Free! and Iwami Town, Tottori Prefecture’s Special Relationship
The popular swimming anime “Free!” series, produced by Kyoto Animation, adopted Iwami Town in Tottori Prefecture as a location reference, with the work’s setting depicting beautiful coastlines and townscapes. More than 10 years have passed since the first season began airing in 2013, and Iwami Town continues to be loved as a special sacred site by “Free!” fans.
Iwami Town is a scenic town that forms part of the Sanin Kaigan Geopark, and the Uradome Coast featured in the anime is known as one of Japan’s most transparent seas. The locations that served as models for Iwatobi High School, which the main character Haruka Nanase and his friends attend, and the landscapes where the characters spend their daily lives actually exist throughout the town, making it a precious place where fans can experience the world of the work.
About the Anime “Free!” Series
“Free!” is a youth swimming anime produced by Kyoto Animation that depicts the growth and friendship of high school swimmers including Haruka Nanase, Makoto Tachibana, and Rin Matsuoka. Beginning with the television anime first season “Free!” in 2013, it continued with “Free! -Eternal Summer-” and “Free! -Dive to the Future-,” concluding with the theatrical film “Free! -the Final Stroke-.” The beautiful depiction of water, delicate character illustrations, and the actual landscapes of Iwami Town in Tottori Prefecture add depth to the work.
The series has achieved sales of related books exceeding several million copies cumulatively and multiple theatrical releases, becoming what could be called a social phenomenon. Iwami Town has become a tourist destination where numerous fans from both within Japan and abroad visit as a “Free!” sacred site.
Major Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Iwami Town
JR Iwami Station
JR Iwami Station, the gateway to Iwami Town tourism, is an important location that appears multiple times in the anime as the closest station to Haruka Nanase and his friends. The station building’s exterior, the station plaza, and the surrounding scenery are faithfully reproduced in the anime, making it an ideal first destination for sacred site pilgrimage.
“Free!” related panels and decorations are installed within the station and station plaza, allowing you to take commemorative photos in the same locations as the characters. At the station’s tourist information office, you can obtain sacred site maps and information about related merchandise created by the Iwami Town Tourist Association, so make use of it as your pilgrimage base.
Access Information
- Direct access from “Iwami Station” on the JR Sanin Main Line
- About 20 minutes by local train from Tottori Station
Uradome Coast
The Uradome Coast, an iconic location in “Free!,” is a scenic spot representing the Sanin Kaigan Geopark. The emerald green sea boasting transparency of 25 meters and the coastline with fantastical rock formations and sea caves appear as the background to scenes where characters swim in the anime.
By taking the Uradome Coast Island Tour boat, you can view the landscapes featured in the anime from the sea, allowing you to experience the work’s world more deeply. During summer, you can also enjoy swimming, making it possible to have the special experience of swimming in the same sea as the “Free!” characters.
Uradome Coast Sightseeing Boat Information
- Operating Period: Mid-March to late November
- Duration: Approximately 40 minutes
- Fare: Adults 1,500 yen, children 750 yen
- Business Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (varies by season)
- Location: Uradome, Iwami Town, Iwami District, Tottori Prefecture
Ajiro Port and Harbor Cafe Area
Ajiro Port is the model for a port appearing in the anime, with the fishing port scenery and breakwater depicted exactly as they appear in the work. The nearby harbor cafe has become a popular rest spot among fans, where you can enjoy local seafood dishes and cafe menus while gazing at the sea.
The area around the port retains the quiet atmosphere of a fishing village, where you can stroll leisurely while recalling scenes from the anime. In early mornings, you can also observe fishing boats entering and leaving, experiencing the daily life of Iwami Town.
Other Sacred Sites in Iwami Town
Numerous other sacred sites are scattered throughout Iwami Town:
- School Area: Locations around the model for Iwatobi High School
- Shopping Streets: The stage for scenes where characters shop
- Roads Along the Coast: Appearing in scenes of characters commuting by bicycle
- Town Public Pool: A reference location for swimming club practice scenes
Using the official sacred site map issued by the Iwami Town Tourist Association, you can efficiently visit the major spots.
Free! × Iwami Town Official Event Information
“Free! × Iwami Town -Starting point for a New Journey-” held on May 25, 2025
On Sunday, May 25, 2025, Iwami Town will host the first official collaboration event between the “Free!” series and Iwami Town. This event is a special project commemorating the conclusion of “Theatrical Version Free! -the Final Stroke-” and celebrating the 10th anniversary of the series.
Event Overview
- Date: Sunday, May 25, 2025
- Time: Starting from 9:00 AM in sequence
- Venue: Various locations throughout Iwami Town, Tottori Prefecture
- Organizers: Iwami Town, Iwami Town Tourist Association, Kyoto Animation
Main Event Content
“Free!” Series 10th Anniversary and Iwami Town Exclusive Original Illustration
Kyoto Animation has created an Iwami Town exclusive original illustration. Characters including Haruka Nanase are depicted within Iwami Town’s landscapes in this special artwork, which will be featured at event venues and related merchandise. This exclusive illustration can only be seen in Iwami Town and is must-see content for fans.
