Sweets Castle Kotobukijo

Okashi no Kotobukijo is a towering “sweets castle” in the Yonago area—truly a confectionery mecca. Built to resemble Yonago Castle (which now remains only as ruins), its keep offers sweeping views of the Sea of Japan and Mt. Daisen, much like a real castle. You can also tour a wagashi factory (advance reservation required). The factory tour typically includes: watching the confection-making process through glass while listening to explanations → a guided castle tour highlighting key points → shopping time. There are many samples to try, so you can find favorites. Recommended sweets include crab senbei, large-value rice crackers, baked chocolate cookies, Baumkuchen, and matcha fondue—covering both Japanese and Western styles. The top-selling item is “Tochi Mochi” (red and white versions), which won the Honorary President’s Award at the 22nd National Confectionery Exposition. Access: by train, about 15 minutes from JR San’in Main Line “Yonago Station” (about 9 km). By car, about 1 minute from Yonago IC (Yonago Expressway), about 40 minutes from Ochiai JCT (Chugoku Expressway), or about 1 hour 40 minutes via Hokubo JCT from Okayama.