Things To Do
in Yurihama
Yurihama is a coastal town in Tottori Prefecture that blends rugged sea views with gentle rural character. It offers access to hot springs, fresh seafood, and easy day trips into nature, all within a compact, traveler-friendly footprint. Visitors enjoy a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and scenic spots along the Sea of Japan.
Whether you seek coastal walks, cultural experiences, or quiet evenings by the water, Yurihama provides a serene San'in coastline escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Yurihama Onsen, where you can soak in the therapeutic hot springs while enjoying the serene landscape. After a relaxing dip, explore the nearby historic streets lined with traditional ryokan and shops selling local crafts. Don’t forget to stop by the Yurihama Tourism Information Center to gather brochures and maps for the day ahead.
After a hearty lunch at a local soba restaurant, embark on a guided walking tour of the historic center, where you can admire traditional Japanese architecture and learn about the town's rich cultural heritage. Visit the Yurihama Art Museum, showcasing regional artists and their interpretations of the natural beauty surrounding the area. As you stroll through the charming streets, make sure to take photographs of the picturesque scenery and unique local landmarks.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, where each dish is a beautifully presented work of art. After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk along the shores of Lake Togo, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and reflection of the moon on the water. Cap off the night with a visit to a local izakaya, where you can mingle with locals and taste a variety of small dishes and sake.
Begin your day on the sandy shores of Togo Beach, where you can enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze and stunning views of the sea. Spend your morning participating in water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding, with equipment available for rent at the beach. The clear waters and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
After a thrilling morning, grab a beachside lunch at one of the casual eateries offering fresh seafood and local specialties. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, or taking a dip in the shimmering waters. For the adventurous, consider trying out jet skiing or parasailing to get your adrenaline pumping and enjoy a different perspective of the coastline.
As evening approaches, unwind with a beach bonfire, where you can roast marshmallows and share stories under the starry sky. Enjoy the sounds of the waves crashing against the shore while mingling with fellow travelers and locals. Wrap up your beach day with a relaxing stroll along the water's edge, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚆One-way local transport | $2-5 |
| 🏨Hotel or ryokan per night | $70-150 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🛒Grocery staple | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastlines and access to onsen culture
- Safe, walkable town with a relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and fewer international dining options
- Public transport between some sights may be less frequent; a car can be convenient
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please / I would like to ask for
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the restroom?
Places to Visit in Yurihama
Visit one of these nice places.
Coastal viewpoints with fishing boats, dramatic sea cliffs, and golden-hour sunsets over the Sea of Japan.
Expansive lake reflections, migratory birds, and serene morning light ideal for wide-angle shots.
A scenic stretch along Yurihama’s coast perfect for silhouettes and seascapes.
Food in Yurihama
Yurihama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A winter specialty featuring snow crab simmered with vegetables, tofu, and a flavorful broth.
Must-Try!
A bowl of fresh sashimi over steamed rice, a quick and satisfying coastal staple.
A crisp, vegetable-forward tempura using seasonal greens from nearby farms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning stalls offering fresh catches, prepared bites, and friendly casual dining.
Casual vendors with grilled seafood skewers, fried seafood bites, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light bow is a common and polite greeting; address elders or hosts with respect.
Remove shoes in homes, certain temples, and some traditional inns; speak softly in public and transit.
Present money with both hands in formal settings; tipping is not expected.
Safety
Tipping in Yurihama
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; quality service is expected without extra gratuities. A polite thank you (arigatou gozaimasu) suffices.
Cash is widely accepted; many shops and ryokan accept credit cards. IC cards and mobile payments are increasingly popular for transit and smaller purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blossoms; great for temple visits, markets, and coastal walks.
Warm and humid with plenty of beach and seafood events; stay hydrated and plan water-based activities in the mornings.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; ideal for hiking, cycling, and photography of autumn colors near the coast.
Cool to cold with crabbing season and crisp, clear days; some attractions may have shorter hours but coastal scenery can be striking.
Yurihama at Night
Hiking in Yurihama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle, scenic walk along Yurihama’s coast offering sea views and birdwatching.
Quiet forested path with shade and easy elevation gain suitable for casual hikers.
Airports
How to reach Yurihama by plane.
Main regional airport with flights to Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, and more; about 1-2 hours by road from Yurihama.
Shimane prefecture airport with domestic flights; good alternative route via Izumo and express rail/road connections; roughly 2 hours by public transit.
Regional airport with connections to major hubs; about 2.5-3 hours by train to Yurihama via JR lines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with schools, parks, and safe streets.
A sizable senior population with accessible facilities and healthcare services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport among schools and community leagues across the region.
Common in parks and local clubs; accessible for visitors at public fields.
Coastal access supports fishing, crabbing, and water-based recreation in nearby bays.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yurihama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Yurihama, vegetarian options exist at ryokan restaurants and some cafes; look for tofu, vegetable-based dishes, and rice. You may encounter dashi-based broths in soups, so ask for vegetarian options or dashi-free preparations when possible.