Must-Try Local Eats in Japan’s San’in Region Part 1: A Seafood Lover’s Gourmet Route Through Tottori and Shimane

Japan’s San’in region, which stretches across the scenic coasts of Tottori and Shimane Prefectures, is a treasure trove for travelers seeking exceptional local cuisine and cultural depth. With access to the Sea of Japan and a strong culinary heritage, this part of western Japan offers some of the freshest seafood in the country, all served up with small-town charm and unmatched hospitality.

This article kicks off a special three-part series on culinary and cultural destinations in the San’in region, starting with a focus on seafood delicacies that every gourmet enthusiast should experience. Whether it’s delicately prepared crab or mackerel hot pot, these Tottori and Shimane spots are the perfect way to begin a flavor-filled journey.

1. Tairyo Fish Market Nakaura: Crab Bowls and Grilled Delights (Sakaiminato, Tottori)

Sakaiminato, famously known as the hometown of manga legend Shigeru Mizuki, is also home to the Tairyo Fish Market Nakaura, a bustling seafood hub known for its extraordinary selection of local marine delicacies. Chief among them is the Japanese snow crab, available in a variety of dishes and forms. One standout is the Crab Chutoro Donburi, featuring sweet, tender crab meat prepared to mimic the luxurious texture of chutoro (medium-fatty tuna). Served over rice and ready to eat without the hassle of cracking shells, this dish highlights the rich umami of local crab in every bite. The market also offers a grill-your-own seafood corner, where visitors can cook up squid, scallops, and turban shells. Adventurous foodies may want to sample the squid ink soft-serve ice cream, a local novelty that must be tasted to be believed. (Before leaving, be sure to explore the souvenir shops and snap a photo with the 7.7-meter-tall Kitaro statue — a local manga icon standing guard at the market’s entrance.)

Tairyo Fish Market Nakaura (大漁市場なかうら)
209 Takenouchidanchi, Sakaiminato, Tottori
Hours: 8:30–16:30 (closed 12/31~1/4)
Directions: 7-minute drive from Yonago Airport, or a 10-minute drive from Sakaiminato Station
Official Website (jp)

2. Yamayoshi-tei: Affordable Seafood Bowls in Shinsen Market

Tucked away inside the Shinsen Market, at the base of the Yumigahama Peninsula, Yamayoshi-tei serves up some of the best value-for-money seafood in the region. Known for its kaisen-don (seafood bowls), the restaurant sources fish directly from nearby Sakaiminato Harbor to create a menu filled with vibrant and satisfying options. Popular choices include the maguro-don (tuna bowl) and the mixed seafood bowl, both generously topped with fresh sashimi and served with miso soup. Each meal also comes with a soft-boiled onsen egg, and diners can choose between plain white rice or sushi rice for a small fee. Despite the premium ingredients, most bowls are priced under 2,000 yen, making Yamayoshi-tei a local favorite. Peak lunch hours often see long lines, but visiting during off-peak times or ordering takeout are convenient alternatives.

Yamayoshitei (海鮮どんぶり 山芳亭)
1026–1 Hiezu, Saihaku District, Tottori
Hours: 11:30–15:00 (closed Wednesdays)
Directions: from Yonago Station, take the Kaike Line bus bound for Aeon East Wing, and get off at Aeon West Wing
Official Website (jp)

3. Bishukakou Yuraku: Mackerel Shabu-Shabu in an Elegant Setting (Yonago, Tottori)

Not far from Yonago Station, Bishukakou Yuraku offers a refined take on San’in regional cuisine, specializing in fresh fish sourced from the nearby Sea of Japan. The star dish here is mackerel shabu-shabu, a rare preparation that transforms this everyday fish into something elegant and refreshing. Served in delicate slices that resemble a blossoming flower, the mackerel is briefly swished in hot broth before being dipped into a yuzu ponzu sauce. The result is a clean, citrusy flavor that showcases the freshness of the seafood — an excellent example of the San’in region’s culinary creativity.

Bishukakou Yuraku (美酒佳肴ゆらく)
227 Meijicho, Yonago, Tottori
Hours: 16:30–24:00 (closed Sundays)
Directions: 2 min walk from Yonago Station
Official Website (jp)

Cultural Add-Ons: Weaving, Crafts, and Sunrise Views

Even if you’re a focused foodie, we recommend enjoying a broader look at the San’in region. Enhance your journey with hands-on cultural experiences and scenic destinations that reflect the heart of rural Japan!

Musubi: Traditional Weaving in Kaike Onsen

In the hot springs village of Kaike Onsen, Musubi offers an immersive introduction to the local Yumihama-gasuri (ゆみがはまがすり) weaving tradition. Guests can try their hand at weaving cotton coasters using local indigo-dyed fibers and traditional looms. The facility also hosts workshops in ceramics and woodcraft, along with a cozy cafe and shop selling artisan goods great for souvenirs.

Musubi (結)
4–22–33 Kaikeonsen, Yonago, Tottori
Hours: 10:00–18:00 (closed Wednesdays and Thursdays)
Directions: from JR Yonago Station, take the Kaike Line bus bound for Kaike Onsen Tourist Center, get off at the final stop and walk 4 min
Official Website (jp) | Workshop Reservations

Yonago Castle Ruins: Catch the “Diamond Daisen” Sunrise

For an unforgettable start to the day, head to the Yonago Castle Ruins to witness Diamond Daisen, a seasonal sunrise event where the sun rises from behind Mount Daisen’s peak like a glowing jewel. This natural phenomenon is visible in the colder months, offering a serene backdrop for great photos — or quiet reflection, if you prefer.

Yonago Castle Ruins (米子城跡)
Kumecho, Yonago, Tottori
Directions: from Yonago station, take the Yonago Loop Bus to Minatoyama Koen bus stop, or walk 15 minutes
Official Website (jp)

Begin Your San’in Culinary Journey

This first installment of the San’in gourmet series explores the best of Tottori’s seafood offerings, paired with cultural experiences that bring the region’s heritage to life. From crab bowls to traditional crafts, the San’in coast offers a rich and flavorful path to discovering one of Japan’s most underrated regions.

Stay tuned for parts two and three of the series, or skip the wait and find all of our Tottori and Shimane gourmet recommendations in one long guide to food tours in San’in!

More on Central San’in:
・Meet the Gods and Monsters of Japan in San’in, the Land of Love: Sightseeing, Food, and More in Tottori and Shimane
・A Road Trip Guide From Izumo ・ Through the Mountains, Onsen, and Seas of San’in
・Tottori Hanakairo Flower Park | Western Japan’s Largest Flower Park
・Tamatsukuri Onsen | Springs for the Gods, Springs for Beauties, Baths for Everyone
・A Traditional Japanese Garden in Shimane, with a Garden of Lights | Yuushien (由志園)
・Visit San’in! From Izumo to Mt. Daisen, a Guide to the Central San’in Region

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