Audio Guide of Tottori Castle

Tottori Castle Park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, so you can visit whenever it suits you. It is about a 20-minute walk from JR Tottori Station, or you can take a bus that stops nearby, such as the Kirin Jishi Loop Bus.

Good news! Visiting Tottori Castle Park and the ruins is completely free. You can explore the site, its stone walls, and enjoy the scenery without paying any entrance fee.

For a relaxed visit that lets you climb the hill, stroll around the grounds, and enjoy the views, I recommend setting aside 1 to 2 hours. If you enjoy photography or want to take things a little more slowly, you could extend your visit to 2.5 hours.

Tottori Castle has a fascinating history, especially because of Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s famous 'starvation siege' in 1581. Its ruins let you imagine the grandeur of a castle that played a key role in the unification of Japan, serving as the base of the Ikeda clan during the Edo period. It is a site of great historical value in the region.

Spring, especially late March and early April, is spectacular because of the cherry blossoms. Autumn is also beautiful for the fall foliage colors. As for the best time of day, I suggest going early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, or at sunset for stunning views.

Part of Tottori Castle Park is accessible, especially the lower area. However, the climb to the top of the hill where the main keep once stood involves stairs and steep paths, which can be challenging for people with reduced mobility or strollers. There are still areas where you can enjoy the views without going all the way up.

Very close by, you can visit the Kōtoku Garden, which is beautiful, or the famous Tottori Sand Dunes Park, which is a short bus ride away and a natural wonder. You can also explore downtown Tottori with its shops and restaurants.

Wear comfortable shoes, as there is quite a bit of walking and the climb can be somewhat demanding. Don’t forget your camera to capture the views, cherry blossoms, or autumn foliage. I also recommend bringing water, especially in summer. And of course, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the site’s rich history!