Have you ever considered visiting Japan’s countryside when planning a trip—beyond the usual Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka?
If you're looking to unwind in nature after experiencing the hustle and bustle of cities like Kyoto or Osaka, if you want to dive deeper into Japan's authentic history and culture, or if you're eager to connect with locals—or simply want to avoid busy places, then Chizu Town in Tottori Prefecture is the perfect destination for you! A hidden gem just a direct limited express train ride away from Osaka, ideal even for a relaxed day trip.
(*Details on how to get there at the end.)
Chizu is a mountain town surrounded by lush cedar forests.
When you step off the train, take a deep breath and enjoy the clean air and refreshing water.
To feel the history of Chizu, visit the Ishitani Residence, designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
What first catches your eye as you enter is the high ceiling with massive wooden beams—testament to the town’s forestry heritage. Built with thick, majestic timber, the architecture offers a uniquely Japanese beauty. According to the knowledgeable guides, even foreign tourists come here just to witness this masterful wooden structure.
The Ishitani Residence exudes hospitality everywhere—from the intricate cedar carvings on the transoms to the crane-shaped air vents in the bath and even the luxurious tatami mats used in staff quarters. You’ll discover thoughtful details throughout, reflecting the refined care typical of Japanese culture.
You can also taste the richness of nature in the local sake.
At Suwa Sake Brewery, founded in 1859, you’ll find a wide selection of sake brewed from Chizu’s pure water and local rice. Don’t worry if you don’t speak Japanese—while the staff may not be fluent in English, they’re incredibly kind and happy to help you find a sake that matches your taste through a tasting session.
Like it dry? Prefer something a little sweeter? From, say, France—any recommendations? Ask away, and they’ll respond with a smile. Surprisingly, sake pairs well with a wide variety of global cuisines.
JOINER recommends the “Daiginjo Ootori” for sake lovers—refined and elegant. For beginners or those with a sweet tooth, the fruity “Yagami Hime Rose” is a perfect introduction.
There’s much more to explore in Tottori beyond Chizu, where nature and history go hand in hand.
Itaibara Village is a preserved mountain settlement that offers a rare glimpse into rural Japan as it was about 70 years ago—and people still live here. It's incredibly peaceful; you’ll hear birdsong, the wind, and nearby streams—nothing more. It's a quiet, timeless scene that captures Japan’s rural heart.
In the village, you’ll find the cozy Nodoka Café, a renovated old farmhouse where the friendly owner prepares local dishes using seasonal ingredients. Tottori offers rich Sansai (*edible wild plant) from both mountains and sea—including unusual items like mountain vegetable tempura. It's crisp, fresh, and served with warm hospitality. The owner, who studied English at university, shares stories and culinary insights, making the meal not just delicious but memorable.
Walk through a traditional indigo-dyed curtain, and you’ll enter Tanoshi, a unique space that blends old and new. This former hardware shop has been turned into a warm and sustainable community hub, decorated with upcycled tools, wooden features, and rustic charm.
Tanoshi is Chizu’s first restaurant and guesthouse combined with a community space. The friendly staff are always ready to chat, making even first-time visitors feel at home. Perfect for those seeking genuine interactions during their travels. If you don’t want to leave—stay the night!
This spirit of connecting travelers and locals aligns with the values of Osaka JOINER, and we felt right at home here.
And then there’s Mitaki-en, a place that encapsulates the soul of Chizu’s people, past and present.
The owner—who looks like the quintessential Japanese grandma—is surprisingly fluent in English and never runs out of stories. The grounds, handcrafted over decades by the previous generation, feel like something out of Japanese animation—surreal and photogenic.
“There are no barriers here,” she says—and she’s right. Locals and visitors from abroad alike are welcomed with open hearts. With an advance reservation, you can enjoy traditional local cuisine made with mountain vegetables. Mitaki-en is a place where you can discover the way of life and values of Japan’s countryside—through its food, its scenery, and the people who live there. You may even spot staff preparing mountain vegetables, offering a glimpse into Japan’s culinary heritage.
If you have a little more time, don’t miss the Tottori Sand Dunes!
They're so iconic that many Japanese equate Tottori with its dunes. The vast landscapes are stunning, and there are fun activities like sandboarding and fat biking for the adventurous. If the timing is right, you might even catch a breathtaking sunset photo.
Access Information
Getting to Chizu from Osaka is surprisingly easy—just about 2 hours by train.
Take the Super Hakuto Limited Express, no transfers needed.
As of May 2025, the earliest train leaves Osaka at 7:40 AM, and the latest return departs Chizu at 7:09 PM—perfect for a day trip. You can even buy tickets on the day, making spontaneous travel totally doable.
Foreign travelers can also take advantage of special rail passes, which allow you to explore even more of the surrounding area at a great value.
Once you arrive at Chizu Station, head straight to the tourist information center across the street and ask the staff for local recommendations. With maps and tips, your trip will get off to a smooth start.
JOINER’s top pick: rent a bicycle.
Electric bikes are available, making it easy to explore even places like Mitaki-en on a hilltop. Riding along the quiet country roads, with the wind on your face, is one of the most refreshing experiences you can have.
If you're looking for even more local interaction, try a shared taxi operated by locals. It’s affordable and gives you a chance to chat with friendly residents—you might even feel like a local yourself.
JOINER's Top Recommendation! Don’t miss out!
Web Site:
- The Ishitani Residence
https://www.ifs.or.jp/english/ - Suwa Sake Brewery
https://suwaizumi.jp/ - tanoshi
https://chizutanoshi.com/ - Mitakien
https://ashidumitakien.jp/en/ - Tottori Prefecture
https://www.tottori-tour.jp/en/