Things To Do
in Kurayoshi
Kurayoshi is a charming city located in Tottori Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its historical buildings, such as the beautiful white-walled warehouses in the Bikan historical district. The city is also famous for its traditional crafts, including Kurayoshi porcelain and Kurayoshi washi paper.
Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the countryside and mountains surrounding the city, making it a peaceful and picturesque destination.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the scenic 'Kurayoshi City White-Walled Historic District'. Enjoy the traditional architecture and visit the local shops for unique souvenirs.
Have lunch at a quaint café and then visit the Kurayoshi Folk Crafts Museum to learn about the region’s artisanal history. Experience handmade crafts and maybe even join a workshop.
Come back to the historic district to enjoy a sunset view. Capture stunning photographs as the sun sets over the beautiful traditional buildings.
Begin your day with a leisurely hike at the nearby Mount Shurakuen. Enjoy the fresh air and tranquility of nature while taking in the stunning views.
After your hike, relax at a local onsen (hot spring). Soak in the soothing mineral waters and rejuvenate your body and mind.
Dine at a local restaurant and try regional specialties like Matsuba crab. Reflect on your day while enjoying a delicious meal.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional crafts and festivals.
- Delicious local cuisine, especially sake production.
- Low crime rate and safe environment for residents and visitors.
- Less crowded compared to larger cities, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent than in urban areas.
- Some amenities and entertainment options may be lacking.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Aging population may result in fewer amenities targeted towards younger generations.
Best Activities in Kurayoshi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the expansive sand dunes and enjoy activities such as camel rides, sandboarding, and paragliding.
Hike to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding area and enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna along the way.
Take a leisurely stroll in this picturesque park that features a pond, walking paths, and beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring.
Experience the natural beauty of Kurayoshi's rivers and lakes by engaging in kayaking or canoeing activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kurayoshi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kurayoshi
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning natural attraction offering panoramic views of the sand dunes and the Sea of Japan.
Provides breathtaking views of Kurayoshi and the surrounding countryside.
A lovely park with a scenic overlook of the city and the Chugoku Mountains.
Food in Kurayoshi
Kurayoshi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local delicacy, Matsuba crab is best enjoyed in its natural form. The sweet, delicate meat of this snow crab is highly sought after by seafood enthusiasts. It can be savored at traditional seafood restaurants along the Kurayoshi coastline.
Must-Try!
Yonago beef is famed for its marbled texture and exquisite flavor. The best way to experience this delicacy is by visiting specialty Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurants where diners can grill the beef to their preference.
Seki aji, a type of horse mackerel, is a local favorite for sushi. The fish is often served as nigiri or sashimi, showcasing its fresh and distinct flavor. Visitors can indulge in this treat at local sushiya (sushi restaurants) throughout Kurayoshi.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local snacks, and artisanal crafts. Visitors can sample an array of street food including yakitori skewers, takoyaki (octopus balls), and freshly grilled seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kurayoshi and many other parts of Japan, it is customary to exchange gifts during the mid-year and year-end. Ochugen and Oseibo are annual gift-giving customs to express gratitude and maintain positive relationships.
When entering a Japanese home, it is important to remove your shoes at the genkan (entryway) as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the indoor space.
In Kurayoshi, as well as throughout Japan, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid physical contact while interacting with others, especially individuals you are meeting for the first time.
Safety
Tipping in Kurayoshi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan, including Kurayoshi. It is generally not expected or practiced in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Kurayoshi, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the most common form of payment. Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in larger stores and restaurants, but it's always a good idea to carry cash for smaller establishments and traditional markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Kurayoshi in spring is from late March to early May when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The weather is mild, and you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing events and festivals.
Summer in Kurayoshi, from June to August, is warm and humid. It's a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and beach visits. Be prepared for hot temperatures and occasional afternoon showers.
From September to November, Kurayoshi experiences beautiful autumn foliage, especially in the surrounding mountains. The weather is cool, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the colorful landscapes.
Winter, from December to February, can be cold in Kurayoshi, but it offers opportunities for winter sports and enjoying hot springs. The nearby ski resorts are popular, and you can experience traditional winter festivals.
Kurayoshi at Night
Hiking in Kurayoshi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain in the Daisen-Oki National Park, offering a variety of hiking trails with stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
A relatively accessible mountain with well-marked trails, providing beautiful vistas of the surrounding countryside.
Known for its lush green trails and scenic viewpoints, Mount Nagi is perfect for both novice and experienced hikers.
A historic trail leading to the Kibitsu Shrine, offering a combination of cultural experience and natural beauty.
A serene hiking spot with riverside trails, perfect for a peaceful getaway amidst nature.
Aiports
How to reach Kurayoshi by plane.
The nearest airport offering both domestic and international flights, located approximately 60 km from Kurayoshi.
An international airport located about 80 km from Kurayoshi, serving various domestic and some international destinations.
Approximately 110 km from Kurayoshi, this airport offers a combination of domestic and international flights.
Located about 140 km from Kurayoshi, this major international airport in the Osaka area serves numerous global destinations.
Around 110 km from Kurayoshi, this airport operates regional flights and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Japanese population with a rich cultural heritage.
Indigenous group with a distinct cultural identity, although their population is small.
Small community of Korean residents and descendants.
Minority population with historical ties and contributions to the area.
Includes a variety of foreign nationals living in Kurayoshi.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Kurayoshi, attracting many local teams and enthusiastic fans.
Soccer has gained popularity in Kurayoshi with youth leagues and community teams actively participating in regional competitions.
Basketball is a favored sport in local schools and community centers, with many initiatives promoting youth involvement.
Tennis is enjoyed recreationally and competitively, with various courts available for public use.
Sports such as Sumo and Kendo are also practiced in Kurayoshi, reflecting the cultural heritage of Japan.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kurayoshi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Kurayoshi are accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diners. Look for establishments offering fresh vegetable tempura, tofu-based dishes, and vegetable sushi rolls.
Visitors with gluten-free requirements will find an array of options in Kurayoshi. Many restaurants offer rice-based dishes, such as sushi and sashimi, along with gluten-free sauces. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when ordering.