1. What are some popular local dishes in Tottori that visitors should try?
Some popular local dishes in Tottori include:– Matsubagani (snow crab): A type of crab caught in the Sea of Japan and known for its sweet and delicate meat.
– Tottori Wagyu (beef): Considered one of the top three Wagyu varieties in Japan, Tottori Wagyu is known for its high-quality marbling and rich flavor.
– Sai-sai Don: A rice bowl dish topped with an assortment of seafood including shrimp, squid, and scallops.
– Kaisen-don: Another rice bowl dish topped with a variety of fresh sashimi including tuna, salmon, and yellowtail.
– Horumon-yaki: Grilled beef or pork offal served with vegetables and sauce.
– Daisen Ramen: A regional specialty ramen made with a rich chicken broth and local ingredients such as seasoned bamboo shoots and green onions.
2. What are some unique food experiences or events in Tottori?
Some unique food experiences or events in Tottori include:
– The annual Atsumi Hula Girl Festival: This festival celebrates the summer bon dance tradition with performances by hula dancers from all over Japan. Visitors can enjoy local street food while watching the colorful performances.
– Sanin Gourmet Fair: Held twice a year (spring and autumn), this fair showcases a variety of local specialties from Tottori and other neighboring prefectures. Visitors can sample various dishes and products, as well as attend cooking demonstrations and workshops.
– Sake brewery tours: Tottori is home to several sake breweries that offer tours where visitors can learn about the brewing process and taste different types of sake.
– Kaiyukan Market: Located near the famous Sand Dunes, this market features stalls selling fresh seafood caught from the Sea of Japan. Visitors can also try grilled seafood on skewers at the nearby outdoor food stalls.
– Local farm stays: Visitors can experience rural life in Tottori by staying at a farm and helping with tasks such as harvesting crops or making traditional dishes using fresh local ingredients.
2. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Tottori?
No, there are currently no Michelin-starred restaurants in Tottori Prefecture. The closest Michelin-star restaurant is located in neighboring Okayama Prefecture. 3. What are some good vegetarian or vegan dining options in Tottori?
1. Cafe Tuttori – This charming cafe offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including sandwiches, salads, and vegan cakes. They also have a separate menu for gluten-free items.
2. Green Three – This casual restaurant serves up delicious tofu dishes, as well as vegetarian and vegan sushi and set meals. They also have a small market where you can purchase vegetarian and organic ingredients.
3. Farm Kitchen Tottori – This farm-to-table restaurant sources most of its ingredients from their own organic farm. They offer a vegetarian course meal that changes daily based on what’s in season.
4. Kiyozakura no Sato – This izakaya-style restaurant has a dedicated vegetarian and vegan menu with dishes made from local ingredients, including tofu, vegetables, and rice. They also offer locally brewed sake.
5. Loving Hut Tottori – Part of an international chain of vegan restaurants, Loving Hut offers a variety of plant-based dishes, such as curries, burgers, and noodle bowls.
6. Mame Hiko Soy Factory – Known for their homemade tofu, this factory has a small cafe where you can enjoy various tofu dishes like tofu steak or mapo tofu made from their own soy beans.
7. Jujuju Factory Cafe & Bar – This cozy cafe offers creative vegetarian dishes like mushroom risotto and vegetable curry with brown rice. They also have a selection of craft beers for those looking for some drinks to accompany their meal.
8. Restaurant MaToMaTo – Located in the Tottori Prefectural Government Building, this cafeteria-style restaurant has several options for vegetarians and vegans, such as vegetable curry and soy meat cutlets.
9. Cedar Forest Vegetarian Restaurant – Located inside the Shikano Gokoku Shrine complex, this restaurant focuses on healthy vegetarian cuisine made with seasonal vegetables sourced from local farms.
10. Benotei Ramen Noodle Shop – This popular ramen shop offers a vegetarian ramen made with a soy-based broth and topped with vegetables. They also offer vegan options upon request.
4. Can you recommend a budget-friendly but delicious place to eat in Tottori?
One option is San-In Izakaya, a traditional Japanese izakaya-style restaurant that offers a variety of affordable and tasty dishes such as yakitori, tempura, and sushi. Another recommendation is Waragiya Ramen, known for their flavorful and filling ramen bowls at budget-friendly prices. Both restaurants are located in central Tottori city.