Debut! AR Content for Commemorative Photos with Characters
At five AR content spots set up throughout Iwami Town, you can take commemorative photos with characters using a smartphone. Characters appear against actual sacred site backgrounds, making it possible to take photos as if you’re together with them at that location.
AR Installation Locations (Planned)
- In front of JR Iwami Station
- Uradome Coast observation spot
- Around Ajiro Port
- Town shopping street area
- Around Iwami Town Tourist Association
Different characters appear at each spot, so there’s also a stamp rally-style way to enjoy visiting all locations.
Original Postcards as Gifts for Accommodations and Dining Facilities in Town
Guests who stay at cooperating accommodation facilities or dine at cooperating restaurants in Iwami Town during the event period will receive limited-design original postcards. The postcards featuring original illustrations are limited in quantity and will end when supplies run out.
Coordination with Free! Series Orchestra Concert 2025
In May 2025, the “Free! Series Orchestra Concert 2025” will also be held in coordination with the Iwami Town event. Voice actor Nobunaga Shimazaki (who plays Haruka Nanase) has been announced to appear, and special tours combining both events are being planned.
Iwami Town Exclusive Merchandise and Souvenir Information
Official Collaboration Merchandise
“Free!” official collaboration merchandise is sold in abundance throughout Iwami Town. Merchandise featuring limited original illustrations supervised by Kyoto Animation are valuable items available only in Iwami Town.
Main Limited Merchandise
- Clear files using original illustrations
- Character-specific acrylic stands (Iwami Town version)
- Original design T-shirts
- Towels featuring the Uradome Coast as a motif
- Iwami Town exclusive postcard sets
- Character design tote bags
- Badges, key chains, and more
Merchandise Sales Locations
Suntech Limited Liability Company
This store specializes in “Free!” related merchandise in Iwami Town. It also plans and sells original products, and you can obtain information about the latest merchandise here.
- Address: Uradome, Iwami Town, Iwami District, Tottori Prefecture
- Business Hours: Vary by store; advance confirmation recommended
- Products Handled: Official merchandise, original products, local specialty collaboration products
Iwami Town Tourist Association
The tourism association near JR Iwami Station also carries some “Free!” related merchandise and sacred site maps. They also provide the latest event information along with tourism information.
Local Specialty Collaboration Products
Collaboration products between “Free!” and Iwami Town’s specialties such as seafood and confectionery are also popular:
- “Free!” packaged Iwami Town seafood products (dried fish, seaweed, etc.)
- Character-designed local sake labels
- Limited package confectionery items
- Seasonings made with Uradome Coast salt
These products not only make great souvenirs but also serve to convey the charm of Iwami Town.
How to Access Iwami Town
Access by Train
From Tokyo
- Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Okayama Station (approximately 3 hours 20 minutes)
- Limited express Super Inaba from Okayama Station to Tottori Station (approximately 2 hours)
- Local train on JR Sanin Main Line from Tottori Station to Iwami Station (approximately 20 minutes)
From Osaka
- Limited express Super Hakuto from Osaka Station to Tottori Station (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes)
- Local train on JR Sanin Main Line from Tottori Station to Iwami Station (approximately 20 minutes)
From Hiroshima
- Shinkansen from Hiroshima Station to Okayama Station (approximately 40 minutes)
- Limited express Super Inaba from Okayama Station to Tottori Station (approximately 2 hours)
- Local train on JR Sanin Main Line from Tottori Station to Iwami Station (approximately 20 minutes)
Access by Plane
Using Tottori Sand Dunes Conan Airport
- Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Tokyo (Haneda)
- Bus from airport to Tottori Station in approximately 20 minutes
- Train from Tottori Station to Iwami Station in approximately 20 minutes
Access by Car
From Osaka
- Via Chugoku and Tottori Expressways in approximately 3 hours
- From Tottori IC to Iwami Town via National Route 9 in approximately 30 minutes
From Okayama
- Via Okayama and Tottori Expressways in approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Transportation Within Town
Local Buses
Local buses operated by Nichi-ko Bus run throughout Iwami Town, providing access to major sacred sites. However, services are limited, so it’s recommended to check schedules in advance.
Rental Bicycles
Rental bicycles are available around JR Iwami Station. You can tour the town by bicycle just like the “Free!” characters, making it the perfect way to go on a sacred site pilgrimage.
- Rate: Approximately 500 to 1,000 yen per day
- Rental Location: Iwami Station front tourist information office, etc.
- Reservations: Advance reservations recommended during busy seasons
Taxis
If you want to efficiently visit many spots, consider using a taxi. Local taxi companies have drivers who are familiar with the “Free!” sacred site pilgrimage course.
Free! Wrapping Bus
During event periods, a wrapping bus decorated with “Free!” characters may operate. A special version with voice actors providing in-car announcements makes the journey itself an enjoyable experience.
