TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kurayoshi White-Walled Storehouses is a historic streetscape remaining in the center of Kurayoshi City, Tottori Prefecture. Merchants' houses and storehouses from the Edo period through the Meiji and Taisho periods are all uniformly decorated with white plaster walls, and the area is characterized by a tranquil landscape of white walls, black tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, and narrow alleys. Cafes, souvenir shops, workshops, and museums that make the most of the old streetscape are scattered throughout the area, making it a popular spot for strolling and taking photos.
Highlights
- White-walled storehouses: The main street is lined with white-washed storehouses and merchant houses. You can stroll around while enjoying the atmosphere of the buildings' exteriors and eaves.
- Restored and preserved storehouses and merchant houses: Buildings that retain the original merchant house and storehouse structures are sometimes open to the public as tourist attractions (opening times vary depending on the season and the facility).
- Galleries, workshops, and cafes: Old storehouses have been renovated into galleries, craft shops, and relaxing cafes. Local crafts and specialty products are also available for purchase.
- Photo spot: Photos of the townscape with the white walls in the background change with the seasons. They are especially beautiful when taken in the soft light of early morning or evening.
- Seasonal scenery: Cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter - the scenery changes with the seasons.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Kurayoshi Station on the JR San'in Main Line. From Kurayoshi Station, it takes about 10 to 15 minutes on foot to the Shirakabe Dozogun (this may vary depending on the speed and traffic congestion on the walking route).
- Bus: There are local buses and sightseeing buses that operate within Kurayoshi City. Please check the schedules and routes in advance.
- By car: Accessible via national and prefectural roads such as the Chugoku Expressway, Yonago Expressway, and Tottori Expressway. There are several parking lots nearby, but they may fill up during the tourist season, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Air and long-distance travel: Accessible by rental car or bus from Tottori Airport or Yonago Airport. Convenient for day trips from outside the city.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 30 minutes to 1 hour (photographing the main points and taking a quick look around).
- A leisurely stroll and visit to cafes and souvenir shops: 1.5 to 3 hours (more if you want to visit galleries and workshops).
- If you also want to visit the surrounding museums and parks: Half a day to a full day.
Nearby spots
- Utsubuki Park: A park known for its cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. Many of these parks are within walking distance of the Shirakabe Dozogun, making them an easy spot to combine with a stroll through the town.
- Kurayoshi City Shopping District and Restaurants: Convenient for finding local delicacies and souvenirs. There are also cafes and restaurants that make use of the storehouses.
- Tourist attractions in Tottori Prefecture: Tottori Sand Dunes, Sanbutsuji Temple on Mt. Mitoku, Mt. Daisen, etc. If you have time, it would be a great idea to combine this trip with sightseeing within the prefecture (travel times will vary depending on the route).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets crowded on weekends, holidays, and during peak tourist seasons. You may have to wait at popular photo spots and restaurants.
- Manners: Many of the buildings are still in use, including shops and private homes. Please avoid entering the grounds or private property without permission, and be considerate of residents and businesses when taking photos.
- Opening hours: Galleries and shops often close early, so be sure to check opening times before visiting.
- Footing: The alleys and cobblestone streets have steps and are slippery in places. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. The area is especially slippery in rainy weather and winter.
- Seasonal precautions: Prepare for the heat in summer, and beware of snow and ice in winter. There are days when cherry blossom viewing is popular in spring, and peak tourist season in autumn.
- Parking: Parking spaces in the surrounding area are limited, so if they are full, please use public parking lots in the city or in front of the station, or use public transportation.
Kurayoshi White-Walled Storehouses is a place where you can enjoy the historic townscape in a relaxed atmosphere. We recommend taking your time to stroll around the area, stopping off at the back alleys and shops converted from storehouses.