5. Is there a particular type of cuisine that Tottori is known for?
Yes, Tottori is known for its local specialty “Tottori Gyukotsu Ramen”, which is a type of ramen made with a rich beef broth and thin noodles. Other popular dishes in Tottori include seafood dishes such as “Matsuba Crab” and Japanese-style hot pot called “Genghis Khan”. The region is also famous for its high-quality fruits, particularly pears.
6. Are there any unique food experiences or festivals in Tottori that tourists should not miss out on?
Yes, there are a few unique food experiences and festivals in Tottori that tourists should not miss out on:
1. Tatakokko Matsuri: This festival is held in the city of Tottori in July and features a variety of local delicacies, including tatakokko, a type of grilled chicken skewer glazed with a special sauce made from Japanese sake.
2. Kaisendon (seafood bowl) from Sakaiminato: Known as the birthplace of the popular anime series “GeGeGe no Kitaro,” Sakaiminato is also known for its fresh seafood. One must-try dish is kaisendon, a rice bowl topped with an array of fresh seafood such as tuna, squid, shrimp, and crab.
3. Tottori Wagyu Beef: Tottori is home to some of Japan’s highest quality beef known as Tottori Wagyu. The cattle are raised in open-air ranches and fed with locally-grown fruits and vegetables, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
4. Shan Shabu: A unique dish from the town of Misasa, Shan Shabu consists of thinly sliced beef cooked in hot spring water instead of traditional broth. This method is believed to bring out the natural flavors of the beef.
5. The ‘Nijussekken’ Grilled Fish Market: Every morning at sunrise, fishers at Sakai Port grill delicious freshly-caught fish on wooden boats floating on the sea. Visitors can join the hustle and bustle by picking out their favorite fish to be cooked right on the spot!
6.The “Enchoen Jizake Festa”: This annual event held in October celebrates local sake from Tottori Prefecture. Visitors can sample different types of sake while enjoying live performances and local food stalls.
7. How easy is it to find Western food options in Tottori?
It may be slightly difficult to find a wide variety of Western food options in Tottori compared to larger cities in Japan. However, there are still a few options available such as international restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores that offer some Western dishes. Some popular choices include pizza, pasta, burgers, and sandwiches. Additionally, there are also several supermarkets that carry imported products and ingredients for homemade Western meals. Overall, while it may require some searching, it is possible to find Western food options in Tottori.
8. Are there any famous seafood markets or restaurants in the area known for their fresh catch?
Some famous seafood markets and restaurants in the area known for their fresh catch include:– Pike Place Fish Market, located in Seattle’s historic Pike Place Market, is renowned for its selection of fresh seafood, including crab, salmon, halibut, and shellfish.
– Taylor Shellfish Farms, with multiple locations throughout Washington state, offers a variety of sustainably-farmed oysters, clams, mussels, and geoduck.
– Ray’s Boathouse and Cafe on Puget Sound is a popular restaurant known for its fresh seafood dishes featuring local ingredients from the Pacific Northwest.
– Elliott’s Oyster House in Seattle is another top spot for fresh oysters and other seafood specialties from the region.
– Wild Ginger in Bellevue serves up authentic Asian-inspired seafood dishes using sustainably-sourced fish and shellfish.
9. Is it safe to drink tap water and eat street food in Tottori?
Tap water in Tottori is generally safe to drink, as it meets the safety standards set by the Japanese government. However, it is always best to check with your accommodation or a local authority for any specific concerns about tap water in your area.
As for street food, it is important to use common sense and follow basic hygiene practices such as washing hands before eating and choosing vendors who have good hygiene practices. Generally, street food in Japan is clean and safe to eat. It is recommended to trust more established and popular vendors for a lower risk of food-borne illness.
10. Are reservations required for most restaurants, or can we usually just walk-in?
Reservations are not always required for restaurants, but it is recommended to make a reservation for popular or high-end restaurants. Walking in is usually possible, but be aware that there may be a wait time for a table during peak hours.
11. What kind of dining options are available at the local train stations and tourist attractions in Tottori?
At local train stations in Tottori, there are usually vending machines and small kiosks selling drinks, snacks, and bento boxes (traditional Japanese lunch boxes). Some larger train stations may also have a small food court or restaurant area.At tourist attractions in Tottori, there may be cafes or restaurants on site offering various types of cuisine including traditional Japanese dishes such as udon noodles and tempura, as well as international options like pizza and burgers. Some popular attractions may also have souvenir shops that sell packaged snacks and treats.