Accommodation and Dining Information in Iwami Town
Recommended Accommodation Facilities
Iwai Onsen Area
The Iwai Onsen area, adjacent to Iwami Town, is the oldest hot spring in the Sanin region with a history of 1,300 years. It’s ideal for recuperating from sacred site pilgrimage fatigue, and many inns welcome “Free!” fans.
- Hot spring inns: 10,000 to 20,000 yen per night with two meals
- Minshuku (family-run inns): 7,000 to 12,000 yen per night with two meals
- Business hotels: 5,000 to 8,000 yen per night, room only
Minshuku Around the Uradome Coast
Small inns are scattered along the coast, offering fresh seafood. At fisherman’s inns, you can enjoy dishes prepared with freshly caught fish and shellfish.
Local Gourmet Cuisine in Iwami Town
Seafood Cuisine
Iwami Town, facing the Japan Sea, boasts fresh seafood:
- Matsuba Crab: Limited winter edition (November to March) specialty
- Iwami Oysters: Summer (June to August) specialty, large and rich
- White Squid: High-end squid with high transparency and sweetness
- Nodoguro: Fatty, high-grade fish
- Seafood Bowl: Extravagantly using local fish and shellfish
Cafes and Restaurants
Several cafes and restaurants, including the harbor cafe, allow you to dine while viewing the sea. Some establishments offer collaborative “Free!” menus, so check before visiting.
Notes and Etiquette for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Consideration for Local Residents
Iwami Town is a place where people actually live. When enjoying sacred site pilgrimage, keep these points in mind:
- Do Not Enter Private Property: Do not enter restricted areas such as schools or residences
- Be Mindful of Noise: Avoid loud conversations or activities in residential areas, especially early morning and at night
- Take All Trash With You: Cooperate in environmental conservation and keep the town clean
- Obey Traffic Rules: When photographing on roads, be careful not to interfere with vehicles or pedestrians
- Confirm Parking: Absolutely avoid street parking and use designated parking areas
Photography Etiquette
While photography at sacred sites is free, follow these rules:
- Share with other tourists and fans
- Show consideration if people appear in photos
- When using tripods, position them so they don’t obstruct passage
- Commercial use and resale-purpose photography are prohibited
- Exercise caution regarding location sharing in social media posts
Prevention of Trouble Between Visitors
Many fans visit during event periods:
- Follow queuing rules
- Respect purchase limits when buying merchandise
- Avoid monopolizing AR photo spots
- Engage with other fans with discretion
Notes on Facility Use
- Confirm Business Hours: Check business hours of facilities before visiting
- Check Closed Days: Be particularly careful of closed days at restaurants and shops
- Make Reservations: Advance reservations are recommended for popular facilities
- COVID-19 Measures: Follow each facility’s guidelines
Continued Operation of 10th Anniversary Commemorative Project
The “Free!” series 10th anniversary commemorative project, which started in 2023, has been confirmed to continue in 2025. Iwami Town plans to develop long-term collaborations with “Free!” and aims to create a town where fans can discover something new with each visit.
Year-Round Enjoyable Projects
- Permanent Display Spots: Character panels and monuments throughout town
- Stamp Rally: The sacred site pilgrimage stamp rally operates year-round
- Regular Merchandise Updates: New merchandise appears with each season
- Collaboration Cafe Menus: Special menu offerings at cooperating stores
Seasonal Events
Iwami Town plans “Free!” related events throughout the year:
- Spring: New life support campaign, special spring events with cherry blossoms
- Summer: Beach opening events, summer vacation special projects
- Autumn: Red leaf season sacred site pilgrimage tours
- Winter: Crab season collaborations, year-end and New Year special projects
Summary: Iwami Town, a Must-Visit Sacred Site for “Free!” Fans
Iwami Town in Tottori Prefecture is the one and only sacred site where you can actually experience the world of the “Free!” series. The beautiful Uradome Coast scenery, Kyoto Animation’s limited original illustrations, official events, and the warm hospitality of the local community provide fans with unforgettable experiences.
The “Free! × Iwami Town -Starting point for a New Journey-” event held on May 25, 2025, is a special project commemorating the series’ conclusion, with unprecedented scale projects planned including the debut AR experience and collaboration with the orchestra concert.
Starting from JR Iwami Station, visit sacred sites such as Uradome Coast and Ajiro Port throughout town, savor fresh seafood, and soothe your fatigue in hot springs. Such an enriching sacred site pilgrimage journey can be realized in Iwami Town. While immersing yourself in the world of “Free!,” you can simultaneously enjoy Tottori’s nature and culture. Be sure to visit Iwami Town and begin a new journey in the landscape shared with the characters.
Official information is regularly updated on the Iwami Town Tourist Association website and the “Free!” official site, so it’s recommended to check for the latest information before visiting. Experience the beginning of a new journey in the landscapes shared with the characters.
