TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum is located in Hokuei Town (formerly Daiei Town), Tottori Prefecture, the hometown of Gosho Aoyama, the original author of "Detective Conan." Opened in 2007, the museum features a permanent exhibition showcasing Aoyama's original drawings, production materials, anime materials, and the author's career, as well as special exhibitions, a video corner, photo spots, a museum shop, and more. The entire town has been developed as "Conan's Hometown," and one of its great attractions is the Conan-related monuments found throughout the town, from the station building and streets to statues. It is a place that can be enjoyed not only by fans, but also by those interested in the manga and anime production process, and families.
Highlights
- Original Artwork Exhibition Corner: An exhibition where you can see Aoyama Gosho's precious original drawings, names, and production materials up close (the exhibits are changed for each project). Please note that photography of the original drawings is often prohibited.
- Behind the scenes of production: There is an exhibit that clearly explains the production process from character setting and storyboards to the finished manuscript, and is recommended for anyone interested in manga production.
- Life-size figures and photo spots: There are photo spots scattered around featuring Conan and other main characters, making it perfect for taking commemorative photos.
- Anime video and audio experience: A corner where you can enjoy footage of representative scenes and the production process. There are also behind-the-scenes stories about voice actors and anime production.
- Museum Shop: Sells limited edition goods, books, local collaboration products, etc. There are many souvenirs that can only be purchased here.
- Events and Stamp Rallies: There are seasonal exhibitions, autograph sessions, stamp rallies, and more, which you can enjoy while walking around town.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- RailwayThe nearest station is Yura Station on the JR San'in Main Line. It's about a 20-30 minute walk from the station, or about a 5-10 minute taxi ride. While it's an easy walk from the station, we recommend taking a taxi depending on the weather and your physical condition.
- bus: Depending on the season and day, sightseeing buses and shuttles may operate within Hokuei Town. Please check the official website or tourist information in advance to confirm the operating status.
- car: Accessible from Tottori City and Yonago via national and prefectural roads. Parking is available, making it convenient to visit by car (please check the number of parking spaces and fees).
- From the airportIf you are traveling by rental car or bus from Tottori Airport or Yonago Airport, the travel time will vary depending on the airport. We recommend traveling around by rental car.
- *For accurate timetables, operation information, and parking information, please check the official website or the latest information from the transportation company.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Estimated time required: 1 to 2 hours. If you want to enjoy the permanent exhibition, shop, and photography, it will take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- If you want to take your time to see the fan and special exhibitions, you should allow yourself at least two hours.
- If you want to visit all the Conan spots in town (the station, the statue, and strolling around the surrounding area), you should consider a half-day to full-day course.
Nearby spots
- Yura Station (a popular photo spot with many Conan decorations and monuments)
- Conan-related monuments and streets in Hokuei Town (enjoyable while walking around town)
- Roadside stations and local farms (purchase local specialties and souvenirs)
- If you take a day trip, you can also access major tourist spots in the prefecture, such as the Tottori Sand Dunes (by car).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The museum tends to be crowded on weekends, public holidays, summer vacation, Golden Week, and other consecutive holidays. The number of visitors also increases during special exhibitions, so please allow yourself plenty of time when visiting.
- Photography and original drawings: Photography of original artwork and some exhibits may be prohibited. Please follow the signs and instructions of staff in the museum.
- Food and drink/bring-in: Eating and drinking is often prohibited inside the exhibition rooms. If there is a rest area or cafe, please use that.
- Parking and Transportation: Parking spaces in the surrounding area may be limited. If the parking lot is full, please use nearby public transportation or another parking lot.
- Manners：Please observe general museum etiquette, such as remaining quiet, not touching the exhibits, and not speaking loudly. This is a place visited by many Conan fans, so please be considerate of others.
- Check for the latest information: Closing days, opening hours, admission fees, and special exhibition periods are subject to change. Please check the official website of the Gosho Aoyama Hometown Museum or Hokuei Town Tourist Information for the latest information before visiting.
(Note) Events, limited edition goods, and special exhibitions within the museum and town are frequently updated. If you have a specific purpose for visiting, checking the official information in advance will make your visit more fulfilling.
