest peaks in western Japan.
What to see or do: Experience the stunning views from the top of the mountain, take a cable car or hike to the summit, visit the Daisen-ji Temple, explore the Daisen-Oki National Park and enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding in winter, and hiking and cycling in summer.
Don’t miss: The picturesque landscape of the mountain, surrounded by beautiful forests and farmland, and the traditional Japanese hot springs known as onsen, where you can relax and unwind after a long day of exploration.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit in autumn to see the beautiful fall colors around the mountain.
Visitors should also try the delicious local food, especially the famous Daisen Chicken and the rice cooked in a bamboo tube known as “takenoko gohan”.
Additionally, it’s important to respect the natural environment and follow the rules and guidelines, as the mountain is considered a sacred place by locals.
2. Kaike Onsen
A traditional Japanese hot spring resort located in the city of Yonago.
What to see or do: Enjoy a relaxing bath in one of the many outdoor and indoor hot springs. Stroll around the charming streets of Kaike Onsen and admire the traditional architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Take a walk along the scenic coastline and enjoy the sea breeze.
Don’t miss: The Kaike Grand Hotel Yonago, a luxurious hotel that offers stunning views of the Sea of Japan. The hotel has its own private hot spring baths and a wide range of dining options.
Insider travel tips: Check out the local food scene and try some of the delicious fresh seafood and local specialties. Don’t be afraid to try the local sake, which is known for its smooth texture and unique flavor.
If you’re looking for a quieter and more peaceful experience, consider visiting on a weekday rather than a weekend.
3. Sakaiminato Fisherman’s Wharf
Sakaiminato Fisherman’s Wharf is a charming waterfront area in Yonago, Japan that celebrates the region’s fishing heritage and offers a variety of seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and fishing experiences.
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4. Fujimigaoka Park
Fujimigaoka Park is a beautiful hillside park located in Yonago, Japan.
What to see or do: The park offers stunning views of Yonago city and the Sea of Japan.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk or hike on the park’s many trails, relax on the expansive lawns, or have a picnic with family and friends.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the observation deck, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. In the spring, the park is also a popular spot to witness the cherry blossom season.
Insider travel tips: – Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
5. Yonago Castle Ruins
Yonago Castle Ruins is the site of a former castle in Tottori Prefecture, Japan, that was destroyed during the Meiji Restoration in 1871.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle, which include excavated walls, moats, and the foundation of the castle tower. There are also exhibits showcasing the history and significance of the castle.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the castle ruins, which offer a panoramic vista of Yonago and the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is during the cherry blossom season in late March to early April, when the castle ruins are surrounded by beautiful pink blossoms.
6. Mizuki Shigeru Road
A street in Yonago dedicated to the life and art of Mizuki Shigeru, a famous Japanese manga artist and creator of the beloved character GeGeGe no Kitaro.
What to see or do: Take a stroll down the street and enjoy the various statues and displays showcasing Mizuki Shigeru’s art, including a bronze statue of GeGeGE no Kitaro himself.
Visit the Mizuki Shigeru Museum to learn more about his life and career. Check out the selection of souvenir shops selling GeGeGe no Kitaro merchandise and local goods.
Don’t miss: The Mizuki Shigeru Road Night Walk when the street is illuminated by traditional Japanese lanterns creating a magical atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Yonago can be easily reached by train or bus from major cities in the region. The Mizuki Shigeru Museum offers English audio guides and there are English translations of the displays on the street.
The souvenir shops can get crowded during weekends and public holidays.
7. Yumigahama Beach
Yumigahama Beach is a stunning crescent-shaped beach located in Yonago, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a dip in the crystal clear waters or enjoy various beach activities such as paddle boarding and kayaking.
The sand is incredibly soft and perfect for lounging in the sun.
Don’t miss: The jaw-dropping sunset views at Yumigahama Beach are not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: Head to the beach early in the day to avoid the crowds. Also, keep in mind that there are limited restroom and shower facilities available at the beach, so plan accordingly.
8. Marine Dinosaur Museum
The Marine Dinosaur Museum is a unique museum dedicated to showcasing the fossils of marine dinosaurs.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the different exhibitions in the museum that give insight into marine dinosaur life, anatomy and history. The museum also has a 3D theater that shows educational films about marine dinosaurs.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the nearly complete skeleton of a 26-meter-long marine dinosaur named “Futabasaurus.” The fossil was excavated from the local area and is the largest of its kind in Japan.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located on a hillside overlooking the Sea of Japan, providing stunning views.
