Sakaiminato Station - Image 1
1 / 3

Sakaiminato Station

4.2
·382 reviews·Sakaiminato, Japan

Sakaiminato Station: Gateway to Japan's 'Yokai Town,' adorned with over 177 mythical creature statues and themed trains.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, perfect for photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Sakaiminato Station - Image 1

Sakaiminato Station

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, perfect for photos

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Sakaiminato Station: Gateway to Japan's 'Yokai Town,' adorned with over 177 mythical creature statues and themed trains.

4.2
(382 reviews)

"One of the coolest train stations, with cute deportations all around and pleasant, punctual journeys."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Yokai Stamp Rally

Embark on a fun stamp rally along Mizuki Shigeru Road! Grab a guidebook at the station.

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along Mizuki Shigeru Road, so wear comfy shoes!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mizuki Shigeru Road Statues

Mizuki Shigeru Road Statues

Sakaiminato Station to Mizuki Shigeru Museum

Wander through a street adorned with over 177 bronze statues of beloved yokai characters from Shigeru Mizuki's manga.

Yokai-Themed Trains

Yokai-Themed Trains

JR Sakaisen Line

Ride on trains featuring vibrant yokai artwork, including popular characters like Kitaro and Neko Musume.

Sakaiminato Station

Sakaiminato Station

Station building and platform

The station itself is a starting point for the yokai adventure, with decorations and a helpful tourist information center.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Yokai Magic

Sakaiminato is famously known as the 'Yokai Town' due to its connection with manga artist Shigeru Mizuki. Prepare to be charmed by over 150 bronze statues of yokai (Japanese folklore creatures) lining Mizuki Shigeru Road, starting right from the station. It's a whimsical journey into Japanese mythology.

Station as a Gateway

Sakaiminato Station isn't just a transit point; it's the heart of the yokai experience. The station itself and the trains on the JR Sakaisen Line are decorated with yokai characters. It's also a convenient spot for tourist information and coin lockers.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, perfect for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
All statues are visible
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is Sakaiminato, the Yokai town of Japan! 🧙‍♀️✨ Located in Tottori Prefecture, this seaside town is home to over 150 bronze statues of Yokai, the mysterious creatures from Japanese folklore brought to life by manga artist Shigeru Mizuki. 🌕👀 Walk along Mizuki Shigeru Road, meet iconic characters like Kitaro and Medama-oyaji, explore the Yokai museum, and enjoy themed snacks and souvenirs at eve...
maris_adventures_in_japan
10.1K likes • 180.7K views

🎯 Yokai Stamp Rally

Embark on a fun stamp rally along Mizuki Shigeru Road! Grab a guidebook at the station. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along Mizuki Shigeru Road, so wear comfy shoes! Instagram

On vacation in Sakaiminato, Japan #sakaiminato #sakaiminatostation
ruby_10gan88
26 likes • 341 views
JR境線余子駅愛称こなきじじい駅(鳥取県境港市) JR米子駅0番線から北へと延びる境線17.9㎞は妖怪路線として、全16駅に妖怪の愛称が付けられている。始発の米子駅は「ねずみ男駅」に対して終点の境港駅は「鬼太郎駅」。その他の中間駅、博労町駅から馬場崎町駅までは、米子寄りより全国を14ブロックに分けて北海道から沖縄までの代表的な妖怪が冠されている。 ここ余子駅は四国代表する妖怪こなきじじいが愛称とされる。 The JR Sakaisen Line, which runs 17.9 km north from platform 0 at Yonago Station, is known as the "Yokai Line," with all 16 stations given a yokai nickname. While the starting station, Yonago St...
sunin_discovery
208 likes • 948 views

ℹ️ Tourist Information

The tourist office at the station has English-speaking staff ready to help. Reddit

🧳 Coin Lockers Available

Need to store your luggage? Coin lockers are available at the station. InstagramReddit

境港の街を挙げての水木しげる推しが半端ない😵 Sakaiminato, the town of Shigeru Mizuki, legendary Manga artist! --- 駅、列車、駅前広場、水木しげるロード、水木しげる記念館など想像以上に水木しげる作品をベースとした街が形成されている境港市!ファンはもちろんのこと、一般の観光客も楽しめる✨ 水木しげるロードには177体もの妖怪ブロンズ像が設置されているほか、河童の泉(P4)、妖怪神社(P5)なんかもあり散策が楽しくなる! 先週土曜日に“新美の巨人たち”にも登場した水木しげる美術館(P7-9)も期待以上の充実ぶりだった! #水木しげる#水木しげるロード#水木しげる記念館#妖怪#境港駅#境港#鳥取県 #shigerumizuki#mizukishigeru#mizukishigeruroad#sakaiminatosta...
coshipii
140 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Yokai Stamp Rally

Embark on a fun stamp rally along Mizuki Shigeru Road! Grab a guidebook at the station. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along Mizuki Shigeru Road, so wear comfy shoes! Instagram

ℹ️ Tourist Information

The tourist office at the station has English-speaking staff ready to help. Reddit

🧳 Coin Lockers Available

Need to store your luggage? Coin lockers are available at the station. InstagramReddit

🚆 Train Spotting Fun

Keep an eye out for the uniquely decorated Kitaro train series running on the JR Sakaisen Line. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.2
(382 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Sakaiminato Station and its surrounding Yokai Town for its unique charm and immersive atmosphere. The abundance of yokai statues and the creatively decorated trains are major highlights. The station staff are noted for their exceptional kindness and helpfulness, particularly in assisting with lost items.

