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Tottori Station Area

3.9
·633 reviews·Tottori, Japan

Tottori Station: Your gateway to Japan's vast sand dunes, charming anime towns, and unique folklore.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Tottori Station Area - Image 1

Tottori Station Area

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Tottori Station: Your gateway to Japan's vast sand dunes, charming anime towns, and unique folklore.

3.9
(633 reviews)

"A convenient hub with friendly staff, perfect for exploring Tottori's unique sand dunes and anime-themed adventures."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎒 Pack for the Dunes

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on sand. Bring water and sun protection!

🚌 Bus to the Dunes

Buses from Tottori Station are frequent and convenient for reaching the sand dunes.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tottori Sand Dunes

Tottori Sand Dunes

Coastal area of Tottori Prefecture

Japan's largest sand dunes offer a unique desert-like landscape by the sea.

TikTokInstagram
Conan Town (Hokuei)

Conan Town (Hokuei)

Hokuei Town

Immerse yourself in the world of Detective Conan with themed streets and attractions.

TikTok+1
Sakaiminato's Yokai Street

Sakaiminato's Yokai Street

Sakaiminato City

Walk Mizuki Shigeru Road, lined with over 150 yokai statues from Japanese folklore.

TikTokInstagram
The Sand Museum

The Sand Museum

Near Tottori Sand Dunes

Marvel at intricate, large-scale sand sculptures that change annually.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Anime & Yokai Magic

Tottori Station is a gateway to worlds of anime! Explore Conan Town and Sakaiminato's Yokai Street. Plan your visits to these themed areas, as transport can be infrequent. TikTok+2

Navigating Tottori's Unique Landscapes

Beyond the station, discover the vast Tottori Sand Dunes and the artistic Sand Museum. Consider bus services from the station for these attractions, as train schedules can be scarce. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for dunes
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

LONG POST AHEAD BUT PLEASE TAKE TIME TO READ My husband and I went to Tottori for our anniversary last July 21st. I booked an overnight stay at Hotel Monarque Tottori. The room we got was nice, and the hotel itself was close to the station. After dinner, we got back to the hotel around 9 p.m. As we were about to enter our room, we noticed a man behind us. We weren’t sure if he was Japanese, Chines...
@mrs.doo__
56.7K likes • 1.6M views

🎒 Pack for the Dunes

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on sand. Bring water and sun protection! TikTok

🚌 Bus to the Dunes

Buses from Tottori Station are frequent and convenient for reaching the sand dunes. Instagram

This is one of Japan’s LEAST visited prefectures & more people should go here! #japan #japantravel #tottori #sanddunes
@raimeetravel
43.5K likes • 413.5K views
📍Wakasa station, Tottori prefecture Japan Cute little retro station located near the mountains. It still runs few trains for people in the area to commute! Even the trains there look retro and photogenic. Don’t forget to check the SL train! You can purchase a ticket just to go inside and take photos, even you don’t take the train🚂 #Tottoriawesome #Tottori #Japan #japantraveldestination #Japant...
tottoriawesome
183 likes • 3.7K views

🕵️‍♀️ Yokai & Conan Trails

Engage in stamp rallies in Conan Town and Sakaiminato for a fun experience. TikTokInstagram

🚆 Train Schedules

Be aware that train schedules can be infrequent; check them in advance. Reddit

The Tottori Saigo Craft Festival has come to an end — thank you so much! For two wonderful days, I took part in the event as an invited artist in Saigo, Tottori, a small mountain town about 30 minutes from Tottori Station. It’s quiet, surrounded by mountains, with few houses, no convenience stores, and almost no city lights at night. Honestly, I couldn’t imagine how people would come to such a re...
tamurayuuki_
33 likes • 604 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎒 Pack for the Dunes

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on sand. Bring water and sun protection! TikTok

🚌 Bus to the Dunes

Buses from Tottori Station are frequent and convenient for reaching the sand dunes. Instagram

🕵️‍♀️ Yokai & Conan Trails

Engage in stamp rallies in Conan Town and Sakaiminato for a fun experience. TikTokInstagram

🚆 Train Schedules

Be aware that train schedules can be infrequent; check them in advance. Reddit

🛍️ Souvenir Hunting

Tottori Station has souvenir shops, including unique anime-themed items. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

3.9
(633 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Tottori Station a convenient hub with friendly staff and essential amenities like shops and eateries. While the surrounding attractions like the sand dunes and anime towns are highly praised for their uniqueness, some note that train schedules can be infrequent, requiring careful planning. The station's proximity to key sites and helpful tourist center make it a solid base for exploring the region.

