Port Guide | Japan | Worth a Wander
Sakaiminato
James Ireton | Editor
Published on 2025-06-05
Ah, Sakaiminato-we forgive you if you initially imagined your residential cruise ship had docked at some tranquil, fish-scented netherworld at the edge of Japan. Truth is, you're not entirely wrong. This cheerfully eccentric port is famous not only for a dizzying array of delicious seafood (do yourself a favor and sink your teeth into Matsubayaki, a tasty local specialty guaranteed to recalibrate your sushi compass), but also for its mildly unsettling yet oddly endearing fascination with yokai, Japan's fantastical folklore creatures. As evidence, wander down Mizuki Shigeru Road and immerse yourself in the delightfully creepy lineup of ghost statues that celebrate hometown manga legend Shigeru Mizuki. Practical tip #1: wear comfortable shoes, as you'll easily cover your daily step count dodging tourists snapping selfies with goblin statues. Practical tip #2: loosen your belt and your inhibitions-you're here for a few days, and Sakaiminato's quirky charm is best enjoyed with open appetite and curiosity-crazed eyes.
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Notes from the Editor
Sakaiminato is known for its seafood and is famous for the Matsubayaki (a local dish). Travelers should also consider visiting the nearby Mizuki Shigeru Road, a street lined with yokai (ghost) statues.
Where do cruise ships dock in Sakaiminato?
Port Name Sakaiminato
Country Japan
Region East Asia
Ship Terminal Sakaiminato Port Terminal
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility Located approximately 0.5 km from the city center, easily accessible by walking.
What's the weather like in Sakaiminato?
Best Season to Visit Spring (April to May)
Climate Mild with a mix of sunny and rainy days; pleasant temperatures.
Weather Notes Spring is generally suitable for travel, but be prepared for occasional rain.
Temperature Range 60-75 F (16-24 C)
High Temp 88F
Low Temp 30F
Average Temp 57F
What do I need to know about Sakaiminato?
Language Japanese
Currency Japanese Yen (JPY)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population Approximately 28,000
Timezone Japan Standard Time (JST)
How do I get around Sakaiminato?
Local buses, taxis, and bicycle rentals available.
What are The Best Things to do in Sakaiminato?
Discover what you should do while you're in Sakaiminato.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Mizuki Shigeru Road
Taishomachi, Sakaiminato, Tottori, Japan
An iconic street dedicated to yokai, featuring statues of supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Participate in a Tea Ceremony at Daiba Park
Sakaiminato, Tottori, Japan
Experience the tranquility of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony set in historic Daiba Park.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Sample Locally Brewed Sake
Various locations in Sakaiminato
Taste Japan's signature beverage made locally with unique springtime flavors.
Distance from Terminal: 0.8 miles
Traditional Japanese Indigo Dyeing Workshop
Local cultural centers, Sakaiminato
Learn traditional indigo dyeing methods, crafting truly authentic East Asian souvenirs.
Distance from Terminal: 0.9 miles
Cooking Class - Sushi Making Workshop
Local culinary schools, Sakaiminato, Tottori, Japan
Hands-on instruction from local chefs to create authentic sushi, a culinary class unique to the region.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Fresh Seafood Market Tour at Sakai Port
Sakai Port, Sakaiminato, Tottori, Japan
Taste the freshest local seafood, observe the bustling local seafood trade, and enjoy regional specialties.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Bird Watching at Yonago Mizudori Park
Yonago Mizudori Park, Yonago, Tottori, Japan
Spring bird watching at one of Japan's famous migratory bird sites.
Distance from Terminal: 5.3 miles
Flower Viewing at Tottori Hanakairo
Nanbu, Saihaku District, Tottori, Japan
One of Japan's largest flower parks, filled with vibrant colors especially during spring season blooms.
Distance from Terminal: 8.6 miles
Sand Dune Adventure at Tottori Sand Dunes
Fukube, Tottori, Japan
Experience thrilling sandboarding and camel rides unique to this iconic sand dune location.
Distance from Terminal: 51.5 miles
Hiking at Mount Daisen
Daisen, Tottori, Japan
Springtime hiking with panoramic views atop the revered spiritual mountain of Daisen.
Distance from Terminal: 15.3 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Visit the GeGeGe no Kitarō Museum
Honmachi, Sakaiminato, Tottori, Japan
Museum celebrating the famed manga series and its creator, Mizuki Shigeru.
Distance from Terminal: 0.7 miles
Explore Miho Shrine
Mihonoseki, Shimane, Japan
Visit an ancient shrine with distinctive architecture and a historic atmosphere, particularly spiritual during spring.
Distance from Terminal: 10.5 miles
Matsue Castle Cherry Blossom Viewing
Matsue Castle, Matsue, Shimane, Japan
Enjoy traditional hanami under cherry blossoms in a historical setting.
Distance from Terminal: 21.5 miles
Visit the Adachi Museum of Art
Yasugi, Shimane, Japan
Famous for its gardens and extensive art collection including traditional Japanese Nihonga paintings.
Distance from Terminal: 17.2 miles
Attend a Spring Festival (Harumatsuri)
Various temples and shrines in Sakaiminato
Participate in or observe local celebrations welcoming spring, vibrant with music, dance, and rituals.
Distance from Terminal: 1.1 miles
A Little Extra
Hot Spring Bathing at Kaike Onsen
Kaike-Onsen, Yonago, Tottori, Japan
Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs, a popular East Asian wellness tradition.
Distance from Terminal: 4.6 miles
Savor Sakaiminato's Crab Cuisine
Local restaurants, Downtown Sakaiminato
Dine on delicious crab dishes, a local culinary specialty especially fresh in springtime.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Overnight Trips
Overnight Stay at a Traditional Ryokan
Kaike Onsen, Yonago, Tottori, Japan
Enhance your Japanese culture experience by spending a night at a traditional ryokan, complete with tatami rooms and futons.
Distance from Terminal: 4.8 miles
Japan Regional Tip
Jaywalking or ignoring pedestrian signals. While seldom fined, it can attract stern warnings from police, public embarrassment, and inconvenience.