"One of the coolest train station, located at the final stop of the line. The deportations are so cute all around the station and on the train too!

It’s always very quiet and all of the rides have been pleasant journeys, trains are ALWAYS on time, incredible time management."

Kitty Cheng

"A small train station near the main street that has the bronze sculptures and shops. There were lockers there, too. I didn't see the train leave but it did have cute pictures decorating the train cars. The mural on the building was nice. There wasn't much inside the station, but they did have an information center with maps and people there to help you. I guess that's all you can ask for."

Bob Morris

"When I realized I had left my cellphone on the train, a train that only runs once an hour with just two vehicles back and forth, I was very frustrated.

But the station officers were very kind and offered me some helpful advice before being panic.

1. Wait for the train I had taken to return and check if my phone was still there.
2. If not found, go to Yonago Station at the opposite end and visit the Lost and Found center.

After waiting for two hours for the train to return, I came back to Sakai-minato station, the officer greeted me with a big smile. He said that he had got a call from the Lost and Found center at Yonago Station and they had my cellphone.

I took the train and went back straight to Yonago Station, and finally, I got my cellphone back.

As all the photos I took during my travels in June were on the phone, so it’s truly priceless to me.

I really appreciate the officers at Sakai-Minato Station, the Lost and Found officer at Yonago Station, and most of all, the anonymous kind person who turned in my cellphone."

MK Joo

What People Like

Unique yokai theme
Abundant statues
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Infrequent train service

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sakaiminato Station is the terminus of the JR Sakaisen Line, which connects to Yonago Station. Many visitors arrive from Yonago, which is a major hub. The journey from Yonago to Sakaiminato takes approximately 40-50 minutes. Instagram+1

No, Sakaiminato Station is not directly served by the Shinkansen (bullet train). You'll typically need to transfer to local JR lines, often at Yonago Station, to reach Sakaiminato. Instagram

From Tottori Airport (TTJ), you would typically take a bus or train to Tottori Station, then connect to a train heading towards Yonago and subsequently Sakaiminato. This can be a lengthy journey. Reddit

Yes, taxis are generally available at Sakaiminato Station, which can be useful for onward travel or if you have heavy luggage. Reddit

The JR Sakaisen Line is a local railway line that runs north from Yonago Station to Sakaiminato Station. It's famous for its yokai-themed decorations on the stations and trains. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Mizuki Shigeru Road is a public street and is free to walk along. The yokai statues are displayed outdoors. Instagram+1

Sakaiminato Station itself is a public transport hub and does not have an entrance fee. However, attractions like the Mizuki Shigeru Museum have separate admission fees. Instagram

Yes, you can activate your JR Pass at Sakaiminato Station. It's a convenient place to do so if you're starting your journey in the area. Reddit

Trains on the JR Sakaisen Line operate on a regular schedule, typically running from early morning until late evening. It's advisable to check the latest timetable upon arrival as trains can be infrequent. Reddit

The stamp rally itself is usually free to participate in, but you may need to purchase a 'Yokai Guidebook' or a stamp rally booklet to collect the stamps. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is Mizuki Shigeru Road, which starts right at the station and is lined with yokai statues. You can also visit the Mizuki Shigeru Museum and explore local shops. Instagram+2

Mizuki Shigeru Road is about 800 meters long. Walking at a leisurely pace and stopping for photos, it can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, especially if you participate in the stamp rally. Instagram

Yes, Sakaiminato Station is equipped with restrooms and other basic facilities for travelers. Reddit

Yes, the statues are placed along the road and are generally easy to photograph. Early mornings or late afternoons might offer better lighting and fewer people. Instagram

If you lose an item on the train, station officers are very helpful. They can assist you by contacting the lost and found at Yonago Station, where items are often taken. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes along Mizuki Shigeru Road and near the station, offering local specialties and themed treats. Instagram

Sakaiminato is a port town, so seafood is a popular choice. You can also find local snacks and dishes inspired by the yokai theme. Instagram

Some establishments along Mizuki Shigeru Road offer yokai-themed menus or decor, adding to the immersive experience. Instagram

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer standard Japanese fare like ramen or udon, which may have vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly. Instagram

