Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yonago Castle, the remains of a castle in Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture, has been developed as a park centered around Shiroyama (castle hill). Built as a regional political and military base from the Sengoku to Edo periods, it was abandoned after the Meiji Restoration. Today, the remains of the castle, such as stone walls, moats, and earthworks, remain, and it is a popular observation spot offering a panoramic view of the changing scenery of the seasons, Yonago city, and the inland sea of Lake Nakaumi and Mt. Daisen. The scenery is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season, making it a popular spot for strolls and photography.
Highlights
- Remains of the Honmaru and Ninomaru citadels: This flat area in the center of the castle is a walking path where you can get a feel for the structure of the past. You can see the remains of the stone walls and earthen platforms.
- Stone walls: There are some points where you can see the stonework from when the castle was built, giving you a sense of the castle's power.
– Observation point: A viewing spot where you can see Yonago city, Lake Nakaumi, and Mt. Daisen towering in the distance (if conditions are good). The evening and night views are also recommended.
-Scenery of the four seasons: Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and autumn leaves in autumn. There are walking paths and benches where you can relax.
- Information boards and historic site signs: Information boards explaining the history and structure are installed in various places, allowing you to learn about the castle's origins and highlights.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Yonago Station on the JR Sanin Main Line and Hakubi Line (walk or take a bus/taxi from Yonago Station)
- Walking: Approximately 15-25 minutes on foot from Yonago Station (depending on route and walking speed).
- Bus: You may be able to get to the neighborhood by using the city bus (please check the timetable in advance as the number of buses varies depending on the route).
- Taxi: Approximately 5-10 minutes by taxi from Yonago Station.
- By car: There are many parking lots around Shiroyama Park, but they are limited in number and may be full on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. We recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
– Quick tour: 30 minutes (viewpoint and main ruins only)
– Leisurely stroll and photography: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
– Picnic and reading historical site information: ~2 hours
Nearby spots
- Around Yonago Station: With restaurants and souvenir shops, it is a base for sightseeing.
– Yonago City Library, Museum, etc.: Facilities where you can experience the history and culture of the region (check opening times in advance).
- Seaside area (Nakaumi and Sakaiminato area): You can go to Nakaumi and Sakaiminato (Mizuki Shigeru Road, Sakaiminato Fish Market, etc.). Traveling by car is convenient.
- Related tourist attractions: Mt. Daisen (driving, mountain climbing, skiing) and Matsue (Matsue Castle and Horikawa River tours) are also within day trip distance.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The number of visitors increases during cherry blossom season, Golden Week, Obon, and autumn foliage season. If you want to avoid crowds, we recommend visiting on weekdays or early in the morning.
- Footing: The walking path has stone steps, slopes, and unpaved areas. Please wear comfortable shoes. It can become slippery after rain.
- Manners: The ruins are a historical site. Climbing the stone walls or damaging the ruins is prohibited. Please take your trash with you and view the ruins quietly.
- Signs and restricted areas: For safety and conservation reasons, there are restricted areas. Please follow the instructions.
- Seasonal precautions: In summer, take measures against the heat (wear a hat and stay hydrated), and in winter, be careful of frozen roads. Some people may need to take measures against pollen in spring.
- Nighttime viewing: Access may be restricted at night for lighting and safety reasons. If you are planning to see the night view, please check opening hours in advance.
(Note) The latest information on public facilities, events, parking, and bus schedules may change. We recommend checking the Yonago City Tourism website, local guides, and transportation information before visiting.