9. Tottori Sand Dunes
The Tottori Sand Dunes is a vast natural wonder in the city of Tottori, Japan. This beautiful landscape features sprawling hills of golden sand that are shaped by wind and time.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a scenic walk or hire a camel to explore the dunes, offering breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan.
The area also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as paragliding, sandboarding, and horse riding.
Don’t miss: The Sand Museum is a must-see attraction located near the dunes, which features impressive sand sculptures created by artists from around the world.
The Sunabesyou, a quaint town by the dunes, also offers a unique shopping experience where visitors can buy sand-based souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: – The dunes are particularly beautiful during the sunrise and sunset hours.
10. Adachi Museum of Art
The Adachi Museum of Art is a world-renowned museum located in the small city of Yasugi, near Yonago, in the Shimane Prefecture of Japan.
It is home to a vast collection of Japanese artwork, including contemporary paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s six exhibition rooms with a range of changing exhibitions throughout the year.
The museum’s gardens are also a must-visit attraction, boasting one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens that has been named the best garden in Japan for the past 18 years.
Don’t miss: The garden’s view from the main building is breathtaking and visitors can also walk around the garden to discover different angles of the garden.
The museum also has a café and a gift shop selling souvenirs that feature images from the gardens and artwork.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should avoid bringing large bags and suitcases into the museum.
The garden is best witnessed during different seasons, such as spring when cherry blossoms bloom and fall when the maple leaves turn the garden into a beautiful tapestry of autumn colours.
To avoid crowds, visitors may want to consider visiting the museum during off-peak seasons or weekdays.
11. Daikon Island
Daikon Island is a small island located in the western part of Japan, near Yonago city.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the island’s natural beauty, including forests, meadows, and stunning coastlines.
Daikon Island is also famous for its agricultural produce, especially the giant radishes (daikon), which are known to weigh up to 50kg.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions on the island is the “Radish Garden,” where visitors can see rows of giant daikon in different stages of growth.
Additionally, take a walk through the island’s forests, which are filled with cherry blossoms in the spring and colorful foliage in the autumn.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the island in the autumn when the leaves turn a beautiful shade of red and yellow.
12. Kamosu Shrine
Kamosu Shrine is a beautiful ancient shrine located in Yonago city, Japan.
What to see or do: The shrine is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture and is surrounded by a well-manicured garden that makes for a pleasant stroll.
Visitors can enjoy the serene and peaceful atmosphere as they explore the grounds. This is a great spot for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the essence of traditional Japanese architecture and gardens.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the shrine’s main hall, which showcases intricate designs featuring dragons and other mythological creatures. The stunning craftsmanship of the shrine’s interior and exterior decorations is something that must not be missed.
Insider travel tips: To fully enjoy the experience, visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes that are easy to walk in. It is also recommended to visit the shrine during weekdays in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds.
If you’re lucky, you may catch a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony, which is a beautiful sight to see.
13. Yonago Waterbirds Sanctuary
Yonago Waterbirds Sanctuary is a lush wetland located in the Yonago City of Japan.
What to see or do: The sanctuary is a paradise for bird enthusiasts who can spot over a hundred species of migratory birds here.
Visitors can stroll on the meandering wooden boardwalks that wind through the sanctuary, providing an up-close and personal experience of the birds in their natural habitat.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the majestic Steller’s Sea Eagle, the symbol of the sanctuary. Other birds that can be spotted include the Common and Spectacled Teals, Northern Pintails, and Black-winged Stilts.
Insider travel tips: To get the best experience at the sanctuary, it’s good to visit during the peak migratory season between November and March.
The sanctuary provides guided tours for visitors, which can be a great way to learn more about the native flora and fauna.
It’s also recommended to bring mosquito repellents and wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be a bit uneven.
14. Kotoura Beach
Kotoura Beach is a picturesque white-sand beach located in Yonago, Tottori Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The crystal-clear blue waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Surfing is also a popular activity here due to the consistent waves.
Don’t miss: The stunning view of the scenic horizon is a must-see, especially during sunset. The beach is also surrounded by pine trees which provide a shade perfect for picnics.
Insider travel tips: Pack your own food and drinks as there are limited amenities available. It is recommended to bring your own snorkeling and surfing gear as rentals can be expensive.
It is also advisable to visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.