Dining prices are generally in line with other Japanese tourist towns. You can find a range from casual eateries to more formal restaurants. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The station building itself, the yokai statues near the entrance, and the decorated trains are great photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Early mornings offer fewer crowds and softer light, ideal for capturing the statues without many people. Evenings can also be atmospheric with streetlights. Instagram

Many visitors love photographing Kitaro, Medama-oyaji (Eyeball Dad), and Neko Musume (Cat Daughter) statues. The large statues near the station are also iconic. Instagram+1

Yes, you can take photos inside the yokai-themed trains. Be mindful of other passengers and avoid flash photography if it might disturb them. Instagram

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the street scenes and multiple statues. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sakaiminato is a fantastic destination for families, especially those with children who enjoy manga or Japanese folklore. The abundance of yokai statues along Mizuki Shigeru Road provides endless entertainment and photo opportunities. The interactive Yokai Stamp Rally is a great way to keep kids engaged as you explore the town. Instagram+1

Consider riding the Kitaro train series, which is a huge hit with younger visitors. Instagram The station offers coin lockers for convenience, and the tourist information center can provide helpful tips for family outings. Many of the statues are at child-friendly heights, making them accessible for little ones to interact with. The overall atmosphere is whimsical and fun, perfect for creating lasting family memories.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Sakaiminato offers a unique blend of quirky street art and charming local life. Mizuki Shigeru Road is a visual feast, with each of the 177 yokai statues providing distinct subjects. Capturing the trains adorned with yokai characters on the JR Sakaisen Line is another must-do. Instagram

To get the best shots, aim for early mornings to avoid crowds and capture the statues in soft light. Instagram Experiment with different angles and compositions to showcase the personality of each yokai. The station itself, with its murals and the surrounding streetscape, also offers interesting photographic possibilities. Don't forget to capture the atmosphere of the town, from local shops to the seaside views.

🚶 Solo Travelers

Sakaiminato is a very manageable and safe destination for solo travelers. The compact nature of Mizuki Shigeru Road and the station area means you can easily explore on foot. The tourist information center at the station is a great resource for getting oriented and asking for recommendations. Reddit

Engaging in the Yokai Stamp Rally can be a fun solo activity, providing a goal and a way to discover hidden statues. Instagram The friendly nature of the locals and station staff, as highlighted in reviews where lost items were returned, adds to the sense of security and comfort for solo explorers. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The World of Yokai at Sakaiminato

Sakaiminato Station serves as the vibrant gateway to the 'Yokai Town,' a concept brought to life by the beloved manga artist Shigeru Mizuki. His creations, featuring a vast array of Japanese folklore creatures known as yokai, are celebrated throughout the town. The JR Sakaisen Line, which terminates at Sakaiminato Station, is affectionately nicknamed the 'Yokai Line,' with each of its 16 stations bearing a yokai name and often decorated with related imagery. Instagram+1

Stretching approximately 800 meters from the station to the Mizuki Shigeru Memorial Museum, Mizuki Shigeru Road is the epicenter of this yokai celebration. Along this street, over 177 bronze statues of yokai characters, including the iconic Kitaro and Medama-oyaji, stand guard, inviting visitors to step into a world of myth and fantasy. This immersive experience makes Sakaiminato a unique destination for fans of Japanese culture and folklore. Instagram+2

Sakaiminato Station: More Than Just a Stop

Sakaiminato Station is more than just a place to catch a train; it's an integral part of the yokai experience. The station building itself often features yokai-themed murals and decorations, setting the tone for visitors. The platforms and trains on the JR Sakaisen Line are also adorned with colorful illustrations of yokai characters, making even the commute a delightful part of the adventure. Instagram+1

For travelers, the station offers practical amenities. You'll find coin lockers for storing luggage, which is incredibly convenient for exploring the town without being weighed down. InstagramReddit Furthermore, a tourist information center is located within the station, staffed by individuals who can provide maps, answer questions, and offer guidance in English, making it easy for international visitors to navigate the area. Reddit It's also a place where you can activate your JR Pass, adding to its utility. Reddit

Navigating the JR Sakaisen Line

The JR Sakaisen Line is the primary mode of public transport connecting Sakaiminato to the wider region, most notably Yonago Station. This line is crucial for accessing the 'Yokai Town' and is an attraction in itself due to its unique theming. The trains running on this line are often decorated with characters from Shigeru Mizuki's manga, such as the Kitaro train series, featuring characters like Medama Oyaji and Neko Musume. Instagram

Trains on the Sakaisen Line typically run with two carriages and operate on a schedule that can be infrequent, sometimes running only once an hour. Reddit This means it's important to check the timetable to avoid long waits. Despite the infrequency, travelers have noted that the trains are remarkably punctual, contributing to a pleasant travel experience. Reddit The line offers scenic views as it travels through the Tottori Prefecture, making the journey itself a part of the sightseeing experience. Instagram

You may also like