"while the train schedule is rather scarce (therefore many people take bus), this station has a proper tourist centre, souvenir shop, restos, 7-eleven and hotels nearby. very convenient for tourists."

beergal hkwriter

"The staff here are very friendly and helpful! There are also a number of eateries and convenience stores, as well as a department stall. The bread shop sells really nice breads, and there's a sit-in option too. On both exits of the stations you can find Lawson, but the exit beside 7-11 leads you to the bigger Lawson and its only a few steps away.

The underpass leads you to the other side, where Daimaru is.

You can also get to the sand dunes from this station."

Marklin Ang

"Went to Tottori sand dune.
Was better then Expected.
Took first train from Shin-Osaka. 7:31. Just Enough time to take train to Kinosaki onsen at 12:56"

Dip

What People Like

Convenient station amenities
Friendly and helpful staff
Unique anime attractions

What People Dislike

Infrequent train schedules

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most direct route from Shin-Osaka to Tottori Station is by taking the Limited Express train. This journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Some travelers have noted that train schedules can be scarce, so it's advisable to check the timetable in advance. Reddit

Yes, Tottori Airport (TTJ) is located near the city. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Tottori Station, making it a convenient option if you're flying into the region. TikTok

The most common and convenient way to reach the Tottori Sand Dunes from Tottori Station is by bus. Several bus lines operate regularly, and the journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Instagram

To reach Conan Town (Hokuei), you'll typically take a local train from Tottori Station towards the town. The journey involves local lines and may require transfers. It's recommended to check train schedules as they can be infrequent. TikTok

From Tottori Station, you can take a train to Sakaiminato Station. The journey can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, often involving a transfer. Sakaiminato Station is the starting point for Mizuki Shigeru Road. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to the Tottori Sand Dunes themselves is free. However, activities like camel rides or sandboarding may incur separate charges. TikTok

The Sand Museum typically opens around 8:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM, with extended hours during summer evenings. It's best to check their official website for the most current operating hours and any seasonal variations. Instagram

While walking through Conan Town and seeing the themed elements is free, specific attractions like the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory or Conan's Kitchen may have admission fees. TikTok

The Mizuki Shigeru Museum in Sakaiminato has an admission fee. Prices are generally affordable, and it's a key destination for fans of yokai and Shigeru Mizuki's work. TikTok

While there aren't specific 'all-inclusive' passes for the Tottori Station area attractions, consider regional rail passes if you plan extensive train travel within Tottori Prefecture. Reddit

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Tottori Station itself is convenient with a tourist center, souvenir shops, eateries, and hotels. It's a hub for accessing nearby attractions like the sand dunes and anime-themed towns. TikTok+1

Yes, camel rides are a popular activity at the Tottori Sand Dunes, offering a unique way to experience the landscape. TikTok

Mizuki Shigeru Road in Sakaiminato is an 800-meter street adorned with over 150 bronze statues of yokai characters from 'GeGeGe no Kitaro.' It's a vibrant and quirky experience for fans. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The Tottori Sand Dunes offer stunning vistas, especially at sunset. Conan Town and Sakaiminato provide unique, character-filled backdrops for photos. TikTok+2

You can find local crafts, sand art, and a wide array of anime-themed merchandise, especially related to Detective Conan and Yokai. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Tottori Station offers several dining options, including restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores like Lawson and 7-Eleven. Some reviews mention a good bread shop with a sit-in option. Reddit

While specific recommendations vary, Tottori is known for its seafood. Don't miss trying local specialties if you find them in restaurants around the station or in the towns you visit. TikTok

Yes, Conan Town features themed cafes, such as 'Café Poirot,' where you can enjoy food and drinks inspired by the Detective Conan series. TikTok

Finding dedicated vegetarian restaurants might be challenging, but many Japanese eateries offer vegetable-based dishes like tempura or vegetable stir-fries. It's always best to inquire about ingredients. Reddit

There are usually some food stalls or small cafes near the Tottori Sand Dunes offering snacks and light meals, but options can be limited. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Tottori Sand Dunes offer dramatic landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset. The unique streets of Conan Town and Sakaiminato, with their themed statues and buildings, are also highly photogenic. TikTok+2

