Things To Do
in Hōki
Hōki (Hōki-chō) is a quiet town in Tottori Prefecture on the western side of Japan’s main island, characterized by rice fields, coastal scenery and close access to the Daisen mountain range. The town is rooted in agriculture and fishing, offering a slower, rural experience compared with Japan’s big cities. Visitors will find scenic drives, local shrines and small-scale produce markets showcasing regional specialties like fresh seafood and pears.
Hōki is a convenient base for exploring nearby natural attractions, day hikes and sampling local Tottori food culture while experiencing traditional small-town Japanese life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Hōki Museum and marvel at its captivating collection of ancient artifacts. Take a guided tour to learn about the rich history of the region and its significance in Japanese culture. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, enjoying local delicacies.
Stroll through the charming streets of Hōki, where traditional wooden houses transport you back in time. Visit the iconic Shinjo-ji Temple, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens. Take a break in a local tea house to experience the ritual of Japanese tea.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at a riverside restaurant, sampling fresh Hechima cuisine. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, soaking in the peaceful ambiance. End the evening with a visit to a local onsen, indulging in a relaxing soak under the stars.
Begin with a hike through the breathtaking Shōbōji Park, where lush greenery and scenic views await. Early risers might catch a glimpse of local wildlife bustling through the trails. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy at one of the park's scenic overlooks.
After your hike, visit a local farm for a hands-on experience of fruit picking, depending on the season. Engage with local farmers and learn about sustainable practices while savoring the fruits of your labor. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch in a barn setting, featuring seasonal ingredients.
As dusk approaches, head to the coastline for a stunning sunset view over the Japan Sea. Find a cozy spot on the beach to unwind while listening to the waves lapping the shore. To conclude the day, indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside grill, relishing the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍣Mid-range seafood dinner for two | $50-80 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $3-5 |
| 🚌Local bus or short train ride | $2-4 |
| 🏨Night at a ryokan with onsen (per person) | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful rural atmosphere and scenic natural landscapes.
- Fresh local seafood and seasonal agricultural produce.
- Good base for exploring Mt. Daisen and the Sea of Japan coast.
- Authentic small-town Japanese cultural experiences.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options in town.
- Public transportation is less frequent; a car or bike is helpful.
- Fewer dining choices for strict vegetarians, vegans or specialized diets.
- "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "ありがとうございます (Arigatō gozaimasu)" - Thank you (polite)
- "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "お願いします (Onegaishimasu)" - Please (requesting)
- "これは何ですか？ (Kore wa nan desu ka?)" - What is this?
- "〜はどこですか？ (〜 wa doko desu ka?)" - Where is ~?
- "肉は食べません (Niku wa tabemasen)" - I don't eat meat
Places to Visit in Hōki
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunset and sunrise over the Sea of Japan provide dramatic light; photograph fishing boats, rocky shorelines and long coastal horizons.
Patterned paddies reflect the sky in spring and create patchwork landscapes through the growing season and harvest—ideal for golden-hour shots.
From nearby lowland vantage points you can capture the silhouette of Daisen, seasonal fog and surrounding forested slopes—especially striking in autumn and winter.
Small Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples with torii gates and stone lanterns offer intimate cultural photography scenes in all seasons.
Pear orchards and fruit farms during harvest season provide colorful close-ups and rural lifestyle scenes.
Food in Hōki
Hōki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal fish, squid and crabs prepared as sashimi, grilled or in hot pots—look for small family-owned restaurants and seaside stalls for the freshest options.
Must-Try!
Juicy local pears are a Tottori specialty; sample them at fruit stalls, markets and desserts in cafés during harvest season (late summer–autumn).
Simple soba noodles and donburi (rice bowls) using local ingredients are common at casual eateries around town.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small weekend or morning markets sell freshly harvested vegetables, seasonal fruit and occasionally prepared snacks; try grilled fish skewers or local pickles from market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bowing is the standard greeting; be polite and patient in interactions. Use simple Japanese phrases and a respectful tone.
Remove shoes when entering homes, some ryokan, temples and certain indoor spaces; wear socks and follow host instructions for slippers and changing areas.
Keep noise low in public spaces and on local trains; queue in lines and follow signage at stations and buses.
At Shinto shrines, bow at the torii, cleanse hands and mouth at the temizuya, and be respectful when photographing—avoid loud behavior and respect worshippers.
Safety
Tipping in Hōki
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be refused; exceptional service is best acknowledged with a polite thank-you or a small omiyage (souvenir) when appropriate.
Cash (Japanese yen) remains widely used in rural areas—have cash on hand for small shops and restaurants. Credit cards are increasingly accepted but may not work everywhere; IC transit cards (Suica/Pasmo) have limited coverage in rural Tottori, so check in advance. ATMs at 7-Eleven and post offices accept international cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and spring flowers appear from late March to April; temperatures are mild and comfortable—pack a light jacket for mornings and evenings.
Warm to hot and humid, especially in July and August; coastal breezes help but bring sun protection and hydration. Summer festivals may occur in nearby towns.
Crisp air and beautiful autumn foliage from October to November—ideal for hiking and photography with cooler daytime temperatures.
Colder months bring lower temperatures and possible snow in higher elevations around Mt. Daisen; coastal areas are milder but can be chilly—bring warm layers and waterproof footwear.
Hōki at Night
Hiking in Hōki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A range of hikes from gentle forest walks to more challenging ascents—excellent for seasonal foliage, wildflowers and panoramic views.
Walks along the Sea of Japan coastline offer dramatic sea views, tide pools and birdwatching opportunities—best at low tide and during calm weather.
Easy, low-elevation trails through rural landscapes and small woodlands provide serene, accessible walks for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Hōki by plane.
The closest regional airport serving Yonago and western Tottori—offers domestic flights and good access to the area via car or bus.
Serves Tottori city with domestic connections; travel from Tottori to Hōki is by road and regional transport.
Located in neighboring Shimane Prefecture; useful as an alternative for some domestic routes and access to western San'in region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents work in agriculture, fishing and small businesses; family-run farms and fisheries shape community life.
Like many rural parts of Japan, Hōki has a higher proportion of older residents, with smaller youth populations moving to larger cities.
Some residents commute to nearby towns and cities for work, contributing to a mixed rural-commuter demographic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is widely popular across Japan, with strong community and school-level participation in Tottori Prefecture.
Local youth and amateur soccer clubs are common; watching regional matches can be a community event.
Coastal fishing—both recreational and commercial—is an important local activity and cultural element.
Given proximity to Mt. Daisen and foothills, hiking and trail activities are popular among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hōki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are more limited in rural Japan; communicate clearly using phrases like 'Watashi wa bejitarian desu' and request dishes without fish stock (dashi). Many restaurants can serve vegetable tempura, rice and salads, but it's wise to bring snacks or check nearby larger towns for dedicated vegetarian restaurants.
Strict vegan or gluten-free diets are challenging due to use of soy sauce and dashi (fish broth). Ask staff to omit fish-based broths and check ingredients; larger towns nearby are more likely to have suitable options.
Carry allergy cards in Japanese for nut, shellfish or other allergies and inform staff before ordering; seafood is common, so vigilance is necessary.