In general, Tottori is known for its seafood, so visitors can expect to find fresh sushi and sashimi at many dining options throughout the region. There are also local specialties such as grilled sandfish (sazae) and pufferfish (fugu) that can be enjoyed while exploring Tottori’s sights.
12. Are there any must-visit local cafes or bakeries for coffee and pastries?
Some popular options for coffee and pastries in the local area include:– Stumptown Coffee Roasters: This local coffee chain is known for its high-quality, sustainably sourced coffee and freshly baked pastries.
– Blue Bottle Coffee: Another popular local chain, Blue Bottle offers a variety of specialty coffees and delicious French-style pastries.
– Tartine Bakery & Cafe: This beloved San Francisco bakery is known for its mouth-watering selection of pastries, including their famous morning buns and croissants.
– Craftsman and Wolves: A unique bakery that specializes in creative and innovative pastries, such as their “Rebel Within” muffin with a soft-boiled egg inside.
13. Where can we find the best ramen noodles in Tottori?
Some popular places that serve great ramen noodles in Tottori include Marufuji Ramen, Gantetsu Ramen, and Menya Japan. You can also check out local recommendations on food review websites such as Tabelog or Gurunavi to find other popular ramen spots in the area.
14. Are there any recommended spots for a romantic dinner with scenic views?
Some recommended spots for a romantic dinner with scenic views include:
1. The Eiffel Tower in Paris, France: Dine at the restaurant on the tower’s second floor and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
2. Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, USA: Enjoy a gourmet meal in a private spot along the rim of the Grand Canyon.
3. Amalfi Coast in Italy: Choose from numerous cliffside restaurants offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
4. Lake Como in Italy: Book a table at one of the many lakeside restaurants and admire the stunning lake and mountain views.
5. Santorini, Greece: Dine at a restaurant perched on top of cliffs overlooking the iconic blue-domed buildings and sparkling sea.
6. Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa: Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain for dinner with panoramic views of the city below.
7. Bali, Indonesia: Book a table at one of Bali’s many cliffside restaurants and watch the sunset over the ocean.
8. Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada: Have dinner at one of Banff’s mountaintop lodges for breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and turquoise lakes.
9. Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia: Enjoy a romantic dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour with spectacular views of the city’s iconic landmarks.
10. Niagara Falls in Ontario, Canada: Dine at one of Niagara Fall’s waterfront restaurants and watch as the falls light up with colorful fireworks after dark.
15. Can you suggest any local specialties or delicacies that make great souvenirs?
Some local specialties and delicacies that make great souvenirs are:
1. Maple syrup or maple products from Vermont or Quebec
2. Bourbon or whiskey from Kentucky
3. Saltwater taffy from the East Coast
4. Huckleberry preserves from Montana
5. Artisanal cheeses from Wisconsin or Vermont
6. Olive oil and balsamic vinegar from California
7. Gourmet chocolates from San Francisco or Switzerland
8. Handmade pottery or ceramics from the Southwest
9. BBQ sauce or dry rubs from the Southern states
10. Seafood seasoning blends from New Orleans
16. What are some traditional dishes from the region that are not easily found elsewhere in Japan?
Some traditional dishes from the region that are not easily found elsewhere in Japan include:1. Ishikari Nabe (Hokkaido): a hot pot dish made with salmon, vegetables, and miso-based broth.
2. Otaru Sushi (Hokkaido): a type of pressed sushi made with vinegar-seasoned rice, fresh seafood, and other ingredients.
3. Jingisukan (Hokkaido): grilled mutton or lamb skewers seasoned with soy sauce and vegetables.
4. Masu-zushi (Akita): a form of pressed sushi made with layers of vinegared rice and cooked mountain trout.
5. Inaniwa Udon (Akita): thin and chewy wheat noodles served with a savory broth.
6. Kiritanpo Nabe (Akita): a hot pot dish made with chicken, vegetables, and kiritanpo (grilled mashed rice cakes).
7. Hittsumi Jiru (Aomori): a hearty soup made with dumplings filled with minced meat and vegetables.
8. Tsugaru Soba (Aomori): buckwheat noodles served in a clear soy sauce-based broth with toppings such as duck meat or natto.
9. Hirosaki Neputa Udon (Aomori): udon noodles topped with an assortment of seasonal ingredients in a thick soup.
10. Gyutan (Miyagi): grilled beef tongue seasoned in various ways, often served as yakiniku or on top of rice bowls.
11. Zunda Mochi (Miyagi): mochi balls coated in sweetened edamame paste, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
12. Wanko Soba/Soba-jiru (Iwate): small servings of buckwheat noodles served one after another in tiny bowls filled with warm broth for continuous eating.
