Hidden in the enchanting town of Chizu, a short hop from Tottori, you will find the Ishitani Residence – a family residence, which was formerly the largest building in Chizu Town during the Edo period. There are 40 rooms strategically arranged around an expansive Japanese garden. Spanning a 10’000 m² area, the site features 7 standalone storehouses, set against the picturesque backdrop of Suwa Shrine and a serene Japanese cedar forest.

We kicked off our day with a tasty lunch at Takeyoshi, just around the corner from Ishitani Residence. We chose to eat at Takeyoshi primarily for its stunning garden view and we were not disappointed. The menu went beyond what we thought, showcasing each dish in a visually perfect way and reflecting the finesse of Japanese aesthetics. Once our tummies were happy, we headed over to the Residence, which is open for everyone to explore. The place is like a time capsule with pretty gardens, traditional rooms and a captivating blend of historical charm and modern allure. After wandering around, we took a break and sipped on some Matcha and Melon Soda Float, soaking in the calm vibes of the place. Right behind the Ishitani Residence is the Suwa Shrine, a peaceful spot surrounded by nature. It was a delightful and unexpected discovery!

On our way back, a friendly local shared some fascinating insights about the Ishitani Residence, turning our visit into a mini guided tour. We even stumbled upon a cute souvenir shop where I bought some butterfly pea tea (it is so hard to get in Switzerland) while my Mum treated herself with a lovely plant – a sweet way to remember the day.

All in all, our day trip to Ishitani Residence was a journey back in time. If you are ever around Tottori, consider taking a short trip to Chizu and enjoy the charm of the town. The best part of it all is that there are practically no tourists around, making the experience at the Ishitani Residence even more serene and special. You won’t be disappointed!

Ishitani Residence | 石谷家住宅
396 Chizu, Yazu District, 689-1402 Tottori
ifs.or.jp

Opening Hours
10:00 – 17:00 (last entry: 16:30)
Closed on Wednesday and on some public holidays

Access:
approx. 1h from Tottori Station
You can use the local train (Imbi Line) or the JR Super Inaba
JR Lines are usually more expensive than local trains!
From Chizu Station 10min by foot

Price:
Adult: 600 Yen
High School Students: 500 Yen
Primary School: 400 Yen