Tottori Itinerary (2 Days/3 Nights): Explore Mizuki Shigeru Road, Enjoy Local Cuisine & Travel by Car or Train

外資系SEOスペシャリスト

Takuma Oka (岡 拓馬)

こんにちは、岡 拓馬（おか たくま）です。
このブログでは、海外ノマド×SEO×ストック収入をテーマに、自分の経験や学びを発信しています。

高校卒業後は料理人としてスタートし、その後、航空自衛隊での勤務を経て、2016年からWebライター・SEOコンサルタントとして独立。現在は、海外の外資系企業と契約しながら、フルリモートで働いています。拠点はアジア各国を転々としており、最近はベトナムやタイ、マレーシア、フィリピンなどでノマド生活をしています。

執筆者

Hi, I’m Takuma Oka, an SEO specialist and digital nomad.
When you hear “Tottori Prefecture,” what comes to mind?

Tottori is the birthplace of two world-famous manga creators: Shigeru Mizuki, the author of GeGeGe no Kitaro, and Gosho Aoyama, the creator of Detective Conan.

In this 2-day/3-night travel itinerary, I’ll take you through their hometowns, exploring Mizuki Shigeru Road, the Mizuki Shigeru Museum, local gourmet spots, and the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory. Whether you’re traveling by car or train, this guide will help you experience the roots of Japan’s beloved manga culture while enjoying the best of Tottori.

Mizuki Shigeru Road: Tottori’s Famous “Yokai Street”

Sakaiminato City, the hometown of legendary manga artist Shigeru Mizuki, is one of Tottori’s most unique sightseeing spots. The streets are filled with characters from GeGeGe no Kitaro—you’ll spot Kitaro, Medama-Oyaji, and Neko-Musume everywhere, from trains and buses to taxis and shops.

For die-hard fans of GeGeGe no Kitaro, this is truly a dream destination. Even if you’re not familiar with the series, the quirky atmosphere and playful statues of yokai (Japanese spirits and monsters) make it an entertaining stop.

Sakaiminato is located right on the border with Shimane Prefecture, making it an easy addition to your western Japan travel itinerary.

👉 Official Website: Mizuki Shigeru Road

Mizuki Shigeru Museum: Discover the World of Yokai

The Mizuki Shigeru Museum showcases the incredible life and works of manga artist Shigeru Mizuki, who dedicated most of his life to creating stories about yokai. Inside, you’ll find lifelike statues, original sketches, and exhibits that highlight his adventurous spirit.

Despite losing an arm during the war, Mizuki-sensei never gave up drawing. Together with his wife, he continued to produce beloved manga, traveling the world to research yokai from different cultures. His motto, “Be lazy!”, written alongside his handprint, reflects his unique personality and outlook on life.

The museum also provides a deeper look at the creative process behind GeGeGe no Kitaro and his other works. Whether you’re a fan of manga or just curious about Japanese pop culture, this museum is a must-visit in Tottori.

👉 Official Website: Mizuki Shigeru Museum

Tottori Gourmet Guide: Recommended Local Lunch Spots

Just a short drive from Mizuki Shigeru Road, you’ll find local restaurants that serve some of the freshest seafood in the region. One highly recommended spot is Ajidokoro & Minshuku Matsuya, located near the port and right on the Tottori–Shimane border.

Their most popular dish is the Kaisendon (seafood rice bowl), limited to just 30 servings a day. Unfortunately, it was sold out when I visited—but I tried the restaurant’s signature Matsuya Teishoku instead. The set meal was huge, featuring crab, fried shrimp, and a wide variety of fresh local fish. At ¥2,700, it wasn’t cheap, but considering the freshness and volume, it was well worth it.

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Tottori’s seafood culture, this is a must-try spot after exploring Mizuki Shigeru Road.

👉 Restaurant Info: Ajidokoro & Minshuku Matsuya

Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory: The Hometown of Detective Conan

In Hokuei Town, you’ll find the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory, dedicated to the creator of the world-famous manga Detective Conan (also known as Case Closed). This museum features original manuscripts, character displays, and exhibits that showcase the history of the series and Aoyama-sensei’s career.

The entire town embraces the Detective Conan theme—you’ll spot statues of Conan, Ran, and other beloved characters throughout the streets. Even the tickets and decorations carry clever Conan-inspired designs. Outside the museum, you can see Professor Agasa’s iconic yellow car, a popular photo spot for fans.

Inside, the exhibits highlight the creative process behind manga production, from initial sketches to completed artwork. It’s a fascinating place not just for Conan fans, but for anyone curious about how manga is made.

👉 Official Website: Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory

Tottori 2-Day/3-Night Itinerary: Explore the Roots of Kitaro & Conan

Visiting Tottori gives you a rare chance to experience the hometowns of two legendary manga creators—Shigeru Mizuki of GeGeGe no Kitaro and Gosho Aoyama of Detective Conan. From the playful atmosphere of Mizuki Shigeru Road to the detailed exhibits at the Mizuki Shigeru Museum and the Gosho Aoyama Manga Factory, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of Japan’s manga culture.

What impressed me most was how the towns have fully embraced these characters, turning the streets themselves into part of the storytelling. It’s not just about museums; the entire community celebrates its manga heritage.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about Japanese pop culture, this 2-day/3-night itinerary is a perfect way to combine sightseeing with unique cultural experiences. Don’t miss the chance to explore Tottori—you’ll leave with both great memories and a new appreciation for the worlds of Kitaro and Conan.