13. Morioka Reimen (Iwate): cold noodles served in a tangy and spicy soup, often topped with vegetables and boiled egg.
14. Kiritanbo Rice Bowl (Yamagata): a bowl of rice topped with grilled mashed rice cakes and various ingredients such as beef, chicken, or vegetables.
15. Yonezawa Beef (Yamagata): high-quality wagyu beef produced in the city of Yonezawa, often enjoyed as sukiyaki or steak.
16. Tare Katsu Curry (Fukushima): deep-fried pork cutlet smothered in a rich and flavorful curry sauce.
17. Are there any all-you-can-eat buffet-style restaurants in Tottori that offer both Japanese and international dishes?
Yes, there are several all-you-can-eat buffet-style restaurants in Tottori that offer both Japanese and international dishes. Some popular options include Shabuzen, which offers a variety of traditional Japanese hotpot dishes as well as a range of international options such as pizza and pasta, and Buffet Dining Ki-Ma-Tei, which has a wide selection of sushi, tempura, grilled meats, and more. Other buffet-style restaurants with a mix of Japanese and international cuisines in Tottori include Granny’s Garden Cafe & Restaurant and Buffet Restaurant Assort 27.
18. Do most local restaurants accept credit cards, or is cash preferred?
Most local restaurants accept credit cards, but some may only take cash. It is always best to have some cash on hand when dining out, especially at smaller or family-owned establishments.
19.Are there any cultural etiquette rules to keep in mind while dining out in Tottori, such as removing shoes before entering a restaurant or using chopsticks properly?
Yes, there are some cultural etiquette rules to keep in mind while dining out in Tottori.
1. Remove your shoes before entering a restaurant: It is customary to remove your shoes before entering a traditional Japanese restaurant or home. You will usually see designated shoe racks or areas for guests to leave their shoes. It is polite to wear clean socks or bring a pair of slippers to change into if necessary.
2. Use chopsticks properly: In Japan, chopsticks are the primary utensils used for eating. When dining out in Tottori, it is important to use chopsticks correctly and avoid pointing them at others, tapping them on plates or bowls, or passing food directly from one set of chopsticks to another (as this is done at funeral ceremonies).
3. Practice good table manners: In Japanese culture, it is common for diners to say “Itadakimasu” (“I humbly receive”) before starting their meal and “Gochisousama deshita” (“Thank you for the meal”) after finishing. It is also considered polite to try every dish served and finish what is on your plate.
4. Refrain from blowing your nose at the table: Blowing your nose at the table is considered impolite in Japan and should be avoided.
5. Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice: In Japan, sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice resembles incense sticks placed in sand at funerals. Therefore, it is seen as bad luck and should be avoided.
6. Try using traditional Japanese seating: Some restaurants in Tottori may offer traditional Japanese seating options such as sitting on tatami mats or low chairs at a low table. If offered this option, give it a try but be mindful of sitting with proper posture and not stepping on the tatami mats with shoes.
7. Avoid snacking or drinking while walking: It is not common to eat or drink while walking in Japan. Finish your food and drinks before leaving the restaurant.
Overall, when dining out in Tottori, it is important to be respectful and mindful of local customs and etiquette. Following these cultural rules will help you have a pleasant dining experience and show your appreciation for Japanese culture.
20.What restaurants would you recommend for families traveling with young children, with a kid-friendly menu and atmosphere?
1. Red Robin
2. Chili’s
3. Olive Garden
4. Applebee’s
5. TGI Fridays
6. Denny’s
7. Friendly’s
8. Cracker Barrel
9. IHOP
10. Chuck E Cheese’s
11. Cheesecake Factory
12. Maggiano’s Little Italy
13. Ruby Tuesday
14. Benihana
15. Rainforest Cafe
16.Kid-friendly cafes, such as Panera Bread or Corner Bakery Cafe.
17.Tex-Mex restaurants like On The Border or Qdoba that serve options such as tacos and quesadillas.
18.Buffet-style restaurants, like Golden Corral or Old Country Buffet, that offer a variety of options for picky eaters.
19.Hotels with on-site restaurants that often have kid-friendly menus and can accommodate families with young children.
20.Ice cream parlors, such as Cold Stone Creamery or Baskin Robbins, for a sweet treat after dinner.