Photography is generally allowed inside The Sand Museum, but there might be restrictions on flash or tripods to protect the delicate sand sculptures. Check the museum's guidelines upon entry. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dunes. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare. Protect your gear from sand. TikTok

Yes, Wakasa Station is described as a cute, retro station with photogenic trains. You can even purchase a ticket just to go inside and take photos. Instagram

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography at the Tottori Sand Dunes, creating beautiful shadows and colors. Midday can be harsh. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tottori offers a unique blend of fun for families. Conan Town is a huge hit with children who are fans of the anime, offering interactive experiences and themed treats. TikTok Sakaiminato's Yokai Street provides a quirky and engaging walk with its numerous character statues, sparking imagination. TikTok For a more natural adventure, the Tottori Sand Dunes offer space to run and play, with optional camel rides adding an extra layer of excitement. TikTok Consider the Sand Museum for a dose of art that can captivate younger audiences with its impressive scale. Instagram

🚶 Solo Travelers

Tottori is a great destination for solo travelers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path Japan. The Tottori Sand Dunes offer a peaceful escape and stunning natural beauty. TikTok+1 The anime-themed towns of Conan Town and Sakaiminato provide unique cultural experiences and opportunities for engaging with local pop culture. TikTok+1 The station area's amenities ensure you have easy access to information and necessities, making navigation straightforward. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Tottori presents a diverse range of subjects. The Tottori Sand Dunes are a dream for landscape photographers, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. TikTok The whimsical streets of Sakaiminato and the detailed theming of Conan Town offer fantastic opportunities for street and cultural photography. TikTok+1 Don't miss the artistic sculptures at The Sand Museum for unique, large-scale photographic subjects. Instagram Consider visiting the retro Wakasa Station for charming train and station shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Anime Tourism: Conan and Yokai

Tottori Prefecture has heavily embraced anime tourism, with two major draws: Detective Conan Town in Hokuei and Sakaiminato's Yokai Street. Conan Town is dedicated to the popular manga and anime series 'Detective Conan' (Case Closed), featuring themed streets, a museum dedicated to creator Gosho Aoyama, and even Conan-themed trains and stations. TikTok+1 Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of the young detective, participating in stamp rallies and visiting themed cafes. TikTok

Sakaiminato, on the other hand, is known as the 'Yokai Town,' celebrating the folklore creatures brought to life by manga artist Shigeru Mizuki. Mizuki Shigeru Road is an 800-meter stretch lined with over 150 bronze statues of yokai characters, creating a whimsical and slightly eerie atmosphere. TikTokInstagram The town also hosts the Mizuki Shigeru Museum, further delving into the artist's work and the world of Japanese folklore. Even Yonago Airport is decorated with yokai characters, highlighting the region's commitment to this unique theme. Instagram

Exploring the Tottori Sand Dunes & Sand Museum

The Tottori Sand Dunes are a spectacular natural wonder, stretching approximately 14 kilometers along the coast of Tottori Prefecture. As Japan's largest sand dunes, they offer a unique desert-like landscape that contrasts dramatically with the adjacent Sea of Japan. TikTok Visitors can walk, climb the dunes, and even enjoy activities like camel rides or sandboarding. TikTok The best times for photography are sunrise and sunset, when the light casts long shadows and creates a magical atmosphere. TikTok

Adjacent to the dunes is The Sand Museum, a truly unique attraction that showcases incredible, large-scale sand sculptures created by artists from around the world. Instagram The theme of the exhibition changes annually, ensuring a fresh experience for repeat visitors. The level of detail and artistry in these temporary masterpieces is astonishing. A bus service from Tottori Station makes it convenient to visit both the dunes and the museum in a single outing. Instagram

Tottori Station Area: A Convenient Hub

Tottori Station serves as a crucial gateway for exploring the Tottori Prefecture. While the station itself might not be a major attraction, its convenience for tourists is undeniable. It houses a proper tourist information center, souvenir shops offering local crafts and anime merchandise, and a variety of eateries and convenience stores, including Lawson and 7-Eleven. Reddit This makes it an ideal starting point for planning your day trips and gathering any last-minute necessities.

The station's location also provides easy access to key attractions. Regular bus services connect directly to the Tottori Sand Dunes and The Sand Museum, making these natural and artistic wonders easily reachable. Instagram For those interested in anime, the station is a transit point for journeys to Conan Town and Sakaiminato's Yokai Street, though it's important to note that train schedules for these destinations can be infrequent, requiring careful planning. TikTokReddit

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