Things To Do
in Sakaiminato
Sakaiminato is a coastal town in Tottori Prefecture perched along the Sea of Japan, famed for its maritime heritage and welcoming harbor atmosphere. It is best known internationally for Mizuki Shigeru Road, a yokai-filled street celebrating the author of GeGeGe no Kitaro. The town blends traditional fishing culture with playful folklore, offering oceanfront scenery and neighborhood eateries.
With easy access from Yonago and a compact historic center, Sakaiminato makes for relaxed day trips or a laid-back seaside base for exploring the San'in region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sakaiminato Historic Center, where you can immerse yourself in the town's rich history. Stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional buildings and local shops, enjoying the crisp morning air. Don’t forget to stop by the local bakery for a delicious breakfast pastry to fuel your exploration.
In the afternoon, dive into the local culture by visiting the Sakaiminato Art Museum, showcasing works from regional artists. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Sea of Japan. Consider stopping at a nearby café for a refreshing matcha tea while watching the boats pass.
As the sun sets, head to a local izakaya to experience authentic Japanese cuisine, sampling a variety of small dishes. Engage with the friendly locals and learn more about their traditions and stories over dinner. Finish your evening with a stroll along the illuminated streets, taking in the beautiful nighttime atmosphere.
Begin your seaside adventure with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, overlooking the waves crashing on the shore. Afterward, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters and hidden coves around Sakaiminato. This early morning activity allows you to connect with nature and witness the beauty of the coastline.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Sakaiminato Seaside Park, where you can relax on the beach or partake in various water sports. Enjoy a picnic lunch, soaking up the sun and the stunning ocean views. If you're feeling adventurous, join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.
As evening approaches, enjoy a seaside barbecue, where you can grill fresh seafood caught that day. The sound of the waves and the smell of the grill create a perfect beach atmosphere. Conclude your day by watching the sunset over the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🍣Mid-range dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🚆Local transport day pass | $5-10 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich yokai folklore and Mizuki Shigeru Road
- Fresh seafood and harbor atmosphere
- Compact town with walkable streets
- Limited nightlife and large-scale attractions
- Seasonal crowds can affect availability and parking
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "お願いします" - Please / I would like
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "英語のメニューはありますか？" - Do you have an English menu?
Places to Visit in Sakaiminato
Visit one of these nice places.
A whimsical street lined with hundreds of yokai statues and murals celebrating the famous manga author.
Golden light over working boats and nets provides a quintessential harbor photography moment.
Coastal panorama with waves, distant statues, and a broad view of the town’s shoreline.
Harbor edge with nighttime reflections and lighthouse accents for moody photography.
Food in Sakaiminato
Sakaiminato Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bowl of rice topped with an assortment of fresh sashimi and shellfish freshly sourced from the harbor.
Must-Try!
Crab dishes and crab-filled rice are common highlights at harbor-side eateries during peak seasons.
Various preparations featuring local squid, from sashimi to grilled specialties.
A comforting, shareable option in cooler months highlighting regional seafood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Harbor-side stalls offering fresh seafood, side dishes, and quick snacks to enjoy on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite bow or nod is common; speak softly in public spaces and avoid loud conversations on public transit.
Remove shoes where required; dress modestly when visiting temples and traditional facilities.
Express gratitude with a light 'Itadakimasu' before meals and 'Gochisosama' after; keep voices low in eateries.
Safety
Tipping in Sakaiminato
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is appreciated but not expected.
Cash is widely used; many shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but some small vendors may be cash-only. IC cards and mobile payments are increasingly common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming coastal flora; expect intermittent rain. Great for strolling Mizuki Shigeru Road without crowds.
Warm and humid with abundant seafood festivals and lively harbor activity; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Cooling temperatures and clear skies; excellent for coastal walks and photography with soft light.
Cool to cold with crisp sea air; seafood remains excellent and indoor attractions are comfortable options.
Sakaiminato at Night
Hiking in Sakaiminato
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking area in the region with alpine scenery; can be done as a day trip from Sakaiminato.
Scenic walking routes along the Sea of Japan with cliffs, viewpoints, and sea vistas.
Airports
How to reach Sakaiminato by plane.
Closest major airport with domestic connections; reachable by train or bus to Sakaiminato.
Regional airport serving the area with domestic flights; typically accessed by bus or train routes from Sakaiminato.
Located in Izumo, useful for access from western Japan; longer transfer to Sakaiminato but an option for multi-city itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically centered on the harbor; many residents engage in fishing and related industries.
A mix of locals and seasonal visitors; the town leans toward a relaxed, family-friendly pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals; you may catch community games in season or join recreational leagues.
Local clubs and weekend matches; enjoy watching or playing in community fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sakaiminato.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, and rice bowls. When ordering, ask for no fish stock or bonito-based broths to keep meals vegetarian.