Guida
The Ubuki Tamagawa Traditional Buildings Preservation District (commonly known as the Kurayoshi Shirakabe Dozo district) is a nationally designated preservation area located in Kurayoshi City, Tottori Prefecture. This area flourished as a commercial center from the early Edo period through the Taisho era, and today, approximately 100 traditional buildings remain. The iconic scenery is defined by white-walled storehouses (dozo) and traditional machiya townhouses topped with distinctive Sekishu tiles.
Originally developing as a castle town for the Ubuki Castle, the area's commercial foundation was strengthened under the rule of the Arao clan, vassals of the Ikeda family of the Tottori Domain. The architectural heritage spans from the late Edo period to the early Showa era, visible in the stone-tile machiya along Honmachi-dori and the white-walled storehouses along the Tamagawa River. The district was designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in 1998, with surrounding areas like Nishinaka-cho and Nishimachi added in 2010.
The district is home to several facilities that repurpose historic buildings for modern use. Notable spots include Akagawara No. 1 (a specialty shop in a former soy sauce brewery), Akagawara No. 2 (a workshop for traditional dolls and wooden clogs), and Akagawara No. 11 (a pottery museum). These facilities maintain their original architectural integrity. Other essential landmarks include the Kuwata and Takada residences and their gardens, which are designated prefectural cultural properties. Additionally, the Kurayoshi Otenken, a pseudo-Western style building constructed in 1908, is a significant architectural highlight.
The area is beautiful and accessible for strolls in any season. In September, the atmosphere becomes even more historic during the Kurayoshi Satomi Era Procession. Daytime is the best time to appreciate the textures of the white walls and traditional tiles under natural light. As the area is open 24 hours, you can also enjoy a peaceful, quiet walk during the early morning or evening.
Visitors can engage with history through shopping at traditional storefronts, participating in pottery-making at the pottery museum, or dining in traditional machiya houses. For example, you can enjoy meals in buildings dating back to the Taisho era or admire the gardens of protected cultural residences. These experiences offer a seamless blend of historical preservation and modern-day lifestyle.
Nearby attractions include the Kurayoshi Railway Memorial Museum (housed in the former Ubuki Station) and the Green Sculpture Promenade, a scenic path built along a former railway line. Other nearby sites include Mt. Ubuki, Ubuki Park, and the Kurayoshi Museum. The district also serves as an excellent base for visiting the nearby hot spring areas of Togen-ko, Misasa Onsen, and Sekigane Onsen.
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for navigating the streets. While many shops and facilities may accept credit cards, carrying cash is recommended as some smaller establishments may only accept cash. To protect the historical integrity of the buildings, please be mindful of photography rules in certain areas. Free parking is available for visitors driving to the area.