A festival featuring matchlock guns once used by samurai, plus the ultimate relaxing escape into Japan’s countryside.
After experiencing traditional arts and cuisine in Kyoto or Osaka, take the next step into a deeper side of Japan—Tottori Prefecture. Here you’ll find a limited-time festival and landscapes so moving that even Japanese travelers describe them as “scenery you’ll never forget.” Why not set out on a journey to experience both?
Getting There from Osaka
Tottori is located northwest of Osaka and is very easy to access. From JR Osaka Station, board the Limited Express Super Hakuto and arrive at JR Tottori Station in just about 2.5 hours—direct, with no transfers. Simple, comfortable, and stress-free.
Suggested Itinerary (Recommended by Osaka JOINER)
Day 1
・Depart JR Osaka Station → Arrive at JR Tottori Station via Limited Express
・Explore Tottori City
・Enjoy the Tottori 320,000-Koku Castle Festival with matchlock gun performances, local food, and stage events
・In the evening, admire the breathtaking sunset at the Tottori Sand Dunes
Day 2
・Take the train one stop from JR Tottori Station to JR Chizu Station
・Immerse yourself in Japan’s rural heartland
・Visit important cultural heritage wooden buildings
・Relax in a café converted from a traditional farmhouse
・Taste local sake
・Experience life in a preserved mountain village and connect with the people who live there
Feel the Power of Matchlock Guns
On Sunday, September 28, the Tottori 320,000-Koku Castle Festival features warriors in armor firing matchlock guns in a powerful performance. Lining up on a bridge, the soldiers fire in succession—standing or kneeling in formation—each shot echoing with a thunderous roar that draws cheers and applause from the crowd.
History Tip
Matchlock guns were first introduced to Japan in 1543, when Portuguese sailors drifted ashore on Tanegashima Island. The local lord purchased two firearms, studied their design, and succeeded in reproducing them. Their introduction transformed Japanese warfare, which had until then relied mostly on close combat with swords.
Today, matchlock gun demonstrations are rare and can only be seen at select festivals or events. Don’t miss this chance to feel as if you’ve time-traveled back to the samurai era.
More Festival Highlights
The celebration also showcases diverse traditional arts, including the Kirin Lion Dance, taiko drumming, and the lively Shan-shan Umbrella Dance with performers in traditional costumes. Stalls offering beloved local foods ensure that both your appetite and curiosity are fully satisfied.
Along the way, stop by a locally beloved coffee shop that was created with a playful spirit.
Back when this region was famously known as the only prefecture in Japan without a major international coffee chain, locals decided to turn that fact into humor and pride, opening their own café instead. Its name, inspired by the sand dunes, reflects both local creativity and affection for their hometown.
Sunset at the Tottori Sand Dunes
In the evening, head to the Tottori Sand Dunes.
Here, the vast dunes meet the horizon of the Sea of Japan, creating a magical view as the sun sets. Within this small island nation, you’ll feel the grandeur of nature in its purest form.
If you’d like to capture the perfect shot, consider joining a guided photo tour of the dunes (advance reservation required).
Day 2 in Chizu: Encounter “Unforgettable Scenery”
On the next day, take the express train just one stop from JR Tottori Station to Chizu Station. Step off the train, take a deep breath, and savor the crisp mountain air. Then…
・Visit nationally designated important cultural heritage wooden architecture
・Enjoy a peaceful break in a café inside a renovated farmhouse
・Taste locally brewed sake
・Walk through a preserved mountain hamlet and experience a way of life that feels timeless
・Connect with locals to gain insight into the values of Japan’s countryside
Here, you’ll be welcomed by nostalgic “original landscapes of Japan” that stay in your heart long after your journey ends.
For more detailed information, see the article here:
Festival：鳥取三十二万石お城まつり｜特集｜鳥取市観光サイト【公式】 - 鳥取市のおすすめ観光・旅行情報
Tottori：Sightseeing | Tottori Tourism Guide
Chizu：鳥取県智頭町ホームページ