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Yonago
Your 4-day travel guide
Spring for mild weather and cherry blossoms
Yonago•4D•Couple
Yonago, Japan
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:Couple
Castles, Cranes, and Coastal Flavors
Yonago has a quiet charm that sneaks up on you. It's not the flashy Japan you see in travel brochures, but the real one where locals greet each other on morning walks and shopkeepers take pride in their craft. You'll smell the salt air from the Sea of Japan mixing with the sweet aroma of freshly grilled squid, and hear the gentle lapping of waves against the harbor. For couples, it's perfect: you can explore ancient castle ruins hand-in-hand, watch thousands of migrating cranes dance at sunset, and discover why this city is famous for its pears and seafood. This itinerary lets you experience Yonago's authentic culture and incredible food at a relaxed pace that feels like discovering a secret together.
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1
Castle History and Local Culture
Day 1 of your journey
Start your trip with history at Yonago Castle Ruins, also known as Kitaro Square. The castle was built in 1601 and offers panoramic views of the city and Sea of Japan from its hilltop location. While only stone foundations remain, the site is beautifully maintained with walking paths and informational plaques. You'll see reconstructed gates and get a sense of the castle's original scale. It's a peaceful morning spot with few crowds, perfect for couples to explore together. Plan about 90 minutes to walk the grounds and enjoy the views.
Yonago Castle Ruins (Kitaro Square)
Why Visit
This is Yonago's most significant historical site, offering insight into the region's samurai past. The hilltop location provides the best views of the city and coastline, making it an ideal introduction to the area. For couples, it's a romantic and educational start to the trip with plenty of photo opportunities and quiet corners to explore.
Visit early to avoid any potential midday sun. The adjacent Kitaro Museum (dedicated to the manga artist Shigeru Mizuki) is worth a quick look if you're interested in Japanese pop culture. Address: 305 Furukawacho, Yonago, Tottori 683-0845.
2
Nature, Wildlife, and Local Cuisine
Day 2 of your journey
3
Free Day and Local Exploration
Day 3 of your journey
4
Day Trip to Nearby Sakaiminato
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Yonago Station is the transportation hub. Local buses connect major attractions, but walking is often easier in the compact city center.
Cash is still king in Yonago. Many smaller restaurants and shops don't accept credit cards, so carry sufficient yen.
Basic English is understood at hotels and major attractions, but learning a few Japanese phrases (hello, thank you, excuse me) is appreciated.
Yonago is very safe, even at night. Normal precautions are sufficient.
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Good service is expected and included in prices.
Public trash cans are rare. Carry a small bag for your trash until you return to your accommodation.
Remove shoes when entering traditional restaurants with tatami mat seating or private homes.
Purchase a Suica or Pasmo IC card for convenient payment on trains and buses if arriving from larger cities.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Yonago depends on your interests. For birdwatching, November to February brings thousands of migrating cranes to the Waterbird Sanctuary. Spring (April to May) offers mild weather and cherry blossoms at Jinpukaku Park. Summer (June to August) is warm and humid but good for beach activities at nearby Miho Beach. Autumn (September to October) brings comfortable temperatures and Yonago's famous pear harvest. Winter can be cold with occasional snow but has fewer tourists. Avoid Golden Week (late April to early May) and Obon (mid-August) when domestic travel peaks.
Local Insights & Tips
Yonago residents take pride in their city's history as a castle town and port. Life moves at a slower pace here compared to Japan's megacities. You'll notice people are polite but reserved initially, warming up with friendly interaction. The city has a strong connection to both mountains and sea, reflected in its cuisine and culture. Local specialties beyond pears include snow crab (in winter), squid, and sake from nearby breweries. When visiting temples or traditional areas, modest dress is appreciated. Public baths (sento) are still part of community life, with separate hours for men and women. Yonago feels like 'real Japan' rather than a tourist destination, offering authentic experiences for those willing to explore.