【Travel Journal】A Journey Through Tottori: Hidden Charms and Warm Encounters

Tottori Prefecture is often overlooked as a travel destination, but once you step foot to the place which only takes 2 hours and a half from Osaka, you’ll wonder why more people haven’t discovered its magic. From historic post towns to breathtaking sand dunes, every moment in Tottori felt like stepping into a storybook, guided by the warmth of its people and the depth of its traditions. Let us take you through our unforgettable journey.

Riding into Tottori: The Super Hakuto Express

The journey itself set the tone. Boarding the Super Hakuto express train in Osaka, we settled into our seats, gazing out as the cityscape gave way to rolling hills and lush countryside. The 154-minute ride wasn’t just transportation—it was an introduction to the untouched beauty awaiting us. With each passing minute, the urban energy of Osaka faded, replaced by the quiet allure of western Japan.

Chizu-shuku: Walking Through Time

Stepping off the train at Chizu, we were immediately struck by how different the air felt—crisp, fresh, and carrying the scent of trees. Chizu-shuku, a former post town on the Inaba Kaidō route, still holds the echoes of samurai and merchants who once passed through. As we wandered its quiet streets, we could almost hear the clip-clop of horses from centuries past. Unlike the bustling streets of Kyoto, here, time seemed to slow down, inviting us to take it all in at our own pace.

Sake, Stories, and Hospitality at Suwa Sake Brewery

We found ourselves at Suwa Sake Brewery, where we met the friendly owner, originally from Himeji. She greeted us with a warm smile and immediately poured a tasting of their finest sake. “This water is the heart of Chizu,” she said as we took a sip. She was right—the crisp, pure taste carried the essence of the land itself. Between sips, we talked about the brewing process, the history of the area, and even exchanged travel stories. It was more than just a drink—it was an experience of connection.

Getting Our Hands Blue: Dyeing with Tradition at Chizu Blue

At Chizu Blue, the artisans welcomed us warmly and guided us through the intricate process of natural indigo dyeing. As we dipped fabric into the deep blue vat, watching the color transform under our fingers, we felt a sense of wonder. The final product? A handmade piece carrying the soul of Tottori, and a memory we could take home. This dyeing studio preserves traditional techniques, using eco-friendly natural indigo methods. Travelers from abroad often visit to immerse themselves in the craft and bring home unique handmade pieces.

Kariya / Kura Street: A Walk Through History

Strolling down Kariya / Kura Street felt like discovering a well-kept secret. Lined with historic kura (storehouses) and traditional sake breweries, the area had a quiet charm that transported us to another era. There are many photo spots along with the retro Wakasakura station with its distinctive red roof. Unlike the crowded streets of Kyoto or Nara, this place felt untouched, waiting to be explored by those willing to take a slower path.

Behind the Scenes at Ohta Sake Brewery Ltd.

Normally, visitors aren’t allowed into Ohta Sake Brewery’s production area, but we were lucky enough to get a special tour. Stepping inside, we watched in awe as sake was brewed.The scent of fermenting rice hung in the air, blending with the cool humidity of the factory. Seeing the craftsmanship up close made every sip of their sake even more meaningful.

More Than Just a Meal: Tonkatsu Arata

By this point, we were starving, and a local recommended Tonkatsu Arata. The historical building, an old private house, gave off an old-fashioned Japanese atmosphere. As soon as we bit into the golden, crispy tonkatsu, we knew this was no ordinary meal. The pork was juicy, the coating perfectly crisp. With options like a loin and filet mix, we could savor a variety of tonkatsu.

The Timeless Beauty of Genzuigama Pottery

At Genzuigama Pottery Studio, we met master potter Mr. Shibahara. His blue-glazed ceramics, inspired by the sea, had a depth and texture that felt alive. He spoke passionately about the pottery on display, saying, “The recipe for the pottery was more important than anything else, and even when I had to evacuate because of the heavy floods, I could not forget that one thing!” Holding one of his works in our hands, we could feel the story behind it—craftsmanship blended with personal artistry.

A Moment of Awe: Tottori Sand Dunes

No trip to Tottori would be complete without seeing the legendary sand dunes. As we climbed up the dunes, the wind whipped around us, carrying grains of sand like whispers of the past. At the top, the view stretched endlessly—the golden waves of sand meeting the deep blue sea. It felt surreal, almost as if we had stepped onto another planet. Some visitors tried running up, simply stood in silence others tried running up, taking it all in. There are also activities such as yoga and sandboarding, so you can enjoy it in their own way.

Why Tottori?

The trip to Tottori, where you can experience Japan's traditional landscapes, will leave a lasting impression. The moments of silence, where nature speaks louder than words, provide a unique and peaceful experience. Warm local people, Japanese sake and regional dishes rooted in the majestic nature, and experiences that allow you to feel history and tradition with your own skin – all of these await you. Moreover, Tottori is still a destination with fewer foreign tourists, making it one of the stress-free travel spots where you won’t be overwhelmed by crowds. Just a direct limited express train ride from Osaka, this place is easy to visit. Why not extend your trip and experience Tottori? A journey that resonates with your heart, Tottori is waiting for you.

Information adout Tottori:https://www.tottori-tour.jp/en/