Tottori, Japan Dec. 08 Sun 12:31AM
About Tottori
Tottori Prefecture is located in the Chugoku region of Japan. Its capital city is Tottori, and there are three other cities in Tottori for a total of four. Although it is the least populous prefecture in Japan, there is no shortage of beautiful landscapes here.
Tottori is home to some beautiful sightseeing spots and some of its beaches rival those of Okinawa's in looks and beauty. Towards the southern side of Tottori, there is mountainous terrain that provides a whole different view of Tottori altogether.
What To Do
---Tottori Sand Dunes---
The Tottori Sand Dunes are a famous and popular destination located in the Tottori City of Tottori Prefecture. The sand dunes are located in Sanin Kaigan Geopark and are the only extensive dune system in Japan. Recently, the sand dunes are slowly dwindling, but efforts have been made to protect and preserve the sand dunes. Visitors can view the sand dunes in a horse-drawn coach, on a camel's back, or on their own two feet. There is also a sand museum nearby that features detailed and carefully created sand sculptures.
---Tottori Nijisseiki Pear Museum---
The Tottori Nijisseiki Pear Museum is a museum located in Kurayoshi City that is solely dedicated to the Asian Pear. The Asian pear is an agricultural staple, and an important food product of Tottori, so it makes sense that they would have a museum featuring it. The museum has information on everything one would want to know about the history of the Asian pear. Visitors can also enjoy some pear ice cream after their visit to the nearby Nashikkokan.
What To Eat
---Matsubagani Dishes---
The snow crab is well-known in the Tottori area for being particularly delicious. The crab is caught in the Sea of Japan, and the Matsuba Crab Day is held annually at the docks of Tottori City. The crabs can be eaten steamed, boiled, or in a soup or nabe(hotpot). The crab is known for its sweetness and meatiness and is a must-try in Tottori come winter.
---Tottori Japanese Wagyu---
The Tottori Wagyu or beef was awarded first prize in a contest of Japanese beef. The marbling of fat makes for a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth meat that is supposedly one of the best.