Guide
The Ubuki Tamagawa Traditional Buildings Preservation District (commonly known as the Kurayoshi Shirakabe Dozo) is a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings located in Kurayoshi City, Tottori Prefecture. This area boasts a rich history as a commercial center that flourished from the early Edo period through the Taisho era. Today, approximately 100 traditional buildings remain, creating an iconic landscape of white-walled storehouses (dozo) and traditional machiya houses featuring Sekishu tiles.
The district developed as a castle town following the establishment of Ubuki Castle in the medieval period. After the castle was abolished in 1616, the area laid its foundations as a commercial hub under the rule of the Arao clan, vassals to the Ikeda clan of the Tottori domain. The architectural heritage, ranging from the late Edo period to the early Showa era, is preserved through the stone-tile machiya along Honmachi-dori and the storehouses along the Tamagawa River. The district was designated as an Important Preservation District in 1998, with surrounding areas like Nishinaka-cho and Nishimachi added in 2010.
The district is dotted with facilities that repurpose historical buildings. Notable spots include Akagawara No. 1 (a shop located in a former soy sauce brewery), Akagawara No. 2 (a workshop for traditional dolls and footwear), and Akagawara No. 11 (a pottery museum). You can also visit the Kuwata and Takada residences, which are designated prefectural cultural properties, to see their beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. Another highlight is the Kurayoshi Daite-kai, a striking pseudo-Western style building constructed in 1908, which is a Registered Tangible Cultural Property.
While the historical streets are beautiful year-round, visiting in September is particularly special due to the Kurayoshi Satomi Era Procession, which brings the historical atmosphere to life. Daytime visits are ideal for appreciating the intricate textures of the white walls and roof tiles. The area is open 24 hours, allowing for peaceful strolls even in the early morning or late evening.
Visitors can enjoy a blend of history and modern life through various activities. You can shop at boutiques housed in traditional buildings, try pottery at the pottery museum, or dine in restaurants that utilize historic machiya structures. These experiences offer a unique way to see how traditional architecture integrates with contemporary lifestyle.
Nearby attractions include the Kurayoshi Railway Memorial Museum (housed in the former Ubuki Station) and the Green Sculpture Promenade, a scenic path developed along a former railway line. The area also provides easy access to Mount Ubuki, Ubuki Park, and the Kurayoshi Museum. Furthermore, it serves as a great base for visiting nearby hot spring destinations such as Togo Onsen, Misasa Onsen, and Sekigane Onsen.
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for exploring the streets. Please note that some shops and facilities may require cash payments. To protect the historical integrity of the site, please be mindful of photography rules in certain areas. Free parking is available in the vicinity.